For many military spouses, having a career is a challenge, especially for those of us with children. Moving around basically ensures that you are going to be a new face somewhere every three years or so. You can only start over so many times before you begin to feel like you’re jogging in place. For that reason, many of us have decided to work for ourselves, focusing on jobs that can be done either partially, or completely online. So what’s a good career field that will transfer every time we have to move? Fitness.
According to the International Health, Racquet, & Sportsclub Association, the fitness industry has been growing by 3-4% annually. With this growth comes a higher demand for fitness professionals. “Fitness professional” is a pretty broad title, much like “medical professional.” There are many avenues to pursue within the fitness industry. No matter which route within the industry you wish to take, most people will all start at the same place. As a certified personal trainer.
Certified Personal Trainer
Personal trainers exist at the heart of the fitness industry. The barrier to entry is relatively low, only requiring that one obtain a certification before training clients both in-person and virtually. Trainers work closely one-on-one or in very small groups, helping individuals achieve their fitness goals. Most people looking to work in the fitness industry begin their careers here then go on to specialize in more sport-specific areas. While I highly recommend working with clients in person for a while to gain experience, personal training can be done completely online. This allows the trainer to work with clients even when an inevitable PCS occurs.
Group Fitness Instructor
Group fitness instructors are similar to personal trainers in that they both design exercise programs. The difference is that a personal trainer works closely with individuals whereas a group instructor works with… you guessed it, groups. Because fitness goals are very individually oriented, group instructors cannot generally tailor the classes to each person’s needs. They almost have to approach it with a one-size-fits-all mentality and adjust for each person the best they can. Group fitness instructors will often be personal trainers who have agreed to teach a certain class in which they specialize. Group classes are often offered virtually as well, which is an awesome benefit for people who move all the time. You know… like military spouses.
Nutritionist
Not to be confused with registered dietitians, nutritionists give nutritional advice that does not involve the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. The title of nutritionist can be used by anyone who offers general nutritional advice with some restrictions. Many states have regulations in place governing the use of the title as well as what advice they can legally give. Nutritionists’ credentials can vary wildly, anything from an online course to an advanced degree and board certification. In any case, nutritionists are just as important within the fitness industry as trainers and coaches.
Specializations
Many trainers end up specializing in certain areas after gaining general training knowledge and experience. As with any type of career, people will often feel drawn to specific areas within their field. Many of the best bodybuilding, powerlifting, strongman, and CrossFit coaches began as personal trainers. Many of the best nutritional scientists began as nutritionists. Whatever focus interests you, gaining general experience in the beginning is crucial to building a solid foundation for your specialization.
No matter which avenue you wish to pursue, the ability to carry many of your clients with you virtually is a blessing for those of us married to service members. Deciding to work for yourself is an awesome opportunity, but one that should not be taken lightly. The benefit of working for yourself comes with a steep learning curve. Continuing education, taxes, insurance, liability laws, etc., are all things every good fitness professional must keep up with. Don’t let it scare you though, with so many resources available for small businesses and freelancers you’ll be juggling your work schedule in no time. Who knows, you may end up never wanting to work for someone else again.