Great Job Outlook for Personal Trainers

This is a growing field. The public is aware of the obesity pandemic facing the United States and many employers and individuals are looking for help to get in shape and feel better about themselves. This field is expected to see an increase of 29 percent between now and 2018, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is great job growth. Some of this growth will be caused by the baby boomer generation becoming more concerned about staying physically fit as they age. There will also be a need for fitness training in relation to working with younger children during after school hours, especially children struggling with weight issues. Gyms and health clubs will also hire personal trainers to assist their clients with their work out routines.

Salaries for Personal Trainers

This is an excellent field due to the schedule flexibility. Many who work in this field are contract employees or part-time. Many employees in this field do not get benefits like health insurance and retirement options; however, they can often utilize fitness facilities for free, where they work. In 2008, average salaries for fitness trainers in the United States were between $19,000 and $44,000. The bottom ten percent earned under $16,000, and the top 10 percent earned over $60,000 annually. Those employed in medical facilities and hospitals had average salaries around $32,000, and those employed in health clubs and fitness centers had average salaries around $30,000, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook.

College Programs for Personal Trainers

Colleges are currently offering certifications, associate's degrees (2 years), and even bachelor's degrees (4 years) in this exciting field.