Personal Training/ Fitness Instructor

What's up to all my MFP peeps!! I promised myself that once I reach my weight loss goal of 100 pounds then I will start my new career path in the fitness/training field. I've almost reached my weight loss goal with only 12 more pounds to go. I would like to start my journey towards becoming either a fitness instructor, personal trainer, zumba instructor, cycling instructor or a a combination of things that will keep me active.

I have no clue on how to start, where to go or pretty much where to begin the process. Anyone out there who is certified that can give any suggestions or ideas on where to begin??

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys!!!

Replies

  • jaz050465
    jaz050465 Posts: 3,508 Member
    What country are you in. That might make a difference v
  • BoohBaby
    BoohBaby Posts: 50 Member
    I live in Wisconsin and all of the programs that I've looked into are on-line. I definetely would like some personal teaching. Any suggestions?
  • Most of the courses are online courses. I got my first certification through NASM which was CD rom before, now I am not sure if it is online (probably is since most of the CE's are online now). They did have a class you could attend during a weekend though. I attended this after I got my cert. You get it as part of your certification.
  • soonergirl03
    soonergirl03 Posts: 47 Member
    Contact your local YMCA I bet someone there could tell you what you need to do
  • First get CPR certified. Then go apply at local gyms for entry level positions such as sales or front desk clerk. That way your foot is in the door. Once they realize how much knowledge you have in fitness, you can move to personal trainer. The gym most likely will pay for your certification and secondary education.
  • BoohBaby
    BoohBaby Posts: 50 Member
    Thank you all so much for all of the great advice.
  • kels1152
    kels1152 Posts: 74
    Hi there!
    Good choice at wanting to become a personal trainer. I am certified and I work on the side while I am in grad school.

    I had always loved fitness but I really didn't know what to do at the gym or even how to use free weights. I did some research online and then I came across the National Personal Training Institute (NPTI). It was a 6month program but they also do a 12 month program. I got the hands on experience along with lecture time. It was not cheap but I really do think it was worth it. Nowadays anyone can get certified online and I'm not truly a believer in that but that's just my opinion. I loved the hands on experience and really learning all about the gym.
    I'd sugest at least looking into it and doing some research about it. They are located in multiple locations too.

    Good luck with it! I know that with my NPTI certification I've never had an issue getting a job at a gym.

    Keep us updated with what you do :)

    And good luck with the last few pounds!!! : )
  • BoohBaby
    BoohBaby Posts: 50 Member
    Thank you so much for the advice. I am definetely going to pursue this. I appreciate all the love guys!!!
  • kellylou1367
    kellylou1367 Posts: 91 Member
    Well done on your weight loss journey :smile:
    I done exactly the same thing, I lost a lot of weight and decided to change career paths from Dental Nursing to Personal Trainer and Nutrition Specialist. I live in the UK and I'm doing my course online with Future Fit Training. I wanted to get out there and do this as struggling with weight loss, more than once myself, I feel I will be able to relate to the physical and emotional struggles of clients and use myself as an example that anything can be achieved :smile: