Thinking of becoming a Personal Trainer...

Check the gyms where you live and see which certifications they will hire you with. Some gyms only take a certain certification. Iv'e started the NASM program but havent finished it yet. NASM, ACSM, and NSCA are the top 3 if i remember correctly. Google top5 or top 10 personal trainer certifications.

I'm not personally but I have 3 or 4 buddies that are and a big down side I've seen is that PT's are a dime a dozen these days. Not to mention if I remember correctly my buddy paid about 4 grand for his schooling for it. I would of honestly done something along these lines but the money just isn't there unless you're training professional athletes or something. Don't want to deter you if it's your dream then go for it but personally I'm not too fond of the idea.

I'm contemplating this as well. I have done it in the past during college but never was certified (spent hours and hours doing research so was informed). It's great to do if you enjoy it and it's nice helping people as well. I'm not sure which certification to get, that I'm still researching because there are so many out there. I'm not sure what you do for a living but a personal trainer doesnt start out with a high income and it's hard to really become "wealthy" without a niche (depends on your idea of wealthy so don't judge me on that comment). Around my area they cap at around $50,000 if you work at a gym. On the other hand, a friend of mine works at a gym in the city and makes $100 per spinning class because he has become a top spinning instructor in the area. He works in my field and then teaches 2 classes a day on the side for fun really. Another con is hearing people complain and not commit to the plan that you spend hours creating. That always was annoying when I did training back in the day... wasnt the time that I spent, it was how you just KNOW if they followed the plan even halfway they'd achieve so much. All of that said, I'm still contemplating becoming one on the side as well to see if it takes me anywhere. It's worth a shot, if you enjoy it, try it part-time, gyms always look for them so it's worth a try :-) At this moment I don't plan on leaving my career but maybe there's a niche out there for us. I've already thought of classes and specialized sports training. i say go for it, but keep finances, stress of complaints, and odd scheduling in mind :-) but do it! and please no comments regarding my "wealth" comment, personal trainers can make a lot of money after established but my research for my local area doesn't seem to pay well, especially to start.

Once again, AA comes thru with the knowledge bombs:

http://www.alanaragonblog.com/2009/11/12/directions-toward-a-career-in-fitness-part-1/

ACSM is where i got certified. I love my work. and I am a work in progress. Just be prepared to constantly learn new things.
pros: money, fun, enjoyable environment, with this certification i can work anywhere

cons: takes time to build clientele

I am currently doing my research for PT courses in the UK. The three main companies are YMCAfit, Premier and Future Fit. I would like to do the course part time as I have a full time job.
Is there anyone on this site in the UK who can advise on any of three companies and which one is best? I have read YMCAfit is the most recognised here in the UK and abroad. They are my first choice. I have signed up to go to an open evening.

Being in my 40ish I am looking for a new career in the fitness industry. I have had PT sessions and really enjoyed the extra motivation they give. I want to be able to give that motivation to someone else. Do you think being in my 40is is too late to enter this industry?

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