[mescelestus]

Hey chickies, I am getting closer to my goal...and as I am getting closer I keep hearing a voice: Become a personal trainer, become a personal trainer...Get the picture? Actually, this is a fairly new thought, and I am clueless about the costs and the process. Also does anyone know if your certification is only valid in the state where you obtain it? (because I will be switching states). I think this will be a good means of fulfillment for me, and a reliable / flexible source of income for me while I'm in college (please correct me if I'm wrong).
Can anyone shed a little light on the ins and outs of being and becoming a personal trainer? Thanks ~Sara

[Mel]

There are numerous certification organizations, some more reputable and some more "in vogue" than others.

Take a hard look at what you really want to do and find out the certifications of those who do that.

If you want to work at a gym, they usually have favorite certs based on what the chain or head trainer chooses. If you want to work on your own, pick the most prestigious.

Here are a few- they all have web-sites:
NASM
NASC
ASCM
ACE
ISSA
CrossFit

Look for a certification with national recognition. Very few states license trainers so a national cert is transportable.

PS- the money is lousy and the hours are worse, but sometimes it's worth it. As for being a reliable source if income, you need to do some serious research. The trainers who are successful work long hours, are good at selling (very good at selling!) and work odd hours.

Mel

[mescelestus]

Thank you very much, I'll make sure I do some more research.