How to Become a Physical Training Instructor

by Ian Linton Google

Physical training instructors lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also called fitness instructors, they work with people of all ages and skill levels developing exercise programs to enhance general fitness or improve performance in a specific sport. Fitness instructors work in a variety of environments, including gyms, sports and health clubs, schools and colleges, clinics and hospitals.

1. Assess your personal skills to see whether you have the attributes for the job. You must be physically able to demonstrate the exercises you are recommending and participate in fitness sessions. In addition to physical fitness, you must possess motivational skills and the ability to evaluate the fitness needs of individuals.

2. Earn a high school diploma, at minimum, and pursue a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as exercise science or physical education. A college degree improves your range of job opportunities.

3. Gain certification with an accredited agency such as the American Council on Exercise. Take a certification program suitable for personal trainers or group fitness instructors, depending on your chosen career path. Follow certification programs by attending courses or completing self-study modules covering topics such as human physiology, exercise techniques, fitness assessment and program development. Complete the certification exams, including written examinations and practical tests.

4. Gain experience by working with a qualified fitness instructor. Add to your certification credentials by taking training courses to develop specific skills in disciplines such as weight training or cardiovascular fitness. Take essential courses in first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

5. Apply for positions. Personal fitness instructors work with individuals in a gym or at the client’s home. Group instructors lead groups in gyms or health clubs. Specialized instructors focus on a specific sport or discipline and may work with sports clubs, helping to develop team fitness and performance. Instructors working in hospitals and clinics work with patients recovering from illness, injuries or operations, or with athletes recovering from injuries.

6. Improve your career opportunities by seeking advanced certification. Develop customer service skills to improve your value to your employer. Look for opportunities to advance to management positions.

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