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As individuals, employers, and health organizations become more aware of the role physical fitness plays in health and longevity, career opportunities for personal trainers are on the rise. Certifications such as those offered by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) can provide an efficient route to a personal trainer career. This 100% online course will provide you with the health, fitness, nutrition, and human movement knowledge needed to earn the NASM's Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists career opportunities for fitness trainers and instructors among its top choices between now and 2028. Jobs are expected to grow by 13%, over twice the expected growth rate for jobs overall.
According to Salary.com, personal trainers in the US earn on average $61,223 per year. The site notes that a personal trainer's income can depend on a wide variety of factors, but expects the amount to range between $44,190 and $75,214.
The BLS analysis also anticipates improvements in fitness technology, fitness-related employment benefits, and changing demographics to enhance career opportunities for personal trainers.
There are no prerequisites to take this course.
Physical activity guidelines as they relate to the Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model
Major muscles and their functions; subjective, objective, and performance assessments
Principles of human movement and flexibility; benefits of cardiorespiratory fitness and Proper exercise techniques
Training concepts, including balance, plyometric (reactive) and speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ)
Program design using the OPT model; acute training variables and exercise modalities
Structure and function of the human body; functions of anatomy and physiology during exercise
Program design adaptations for individuals with health impairments or physical conditions
Test-taking strategies, practice exam; review NASM's standards of professional practice as a professional fitness trainer
This is a self-paced course. However, support will be provided through email, online forms and phone.
This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
24/7 ce@broward.edu
Personal trainers provide information, motivation, and guidance for individuals and groups who want to maintain or improve their health. Personal trainers may address diet and nutrition, exercise, and mental and emotional wellbeing as part of their regimes. Many personal trainers work with individual clients, while others affiliate with health-related organizations.
Yes. Certification is extremely important due to the close working relationship with clients, their health, and their physical abilities. This requires domain-expert knowledge as well as discretion and trustworthiness. Earning a certification such as the NASM's CPT indicates to clients, prospective employers, and partners that a personal trainer meets the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Personal trainers may work in private or public settings. Some work in clients' homes or private offices. Others are affiliated with health clubs, clinics, or sports-related groups and facilities. Still, others may work in hospitals, retirement communities, or other group settings.
According to CareerExplorer.com, personal trainers' job satisfaction rates are in the top third of all professions. Along with golf pros, private detectives, and florists, personal trainers generally enjoy high levels of job satisfaction.