The Benefits of a Certified Personal Trainer
The personal training industry is booming, with more people than ever before taking the initiative to work with a fitness professional. But it’s important to understand that not all personal trainers are created equal. Aside from the fact that some certification programs are more in-depth than others, some specialize in specific types of clients or areas of health and fitness.
For example, some certifications focus more on the specialized needs of working with athletes or those dealing with injuries. Other programs may offer specialization in nutrition, exercise physiology or the business side of the industry (like how to find clients).
Personal trainers are fitness experts who design and implement exercise programs for their clients. They help their clients develop strength, agility and flexibility and provide them with the tools needed to achieve their physical goals. Their job requires them to have extensive knowledge of human anatomy, how muscles work together and the ability to identify imbalances in a client’s body. They also must be able to create effective workout programs for a variety of clients with different goals and abilities.
Whether they’re looking to lose weight, tone up or just feel healthier, people from all walks of life seek out the assistance of personal trainers. And, while anyone can technically work with a fitness trainer, there are significant benefits to having a certified personal trainer (CPT).
In addition to making sure their clients are getting the most out of their exercise, CPTs also act as mentors to help their clients stay motivated and accountable. They will often meet with their clients in person or over the phone to assess their current fitness level, discuss their health and wellness goals and create an exercise plan that will get them closer to those goals. They will also monitor their progress, helping them to adjust their program as necessary.
When it comes to exercising regularly, people with a personal trainer are more likely to stick to their schedules and follow a healthy diet than those who do not have one. Studies have shown that having a trainer helps to improve the benefit-to-concern ratio for exercise, increases confidence in scheduling time to exercise and leads to higher perceived exertion during workouts.
But, if you’re thinking of becoming a personal trainer, it’s critical to find a program that will prepare you for the industry. A quality program will cover topics like exercise physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition, client assessments, workout planning and progressions, injury management and more. NESTA is a great option for those interested in starting their career in personal training with a highly-regarded, affordable program that provides hands-on experience and the practical skills you need to become successful.