Fitness Specialist

To be a successful Fitness Specialist you should…

• have excellent communication skills
• be flexible and creative in finding best solutions
• be able to learn to use new equipment and perform new tasks
• be able to see small differences
• be able to work with patience and understanding

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What will my job be like?

Fitness specialists understand the basic concepts of fitness, health, and wellness to prepare an exercise prescription for an individual beginning an exercise program. A fitness specialist instructs groups and individuals in the safe use of equipment, proper body mechanics, health, eating behaviors, and individualized fitness programs.

Where could I work?

Fitness specialists may work in health clubs, corporate fitness programs, or hospitals; or in sales of health and fitness programs and equipment. Fitness specialists may start their own businesses as personal trainers.

What is the average annual salary?

$40,500

What is the future of this career?

The BLS reports employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 39 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 69,100 openings for fitness trainers and instructors are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

What type of education and/or training do I need?

A fitness specialist must earn a Bachelor of Science degree. Upon completion of the certificate program, students must take national exams for certification from the American College of Sports Medicine and/or the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Where can I get the education and/or training?

• Central Connecticut State University, New Britain
• Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic
• Gateway Community College, New Haven
• Manchester Community College, Manchester
• Mitchell College, New London
• Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
• Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
• Three Rivers Community College, Norwich
• University of Connecticut, Storrs
• University of New Haven, West Haven
• University of St. Joseph, West Hartford

Do I need a license or certification for this career?

Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.

Where can I get more information?