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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.
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.
$40,500
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.
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.
Licensure is not required in the state of Connecticut.
American College of Sports Medicine
401 West Michigan Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
(317) 637-9200
www.acsm.org
American Council on Exercise
4933 Paramount Drive
San Diego, CA 92123
(888) 825-3636
www.acefitness.org
National Strength and Conditioning Association
1885 Bob Johnson Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(800) 815-6826
www.nsca-lift.org