Why work in the fitness industry?
If you love to train and keep healthy, it’s a great occupation to harness your passion. You can be your own boss and run it as a business.
The best thing about working in the fitness industry is each day is never the same. You meet amazing people and hear many different stories. Above all that, you get to pass on your knowledge, and make your clients feel amazing and more in control of their lives.
Where do you start?
You don’t have to be super-fit to work in fitness; as long as you’re taking part in regular exercise, or attending two to three classes per week, you’ll have a good base. Team this with enthusiasm, co-ordination and a love of working closely with other people and you’ll feel at home.
Group exercise instructor vs PT
To be a group exercise instructor, you have to be bubbly, outgoing and happy to present in front of a class of people. Be prepared to keep your routines fresh and engaging for your class. As a PT, you’ll be dealing with people 1-2-1 or in small groups. Confidence to answer questions from your clients close up will stand you in good stead.
And if you need more reasons …
You have the option to fit training around your life. You can be an inspiration to others, giving them the motivation they need to improve their health and fitness. Your job can take you around the world, experiencing different cultures and traditions. You ultimately change people’s lives.
Practicalities
The fitness industry relies on using your initiative to make money and generate a good client base. It’s essential to keep up to date with qualifications and the ongoing education that enables you to keep working and progressing your skills. Whether you go into personal training or group exercise, you should plan sessions so the clients love coming back time and time again.
The following courses are highly recommended:
- GroupEX AWARD combines the CYQ Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing Exercise to Music with the Les Mills teaching certificate – making it quicker and easier to qualify.
- The diploma in personal training course is a great all-rounder on offer with Premier Training. Great for fulfilling personal trainer and class instructor needs but you also learn about food, nutrition and massage.
- YMCA Fit runs a gym instructor course, which will put you in good stead to get work. The course is recognised by all gyms for employment or for you to become self-employed.
- An array of courses to suit your needs for pre- and postnatal training is available through www.fewtraining.com
- Martial arts courses that cover the basics all the way through to advanced training are available at KICK. Try the KICK Fitness course.
- If you’re a good dancer, there are dance courses ran by the foundations Premier Training, YMCA and Future Fit.
Sophie Pittaway is the owner, creator and founder of the KICK gym in London. She has 17 years’ experience in both the martial arts and fitness industries and is a former World Kickboxing Association champion. Visit www.kick.uk.com for more information.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not of Fitness Professionals Ltd or Virtual Magazine. Consult a qualified health or fitness professional before making changes to your diet or exercise.
