What to Know Before Becoming a Personal Trainer

If you’re considering becoming a personal trainer, there are many certifications to choose from. Two of the most popular certifications are the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). Before deciding which one is right for you, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and what it takes to become certified. Continue reading to learn more about what to know before becoming a personal trainer, including the differences between NASM vs ISSA certifications.

Different Types of Personal Trainer Certifications

The most crucial decision to make on your journey to becoming a personal trainer is to choose which certification to obtain. The two most popular certifications are the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).

The NASM certification is one of the most respected certifications in the industry, and it is designed to help personal trainers gain a comprehensive understanding of exercise science and training methods. It focuses on the practical application of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise technique, program design, and nutrition for fitness.

The ISSA certification provides a more comprehensive approach to personal training, focusing on both the physical and psychological aspects of health and fitness. It teaches students how to design and implement safe and effective fitness programs tailored to meet an individual’s needs.

But why does certification matter? Having a personal training certification gives you credibility and shows potential clients that you have taken the time to learn the necessary skills to be a competent and knowledgeable personal trainer. It also allows you to network with other professionals in the industry and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. Having a personal training certification can open up career opportunities in the fitness industry, such as working at a gym or health club.

When choosing a personal training certification program, consider factors such as cost, flexibility, content, and duration. Different programs offer different levels of depth and may range from just a few weeks to several months depending on the type of certification you want.

The Benefits of Being a Personal Trainer

Being a personal trainer can be a rewarding and lucrative career. One of the biggest advantages of becoming a personal trainer is the ability to help others achieve their health and fitness goals. When you’re responsible for someone’s success, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Personal trainers get to enjoy the benefits of being an entrepreneur. You can choose your hours, set your rates, and manage your client base. This allows you to make your schedule and work when it’s convenient for you.

In addition to having control of your work schedule, being a personal trainer allows you to build your own business. This includes having the freedom to market yourself however you see fit and build a client base that fits your style. You’re in control of how much or how little you want to work and how much money you want to make.

The Downfalls of Being a Personal Trainer

Although there are many benefits to becoming a personal trainer, there are also some downsides. One of the biggest disadvantages is that you need to have a strong knowledge base when it comes to exercise physiology and nutrition. You’ll need to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in fitness and nutrition to provide quality advice to your clients. Certifications will also need to be retaken throughout your career, as it is not a one-time achievement.

While becoming an entrepreneur has its freedoms, those can be considered a downfall. You may have to put in long hours in order to keep up with client demands and stay ahead of the competition. It can be difficult to keep a consistent client base, and you may have times when you don’t have enough clients or your clients are too spread out. It can take a great deal of work but will be worth it if you feel ready to handle the pressure.

How Much Do Personal Trainers Make?

On average, personal trainers earn between $15 and $50 per hour. However, the amount you charge can vary depending on the type of services you provide, your experience, and the region you live in. Keep your hours in mind when setting your rates. For example, a trainer who works fewer hours at a higher rate might make more than a trainer who works more hours at a lower rate. It’s important to keep these factors in mind when considering your salary potential.

Conclusion

Pursuing your dream of becoming a personal trainer can be an exciting time. Be thorough in your research to find the best certification program for you to get your career started on the right path.