Valentin Bosioc
Post written by Kevin Adams
Recent statistics show that 67% of adults in Australia and 24.9% of its children aged 5-17 are either overweight or obese, prompting experts to project significant growth in the country’s fitness industry in the next five years.
The demand for fitness trainers and protein powder in Australia continues to increase, and there has never been a better time to choose a career or business in the fitness industry. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to get qualified and start a lucrative career, helping others get healthy.
Trainer or instructor?
Do you want to be a fitness trainer or instructor? The distinction between the two is lost on most people. They see an instructor or a trainer working at a gym and randomly mistake one for the other, thinking they are the same. There is a difference, and it lies in what they are allowed to do and the certification that allows them to do it.
A fitness instructor’s activity is limited to demonstrating the proper use of gym equipment, giving emergency first aid if needed, or teaching pre-choreographed exercises to a group or class.
A trainer, on the other hand, can work one-on-one with clients and prescribe customized individual workouts, run boot camps, or start a business; these are in addition to an instructor’s tasks. They could also give advice on a diet but would need a separate certification to recommend supplements like protein powder in Australia fitness clients can take advantage of.
A good entry point to the fitness industry is becoming an instructor first, then applying for a trainer certificate after gaining some experience.
How to start making a career out of fitness
- The first step towards a career in Australia’s fitness industry is to get qualified and earn a certification. This would serve as your proof to prospective clients that you know what you are doing.
You need to be at least 18 years old, must possess basic computer skills, have a current CPR and first aid certificate, and filled-out the pre-screening health questionnaire from PT National.
- Certificate III in Fitness(SIS30315)
This is the certification required to become a fitness instructor in Australia. Its course teaches the foundational skills that will enable you to work in a gym and other fitness facilities. You may receive the certificate within 12 months.
- Certificate IV in Fitness (SIS 40215)
This certificate would give you advanced skills allowing you to perform the tasks of a personal trainer. Its course would also teach you marketing and planning, enabling you to put up a business if you want to.
- Gain actual work experience
Practical work experience is also required to become a fitness trainer. You can gain this through Australia’s Practical Placement Programs by shadowing first until you are capable of facilitating your own training. This is a good venue to show your potential as a personal trainer to prospective clients.
- Register as a fitness professional
Fitness associations like Fitness Australia make sure that fitness professionals meet proper guidelines and have relevant skills to practice. They also provide insurance and other support services for trainers, instructors, and even businesses.
- Start working
After registering, you can start applying as a fitness trainer at gyms, recreational facilities, and other fitness facilities.
The number of fitness trainers and nutritionists who suggest the best protein powder Australia is increasing. Take advantage of this by getting certified and start helping others find healthier, happier versions of themselves.
This post was written by Kevin Adams
