Tips For A Career In Fitness- MINDLER

According to a Deloitte analysis report, the Indian fitness industry crossed the $1.1 billion mark way back in 2017. Since then, there has only been a surge within the industry. If you are passionate about fitness, and helping people transform their life gives you a kick, then the fitness industry is a good career option for you. You can convert your passion to your profession by joining the world of fitness.
There are mainly two broad professions, i.e. Nutritionist and Fitness trainers.
In this article, we will explore all the important things you should know to build a career in the fitness industry.
 
Step 1: Selecting Subjects During School

It is advised to have science with biology in class 12th. PCB, English and any one subject of your choice could be the best option.  It will help you better understand human anatomy, and will build your base in the subject. Though, it is not compulsory for all the courses and certifications for fitness trainers.
 
Step 2: Courses During Graduation

Step 2 (a)
The next step is to complete your graduation in the courses related to human health and fitness . There are various courses like Bachelors in exercise and sports science, kinesiology ( the study of mechanics of body movement), biomechanics, sports science, etc. It is highly recommended to pursue them. You will learn details about human anatomy, the function of different muscles, details of nutrition, vitamins, minerals, etc. This will give you an edge over the majority of the trainers with a non-related  degree in graduation. During the years you will conduct the experiments, and practically learn the minute details of human health.
Some Colleges/ Institutes Offering Graduation In health and fitness related courses:

Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports
Manipal Academy of Higher Education
Indira Gandhi Institute of Physical Education & Sports Sciences, University of Delhi
College of Physical Education, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University

 
Step 2 (b)
The step 2 (b) provides information regarding a different career route towards fitness training. If you are interested in practicing yoga therapies, you should pursue this route.
 
Recommended Read: Think Beyond MBBS: 14 In-Demand Career Options for PCB Students After Class 12th
 
Career As A Yoga Trainer

Yoga has survived for over 15,000 years without any enforcement. Yoga is not an exercise; it is an ancient technology towards well-being. As people have become more knowledgeable, and the benefits of yoga have become more popular, more and more people have accepted yoga. Even our Prime Minister, Mr. Narendra Modi has recognised yoga as the best form of fitness regime.
You can also opt for bachelors in Yoga and Naturopathy. It is a 3-5  years long degree, and it combines the knowledge of modern medicine and traditional medicine. The course will cover all aspects of human health, such as, prenatal to geriatric care, from lifestyle to diet, from the physical to the mental.  During the years you will study about different types of yoga therapies like color therapy, sun therapy, mud therapy, etc., basics of naturopathy, introduction to hatha yoga, different diets, etc.
The ministry of AYUSH also offers a diploma in Yoga Therapy (DYT) that can be a good option.   The Indian government has launched the “Scheme for Voluntary Certification of Yoga Professionals”, that  is monitored by the ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH). The Quality Council of India (QCI) will certify all yoga professionals.
Colleges Offering Yoga Courses:

Patanjali Yoga And Research Center
Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga
Vyasa University
Government College Of Yoga Education And Health

 
Step 3: Get Certified As A Trainer

There are various national as well international certifications, which are required to train clients. You can start with a basic certification and then move towards a more specialised field. The basic certifications will give you the entry-level knowledge, skills and abilities to train your client’s safely and effectively. During the certification you will learn different kinds of exercises, correct postures to perform an exercise, as well as basic information regarding nutrition. On the other hand, the more specialised certifications will provide you with advanced knowledge, skills and abilities that will make you an expert in developing an  advanced exercise base, nutrition prescription and insight into the business side of fitness. This is not required if you follow yoga.
Top Institutes Providing Certifications In Fitness Training:

American College of Sports Medicine
International Sports Sciences Association
National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Strength & Conditioning Association
PTA Global
Gold gym fitness institute

 
Types Of Certifications In Fitness Training
Personal Trainer
Certified Personal Trainers are trained in developing and implementing safe, effective exercise programs to help clients meet their fitness goals of either losing weight, toning body or even weight gain.  They work with clients on a one-on-one basis. Once you complete your certification, you will get the opportunity to do so with a good  salary. Working as a personal trainer, you can earn additional money through commission for training clients. Generally, the charges are around 20-40%.  You can also work in schools, physio – clinics, and small groups in clubs. With the increase in the international gym chains coming to India, the demand for fitness trainers is on a rise.
 
Certified Exercise Physiologist
Certified Exercise Physiologist gain expertise in conducting and interpreting physical fitness assessments, and developing exercise prescriptions for their clients. They guide and strengthen the lifestyles of those with cardiovascular, pulmonary, and metabolic diseases. They make personalised plans based on their individual requirements.
Read More: Physiology as a Career
 
Certified Group Exercise Instructor
They are trained to provide effective, enjoyable group exercise classes. They are also taught to modify exercises based on group needs.
 
Opportunities For Fitness Trainers

Fitness Instructor
Fitness Instructors use combinations of various exercises such as aerobics, weightlifting, karate, spin cycling, kickboxing, yoga, etc. They work in big hotels, gyms, health clubs, spas, fitness centres, tourist resorts etc.
Read More: Fitness Trainer as a Career in India
 
Aerobics Instructor
They generally conduct group sessions that involve aerobics, muscle conditioning and stretching exercises.  You can join as an instructor in a gym, club, or even at your own private studio.
 
Teacher/ Lecturer
Once you complete your post-graduation, you will be eligible for teaching students in various colleges and educational institutions.
 
Sports Trainer
Sports trainers work with different teams to monitor the health of the players. They train them with different exercises and provide them with diet plans. They can work as a sports nutritionist, fitness trainer etc. India has opportunities for well trained, educated trainers for their sports team. The demand is on a rise. These jobs are government funded and have a lot of scope. 
 
Colleges/Institutes Offering Courses In Sports Training:

Indira Gandhi Institute of Physical Education & Sports Sciences (IGIPESS) (affiliated to University of Delhi)
Lakshmibai National College of Physical Education (Kariavattom)
Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (Gwalior)
Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (Patiala)
NS Eastern Centre, Salt Lake City (Kolkata)
NS South Centre, University Campus, Bangalore

 
Things Required To Be A Good Trainer
Good Communication: This is one of the most important skills. You should know what to say, and how to say it. You should be able to understand your client’s specific needs and guide them accordingly. It is very important to make them understand things properly, otherwise, it can affect their health.
Love For Fitness: Success is not just about how much money you earn, it is about how you make it. The start in the industry would be slow, so it is very important that you should love your work. You will also be required to practice what you preach. You cannot be unfit while motivating your clients to have a balanced diet. As a trainer, you should be a perfect role model.
 
Pursuing the right courses, the requisite knowledge, and a passion for fitness are the few key elements for success in this field.
 
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