Fitness trainers and instructors lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities, including cardiovascular exercise (exercises for the heart and blood system), strength training, and stretching. They work with people of all ages and skill levels.
Work Environment
Fitness trainers and instructors held about 267,000 jobs in 2012. They work in health clubs, fitness or recreation centers, gyms, country clubs, hospitals, universities, yoga and Pilates studios, resorts, and clients’ homes.
How to Become a Fitness Trainer or Instructor
The education and training required for fitness trainers and instructors varies by type of specialty, and employers often hire those with certification.
Pay
The median annual wage for fitness trainers and instructors was $31,720 in May 2012.
Job Outlook
Employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 13 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations. As businesses, government, and insurance organizations continue to recognize the benefits of health and fitness programs for their employees, incentives to join gyms or other types of health clubs is expected to increase the need for fitness trainers and instructors.
