Does is make sense for someone over 50 to become a personal trainer?
I am very interested on a personal level in fitness and nutrition, however I have no certifications or background in either field. I am 55, in good shape physically, workout out regularly but do have some “normal” issues like arthritis that can come with age. It seems that there are so many PT’s out there and most/all seem to be young and in super shape. With these resources for clients to choose from, would it make any sense to pursue an education in either/both fields with an eye towards trying to it for a living some day?
Cindy,
As a gym owner, age of a personal trainer would never hinder me from hiring… and as someone who understands how important fitness is to those who suffer from the chronic illness of arthritis (because I witness the daily effects from someone close to me), having a PT who personally empathizes with the pain during the sessions can be such a game changer for the client… this includes the younger clientele that suffers from rheumatoid arthritis. I know this can one of the biggest concerns of a young person suffering from this disease. They are already so limited with what they can do without additional pain level, that taking instruction from someone who lives with it too can truly give them motivation to stay the course and not give up.
Pursue your passion. It is never too late for fitness.
I’d like to thank all of you for your detailed and inspiring answers! I feel in my heart you are right…I saw a quote recently that said, “if you want to know where your heart is, look to where your mind goes when it wanders…”, and this is so true! I know where my mind wanders when I am doing the accounting work that I have been doing for the last 30 years:). So, I guess I need to start comparing certification programs and deciding what is the best investment of my time. I am sure I can get alot of info on that from searching this forum. Thanks again for all your encouragement!
Hi Cindy,
Yes! Few years back while I was in Dallas and I was working in a gym, one of the best trainers there was a 65-year-old retiree. He decided he wanted to do something more than just sitting around after the end of his previous career and not let the years get the best of him. So, he got certified and along with his previous experience in life and fitness he started to train clients. He said it was the best decision he ever made.
Age has nothing to do when becoming a trainer. I think that with your life experiences and wisdom you can be a very effective trainer. You don’t have to outperform your clients, just guide them to the correct path and help them achieve their goals. Just choose a certification which you are comfortable with (or not) and decide what type of clients you would like to train. It’s a fun job and you are always making a change for the better in someone’s life.
I wish you the best and remember there are many people here who can help you with any questions you might have.
Best,
Harris
Cindy,
It makes very good sense for you to pursue certification as personal trainer, especially because you ARE 55 years old with a wealth of experience in fitness. There are many, many people who need you! Now you just need the education!
So, a certification with a respected certification organization like the American Council on Exercise will allow you to help those who need what YOU especially have to offer.
ACE has excellent resources to help you study for the Personal training exam. When you work through them you will be learning so much for yourself as well as for others. Then,you will be able to better determine if personal training is what you would be like to be doing.
All the best!
PS. Are you from Boulder,Colorado? I know a Cindy Baird in Colorado.
