JourneyCareersPersonal Trainer
Global Career Guide (EN)From Fitness & Leisure β†’

Personal Trainer

AI

A personal trainer designs and runs workouts for clients one to one or in small groups, helping them get fitter, stronger or healthier. It suits fit, motivating, friendly people who love fitness and enjoy helping others reach their goals.

The role

What a personal trainer actually does, day to day.

The work is assessing clients, planning tailored programmes, running sessions, motivating people and giving advice on exercise and lifestyle. Good fitness knowledge, encouragement and the ability to adapt to each client matter, along with the business side of finding and keeping clients, since many trainers are self-employed.

Hours often include early mornings, evenings and weekends to suit clients, the work is active and on your feet, and income varies a lot - some build a strong client list and do well, others find it slow to start. Many trainers are self-employed and rent space in a gym, so building a reputation is key.

You need a recognised personal training qualification, usually gained through a college course or apprenticeship, plus first aid and insurance. An enhanced DBS check may be needed for some clients, and your results and word of mouth drive your success.

A typical week

Day to day

1Assess clients' fitness and goals
2Design tailored workout programmes
3Run one-to-one and group sessions
4Motivate and coach clients
5Advise on exercise and lifestyle
6Track clients' progress
7Find clients and manage bookings and payments