Fitness Careers in High Demand

September 21, 2009

Yahoo News posted an article today regarding the high demand for fitness related jobs.  It’s refreshing to know that Americans are opting to use what little discretionary income available during these hard economic times to invest in better health and lifestyle.  Read on.

With shows like NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” gluing millions of Americans to their television sets and eating away at their consciences, former couch potatoes across the country are feeling — and following — the pull to the gym.

But while the get-healthy vibe is sweeping the nation and more and more people set their sights on shaping up, they are also in need of the proper guidance and motivation to reach their goals. In other words, if you’re an aspiring nutritionist, dietetic technician, personal trainer, or fitness instructor, you’ve got a reason to be pumped up — fitness careers are in demand.

Certified Nutritionists and Dietetic Technicians

“The only way to make good money in the industry is to be in private practice,” shares Angela Pifer, a certified nutritionist (CN) in Seattle, who received her master’s in nutrition through Bastyr University’s two-year degree program. This enabled her to open Nutrition Northwest, where she offers both individual nutrition and group detoxification programs.

Without her CN credential, Angela’s job options would be limited, and she certainly would not have the freedom she finds in her current situation. “I don’t clock in and out for anyone else,” she says. “I have flexibility in my day, and I make a difference in people’s lives.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for certified nutritionists (CNs), who make an average of anywhere from $40,000 to $75,000 a year, are expected to be good, increasing at a steady rate through 2016. The projected employment change for dietetic technicians, on the other hand, is expected to be faster than average.

Why? It’s a whole lot easier to become a dietetic technician: less time in school and less money spent. At most, a dietetic technician needs a vocational certificate to land a job, and will typically end up filling an open slot in a hospital or food-service establishment.

Personal Trainers and Fitness Instructors

The good news is that entry into the fitness industry doesn’t necessarily require a lot of educational credentials. But unless you plan to start your own business, be prepared to work only part-time. While it is possible to advance to full-time status in health and fitness centers, you may need a bachelor of science (B.S.) or master of science (M.S.) degree in exercise science or a related field to get there.

As a whole, job opportunities are expected to increase much faster than average through 2016. The annual earnings of a fitness instructor average around $29,210, with the potential to earn as much as $60,760. Self-employed (and highly motivated) personal trainers, however, tend to surpass the $60,000 mark in yearly income, according to the BLS.

If you opt to work for a health club, ultimately, the type of certification you need is up to the club owner or operator. “By becoming certified, you are showing people that you have met the minimum standards set forth by nationally recognized organizations,” says Dr. Mark Blegen, assistant professor of exercise and sport science at St. Catherine University (St. Paul-Minneapolis). “This puts you on an even playing field.”

According to Blegen, the two most recognized organizations are the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). However, there are several organizations from which you can choose, and each offers a number of certification programs, including anything from health fitness instructor and strength and conditioning specialist to yoga and/or Pilates instructor.

Regardless of what path you choose on the road to a fit and fabulous career, you’re bound to find fulfillment — both personal and financial.

Posted in Ask The Experts, Pro Trainer - Chris