An Associate Degree May Open More Career Opportunities For A Personal Trainer

Posted on: 4 September 2018

Active people with practical knowledge about diet, exercise, and fitness often look towards a personal training career. The conventional way to enter into the profession involves acquiring a personal training certificate. Anyone hoping to expand career options further may wish to consider completing an associate degree program in physical education. A formal community college education adds another dimension to a would-be trainer's resume. Alternatively, getting an associate degree at a business school would help you set up your own personal training business. With a better resume, more career paths may open.

Expanding Career Avenues

Potential clients for a personal trainer often find knowledgeable professionals preferable. A person with a formal education from an academic institution could make a strong impression on would-be clients. An associate degree can do more than help you draw in clients. With a degree, your career path could widen beyond working as a personal trainer. The degree may lead to working in administrative or management positions at a health center or similar business. While you may focus on personal trainer work at present, circumstances might change making other career options attractive. Think about the following:

  • Stable Work Weeks: Personal trainers sometimes work irregular hours. Clients may book random hours between sunrise and sunset. Trainers find themselves "all over the map" when committing to a work schedule. A non-trainer job at a gym could deliver a reliable, 40-hour work week.
  • Reduction of Physically Taxing Work: Working as a personal trainer can be enjoyable, but the sessions can take a toll on the body. Working fewer hours means earning less. A switch to a sales or supervisory role at a gym likely lessons the physical impact on the body.
  • Increased Earning Potential: Becoming the primary manager at a well-known fitness gym brings forth strong earning potential. As a salaried employee, doors open for 401(k) and health benefit plans. And you could retain the option of earning extra income as a personal trainer outside your normal hours.

With only a personal trainer certificate, career paths outside of one-on-one or group training may prove limited. Career limitations present potential problems. An associate degree might assist with overcoming limitations.

Working as a Trainer While Studying

Experience carries tremendous weight when applying for a job. A combination of education and experience impresses. Once certified, you can work in the profession and do so while working on completing your associate degree. Upon graduation, you gain formal academic credentials to support your industry experience. Consider that a potentially excellent position for a job seeker.

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