Want to be a Personal Trainer or Strength Coach? Start Here.
Written on August 3, 2010 at 6:07 am, by Eric Cressey
It's an email I get at least twice a week from a random reader, and it goes something like this:
"My current job just isn't fulfilling, but I really love fitness and want to turn it into a career. What certification do you recommend?"
I get these type of inquiries so often that I decided that this bit of writing would be my autoresponse which - as you'll see below - has a bit of tough love that I think these folks need to hear.
A few months ago, Rachel Cosgrove said that about 80% of those who enter the fitness industry leave it within a year. I haven't seen the statistic myself, but Rachel knows her stuff and meticulously monitors the business side of the fitness industry and I defer to her completely.
Does it say something about the "status quo" that our industry probably has more turnover than a janitorial position at your local zoo?
Why the crazy turnover within the first year? Well, for starters, I feel like entering the fitness business is an impulse decision for a lot of folks. They hate their current jobs so much that they have to go to the opposite end of the spectrum to one of the only things in their lives that makes them happy: exercising.
Two months later, they realize that they're working 60-hour weeks on their feet because they have floor hours at their local commercial gym in the middle of the day on top of their only two personal training clients - who conveniently schedule at 5AM and 6PM. They're rewarded with a whopping $600 check every two weeks, after taxes. Starting with the 2011 tax plan, it'll probably be $200; take notes, kids.
But you've got passion, right?
Wrong.
Passion (and optimism) might get you out of bed for that 5AM client, but only determination, preparation, intrapersonal skills, organization, and a solid understanding of exercise physiology are going to make it possible for you to get through the rest of the day while being happy and making sure that you're just a little bit better the next day.
And, I will tell you flat-out that every single trainer I have ever met has had days when exercise was the last thing they wanted to do. For me, it happened in the fall of 2006 every Tuesday and Thursday night - when my football guys came in to train with me at 7:30PM after I'd been training clients since 6:30AM. Were it not for this kind of energy in my training partners, I probably would have gone home and just gone to bed.
Obviously, that's a worst-case scenario. However, I'm never going to discourage someone from pursuing what they feel could be a livelihood where they'd be happy and helping people. I would, though, encourage them to adhere to the following steps (in this order):
1. Go observe a few current fitness professionals who are successful in their crafts. Ask questions and get a feel for whether this is a good fit for you before you jump into the deep-end, quitting your job and investing all sorts of cash in a career change.
2. Wait a year to get a certification. What? Huh? This is supposed to come first, right? Wrong. Getting a certification without any background experience makes you a liability, not a professional. Every penny you spend in that first year should be on books, DVDs, seminars, and travel to go observe other coaches/trainers in action. And, you should be taking advantage of all the free resources there are for you to get educated online. Don't ignore fitness industry business resources, either; they aren't taught with certifications or degrees, but are tremendously important.
3. Get an internship. This is an extension of #1 - and it still comes before getting a certification. You need to log at least three months of 40-hour weeks somewhere learning your craft and paying your dues. Get a feel for whether you could see yourself doing this long-term.
Obviously, this is a concern because it would require you to quit your job, so you'd need to save up for this period. However, you would be amazed at how many interns are hired by facilities after their internship period is over (all our "hires" at Cressey Performance have been former interns). And, most facilities will pay for your certification and CPR/AED training, and some will even give you a continuing education stipends on top of it.
4. Get a certification. Yes, it is step 4. Frankly, I don't really care what certification you get because none of them really wow me, but then again, I have a hard time justifying an undergraduate exercise science degree for $100, let alone $200,000. If I was 18 today, I'd save all that money, get an internship, and spend the cash on loads of books/DVDs - and taking selective courses (gross anatomy, kinesiology and biomechanics). A lot of folks, for instance, have told Mike Robertson and I that they learned more practical information in our Building the Efficient Athlete DVD set than they did in their entire college careers - for only 0.0015% the price.
And, I sure as heck wouldn't pay a university fo accept my internship credits; that's one of the biggest scams of all time! However, before I digress too much on that front, get the certification. Most jobs will require it even if it is just a small foot in the door.
5. Pay your dues. There is no way around it. You aren't magically going to have a full client roster on your first day of a job; you have to start somewhere. I can promise you that you will be better off with the background you've created with steps 1-4.
In Outliers, Malcolm Gladwell talks about the importance of accumulating 10,000 hours in order to become an expert in one's field. There are only 8,760 hours in a year - and even if you assume 60-hour work-weeks, it's still going to take over three years to get to that 10,000-hour mark.
The 80% who don't make it past the first year simply didn't understand that you can't live the life of an established professional, industry expert, or even someone who has seniority if you don't put in the hours.
You've probably noticed that I geared a lot of this toward those in the private sector. However, much of it will still apply to those looking to go into college strength and conditioning - but keep in mind that you will run into a lot of hurdles in college S&C if you don't have a college degree in a related field. That's just the game as it's played, so keep it in mind.
A big part of longer-term success will be how you approach continuing education. If you do it and take it seriously, you'll be ahead of 90% of the trainers and coaches out there. A great resource in this regard is Elite Training Mentorship, our online education program that helps fitness professionals learn how to evaluate, program, and coach. Check it out: Elite Training Mentorship.
Do any of you veterans have any tips for the aspiring up-and-comers in the business? If so, post them as comments.
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I can say that being in the industry almost 10 years working at a gym on staff for a year, then working for 2 trainers after that while getting a Bachelors of science degree was probaly a real good idea. The only thing I wish I had done was pay more attention to the business side of things. So many new trainers just focus on the training side which is important, however I would also like to stress the importance of learning the business side.
#5 is huge and often underestimated. I tell all of my business consulting clients and our interns that you have to be patient. Put in your time and associate yourself with the best in the industry. I think back to when I opened in 1992 and chuckle at how little I knew, but I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything. You simply can’t replace “time in the trenches”. Great Post!
To expand on what Rick said,I’d suggest every new trainer take up blogging. Even if nobody reads your content you’ll gain experience putting together the information you’re learning. I find that teaching helps me to solidify things in my own mind.
Also, network. Get to know as many coaches as you can and learn from all of them.
Attend as many live seminars and workshops as possible, by as many different instructors as possible. These typically go into far more detail and have greater practical application to what trainers and S & C coaches do daily than any university course I have ever taken.
I agree with all your points 110%. Put in your time – internship if you can arrange it. Education is top priority and it doesn’t stop just because you have a piece of paper saying your are “certified”. This industry is life long learning and if you aren’t prepared to put in the time doing that, then please find another career.
Workshops, seminars, DVD’s, conferences – all essential.
Hard work, especially if you own your own facility. Don’t be fooled by internet business scams that offer $$$ for little work.
Pick your mentors both for training/technical knowledge (Cressey, McGill, Cook, Boyle, Robertson, Hartman, Cosgrove to name just a few). Also pick your business mentors (Cosgrove, Rigsby, Labadie). Without a solid business foundation you will fail. You need to learn to divide learning time between technical and business knowledge.
Have a plan. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Passion may lead you into this industry, but hard work and a desire to be the best you can is what will keep you here and successful.
Be fit yourself. Live it.
Pick a niche your passionate about.
Learn from others who are in your niche.
Train some people for free in exchange for referrals and experience.
Practice what you preach / cut out bad habits.
Bill monthly.
Charge for program design.
Write programs from a template.
Teach everything you learn immediately. Practice on family, friends whoever.
Blog what you learn.
Speak in benefits. Learn communication skills.
Read / listen to self improvement behavior based materials.
Be 1st to arrive & last to leave.
Smile.
I like what Mike said, write programs from a template. Also, save everything you’ve created. You’ll come back to them a year later with new ideas and be able to rewrite and reorganize yours programs. You’re philosophy and training methods will change over the years, especially in the first 10,000 hours Eric talked about. The more you observe successful people in the industry the better your philosophy will develop.
Finding people that are successful in your industry and can give you the “real” picture just like Eric did. The expectations and reality aren’t a match many times at the beginning as people don’t know how much goes into becoming a successful fitness professional.
Having perseverance and a constant thirst for knowledge is a must if you don’t want to be one of the 80% that drop out the first year.
Apply and teach what you learn as that will consistently improve your craft. Also remember that “success leaves clues”and there is an unbelievable amount to learn from all the top coaches on here (training, business and self development).
I took a personal training job right out of college (bs exercise science) and within a year, never wanted to see another db, bosu ball, swiss ball, squat rack etc, ever again. My passion was in athletic performance, not mrs jones who cancelled her 7pm apt at 7:15pm because she had a bad day at work, so I started a S&C program at a small D3 school in mass(for $3000 a year, year you read that correctly $3000 a year) and cut my hours back dramatically from the training side. The pay cut hurt but the differences and similarities between the two allowed me to stay sane, and I developed a new passion and drive to be a better coach and trainer.
When I first moved to a small town, I started a children’s tumbling class where I walked to the daycares and walked the children to the gym (which was a martial arts studio upstairs) and taught them the basics. It was AMAZING to see the change in coordination in that age group with just 2 hours a week. I also spoke with the PE teachers at the surrounding schools and volunteered to teach the kids yoga, exercise techniques, injury prevetnion, whatever came to mind. I can honestly say that the seniors were the worst – grade school through juniors is the way to go!
Having been in the business for 20 years- argghh am I the oldest poster?!! One of the biggest issues I see with new trainers is a lack of understanding about how to market and promote themselves. Sure, if you work for someone else they may be doing the marketing for their facility- but what if you want to go out on your own? (hint- you make alot more money!) Clients do not just fall out of the sky. Network with other fitness and health professionals. Build your team- find other health professionals who will give you referrals and to whom you can refer as well. Give lectures,create a cable TV show, write for your local paper- all things that do not pay $- but that do establish you as THE expert. And, speaking of experts, NEVER think you know everything. The minute you do- you are dead in the water. I learn something new every day- if not from my clients- then from people like Eric.
Awesome! I can’t even tell you how many times I have had to attempt to communicate this to people.
So many people that change thier lives through fitness think they want to do what I do but they have no concept of how I’ve worked my a** off and barely paid the bills for nearly a decade to get here. (and by “here” I mean just scratching the surface).
I have a mentoring program that we use as a pool to hire from. Basically they work a few hours per week in my gym for free- learning as they go- and I devote an hour per week just in mentoring for business and coaching skills. I won’t allow anyone this opportunity that doesn’t 1) train in my gym for a minimum of 3 months and 2) demonstrate thier passion by learning and teaching on thier own.
I have no patience for people who say they want it but are not investing DAILY in thier learning process.
This is a great post (and comments) that I will continue to point people to! THANKS!
If you can’t get an internship, or give up your job…..Volunteer (it probably helps that I am from TN). Seriously though, Volunteer at places that are closely related to our field to find your passion. Helping Schools with the p.e. program elementary, middle or high school, or volunteer with a high school that doesn’t have a solid S&C program. Also, physical therapy clinics, Chiropractors, Massage clinics are great places to volunteer your time. If Performance is your passion, understand there are going to be injuries and volunteering at a sports therapy clinic can help you be proactive on the front end with the people you want to work with. It is a good Idea to find one that seeks out other methods as well. It is where you can learn about Manual therapy such as A.R.T. or Graston techniques. This makes a great referral system if you can’t offer these techniques to your clients. You can also find out who they follow, read and learn from. (At one particular clinic all of the therapists followed Mike Reinold’s site)
Thanks for the content Eric!
Know your stuff,observe and take into account ppl’s behavioral patterns,have integrity,be honest and refer out if client is uncoachable and/or beyond your scope of expertise.
Awesome post! I was curious if you and other successful trainers and coaches could recommend your top personal training-business related books. In past my profession I have read and enjoyed many business and management books but I am looking for a “go to” book specifically on ideas on building a successful training business> any and all suggestions appreciated.
I´m always interested in knowing what´s required to work as a personal trainer in the US. Here in Brazil, you MUST go to college for 4 years to work in this field. Otherwise one couldn´t get registered in the physical education “counsil”, and probably would have to a pay a fine or even get arrested for professional malpractice. I´m not saying that all fitness professionals here are better prepared, but at least all of them had an extensive education, with lots of hours learning physiology, kinesiolog and biomechanics courses.
I´m 24 and already have a 4-years degree in physical education, plus a 2-years postgraduation degree in exercise physiology (something like a pre-masters degree certification) and work as a personal trainer for 6 years.
Anyway…
Sorry for the bad english. You´re the man Eric! Keep on the good work. Hope I can get a chance to visit Cressey Performance any time soon.
For me, I think two things stand out: First, a passion for helping people fulfill their dreams. Whether it’s helping a 300 lbs. personal training client lose body fat and lower their risk for potentially life-threatening diseases or helping a high school athlete get a college scholarship, if you as a coach do not get fired up about taking those you train to their full potential than you probably need to get out. In other words, if your’re more worried about your paycheck than the success of your clients, keep your other job. Second, I believe every coach should strive for 15 hours of reading/DVD material a week from scholarly journals and renown professionals. It not only keeps you humble but increases what i like to call your “Perspective IQ”. If reading a 5 page single space journal article on breaking S&C research is boring or if reading an article from a renown coach is tough cause your head is already so big- than this is not the right field for you.
Think horizontally. There are so many different ways you can involve yourself in the business and get your name out there.
You can’t just sit on your hands and think clients will break down your door. Always have several different projects moving forward. That way when half of them fail, you still have several more irons in the fire.
I’m 19 year old male I live in a town of 30,000 people in Albany Western Australia, I’ve been working in a local gym for just over a year now it’s great, I’ve loved every second of it there’s nothing more satisfying than helping people. I’ve recently finished level one ‘Mark Buckles’ FMA Strength training: Mechanics of lifting which has really helped and I’m planning to complete Level 2 early next year. I’ve always been unsure for ‘what to do next’ I’ve been planning on studying Exercise Physiology next year it’s a four year university diploma which has some really helpful units/courses in it like ‘Principles of Vertebrate Physiology’, ‘Biomechanics and Diagnostic Palpation Skills’ and ‘Metabolic Rehabilitation’ ect. Like your saying most of what you learn in university degrees just won’t be practical information and a waste of money.
Cheers for the Blog Eric it’s given me something to think about.
I read in your August 3rd, 2010 article where you mentioned, “frankly, I don’t really care what certification you get because none of them really wow me, but then again, I have a hard time justifying an undergraduate exercise science degree for $100, let alone $200,000”. I also see you are very well knowledge and you are certified by the CSCS. If the certification does not matter, why did you fill the need to get certified by the CSCS?
I am a little bothered because everyone (those that do just research and those that have no hands on experience besides the gym) makes a big deal about the CSCS like an degree from a university (in the related) as well as hands on experience does not matter. In addition, to the other certifications that are available, more so the hands on experience that the CSCS does not offer. Why does everyone make a big deal about the CSCS and why wont a certification with any other organization, let us say the Performance Enhancement Specialist, count?
I am a Strength and Conditioning Specialist and I am not going to allow the CSCS to dictate my future in training athletes. Athletes that I train do not ask me who you are certified with. They look at the professional, test results over a couple of weeks, how they are being trained and more.
I have been training overall nine years and not once have I was asked do you have a CSCS. I am continuously do my research and seek knowledge daily because everything, peace of information in the field changes. However, I don’t believe by having the CSCS is the only way one can be called a professional.
To be honest, I got it right when I got out of school, and I’ve just maintained it pretty easily with continuing education credits (and speaking at some of their events). I don’t think it’s the only way to go, or even close to an “exhaustive” preparation for a career. It’s a tip of the iceberg.
Hey Eric
Awesome post! Love it! First, I must declared that I’m no veteran but has been in the fitness industry for about 10 years in 2 countries (Australia and Singapore). However, I still see myself learning everyday and open my mind to stuff that might improved my craft.
1 thing that you mentioned about newbie getting certification think that they’re gonna be so busy is so true. You got to put in the hours and spend the time to prove yourself even if you’re a university exercise and exercise graduate.
I have been thinking career change to fitness trainer for years. I have personally been training over 50 years. What stopped me ? A schedule to keep, gym hours, that kind of thing.
I think this is a great article. I was one of these people 9 years ago. However, I got certified first and then started training at a big box gym.
I have not however made the full time switch to doing this as a business full time. I would like to very much but I have a wife and kids to support.
I have studied under various trainers over the years and have learned a lot. I buy books, dvds etc but do not have a degree in this field. I was considering it but your statement about just taking the courses makes much more sense. I hate to have go back and waste money on courses I don’t need to completer the degree program, thoughts?
Are there any mentoring programs other than Alwyn’s and yours? I live in Texas and find it is hard to attend seminars etc. They are always in Chicago, Rhode Island or California. Once again, this is a big expense when you add in travel expenses plus the course. I wish Perform Better or some of the others would come to the Dallas area.
It is for this reason that I spend my money on training with other good trainers that I can learn from. However, I have had some that were unwilling to teach me and wanted to do it as a workout only. Questions would be unanswered or the reply would be you are my competition, I can’t teach you that. Thoughts?
I am slowly progressing to doing this full time and I am now 48. I know I have a lot to learn but that is great. I love learning it, teaching it and being part of it. Any input would be welcome.
I have always had a hard time hearing people degrade an education.
I hope Mr Cressey does not mean that an education isn’t worth anything.
To understand biomechanics and exercise physiology, you need to havce a strong back ground in physics, mathematics, biology and chemistry.
When all these strength coaches use terms like ” torque”, “moment arm” , “lever” etc etc or in exercise physiology whern they talk about substrate and glycolysis etc etc.
I dont know how you can take a course in biomechanics without first taking physics or exercise physiology without taking chemistry and biology.
If that is what he meant, I STRONGLY disagree with him.
Never understimate the importance of the fitness material out there… certifications are great, but in the end to be successful you need to have a continous learning mindset.. seminars, books,anything that will allow you to grow
I agree with all the replies above. They are very informative. The one thing that stands out is personality. Is the Trainer people oriented? Can the Trainer relate to the client? Do you smile? Are you a motivator? Are you a Leader? Can you instruct? These are things that come to mind right away. People are not going to stick with Trainers that have no personality and big egos for very long. We all know the ones that say I look good, you need to look like me. I always live my this quote, “Talent is God Given, Be Humble.” “Fame is Man-Given, Be Grateful”. Conceit is Self-Given, Be Careful”.
Great post Eric…I completely agree with your methodology and thinking. I too had a successful career in the corporate world and decided that I needed something more rewarding in my life. I decided to make a transition into the fitness sector as I had been doing performance training and weight lifting from the age of 12 (I’m almost 40 now). I knew alot about fitness, but needed to become a more rounded trainer, so I utilized people who were alot smarter than I and accumulated a vast amount of knowledge and started at a big box fitness center. I got my cert a year later. One thing that should be mentioned in your post that I had been trained in is the art of sales. Fortunately, I had some unmatched sales training in my previous career, so this came very natural for me as I did very well financially while giving each client the training experience that they deserved. So, for those out there that are thinking about a career change into the fitness and performance world, add sales training into the rest of Eric’s great resources. If you are truly going to be grounded into fitness and performance, I’d suggest to use Pat Rigsby as a source. Thanks Eric.
P.S. Eric…I purchased Show & Go in April and am in the 4th Phase currently. I absolutely love this program!! I have always had trouble with BB Squats (I am 6’4″ and am all legs) and I wanted to make a point to use this program to help me get better at them. When I started the program my 3RM was 365lbs…I am using regular squats rather than front squats for Phase 4, and today I was able to squat 490 lbs for a single. I am shooting for 500 lbs soon!! All I can say is WOW!!! You are a rock star…thanks for helping me out!
They most important aspect to this discussion is TIME UNDER THE BAR! Period! The title and certifcation gets you somewhat in the door from there you better know your stuff because if you do not some one going to get hurt permanently! Read what Louie, Dave Tate Jim Wendler and the real guys are doing, it is time and trial but when you find what works that is where it is at! I have been doing this sport with a passion for over fourty years and believe me I have seen all the go to programs but each and every one of the idividuals you work with requires a little tweek here and there and you better know your stuff bec ause that idividual will be ruined for life! Microtrama has a way of catching up with you so read study go to clinics talk to people who “train” and then do not open your pie hole untill you get it, you are just another idiot who just may ruine a life by prescribing a program that wokrs for you but not for them.
Hi Eric,
Thanks for all the great info and I fully agree about the personal study + 10k hours! I listen to Malcolm Gladwell -Outliers many times during the year.
Another good book to read for deeper insight on the SELF and what we need to function optimally as humans is DRIVE by Daniel H. Pink. Awesome read with excellent scientific studies.
Where would you suggest resources /classes for Biomechanics?
I always look forward to your newsletter and tweets.
As a Personal Trainer who has only been in the industry 3 years i found this very useful to read. I was wondering if anyone could give me the names of any books or resources that they would recommend. Also if anyone knows of any seminars that run in the UK? Many thanks in advance
Eric,
I want to outline three different scenarios that have presented themselves to me in the last few weeks:
1. A 19 year old female first time gym user comes to me looking for a “general fitness program”. Doesn’t currently play sport but is in very good shape.
2. A 25 year old overweight first time gym user comes to me looking to build muscle and lose fat, however he can’t even do 1 push up on his knees, any hip hinging movement without going into lumbar flexion and is so upper trap dominant that he can’t even retract his scapulae.
3. A fourteen year old rugby prop comes to me looking to get stronger and bigger for rugby, whilst also wanting to do more for “fitness”. However he is too weak to even squat a bar and is in serious risk of hurting himself in a match.
These are just some of the people I see in my job as a gym instructor. My query is this, what would be 5 top resources for me to better learn how to approach and solve these problems?
I’d look to the private sector. There are a lot of places that do internships; I can probably name a dozen just off the top of my head. We’ve definitely had people in your situation who have been great interns for us.
Eric/Renee:
I would be extremely interested in a list of these private facilities where I could apply to get an internship. I want to learn from the best, and I would like to intern this coming summer, as I am currently a junior at Wake Forest. I am sure I could find some of these places myself, but I would greatly appreciate your input, as if you think the facility is reputable I trust that. My email is zakforest@gmail.com
Great article! So true. When I got started in 2000 it was like. “Awesome I’m a trainer! Now where are all those clients that pay $600 for 10 sessions??” I was starting my own training business so I was clueless. I was able to pick the brain of a very good trainer for a few things and the rest I had to figure out in my own. There were a lot of growing pains and my clients suffered.
If there is one thing would-be trainers take from this article in my opinion it should be the advice about educating yourself before you get certified. My certification is literally a piece of paper on the wall I will use along with the waiver if (God forbid) I ever get sued to “prove” I’m competent and was mal-practicing.
August 3rd, 2010 at 7:23 am
I can say that being in the industry almost 10 years working at a gym on staff for a year, then working for 2 trainers after that while getting a Bachelors of science degree was probaly a real good idea. The only thing I wish I had done was pay more attention to the business side of things. So many new trainers just focus on the training side which is important, however I would also like to stress the importance of learning the business side.
August 3rd, 2010 at 7:51 am
#5 is huge and often underestimated. I tell all of my business consulting clients and our interns that you have to be patient. Put in your time and associate yourself with the best in the industry. I think back to when I opened in 1992 and chuckle at how little I knew, but I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything. You simply can’t replace “time in the trenches”. Great Post!
August 3rd, 2010 at 7:57 am
EC,
Great post.
I think writing has been a big key thing as well because if you can’t communicate, you can’t help your clients.
Rick Kaselj of ExercisesForInjuries.com
.
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:00 am
To expand on what Rick said,I’d suggest every new trainer take up blogging. Even if nobody reads your content you’ll gain experience putting together the information you’re learning. I find that teaching helps me to solidify things in my own mind.
Also, network. Get to know as many coaches as you can and learn from all of them.
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:22 am
Attend as many live seminars and workshops as possible, by as many different instructors as possible. These typically go into far more detail and have greater practical application to what trainers and S & C coaches do daily than any university course I have ever taken.
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:40 am
I agree with all your points 110%. Put in your time – internship if you can arrange it. Education is top priority and it doesn’t stop just because you have a piece of paper saying your are “certified”. This industry is life long learning and if you aren’t prepared to put in the time doing that, then please find another career.
Workshops, seminars, DVD’s, conferences – all essential.
Hard work, especially if you own your own facility. Don’t be fooled by internet business scams that offer $$$ for little work.
Pick your mentors both for training/technical knowledge (Cressey, McGill, Cook, Boyle, Robertson, Hartman, Cosgrove to name just a few). Also pick your business mentors (Cosgrove, Rigsby, Labadie). Without a solid business foundation you will fail. You need to learn to divide learning time between technical and business knowledge.
Have a plan. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Passion may lead you into this industry, but hard work and a desire to be the best you can is what will keep you here and successful.
August 3rd, 2010 at 9:56 am
In addition to above:
Be fit yourself. Live it.
Pick a niche your passionate about.
Learn from others who are in your niche.
Train some people for free in exchange for referrals and experience.
Practice what you preach / cut out bad habits.
Bill monthly.
Charge for program design.
Write programs from a template.
Teach everything you learn immediately. Practice on family, friends whoever.
Blog what you learn.
Speak in benefits. Learn communication skills.
Read / listen to self improvement behavior based materials.
Be 1st to arrive & last to leave.
Smile.
August 3rd, 2010 at 10:45 am
I like what Mike said, write programs from a template. Also, save everything you’ve created. You’ll come back to them a year later with new ideas and be able to rewrite and reorganize yours programs. You’re philosophy and training methods will change over the years, especially in the first 10,000 hours Eric talked about. The more you observe successful people in the industry the better your philosophy will develop.
August 3rd, 2010 at 10:57 am
Finding people that are successful in your industry and can give you the “real” picture just like Eric did. The expectations and reality aren’t a match many times at the beginning as people don’t know how much goes into becoming a successful fitness professional.
Having perseverance and a constant thirst for knowledge is a must if you don’t want to be one of the 80% that drop out the first year.
Apply and teach what you learn as that will consistently improve your craft. Also remember that “success leaves clues”and there is an unbelievable amount to learn from all the top coaches on here (training, business and self development).
Luka Hocevar
August 3rd, 2010 at 11:08 am
Well said Eric, well said.
August 3rd, 2010 at 11:14 am
good points…master your craft and learn the biz side
August 3rd, 2010 at 11:33 am
The type of energy displayed via that flying roundhouse should be included in volume 2 of “The Book of Awesome”
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_vZEkDiNbbAo/S8cIkI8bPjI/AAAAAAAACM4/OIb4RK8Kehk/s1600/bookofawesome3d.jpg
Those are the moments the bring life to the gym setting and I only hope that everyone gets to experience them.
August 3rd, 2010 at 11:48 am
I took a personal training job right out of college (bs exercise science) and within a year, never wanted to see another db, bosu ball, swiss ball, squat rack etc, ever again. My passion was in athletic performance, not mrs jones who cancelled her 7pm apt at 7:15pm because she had a bad day at work, so I started a S&C program at a small D3 school in mass(for $3000 a year, year you read that correctly $3000 a year) and cut my hours back dramatically from the training side. The pay cut hurt but the differences and similarities between the two allowed me to stay sane, and I developed a new passion and drive to be a better coach and trainer.
August 3rd, 2010 at 1:05 pm
When I first moved to a small town, I started a children’s tumbling class where I walked to the daycares and walked the children to the gym (which was a martial arts studio upstairs) and taught them the basics. It was AMAZING to see the change in coordination in that age group with just 2 hours a week. I also spoke with the PE teachers at the surrounding schools and volunteered to teach the kids yoga, exercise techniques, injury prevetnion, whatever came to mind. I can honestly say that the seniors were the worst – grade school through juniors is the way to go!
August 3rd, 2010 at 2:50 pm
Having been in the business for 20 years- argghh am I the oldest poster?!! One of the biggest issues I see with new trainers is a lack of understanding about how to market and promote themselves. Sure, if you work for someone else they may be doing the marketing for their facility- but what if you want to go out on your own? (hint- you make alot more money!) Clients do not just fall out of the sky. Network with other fitness and health professionals. Build your team- find other health professionals who will give you referrals and to whom you can refer as well. Give lectures,create a cable TV show, write for your local paper- all things that do not pay $- but that do establish you as THE expert. And, speaking of experts, NEVER think you know everything. The minute you do- you are dead in the water. I learn something new every day- if not from my clients- then from people like Eric.
August 3rd, 2010 at 8:15 pm
Awesome! I can’t even tell you how many times I have had to attempt to communicate this to people.
So many people that change thier lives through fitness think they want to do what I do but they have no concept of how I’ve worked my a** off and barely paid the bills for nearly a decade to get here. (and by “here” I mean just scratching the surface).
I have a mentoring program that we use as a pool to hire from. Basically they work a few hours per week in my gym for free- learning as they go- and I devote an hour per week just in mentoring for business and coaching skills. I won’t allow anyone this opportunity that doesn’t 1) train in my gym for a minimum of 3 months and 2) demonstrate thier passion by learning and teaching on thier own.
I have no patience for people who say they want it but are not investing DAILY in thier learning process.
This is a great post (and comments) that I will continue to point people to! THANKS!
August 3rd, 2010 at 9:46 pm
If you can’t get an internship, or give up your job…..Volunteer (it probably helps that I am from TN). Seriously though, Volunteer at places that are closely related to our field to find your passion. Helping Schools with the p.e. program elementary, middle or high school, or volunteer with a high school that doesn’t have a solid S&C program. Also, physical therapy clinics, Chiropractors, Massage clinics are great places to volunteer your time. If Performance is your passion, understand there are going to be injuries and volunteering at a sports therapy clinic can help you be proactive on the front end with the people you want to work with. It is a good Idea to find one that seeks out other methods as well. It is where you can learn about Manual therapy such as A.R.T. or Graston techniques. This makes a great referral system if you can’t offer these techniques to your clients. You can also find out who they follow, read and learn from. (At one particular clinic all of the therapists followed Mike Reinold’s site)
Thanks for the content Eric!
August 3rd, 2010 at 10:21 pm
Know your stuff,observe and take into account ppl’s behavioral patterns,have integrity,be honest and refer out if client is uncoachable and/or beyond your scope of expertise.
August 4th, 2010 at 4:04 am
Eric,
Awesome post! I was curious if you and other successful trainers and coaches could recommend your top personal training-business related books. In past my profession I have read and enjoyed many business and management books but I am looking for a “go to” book specifically on ideas on building a successful training business> any and all suggestions appreciated.
Thank you,
Ray McCarthy
August 4th, 2010 at 4:59 am
I´m always interested in knowing what´s required to work as a personal trainer in the US. Here in Brazil, you MUST go to college for 4 years to work in this field. Otherwise one couldn´t get registered in the physical education “counsil”, and probably would have to a pay a fine or even get arrested for professional malpractice. I´m not saying that all fitness professionals here are better prepared, but at least all of them had an extensive education, with lots of hours learning physiology, kinesiolog and biomechanics courses.
I´m 24 and already have a 4-years degree in physical education, plus a 2-years postgraduation degree in exercise physiology (something like a pre-masters degree certification) and work as a personal trainer for 6 years.
Anyway…
Sorry for the bad english. You´re the man Eric! Keep on the good work. Hope I can get a chance to visit Cressey Performance any time soon.
August 4th, 2010 at 8:20 am
For me, I think two things stand out: First, a passion for helping people fulfill their dreams. Whether it’s helping a 300 lbs. personal training client lose body fat and lower their risk for potentially life-threatening diseases or helping a high school athlete get a college scholarship, if you as a coach do not get fired up about taking those you train to their full potential than you probably need to get out. In other words, if your’re more worried about your paycheck than the success of your clients, keep your other job. Second, I believe every coach should strive for 15 hours of reading/DVD material a week from scholarly journals and renown professionals. It not only keeps you humble but increases what i like to call your “Perspective IQ”. If reading a 5 page single space journal article on breaking S&C research is boring or if reading an article from a renown coach is tough cause your head is already so big- than this is not the right field for you.
August 4th, 2010 at 10:20 am
Think horizontally. There are so many different ways you can involve yourself in the business and get your name out there.
You can’t just sit on your hands and think clients will break down your door. Always have several different projects moving forward. That way when half of them fail, you still have several more irons in the fire.
Never stop learning.
Don’t be a jerk.
Don’t stop training yourself.
August 5th, 2010 at 5:54 pm
I’m 19 year old male I live in a town of 30,000 people in Albany Western Australia, I’ve been working in a local gym for just over a year now it’s great, I’ve loved every second of it there’s nothing more satisfying than helping people. I’ve recently finished level one ‘Mark Buckles’ FMA Strength training: Mechanics of lifting which has really helped and I’m planning to complete Level 2 early next year. I’ve always been unsure for ‘what to do next’ I’ve been planning on studying Exercise Physiology next year it’s a four year university diploma which has some really helpful units/courses in it like ‘Principles of Vertebrate Physiology’, ‘Biomechanics and Diagnostic Palpation Skills’ and ‘Metabolic Rehabilitation’ ect. Like your saying most of what you learn in university degrees just won’t be practical information and a waste of money.
Cheers for the Blog Eric it’s given me something to think about.
Thanks
August 14th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
I read in your August 3rd, 2010 article where you mentioned, “frankly, I don’t really care what certification you get because none of them really wow me, but then again, I have a hard time justifying an undergraduate exercise science degree for $100, let alone $200,000”. I also see you are very well knowledge and you are certified by the CSCS. If the certification does not matter, why did you fill the need to get certified by the CSCS?
I am a little bothered because everyone (those that do just research and those that have no hands on experience besides the gym) makes a big deal about the CSCS like an degree from a university (in the related) as well as hands on experience does not matter. In addition, to the other certifications that are available, more so the hands on experience that the CSCS does not offer. Why does everyone make a big deal about the CSCS and why wont a certification with any other organization, let us say the Performance Enhancement Specialist, count?
I am a Strength and Conditioning Specialist and I am not going to allow the CSCS to dictate my future in training athletes. Athletes that I train do not ask me who you are certified with. They look at the professional, test results over a couple of weeks, how they are being trained and more.
I have been training overall nine years and not once have I was asked do you have a CSCS. I am continuously do my research and seek knowledge daily because everything, peace of information in the field changes. However, I don’t believe by having the CSCS is the only way one can be called a professional.
I just wanted to get your opinion.
Thanks
August 15th, 2010 at 9:09 pm
Kelvin,
To be honest, I got it right when I got out of school, and I’ve just maintained it pretty easily with continuing education credits (and speaking at some of their events). I don’t think it’s the only way to go, or even close to an “exhaustive” preparation for a career. It’s a tip of the iceberg.
EC
December 31st, 2010 at 11:52 am
My top “internet fitness professional”, EC, quotes Malcolm Gladwell statistics. In my humble opinion, Cressey, that is why you are the man!
July 10th, 2011 at 7:18 am
Hey Eric
Awesome post! Love it! First, I must declared that I’m no veteran but has been in the fitness industry for about 10 years in 2 countries (Australia and Singapore). However, I still see myself learning everyday and open my mind to stuff that might improved my craft.
1 thing that you mentioned about newbie getting certification think that they’re gonna be so busy is so true. You got to put in the hours and spend the time to prove yourself even if you’re a university exercise and exercise graduate.
July 10th, 2011 at 8:08 am
I have been thinking career change to fitness trainer for years. I have personally been training over 50 years. What stopped me ? A schedule to keep, gym hours, that kind of thing.
July 10th, 2011 at 11:46 am
Eric,
I think this is a great article. I was one of these people 9 years ago. However, I got certified first and then started training at a big box gym.
I have not however made the full time switch to doing this as a business full time. I would like to very much but I have a wife and kids to support.
I have studied under various trainers over the years and have learned a lot. I buy books, dvds etc but do not have a degree in this field. I was considering it but your statement about just taking the courses makes much more sense. I hate to have go back and waste money on courses I don’t need to completer the degree program, thoughts?
Are there any mentoring programs other than Alwyn’s and yours? I live in Texas and find it is hard to attend seminars etc. They are always in Chicago, Rhode Island or California. Once again, this is a big expense when you add in travel expenses plus the course. I wish Perform Better or some of the others would come to the Dallas area.
It is for this reason that I spend my money on training with other good trainers that I can learn from. However, I have had some that were unwilling to teach me and wanted to do it as a workout only. Questions would be unanswered or the reply would be you are my competition, I can’t teach you that. Thoughts?
I am slowly progressing to doing this full time and I am now 48. I know I have a lot to learn but that is great. I love learning it, teaching it and being part of it. Any input would be welcome.
Thank You
Robert
July 10th, 2011 at 3:29 pm
I have always had a hard time hearing people degrade an education.
I hope Mr Cressey does not mean that an education isn’t worth anything.
To understand biomechanics and exercise physiology, you need to havce a strong back ground in physics, mathematics, biology and chemistry.
When all these strength coaches use terms like ” torque”, “moment arm” , “lever” etc etc or in exercise physiology whern they talk about substrate and glycolysis etc etc.
I dont know how you can take a course in biomechanics without first taking physics or exercise physiology without taking chemistry and biology.
If that is what he meant, I STRONGLY disagree with him.
July 10th, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Never understimate the importance of the fitness material out there… certifications are great, but in the end to be successful you need to have a continous learning mindset.. seminars, books,anything that will allow you to grow
July 10th, 2011 at 5:30 pm
I agree with all the replies above. They are very informative. The one thing that stands out is personality. Is the Trainer people oriented? Can the Trainer relate to the client? Do you smile? Are you a motivator? Are you a Leader? Can you instruct? These are things that come to mind right away. People are not going to stick with Trainers that have no personality and big egos for very long. We all know the ones that say I look good, you need to look like me. I always live my this quote, “Talent is God Given, Be Humble.” “Fame is Man-Given, Be Grateful”. Conceit is Self-Given, Be Careful”.
July 12th, 2011 at 12:34 pm
I would like to increase my knowledge pool but not quite sure what books would help me…there are so many.
What top 3 books would you suggest in the area of gross anatomy, kinesiology and biomechanics?
Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks
James
July 12th, 2011 at 6:00 pm
Great post Eric…I completely agree with your methodology and thinking. I too had a successful career in the corporate world and decided that I needed something more rewarding in my life. I decided to make a transition into the fitness sector as I had been doing performance training and weight lifting from the age of 12 (I’m almost 40 now). I knew alot about fitness, but needed to become a more rounded trainer, so I utilized people who were alot smarter than I and accumulated a vast amount of knowledge and started at a big box fitness center. I got my cert a year later. One thing that should be mentioned in your post that I had been trained in is the art of sales. Fortunately, I had some unmatched sales training in my previous career, so this came very natural for me as I did very well financially while giving each client the training experience that they deserved. So, for those out there that are thinking about a career change into the fitness and performance world, add sales training into the rest of Eric’s great resources. If you are truly going to be grounded into fitness and performance, I’d suggest to use Pat Rigsby as a source. Thanks Eric.
July 12th, 2011 at 6:12 pm
P.S. Eric…I purchased Show & Go in April and am in the 4th Phase currently. I absolutely love this program!! I have always had trouble with BB Squats (I am 6’4″ and am all legs) and I wanted to make a point to use this program to help me get better at them. When I started the program my 3RM was 365lbs…I am using regular squats rather than front squats for Phase 4, and today I was able to squat 490 lbs for a single. I am shooting for 500 lbs soon!! All I can say is WOW!!! You are a rock star…thanks for helping me out!
June 17th, 2012 at 7:11 am
Very efficiently and well said, Eric. And, I especially appreciate #5, as we must “pay our dues”, as part of the journey.
June 17th, 2012 at 9:51 am
They most important aspect to this discussion is TIME UNDER THE BAR! Period! The title and certifcation gets you somewhat in the door from there you better know your stuff because if you do not some one going to get hurt permanently! Read what Louie, Dave Tate Jim Wendler and the real guys are doing, it is time and trial but when you find what works that is where it is at! I have been doing this sport with a passion for over fourty years and believe me I have seen all the go to programs but each and every one of the idividuals you work with requires a little tweek here and there and you better know your stuff bec ause that idividual will be ruined for life! Microtrama has a way of catching up with you so read study go to clinics talk to people who “train” and then do not open your pie hole untill you get it, you are just another idiot who just may ruine a life by prescribing a program that wokrs for you but not for them.
June 17th, 2012 at 10:19 am
Awesome post Eric. I actually had an internship interview at Results Fitness in Newhall, CA where Alwyn and Rachel both put in work. Thanks again!
June 17th, 2012 at 7:48 pm
Hi Eric,
Thanks for all the great info and I fully agree about the personal study + 10k hours! I listen to Malcolm Gladwell -Outliers many times during the year.
Another good book to read for deeper insight on the SELF and what we need to function optimally as humans is DRIVE by Daniel H. Pink. Awesome read with excellent scientific studies.
Where would you suggest resources /classes for Biomechanics?
I always look forward to your newsletter and tweets.
June 18th, 2012 at 12:22 am
As a Personal Trainer who has only been in the industry 3 years i found this very useful to read. I was wondering if anyone could give me the names of any books or resources that they would recommend. Also if anyone knows of any seminars that run in the UK? Many thanks in advance
June 18th, 2012 at 2:39 am
Eric,
I want to outline three different scenarios that have presented themselves to me in the last few weeks:
1. A 19 year old female first time gym user comes to me looking for a “general fitness program”. Doesn’t currently play sport but is in very good shape.
2. A 25 year old overweight first time gym user comes to me looking to build muscle and lose fat, however he can’t even do 1 push up on his knees, any hip hinging movement without going into lumbar flexion and is so upper trap dominant that he can’t even retract his scapulae.
3. A fourteen year old rugby prop comes to me looking to get stronger and bigger for rugby, whilst also wanting to do more for “fitness”. However he is too weak to even squat a bar and is in serious risk of hurting himself in a match.
These are just some of the people I see in my job as a gym instructor. My query is this, what would be 5 top resources for me to better learn how to approach and solve these problems?
June 18th, 2012 at 6:06 am
Hi Janel,
Biomechanics always seems to be best learned in a classroom, but if you don’t have that luxury, HERE is a good one.
June 18th, 2012 at 6:07 am
Natasha,
Have you checked out Elite Training Mentorship? It’s a great resource regardless of your location, because it’s all online!
Also, some good resources listed here: http://ecressey.wpengine.com/resources
June 18th, 2012 at 6:49 am
HI Eric,
What’s the best way to get an internship if I am not in university or college?
Do you offer internships to certified PT that aren’t in school? I have ACSM CPT certification.
I also subscribed to Elite Training Mentorship and I have learnt a lot so far.
Regards,
Renee
June 18th, 2012 at 6:39 pm
Hi Renee,
I’d look to the private sector. There are a lot of places that do internships; I can probably name a dozen just off the top of my head. We’ve definitely had people in your situation who have been great interns for us.
Where are you located?
Glad you’re enjoying ETM!
Best,
EC
June 20th, 2012 at 7:51 am
Hi Eric,
I am located in Barbados (I have US citizenship was born in Idaho), however I am willing to migrate for the time being to complete the internship.
Could you also email me more information about the other places?
Regards,
Renee
September 15th, 2012 at 9:20 am
Eric/Renee:
I would be extremely interested in a list of these private facilities where I could apply to get an internship. I want to learn from the best, and I would like to intern this coming summer, as I am currently a junior at Wake Forest. I am sure I could find some of these places myself, but I would greatly appreciate your input, as if you think the facility is reputable I trust that. My email is zakforest@gmail.com
January 19th, 2014 at 9:22 am
I am a Physical Therapist Assistant. How do I take that knowledge into becoming a personal trainer at least parttime?
January 19th, 2014 at 9:36 am
Great article! So true. When I got started in 2000 it was like. “Awesome I’m a trainer! Now where are all those clients that pay $600 for 10 sessions??” I was starting my own training business so I was clueless. I was able to pick the brain of a very good trainer for a few things and the rest I had to figure out in my own. There were a lot of growing pains and my clients suffered.
If there is one thing would-be trainers take from this article in my opinion it should be the advice about educating yourself before you get certified. My certification is literally a piece of paper on the wall I will use along with the waiver if (God forbid) I ever get sued to “prove” I’m competent and was mal-practicing.
January 19th, 2014 at 10:32 am
“Getting a certification without any background experience makes you a liability, not a professional.” Genius and so true…