Since people have started following a healthy lifestyle, the demand for fitness professionals has increased over the years. Various exercises for different people with different preferences have led to changing dynamics for these professionals.
What Is Fitness?
Fitness is the ability to perform various daily routine tasks efficiently and vigorously, without any fatigue. It is a broad term used to define sound mental and physical health. Professionals working in this field are required to provide training and instruct individuals about staying fit. They usually organize classes where they train people according to their requirements. Some professionals earn a certificate in fitness like the Certified Professional Trainer (CPT) certification. Others, who want to advance their careers, get an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in any health-related field, like kinesiology, physical education, physical exercise, etc.
What Can You Do with A Fitness Program?
A fitness program prepares students for a career in conditioning and strength training, corporate fitness training, etc. Since this field requires candidates to socialize with individuals and groups, professionals need to have strong communication skills. They are required to be physically fit and should have leadership qualities. Since people have a lot of queries regarding fitness, these professionals should be patient enough to understand and answer them.
The following are some of the career options:
Fitness Trainers and Instructors
Fitness trainers and instructors motivate, instruct, and lead groups and individuals to perform various exercises, including strength training, stretching, and cardiovascular exercises. These professionals work with people of different age groups.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $40,390 | 13% | $45,110 | California | 41,460 |
| New York | $58,680 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Recreation Workers
Recreation workers lead and design activities to facilitate people in improving fitness, staying active, and having fun. They work with various groups in nursing care facilities, parks, summer camps, fitness and recreational sports centers, and other settings.
| Annual Median Salary, 2019 | Job Outlook, 2018-2028 | Annual Mean Salary, 2019 | State with the Highest Employment Level, 2019 | State with the Highest Salary, 2019 |
| $26,350 | 8% | $29,330 | California | 48,360 |
| District of Columbia | $50,050 |
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
What to Expect from A Fitness Program?
A fitness program focuses on developing skills that will help students in their professional life. A fitness certification could be of different types. Some people like to opt for personal trainer certification, while others may want to obtain group fitness trainer certification. The content and length of the program vary with the institute and the type of program chosen. During a fitness program, students learn various proficiency exercises for different muscle groups. They are taught to implement group dynamics and check how beneficial they are in training classes. Using choreography, music, and cueing methods as part of fitness classes is also a part of the program.
How to Choose A Fitness Program?
These are some of the things you should consider before choosing a program:
- Choose an accredited program
- Check whether they offer any specific type of certification
- Consider the content of the program
- Check the exercises being taught during the program
- Consider the total cost of the fitness program
- Check the location of the institute
- Consider the total time required to complete the program
- Check the format of the program
Fitness Program Admission Requirements
Students who want to pursue a fitness program should be of 18 years of age at least. They should have some professional experience and are required to have a high school diploma. Each institute may have additional requirements.