Busting The Biggest Myths About Finding A Career As A Fitness Instructor

Pursuing a vocation in fitness training comes with many misconceptions that deter prospective instructors. However, the reality is that with smart planning, this career path is more accessible than many assume. Here we debunk the most common myths about breaking into the fitness industry:

You Need To Be Super Fit Already

Fact: While basic fitness levels help in understanding proper form as an instructor, you don’t need to be ultra-ripped or athletic already. Top instructors come in all shapes and sizes. Your energy, people skills and training expertise matter most. Fitness grows with teaching experience. Don’t self-eliminate due to unreasonable body expectations.

The Industry Is Too Competitive Already

Fact: Demand for motivating instructors teaching specialised formats like HIIT, yoga, and Pilates keeps growing. With diverse niches and flexible work models, competition can be navigated by developing unique expertise. A shortage of qualified instructors exists in many areas, like ageing fitness. Find your niche and shine.

You Need A Background In Fitness

Fact: Transitioning industries into fitness instruction is common. Transferable soft skills from hospitality, coaching and teaching roles go a long way. While fitness experience is useful, personable instructors who relate well to clients are coveted over seasoned athletes. Your energy and attitude bring results.

Getting Hired At Gyms Is Impossible

Fact: Build connections by approaching local gyms to shadow classes and offer assistant support before completing certification. Many eagerly provide apprenticeship opportunities leading to classes. Attend networking events to meet decision-makers. With tenacity, you create your own breaks. Reach out.

You Can’t Study Part-Time

Fact: Restrictive time commitments needn’t deter you. Respectable training providers offer flexible blended models allowing learning via evenings, weekends, and distance options. With dedication, certifications are achievable around existing work schedules. Search for accredited providers offering modular part-time study suited to your availability. Study Active offers full and part-time hybrid courses so that you can take care of your other responsibilities while learning. You can find out more about their industry-leading courses at studyactive.co.uk

Online Training Has Ruined The Industry

Fact: Technology brings new opportunities alongside challenges. Blend online and in-person classes to maximise reach and training regimens personalised to clients. Connect digitally with new audiences while also prioritising service at traditional gyms. Compliment rather than compete. Embracing change wisely expands your horizons.

You’re Too Old To Start

Fact: Ageism has no place in fitness. While older instructors must actively nurture relevance through contemporary music, social media savvy and new class formats, experience brings invaluable emotional intelligence in connecting with clients of all ages. Your maturity will be an advantage, not a weakness.

You Must Live In A Big City

Fact: Opportunities exist nationwide. Research openings beyond just urban metropolises. Suburban gyms and rural community centres welcome fresh local instructors. Location flexibility opens more possibilities. Smaller communities with ageing populations often seek knowledgeable instructors eagerly.

You Won’t Make Good Money

Fact: Everyone’s worried about money right now. Salaries and hourly rates vary substantially by role, experience, and location. While entry instructors won’t get rich quickly, committed professionals building solid client bases and qualifications see incomes rise through reputation and specialisation over time. Define your version of success beyond just pay rates.

Irregular Hours Are Impossible

Fact: Certainly, instructors require schedule flexibility with evening and weekend duties. However, by collaborating with other trainers, you can share availability across classes to each work reasonable hours. Childcare options help working parents. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Discuss needs transparently.

So, Remember

While breaking into fitness instruction has challenges, determined candidates can overcome obstacles through creative planning, continuous skilling, and resilience. Tune out those dated misconceptions. For those committed to helping clients live more active, healthier lives, a rewarding vocation filled with human connections awaits.