Am I too old to become a gym manager?
My name is Matt. I discovered this site through a Google Search. A long time fitness enthusiast, I have spent my life working in an architectural firm as a project manager. In my twenties, I was a personal trainer. Now, I am researching recertification options. My goal is to leave the world of architecture and begin a career as a Fitness Club Manager. But I worry if I am “too old.” I just turned 50 but am told that I look younger (if that matters). I am looking for advice from gym owners and other managers. Do I stand a chance? I do not have a Bachelor’s Degree but have loads of business experience managing multi-million dollar construction projects. I’d love some truthful advice. Is 50 too old? My manager at Gold’s told me that I am at the perfect age….but he is 50, too. The other thing is, I can relocate anywhere in the USA. I have no ties.
This is not a “job request.” I am truly looking for truthful opinions. Is it too late for me?
My dream Job would be to one day work for Gold’s or a national chain, traveling the country evaluating and auditing individual gyms. Thanks.
OK, let me rephrase that. Many people come up from the ranks into management, so there’s definitely a place for trainers and instructors to grow with the companies that they’re with. And there are many stories of executives who started by working in the mail room. So I’m not discounting that path. I’m just saying that your expertise in project management and interest in systems audit might not require an extensive knowledge of fitness. A good questioner and curious listener can learn the needs of his or her employees without having to do that job. I used to be in tax consulting and fresh eyes learning about a business and questioning the “we’ve always done it this way” thinking of departments can add a tremendous amount of value.