Are You Fit to be a Fitness Trainer? |
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February 15, 2007
by Gabby Hyman
Healthcare Programs Columnist
You've been working out at the gym and admire the poise and insight of your personal trainer. There are many fitness trainer programs out there to qualify you for jobs in gyms, spas, resorts, and personal practice. But a quick search in the phone directory or on the Internet yields a glut of personal fitness trainer programs and conflicting certifications. Now what?
Depending upon the state where you work and the requirements of your employer, certification and training requirements can vary. Some gyms offer their own training programs; others require college-level certifications or diplomas. Still more require national certifications from the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE), the National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT) or, for aerobics instructors, the International Dance Exercise Association (IDEA).
Don't Panic
First things first. Talk with professional personal trainers in your area and find out which path they took toward getting qualified. Evaluate where your career goals. Do you want to work for a gym or build your own practice? Do you eventually hope to work in sports medicine or seek employment with an athletic association or college?
Consider coursework that best applies to your long-term goals.
Trainers need to know anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, muscular and skeleton systems. From the nutritional standpoint, you may need to know about diet (carbs, fats, protein synthesis), vitamins and minerals, and supplements. From the business standpoint, you'll need to learn record-keeping techniques, client evaluation and program analysis, as well as insurance, business licensing and more.
You'll probably begin by seeking a personal trainer certification . Then you can move on to Advanced Personal Trainer, Master Trainer, Sports Nutrition Specialist, and Advanced Weight Trainer Specialist designations. It's just like working out: start slow and build your way to success.
About the Author
Gabby Hyman has written for print and online media for more than 20 years. He has created online content for eToys, GoTo.com, Siebel Systems, Avaya, and Nissan UK.
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