How do I get started in a fitness career?
After losing 100 lbs and developing a passion for life-changing fitness and wellness, I would like to pursue a career in fitness where I can help others change their lives, too. I would like to write about fitness (I currently write for a fitness blog for college students), be a group fitness instructor (and maybe someday a personal trainer!), and/or work with a non-profit dedicated to wellness. I already have an advanced degree, but not in this field at all! Is going back to school for exercise science the best way to go? Or is it possible to build experience without a formal degree? I want to make a difference but I’m not sure where to start!
Hi Britteny. While a formal education is not absolutely necessary to be successful as a fitness professional, it is becoming viewed more and more as something that will distinguish one fitness professional from another – particularly as the movement continues towards relationships between the medical professional and our profession. Also, I think that if your goal is to write more, and become published, it will help in terms of your credibility with your audience, as well as your acceptability with publishers if you have a formal education to supplement your practical experience. I’ve been writing for publication for many years, and it’s been my experience that publishers look at your credentials very closely when considering whether to accept your writings for publication.
I hope that this helps.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]