Are you passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals? If so, embarking on a career as a personal trainer could be your calling. Personal training courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary to guide individuals on their fitness journeys and finding the right one simply takes a bit of research. Start a search today to find the best personal training courses — some of them might even be free!
The Benefits of Becoming a Personal Trainer
Becoming a personal trainer isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of others. As a personal trainer, you’ll bear witness to the transformative journey of your clients, both physically and mentally. Guiding them toward their fitness aspirations is not only professionally fulfilling but also personally rewarding.
In addition to the emotional rewards, personal training offers practical benefits. You can enjoy a flexible work schedule that can be tailored to your preferences, allowing for a balanced life. For those who are passionate about fitness, this career allows you to do what you love while helping others achieve their goals—a harmonious blend of personal interest and professional success.
Career Opportunities
Personal trainers have a variety of career paths to choose from, making it a versatile profession. Here’s a glimpse of the career opportunities available:
- Gym-Based Personal Trainer: Many personal trainers start their careers working at fitness centers or gyms. These positions offer a steady client base and a supportive environment for newcomers.
- Freelance Personal Trainer: If you prefer independence and flexibility, becoming a freelance personal trainer might be the perfect fit. You can set your own rates and schedule while working with clients at various locations.
- Online Personal Trainer: With the rise of online fitness programs, there’s a growing demand for virtual personal trainers. You can reach clients worldwide and adapt to their schedules.
- Specialized Trainer: Some personal trainers specialize in niche areas such as nutrition, rehabilitation, or sports-specific training. These specialties can command higher rates, and income varies based on expertise and demand.
Exploring the Best Personal Trainer Courses
When embarking on the journey to become a personal trainer, selecting the right course is paramount. To ensure your success, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. Begin by considering your goals and preferred learning style. Look for accredited programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum, practical experience, and certification options recognized by the industry. Keep an eye out for online courses, which can provide flexibility without compromising quality. Now, let’s delve into a few standout personal trainer courses that are worth exploring as you start your research journey.
The American College of Sports Medicine
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Personal Trainer Certification is a top-tier program. This accredited certification is ideal for fitness professionals aiming to assist both healthy clients and those with stable health challenges, cleared by their healthcare providers for exercise.
The ACSM program offers a comprehensive online prep course and exam bundle, starting at $649, which includes the exam fee. Enrollees gain access to a 20-hour online course with 19 modules, 453 lessons, and over 200 interactive knowledge checks, ensuring a thorough understanding of fitness principles. ACSM’s scientific approach focuses on correcting form and enhancing fitness based on physiologic principles, making it a standout choice for aspiring personal trainers.
The American Council on Exercise
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Personal Trainer Certification is another well-regarded program that equips exercise professionals to deliver safe and personalized fitness programs. ACE stands out for its commitment to inclusivity and supporting behavior change across various settings.
With three program options—basic (starting at $979), plus ($1,149), and advantage ($1,729)—ACE caters to diverse learning needs. Each package includes access to the ACE Personal Trainer Study Program, integrating evidence-based exercise science and behavior change principles to prepare participants for designing tailored exercise routines. ACE’s offerings also encompass practice tests and certification exam access.
The plus and advantage programs go a step further with live Q&A webinars and facilitated study groups, offering valuable in-person learning opportunities. Many students complete their certification within three to six months, requiring approximately 80 to 100 hours of dedicated studying.
Explore Free Courses on Udemy
If you’re budget-conscious but eager to begin your journey, Udemy offers free fitness courses with online video content. These courses are a great starting point and include valuable features like instructor Q&A and direct messaging with instructors.
For a more structured and comprehensive experience, Udemy’s paid fitness courses are an excellent choice. In addition to online video content, these paid courses provide a certificate of completion, instructor Q&A, and direct messaging with instructors. Whether you choose a free course to get started or invest in a paid one for a deeper understanding, Udemy accommodates all fitness enthusiasts.
Start Your Search Today
Becoming a personal trainer opens doors to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career. So, why wait? Begin your journey today by searching for the best personal training courses.
Explore your options and take the first step towards a career that lets you get fit and inspire others. Start a search today to find the perfect personal training course for your goals and aspirations!