Baby Boomers Offer Career Advice

As the first Baby Boomers turn 65 this year, younger fitness professionals should look to them for guidance and expertise. Here are tips for career longevity from three Boomers who are also fitness professionals:

• Stay Current. “Always keep your certification current. Not just for documentation purposes but for the fact that it keeps us—as fitness professionals—on top of new information and keeps our knowledge fresh. Even at the point of retirement it allows us to have a sense of integrity among those who are actively employed.”—Pat Mazzei, Naples, Florida
• Specify Your Market. “I have been a practicing medical exercise specialist for over 12 years and have the only dedicated medical exercise personal training studio in Washington, DC, and we are incredibly successful. Too many trainers try to be a jack-of-all-trades, and it backfires in the long run. [Specialize] and become the best, and clients will be attracted to you as the best in your field.”—Brian Richey, Gaithersberg, Maryland
• Seek Guidance. “I think experience and wisdom for those a little hesitant to get involved in the industry is invaluable. Those of us who have ‘been there, done that’ have a lot to offer those who are just getting started.” —Nicki Anderson, Naperville, Illinois