How to become a personal trainer

Personal training is a rewarding career where you can make a real impact on people's lives. Find out how to become a personal trainer.

What is a personal trainer?

A personal trainer is a qualified fitness professional who helps clients achieve their health and fitness goals. They work with a range of people, guiding them through tailored fitness programs and providing expert advice on nutrition.

If you have a passion for fitness and enjoy helping people, this could be the career for you. Most personal trainers find their work incredibly fulfilling due to the positive impact you can have on the lives of other people. 

Personal trainer salary?

Personal trainers usually make about £31,000 per year. But this can vary depending on how much experience and training you have, and if you work for yourself or for a company.

Many personal trainers work for themselves, so they don't get a regular salary. Instead, they make money based on how many clients they have. Some gyms hire trainers and pay them a set amount. This can depend on how well they perform, such as how many training sessions they carry out.

Personal trainer qualifications

Here are the basic qualifications you need to become a personal trainer. Make sure your course is accredited by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), as this is the industry standard.

Completing a relevant higher education may help you be more competitive or specialise in a particular area.

How much does it cost to become a personal trainer?

You will need to pay for the qualifications to become a personal trainer. These can vary in price according to institution or provider. Generally, the more advanced the qualification, the more expensive it will be.

How long does it take to become a personal trainer?

This depends on the qualification you choose to take. They can vary from a few weeks to a few years, if you choose to complete a degree. Once you are qualified, it will take time to gain experience, build a client base and complete any specialist training you need. That means how long it takes can vary according to the route you take.

Top tips on how to become a personal trainer

Personal training can be a competitive field. Here's some tips to help you find success:

Where next?

We hope this has helped you understand how to become a personal trainer. It can be a fulfilling career, which helps people become healthier and more confident. Take a look at some of our courses or other related careers below.