published September 21, 2011 02:36:30 EDTIf you want to know how to become a personal trainer, the very first step is to make sure you're in peak physical condition. It may sound obvious but people aren't going to hire you to improve their fitness if you don't look fit yourself. Once you've worked on getting yourself as fit as can be, there are many other steps you can take that will help you with how to become a personal trainer.
If you're still in college and want to know how to become a personal trainer, the first step is to major in an area like physical education or exercise science. If
you've already graduated college the next step is to determine if you have the personal qualities you need to be a good personal trainer. These qualities include being patient, nurturing, organized, and persistent, because you're going to be working with clients who lack some of those qualities and need you to help provide them.
If you've determined that you have what it takes to become a personal trainer, the next step is to get certification. There are currently 10 organizations in the
United States that offer certification programs, so it's best to call local gyms or other areas you may want to work like physical therapy programs and ask them what certification programs they prefer. It actually behooves you to get more than one certification because different places have different needs and most places will look at you more favorably if you have more than one. Be warned though that certain gyms and programs will still require you to complete their own certification program even after you've qualified nationally.
The ten national qualification programs are ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), ACE (American Council on Exercise), AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America), AFPA (American Fitness Professionals Association), IFPA (International Fitness Professionals Association), ISSA (International Sports and Science Association), NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), NCSF (National Council of Strength and Fitness), and NFPT (National Federation of Professional Trainers). Some of these programs allow home study courses, which is an excellent
option if you're currently in another career and want to keep working while you study.
Another certification you'll need if you want to know how to become a personal trainer is CPR. Most gyms will require you to get a professional level certification in this. Courses are offered at local hospitals so contact them to find one that's convenient.
Finally, once you've achieved all your certifications, the last step in how to become a personal trainer is to determine what area you want to specialize in. You can work in the weight loss realm, help athletes in training, assist in physical therapy programs, or work in a recreation department, among other options. Decide what type of people you'd like to work with—are you good with children, enjoy the elderly, or really have your heart set on working with elite athletes? Once you determine that you'll be able to go from there in building a satisfying career.
