AHEC Connecticut
MEDICAL SUPPORT - 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?
$33,539
What is the future of this career?
Opportunities are expected to be good for fitness workers, because of rapid growth in the fitness industry. Many job openings also will stem from the need to replace the large numbers of workers who leave these occupations each year.
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
- Sacred Heart University, Fairfield
- Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven
- University of Connecticut, Storrs
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?
American Council on Exercise
4851 Paramount Dr.
San Diego, CA 92123
www.acefitness.org
American College of Sports Medicine
401 West Michigan Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 637-9200
www.acsm.org
National Strength and Conditioning Association
P.O. Box 9908
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
(800) 815-6826
www.nsca-lift.org