Transitioning to Careers in Personal Fitness

As the fitness industry continues to grow, individuals who are unhappy with their current careers are finding a new path from health to fitness. Suffering from corporate burnout, health-minded individuals often find renewed passion in the prospect of second act careers.

The Crossroads of Passion and Profession

Our friend Chris thought he wanted to be a lifelong corporate professional. He went to school, got his degree, landed the perfect job, and has been climbing the corporate ladder ever since. He has the life he always imagined. A loving wife, two healthy kids, a goofy golden retriever, and a nice house in the burbs. However, somehow, in the last year or two, he lost his passion for his career. He’s bored, uninterested and lacks any sort of motivation.

Chris has always had a passion for health and wellness, so when he came across the idea of careers in personal fitness his interest was piqued. 

The leap from leaving one career for another is filled with fear and uncertainty. However, following intentional steps in preparation can influence a confident career transition. 

The Call to Change: Why Fitness? 

Due to a growing awareness of health, industry innovations and trend-setting physical fitness activities, the increasing demand for certified personal trainers continues to grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics states “Employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 14 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.”

Success Story

Becoming a personal trainer not only takes a health-minded individual’s personal health to the next level, but also gives them the tools to help others do the same. Let’s not forget, they get to make a living doing something they love.

A recent ISSA student gave a review of the program stating, “What a wonderful experience I had. I work full time and wanted to get a personal trainer certificate not only for me but also for people that I could help. And through ISSA it was so easy and convenient. Even the payment plan was so affordable. I would 200% recommend getting this course and only from ISSA.”

Mapping the Transition: Your Path to Careers in Personal Fitness

After you decide that you’re serious about exploring a fitness career, research is your friend. Here are some action steps to help clarify your vision and goals:

• Step 1: Research career opportunities in fitness 

There are a variety of paths you can take as a fitness instructor, depending on what most interests you. One opportunity is not better than another. Some fitness occupations include personal trainer, online coach, or group instructor.

• Step 2: Choose the right certification

Becoming a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) will be the foundation of your new career. Choose a certification program that makes the most sense for your lifestyle. 

At ISSA, we offer globally recognized, accredited programs. Our programs are 100% online certifications that fit any schedule. 

We prepare trainers not just for fitness, but for running a successful business. In addition to guaranteed job placement, we provide mentorship, networking, and continuing education for trainers.

• Step 3: Balance learning with a full-time job

With the ISSA online certification, you can keep your full-time job while you pursue a career in personal fitness. Our self-paced learning makes it easy to study on your own schedule.

• Step 4: Gain hands-on experience 

Personal training is about connecting with your clients. It’s important to start practicing through internships or by shadowing trainers. This is also a great way to network and begin building a client base.

Overcoming Career Change Fears: Stability, Income & Confidence 

The head games can take over when contemplating a career change. “Is it too late for a 40-year-old to change careers, much less become a personal trainer? Can I make a living doing this? What will my family think?” 

Once you are a certified personal trainer, there are different fitness industry jobs you can choose. As a personal trainer, you can expect to earn anywhere from $28-$56 per hour. 

One of the benefits of being a personal trainer is that you can work as much or as little as you want. Personal training clients pay by the hour, which means you are in control of your schedule. While you transition from your corporate job, you can schedule personal training sessions after work or on the weekends. 

Don’t forget, personal training isn’t the only path you can take. Maybe you’re interested in owning a gym, creating online fitness classes, or teaching group classes. Take the time to research all the careers in personal fitness that are available. 

From Health to Fitness: The Power of Community & Mentorship 

You’re not just getting certified—you’re joining a supportive, thriving community. The ISSA network supports you from before you even start the program to after you are certified. 

Before you even start, schedule a free call with an advisor who will help map out your goals. If you’re not sure which program is best to achieve your goals, our knowledgeable advisors can help you build the best possible program for you!

Once you’re in the program, you get unlimited support from our Master Trainers before and after you pass your exam. They can answer questions about the course material or even help you plan a workout.

In addition, ISSA has a private Facebook group with over 45,000 members, where graduates share experiences, ask questions, and support each other. The group is largely community-driven, with members discussing topics like landing their first clients and overcoming challenges.

Join our community of career changers.

Start Your Fitness Journey Today

We know a career change can be scary and intimidating. However, would you rather be unhappy in your current position for years to come? Trust yourself. Careers in personal fitness are waiting for you.

Visit the ISSA Personal Trainer Certification page, schedule a call with an advisor, and take action today. Just think how excited you’ll be to wake up every morning to a new adventure!

Explore Our Personal Trainer Certification Program & Take the First Step!