Career Track for Personal Trainers Chapter 2

Objectives Discuss common client expectations of a Personal Trainer Examine potential career starting points and career paths Highlight options for continuing education and career development Examine expectations of a career as a Personal Trainer

Introduction Historically Personal Trainers focused on celebrities and athletes The professional has now evolved into a career that includes not only these populations but a wide range of clients

Client expectations Know the goal Discuss goals as part of intake process Make the goals measurable Long-term objective: enable clients to exercise independently Be knowledgeable and experienced Gain certification Gain experience in new areas

Client expectations (cont.) Present a clear and concise plan “plan your work and work your plan” Communication plan in addition to exercise prescription Be innovative, creative, and resourceful Introduce new methods and techniques Remain current and able to adapt

Client expectations (cont.) Educate Teach basics of safe and effective physical activity Gain working knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology Provide handouts and information for clients Inspire Provide examples of personal, positive experience Realize differences in clients’ motivation

Client expectations (cont.) Focus Provide individualized attention Prepare for each session Anticipate client needs Track and recognize progress Establish critical benchmarks to verify program effectiveness Provide recognition and positive reinforcement

Choosing a career as a Personal Trainer First: find your “WHY” Second: start your “HOW” Certification Finding a mentor

Potential career paths Personal training management Administration Clinical Independent contractors Franchise Owner of personal training business

Points to consider What specialty option holds the greatest interest for me? Do I have superior time management skills? Do I pay close attention to details?

Points to consider (cont.) What traits do I possess that will contribute to my success? What strengths do I have that can contribute to the fitness industry?

Points to consider (cont.) Am I passionate about my chosen career? Am I willing to take responsibility as a role model and mentor? Have I created my mission and values?

Your career path Understand your objectives Focus on the industry aspect that interests you most Set up a timeline Match your educational/career path to your goals

Continuing education and career development Reading and research Stay current with research in the field Clinics, conferences, and conventions Coursework

Continuing education Make continuing education a part of your commitment right from the start Read good-quality professional periodicals that offer Continuing Education Units (CEU) or Continuing Education Credits (CEC) that are designed to inform you of changes in the industry Get involved in conferences that put you in touch with different aspects of the industry and provide you with opportunities for meeting and networking with people in your field Subscribe to newsletters that keep you abreast of the latest research and developments in the industry

Expectations of a Personal Training career Experience the satisfaction of seeing healthy results Commit to exceeding client expectations Devote to lifelong learning