How do I become a Personal Trainer?

I get asked this question a lot by clients, from mates or even people that just see me with a ‘Personal Trainer’ T-shirt on in the gym. The one thing you need on paper is the minimum of a course which allows you to personal train. I would always opt for Level 3 Reps, as this is one of the most recognised in the industry. For me though this is only the basis to any PT, there are so many other factors which must be addressed. 

You must have passion for what you're doing. In order to get the best out of your client you must really be able to understand what they're going through, being passionate about the task you've set them shall motivate them more, in turn both you and them receiving the best session. Don't forget its not just them you are trying to benefit from the session but also yourself through experience, experiments and overall satisfaction. 

The knowledge of the industry has to be high due to the fact that a majority of PT’s now are self-employed. This meaning you have to set up your own company, manage your accounts as well as largely gathering all your own clients. Nothing is given to you on a plate. Your knowledge of fitness must be of the highest standard! Clients will come to you from all different walks of life, some with no knowledge themselves as to what to do, some maybe be PT’s themselves and are looking for a new and adventurous way to mix up their training. You must always think out the box, be doing something new with the clients. So many people just go through the same ritual of 4x10 on every machine in the gym with their client. This will get them no where, I promise. You must be willing to mix it up, bring new equipment into the gym, use HIIT, Giant Sets, mini circuits, bodyweight exercise. These are all things that people will not fully push themselves with when training alone but are quick, simple and hardcore for many, because an hour will soon pass you by. 

Lastly you've got to look the part yourself. My worst experience I have ever had was a PT eating a chocolate bar whilst training a client!!! It comes down to the saying ‘to talk the talk you myst be able to walk the walk’. Don't get me wrong you don't have to look like your just about to walk on stage of the Arnold Classic but you must look the part, someone for your client to inspire to look like. You've also got to be at the level where you can demonstrate the exercises with ease and not be struggling when demonstrating a clean and press with the bar. 

So there you have it, three steps to becoming a personal trainer. Its a hard industry to make it in and stay in but so rewarding in the long term. Good Luck