Also called: Fitness Trainer
Designs workouts and coaches clients one-on-one to get stronger, lose weight or move better.
She trains eight clients between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m.: a teen athlete, a new mom, a retiree with knee pain. Between sessions she plans programs and checks clients' food logs.
BLS median $46,180 (May 2024).
Certificate, about 0 years after high school. Nationally recognized certification (NASM, ACE, ACSM or similar) plus CPR/AED; many have a kinesiology degree.
Ways in: Certification, 4-year college. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Kinesiology, Exercise Science.
Growing much faster than average (about 12% over 10 years). BLS projection, 2024-34.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. AI apps and smart mirrors cover basic workouts; in-person coaching, form correction and accountability keep demand growing.
Age 18+. One way to start: Study for the NASM, ACE or ACSM trainer exam and get a live CPR/AED card; big gyms hire new trainers First: Accredited personal trainer certification (a few weeks of study) plus CPR/AED
Classes: Physical education, Anatomy & Physiology, Health.
Official data: O*NET occupation 39-9031.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.