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Degrees and Schools
Earning a degree in physical education or exercise science is a smart path to a career in fitness training. These degrees will prepare individuals for full-time work in a variety of fitness training positions. Those who want to work part-time teaching exercise classes may not need to have a degree but will benefit from taking specific coursework relevant to fitness or the specific type of exericse they want to teach. Specific training in a field such as aerobics, Pilates or yoga will prepare them for certification in one of these areas.
Coursework
Below is a sampling of courses a student may take in an exercise science or physical education program:
- biology, physics and chemistry
- concepts of fitness and wellness
- human anatomy and physiology
- applied kinesiology
- exercise physiology
- fitness assessment and exercise prescription
- applied physiology of resistance training
- principles of motor learning
- nutrition in sports and exercise
- sport injury management
Online Classes and Programs
There are a limited number of exercise science and physical education programs available online with more available at the graduate level than at the undergraduate level. Students should make sure the program is properly accredited if they want to have the option to transfer credits to another program at a later date. In most cases, this means the school needs to be accredited by one of the six regional accreditation agencies.
Employment Requirements
Many positions require certification of a type that is appropriate to the position. There are many overlapping certifications available so job seekers should investigate the type of certification employers are looking for in their specific area, such as personal training, yoga instruction, etc. Some positions require a bachelor's degree in an exercise related field while other positions require an associate's degree or high school diploma. Employers are also looking for people who have good motivational skills, are in excellent health and have an outgoing personality that will appeal to clients.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
When selecting an exercise science or physical education program, the below questions should be considered:
- Program Focus - Is program designed for those who want to become fitness trainers? Or, it is a program that is designed for those who want work in schools or to continue on with physical therapy training?
- Career Goals - Does the program offer specific coursework that supports the student's career goals? Can a student who aspires to a management role take business courses? Are there courses specific to an age group, specific type of exercise or other area of interest?
- Cost - What are all the costs of the program? How much money will need to be borrowed? Will the student be able to pay back the loans given their likely future salary?
- Convenience - Is the school location conducive to a daily commute? If the location is not ideal, can some coursework be taken online to minimize commuting? What is the course schedule and does it allow the student to meet other obligations?
- Accreditation - Is the program accredited by one of the six regional accreditation agencies?
Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors Job Description
Exercise benefits people of all ages and fitness levels by helping them maintain a healthy weight and protecting them from diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors instruct and coach individuals and groups in a variety of exercise and sports activities. Some instructors work as personal trainers to help individuals meet their fitness goals while others teach group classes such as aerobics, Pilates, yoga or karate. Depending on where they work and their role, some instructors have additional responsibilities that do not involve hands-on instruction. Fitness Trainers are employed in a variety of settings including fitness clubs, community centers, corporate or hospital-based wellness programs, clinical rehabilitation centers and clients' homes.
Example Fitness Trainer Program
Career tips, salaries, and lists of schools.
Students in the physical fitness specialist program at Penn College have to take on a staff or faculty member as a client for several weeks. This video features one such student, whose client is none other than the president of the school. Produced by Penn College, a part of the Penn State University system.
Responsibilities of Fitness Trainers and Aerobics Instructors may include some of the following, depending on their position :
- lead group exercise classes
- instruct participants in correct technique
- design exercise programs for individual clients
- choreograph exercise class routines
- conduct fitness assessments
- create exercise class schedule and assign instructors
- supervise and provide assistance in weight training area
Resources
Institute for Credentialing Excellence - Umbrella organization for the National Commission for Certifying Agencies which sets standards and accredits certifying agencies that meet those standards.
National Strength and Conditioning Association - The NSCA supports and publishes fitness related research and its practical applications. Members can benefit from publications, networking, career resources, conferences, certifications and liability insurance.
American Council on Exercise - ACE provides a variety of certifications, continuing education and online resources for fitness professionals.
NSCA Certification Commission - This organization awards certifications to strength and conditioning specialists and personal trainers.
Pilates Method Alliance - This Pilates organization awards Pilates instruction certifications and coordinates continuing education courses.
Yoga Alliance - The Yoga Alliance is an education and support organization that registers trainers and schools that meet their training standards.
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