How to Train to Become a Personal Trainer

Becoming a personal trainer is an exciting challenge. Personal trainers motivate people who are looking to lose weight or become more fit by creating workouts tailored to their goals. By combining cardiovascular exercise, weights and other exercises, personal trainers work one on one with their clients to find the best way to attain their fitness goals. Read on to learn how to become a personal trainer.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the type of personal trainer certification. There are several options to choose from. If unsure, call around and ask local gyms what certifications they require their personal trainers to hold before they are hired. Different gyms prefer different tests, so calling prospective employers beforehand saves wasting money on a test that won't land a job. Accredited certifications cost more than the non-accredited versions, but are more widely accepted and recognized by gyms who hire personal trainers.

    • 2

      Take advantage of tools and aides offered by the certification company. All certification tests have their own preparation materials to help prospective personal trainers study for the test. From books and study guides to training classes, these are great learning opportunities to help you understand the material and pass the test..

    • 3

      Study hard. Allow enough time to prepare for the test. This amount of time needed for studying differs from person to person, so go at whatever pace is needed to fully prepare and succeed. Set aside time just for studying for the certification exam, and stick to it.

    • 4

      Take practice tests. Practice tests are usually included as a part of study packages certification companies sell. Sometimes practice tests are available online to take as well. Practice tests are good predictors of how well you will do on the real certification exam. The practice tests show areas of weakness, which allows you to invest more time in areas you need to improve on.

    • 5

      Register for a test date. Contact the certification company and sign up for a test. Depending on the certification, test locations vary. Some are computer-based, others are traditional pencil and paper, and there are even some that take place in the gym. Make sure to find out where the test site is and what to bring in order to complete the test. Make sure to get a good night's rest the night before the test in order to perform your best.