<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="3" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> UNC's Online Master of Public Health Program </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> UNC's Online MPH: Full-Time and Part-Time Options. GRE Not Required. </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>Advance your public health career with UNC's online Master of Public Health program. Learn more.</p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-3" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-3" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinemph.unc.edu/requestinfo/index/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/UNC-MPH_GILLINGS_School_Vertical_RGB.png?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinemph.unc.edu/requestinfo/index/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="4" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> MPH@Simmons </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> Earn Your MPH Online. No GRE Required. </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>MPH@Simmons is designed to give you the real-world skills you need to positively impact public health and address health inequity on a local, national, and global level.</p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-4" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-4" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="https://online.simmons.edu/requestinfo/mph/">Visit Website</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SC-ENT_University_MPH_Color_Stacked.png?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="https://online.simmons.edu/requestinfo/mph/">Visit Website</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

<div class="edu-card" data-widget-id="5" data-cy="edu-card"> <div class="edu-card-banner" data-cy="edu-card-banner"> Advertisement </div> <div class="edu-card-container" data-cy="edu-card-container"> <div class="edu-card-content" data-cy="edu-card-content"> <div class="edu-card-title" data-cy="edu-card-title"> <h1 class="edu-card-title-heading" data-cy="edu-card-title-heading"> MPH@GW: An Online MPH With Connections in Washington, D.C. </h1> <p class="edu-card-title-subheading" data-cy="edu-card-title-subheading"> No GRE Required to Apply to GW's 12-Month Online MPH </p> </div> <div class="edu-card-content-description" data-cy="edu-card-content-description"> <div class="edu-card-content-description-content"> <p>Customize Your Degree Through Electives. Accelerated One-Year Online Program!</p> </div> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore"> <input type="checkbox" id="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-5" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input" /> <label for="edu-card-content-description-readmore-input-5" class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label"> <span class="edu-card-content-description-readmore-label-arrow"></span> </label> </span> </div> <a class="edu-card-content-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinepublichealth.gwu.edu/requestinfo/index/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-content-caption"> </span> </div> <div class="edu-card-action" data-cy="edu-card-action"> <picture class="edu-card-picture" data-cy="edu-card-picture"> <img src="https://fortune.com/img-assets/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GWU_University_Stacked_RGB_COLOR_2C_900x900.png?w=250&amp;h=165" class=""> <span class="edu-card-picture-label"> </span> </picture> <div class="edu-card-action-cta" data-cy="edu-card-action-cta"> <a class="edu-card-action-button" target="_blank" href="https://onlinepublichealth.gwu.edu/requestinfo/index/">Learn More</a> <span class="edu-card-action-caption"> </span> </div> </div> </div></div><script> function checkWidgets() { document.querySelectorAll('.edu-card-content-description-content').forEach((content) => { const readMoreBtn = content.nextElementSibling; if (!readMoreBtn) { return; } if (content && content.clientHeight === content.scrollHeight) { readMoreBtn.style.display = 'none'; } else { delete readMoreBtn.style.removeProperty('display'); } }) } window.removeEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); window.addEventListener('resize', checkWidgets); checkWidgets();</script>

ad_Public-health

cat_Other

Low Intent

ptype_Explainer

Casey Bond

<p>The path to becoming a certified personal trainer (CPT) can be an exciting journey if you’re passionate about fitness and eager to help others achieve their health goals. As a CPT, you’ll have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of your clients, guiding them toward healthier lifestyles. </p><div class="paywall-selector"></div><div class="paywall">



<p>So how do you become a certified personal trainer? Here’s what you need to know. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>What is a personal trainer and what do they do?</strong></h2>



<p>A personal trainer is someone with the knowledge and skills to design safe and effective fitness programs. They typically provide one-on-one or small group training sessions aimed at improving their clients’ health and fitness. </p>



<p>Personal trainers work with clients of all ages and fitness levels, from beginners to athletes. They can also work in a variety of environments, including gyms, health clubs, fitness or wellness centers, or even clients’ homes. Some also offer online training services so they can work with clients virtually. </p>



<p>Working as a personal trainer can be lucrative. According to <a href="https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/personal-trainer-salary">Salary.com</a>, the typical personal trainer salary ranges between $48,446 and $82,489, with the average resting at $67,141 as of January 26, 2024. Plus, demand for fitness trainers and instructors is expected to grow 14% between 2022 and 2032, which is much faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>How to become a certified personal trainer</strong></h2>



<p>You don’t necessarily have to be certified to call yourself a personal trainer. But certification helps you stand out from the competition.</p>



<p>“Becoming a certified personal trainer is a journey that involves dedication, education, and a passion for fitness and helping others,” said Mike Julom, an ACE-certified personal trainer and founder of <a href="https://www.thisiswhyimfit.com/">ThisIsWhyImFit.com</a>. The certification process, he said, helps you learn to design effective workouts, understand nutrition, and how to keep your clients motivated and moving toward their goals.</p>



<p>Getting certified also boosts your credibility, according to Julom. “It shows clients and employers you’re serious and know your stuff when it comes to fitness,” he said. “This is gold when you’re building your client base.” </p>



<p>So if you’re interested in getting certified as a personal trainer, here are the general steps you’ll need to follow.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meet the prerequisites</h3>



<p>Most certification programs require candidates to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some organizations also require CPR/AED certifications to ensure trainers can respond to emergencies. Having a basic understanding of anatomy, physiology, and nutrition is helpful, but a degree in one of these areas isn’t necessarily required. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Choose a certification</h3>



<p>It’s important to choose an accredited certification program from a reputable body, according to George Yang, founder of <a href="https://www.yanrefitness.com/">Yanre Fitness</a> and <a href="https://www.oxygenark.com/">OxygenArk</a>. Some of the most recognized include the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). You’ll want to choose a certification program that aligns with your career goals and educational preferences.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Take and pass the certification exam</h3>



<p>Once you’ve chosen a certification, you’ll need to prepare for the exam. Most organizations offer study materials, including textbooks, study guides, practice tests, and even online courses. It will likely take several months of studying to ensure you have a thorough understanding of the materials.</p>



<p>Certification exams typically cover a wide range of topics, including anatomy, exercise physiology, program design, and ethics. The exam format can vary depending on the program, from multiple-choice questions to practical assessments. Regardless of the format, passing this test is key.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Continue your education and training</h3>



<p>Once you are officially certified, your work is not over. “Maintenance of certification status is kept current through continuing education and renewal as appropriate, in line with the guidelines and protocols of the certifying body,” Yang said. </p>



<p>In other words, you’ll need to complete continuing education credits within a certain time frame, usually every two to three years, in order to keep your certification valid. This ensures you stay up to date with the latest fitness trends and training methods. You may also need to periodically renew your CPR/AED certification and pay a recertification fee.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Build your business</h3>



<p>As you gain experience, you might decide to start your own personal training business. This is a big step that can lead to more control over your earnings and schedule. However, it also means you need to spend time marketing your services, networking, and managing your business’s finances. </p>



<p>Many trainers also choose to specialize in certain areas, such as weight loss, sports performance, rehabilitation, or nutrition, which often requires additional certifications or specialized training.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The takeaway</strong> </h2>



<p>Becoming a certified personal trainer is a journey that requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for fitness and helping others. “Career-wise, it can get you into better gyms, wellness centers, and other spots where you can train people,” Julom said. “It also sets you up for potentially higher pay and more career growth down the line.”</p>



<p>By following these steps and committing to continuous learning and professional development, you can build a rewarding career that makes a positive difference in people’s lives. Whether you choose to work in a gym, start your own business, or specialize in a particular area of fitness, there are plenty of opportunities as a certified personal trainer.</p>



<div class="wp-block-group pro-tip-box-widget"><div class="wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained">
<h3 class="wp-block-heading pro-tip-box-heading">Read more</h3>



<li>If you want to find great resources to become a health coach, check out the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/articles/best-health-coach-certifications/">best health coach certifications</a>.</li>
<li>Interested in a psychology degree? Here are some of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/health/best-online-masters-in-psychology-degree-programs/">best online masters in psychology programs</a> you can find.</li>
<li>Want a more flexible way to earn an online master’s degree in nursing? Explore our list of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/health/best-online-msn-nurse-practitioner-programs/%22">best online MSN nurse practitioner programs</a>.</li>
<li>Choose one of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/health/best-online-masters-in-public-health-programs/">best online masters in public health programs</a> to help you find the right school for you.</li>
<li>Our ranking of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/health/best-online-masters-in-nursing/">best online masters in nursing programs</a> can be a useful tool in your search for advanced online learning.</li>
<li>Many universities offer <a href="https://fortune.com/education/health/most-affordable-online-msn-nurse-practitioner-programs/">affordable online MSN nurse practitioner programs</a>.</li>
<li>For those looking to learn the basics of nutrition, one of the programs in our list of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/articles/best-nutritionist-certifications/">best nutritionist certifications</a> is a great first step.</li>
<li>Fulfill your ambitions of being a personal trainer with one of the <a href="https://fortune.com/education/articles/best-personal-trainer-certifications/">best personal trainer certification</a> programs. </li>
</div></div>
</div>

Certification through a reputable organization such as NASM or ACE can help personal trainers accelerate their careers.

How to become a certified personal trainer

Fitness instructor assisting woman on exercise machine at the gym

F-Search

Education

Education Articles

Jasmine Suarez

Health and Wellness

Certification as a personal trainer boosts your credibility and earning potential.

Want to be a personal trainer? Here’s why you should get certified

Fortune earns a commission for purchases made from affiliate partners via some links on our site; other links are not affiliate partner links. <a href='/affiliate-disclosure/'>Click here</a> to read the full Fortune advertiser disclosure and how we earn commissions.

We have independently evaluated the products and services below. We may earn affiliate revenue from links in the content.

Fortune Editors

Fortune Education is designed to be your guide to navigating this new, rich and somewhat overwhelming world of education. Our team of experienced editors is committed to scouring the universe of online offerings in order to rank, rate, provide comparisons and recommend the right solutions for you and your career.

Fortune Education

Uncategorized

homepage

articles

Articles Hub

By Region

By State

By Cost

Business

Career Hub

Tech

EDUCATION

EDUCATION ARTICLES

HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINER

Want to be a personal trainer? Here’s why you should get certified | Fortune Education

How to become a certified personal trainer | Fortune Education

Rich Griset

10 free data analytics courses you can take online

https://fortune.com/education/articles/free-data-analytics-courses/?itm_source=parsely-api

Preston Fore

2024 real estate school review: AceableAgent

https://fortune.com/education/articles/real-estate-school-review-aceableagent/?itm_source=parsely-api

Brad Haft

Best nutritionist certifications for 2024

https://fortune.com/education/articles/best-nutritionist-certifications/?itm_source=parsely-api

Brit Morse

A law associate making $300,000 a year at Skadden Arps quit over the firm’s deal with Donald Trump

/article/rachel-cohen-making-300k-year-law-associate-skadden-arps-quit-protest-firms-deal-trump/

Get ready to pay more than $2,000 for a new iPhone: Experts say Trump’s 125% tariff on China is a ‘complete disaster for Apple’ akin to ‘Armageddon’

/2025/04/10/apple-iphone-16-price-complete-disaster-china-trump-tariffs/

It’s about to get a lot harder for job seekers as tariffs are set to make the hiring landscape even more daunting

/2025/04/07/trump-tariffs-labor-market-more-challenging-job-seekers-economists-say/

This company does peer performance reviews—And then lets everyone read each other’s evaluations

/2025/03/24/performance-review-process-company-allows-all-workers-read-garner-health-workplace-culture/

2024 health coach certification review: Catalyst Coaching Institute

/education/articles/health-coach-certification-review-catalyst-coaching-institute/

A guide to a nurse’s salary: Broken down by all 50 states and industry type

/education/careers/nurse-salary/

2024 health coach certification review: Institute for Integrative Nutrition

/education/articles/health-coach-certification-review-institute-for-integrative-nutrition/

10 high-paying public health jobs right now

/education/careers/public-health-jobs/

Jason Del Rey

Is eBay actually sexy again as the ecommerce old-timer’s stock surges to an all-time high?

/2025/07/31/ebay-earnings-live-sports-cards-trading-pokemon/

Erik German

Meet the CIA-backed venture fund behind Palantir, Anduril—and a spy tool that might be on your phone

/2025/07/29/in-q-tel-cia-venture-capital-palantir-anduril/

Dana Hull

Kiel Porter

Bloomberg

Tesla engineering VP Moravy says company in ‘big swing moment’

/2025/07/27/tesla-engineering-vp-lars-moravy-big-swing-moment-musk-robotaxi-optimus-semi/

Christiaan Hetzner

Volkswagen seeks audience with Trump, dangling more than $10 billion in U.S. investments in exchange for tariff exemptions

/2025/07/25/volkswagen-trump-tariffs-exemptions/

Whether you’ve just completed your undergraduate degree or you are a professional with years of experience, Fortune is here to guide you on the next step of your educational journey.

Want to be a personal trainer? Here’s why you should get certified

About the Contributors

Top Articles

10 free data analytics courses you can take online

2024 real estate school review: AceableAgent

Best nutritionist certifications for 2024

MPH@GW: An Online MPH With Connections in Washington, D.C.