With an estimated total value of £4.4 billion, the fitness industry is on the rise and continues to evolve in the current years. The good news is that there’s still plenty of action up for grabs. If you’re a self-confessed workout addict, then you’re in a prime position for staking a hold in an ever-growing market.
Imagine being paid to live in your local gym, without the pesky disruption of your current nine-to-five. It’s a dream you’ve no doubt fantasized about before on a dreary Wednesday afternoon. But if you’re dedicated you can make it a reality quicker than you think.
Become a personal trainer and you’ll get to talk shop all day long, working with clients to boost their fitness levels.
Sound interesting? We’ve identified five signs that you’d make an awesome personal trainer – have a look, and see if you’ve got what it takes.
#1: You’ve got the scientific knowhow
First things first, understanding the science behind calorie burning and muscle building. It’s expertise you’ve already built up through years of experience, but you’ll need to have proof of your wisdom in order to actually charge people for your advice.
Luckily, respectable courses for personal training can be found online, so getting the necessary qualifications is easier than ever. Afterwards, there’ll be no gaps or holes in your knowledge to trip you up.
#2: You’re emotionally intelligent
Weight loss or fitness improvement is normally as much of an emotional journey as it is physical, so being naturally empathetic is a massive helping hand when it comes to understanding your client’s needs. Giving ample consideration to the thoughts and feelings behind certain behaviours will make you a perfect motivator for every individual.
#3: You’ve got a way with words
Do you have the patience and skills to explain complex moves in a simple yet effective manner? It’s a talent that not many can honestly claim, but it will allow you to work with people of all abilities.
Besides teaching, fine-tuning your conversational skills will help you develop long-lasting and friendly relationships with clients.
#4: You’re tuned into trends
You’ll also have an ear to the streets and be constantly alert to any upcoming movements set to revolutionize the industry. For example, you’re probably already well aware of wearable technology and body weight training, biggest fitness trends this year.
To keep ahead of competitors and attract new clients, you’ll need to be adaptable and open to involving the most popular workout styles in your training methods.
#5: You’re used to odd hours
Lots of clients will want to hit the gym before work, making 5 am till 9am your peak hours and the fact that you’re a morning person a big advantage.
More of a night owl? You can always tap into post-work crowds by offering evening sessions, but if you really want to make your business a success you’ll cater to both times. In any case, you’ll face long days, early starts and late finishes.
On the skills scale, if you have these, then you’ve got what it takes!
- Knowledge of exercise science: A personal trainer should have a strong understanding of the human body, including how muscles, bones, and joints work together, as well as the principles of exercise physiology and kinesiology.
- Strong communication skills: Personal trainers need to be able to clearly communicate exercise instructions and safety information to clients, as well as effectively motivate and encourage them to achieve their goals.
- Motivational skills: A personal trainer should be able to motivate clients to reach their fitness goals and help them overcome obstacles that are preventing them from reaching them.
- Attention to detail: Personal trainers should pay close attention to clients’ form, technique, and progress and adjust their program as needed.
- Adaptability: Personal trainers should be able to adjust their training methods to suit the needs of different clients and adapt to changing circumstances.
- Physical fitness: Personal trainers should be in good physical shape and be able to demonstrate exercises to their clients.
- First Aid and CPR certification: Personal trainers need to be certified in basic first aid and CPR so they can provide immediate care in case of emergency.
- Creativity: Personal trainers should be able to come up with new and interesting exercises to keep clients engaged and motivated.
- Time management: Personal trainers should be able to manage their time effectively, keeping clients on schedule and managing multiple clients at once.
- Professionalism: Personal trainers should be professional and maintain a high level of ethics and integrity in their work.