Is it necessary to possess a degree in fitness in order to establish a business as a personal trainer?

No. I don’t have a degree in anything and have been running a successful business for almost 3 years now. I am attending college currently though. Its something I feel compelled to do and its always good to furthur your education, but its not necessary.

Establishing your own business is regulated at state level, and you need to make sure that you educate yourself on those requirements. This process is independent of any certification or degree here in North Carolina, and I am pretty sure everywhere else.

You may investigate, though, about the legal form that your business should have. There are various forms from sole proprietorship to S-corporations for example, and I would advise that you make yourself knowledgeable what will be the best for your particular situation.

In short… No you don’t. Eric Cressey just wrote a 2 part blog on this you should read. Just google him or find him on facebook, he is somebody in the industry you should be familiar with.I am on my iPhone otherwise I would post you a link.

Hi C Jay. I’m not aware of any such requirement. You need a dream, the drive to achieve your dream, money (of course!), planning (lots of it), the proper advisers to help you develop your business plan, organization, legal form and accounting, and a lot of patience.

If you are planning to go into business for yourself – I wish you much luck!

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]

Here is the link Shawn was referring to… great read!
http://www.ericcressey.com/is-an-exercise-science-degree-1