Personal Trainers

High School

If you are interested in health and fitness, you are probably already taking physical education classes and involved in sports activities. It is also important to take nutrition courses. Business courses can help you prepare for the management aspect of running your own personal training service. Science courses such as biology, anatomy, chemistry, and physiology are important for your understanding of muscle groups, food and drug reactions, and other concerns of exercise science. If you are not interested in playing on sports teams, you may be able to volunteer as an assistant. These positions will allow you to learn about athletic training as well as rehabilitation treatments.

Postsecondary Training

While an increasing number of businesses are requiring fitness workers to have a bachelor's degree in a field related to health and fitness, a college education is not required to work as a personal trainer. Some relevant college programs include health education, exercise and sports science, kinesiology, fitness program management, and athletic training. These programs include courses in therapeutic exercise, nutrition, aerobics, and fitness and aging. IDEA Health & Fitness Association recommends a bachelor's degree from a program that includes at least a semester each in anatomy, kinesiology, and exercise physiology.

If you are not interested in completing a four-year program, many schools offer shorter versions of their bachelor's programs. Upon completing a shorter program, you'll receive either an associate's degree or certification from the school.

Certification

Colleges and universities, online learning platforms, and professional associations offer certificate programs in fitness training, exercise physiology, business management, and related fields. They are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats, and they typically last six months to a year. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Once you have established yourself in the business, continuing education (CE) courses are important for you to keep up with the advances in the industry. IDEA is one of many organizations that offer independent study courses, conferences, and seminars. The American Council on Exercise, the National Federation of Professional Trainers, and American Fitness Professional and Associates also provide CE opportunities.