Becoming a personal trainer is an exciting and satisfying experience. It is a great way to earn a living while helping people improve their lives. Here are the steps you need to take to become a certified personal trainer:
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Have a High School Degree or GED
- Step 2: Get a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
- Step 3: Hold an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification
- Step 4: Choose a Fitness Specialty
- Step 5: Get Certifications Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
- Step 6: Pass the Exam and Become Certified
- Step 7: Apply for Jobs and Build a Portfolio
- Step 8: Additional Education Options
Step 1: Have a High School Degree or GED
In order to become a personal trainer, you will need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some gyms and fitness centers may require you to have some college education as well.
Step 2: Get a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Certification
All personal trainers must have a current CPR certification. This can be obtained through the American Red Cross or other organizations that offer CPR training.
Step 3: Hold an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification
In addition to CPR, you will also need to be certified in using an automated external defibrillator (AED). This certification can also be obtained through the American Red Cross or other organizations that offer AED training.
Step 4: Choose a Fitness Specialty
There are many different fitness specialties that personal trainers can choose from. Some common fitness specialties include:
- Weight loss
- Muscle building
- Aerobic conditioning
- Injury rehabilitation
Choose the specialty that you are most passionate about to help you succeed as a personal trainer.
Step 5: Get Certifications Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
There are many personal trainer certification programs available, but not all of them are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Be sure to choose a program that is NCCA-accredited.
The most popular ones include the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
Step 6: Pass the Exam and Become Certified
Once you have completed a certification program, you will need to pass an exam in order to become certified. Once you have passed the exam, you will be able to use the credentials “CPT” or “ Certified Personal Trainer” after your name.
Step 7: Apply for Jobs and Build a Portfolio
Now that you are a certified personal trainer, you can start applying for jobs at gyms, fitness centers, or even online. You can also build a portfolio to showcase your skills and experience.
Step 8: Additional Education Options
If you want to further your education, there are many different options available to you. You can pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or another related field. You can also become a certified strength and conditioning coach (CSCS) or a certified health coach (CHC).
Pursuing additional education is not required to become a personal trainer, but it can help you further your career and earn more money.