Become a Personal Trainer in Washington State

Do you take your personal health and fitness seriously? Do you enjoy helping others with your wealth of fitness knowledge? And would you like to motivate others to reach their health and fitness goals? If this sounds appealing, you might consider a career as a certified personal trainer in Washington.

Certified personal trainers possess the right attitude and knowledge to help others on their path to wellness. They typically work with clients to set up training and nutrition plans and teach them the skills they need to take control of their own health and fitness. Those in this career should expect to play an important role in the lives of their clients, providing much support and motivation on a regular basis.

Requirements for Personal Trainer in Washington

Washington does not require licensure for certified personal trainers; however, for those who wish to advance their careers and become athletic trainers, licensure will be needed. A high school diploma or GED equivalent is generally required, and many will choose to complete an additional post-secondary educational program.

Personal Trainer Certification in Washington

Personal trainers in Washington can obtain certification through one of several governing organizations. Organizations that provide certification will have various prerequisites, depending on the type of certification sought. Some popular programs include American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and National Federation of Personal Trainers (NFPT). Programs will generally require ongoing continuing education to maintain certification.

Training Programs for Personal Trainers in Washington

Several universities in Washington offer education for those wishing to pursue a career in athletics at various levels. Generally, those wishing to work as certified personal trainers will want to complete at least a certificate course. These are some options in the state of Washington:

• Bellingham Technical College in Bellingham offers a Personal Fitness Trainer Certificate. The program is designed for those looking for immediate employment in the fitness industry upon completion. Students will be introduced to the American Council on Exercise (ACE) in preparation for certification and employment placement.
• Lake Washington Institute of Technology in Kirkland offers a Fitness Specialist/Personal Trainer Certificate of Proficiency. The institute also offers an Associate in Applied Science, which can be either taken alone or in preparation for transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. Students will enjoy small class sizes, allowing for ample opportunity for hands-on training with the latest fitness equipment and trends.
• Highline College in Des Moines offers a Personal Fitness Trainer Certificate. Students will be trained in communication skills, professionalism, fitness and health knowledge, teaching and training techniques, legal and ethical practices and business management. Upon completion, students will be prepared to certify through a nationally recognized organization.

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Job Growth Outlook and Salary Projections for Personal Trainer in Washington

The Bureau of Labor Statistics data from 2018 shows a mean hourly wage of $26.07 for fitness trainers and aerobics instructors with an average yearly wage of $54,220. The job is expected to grow at a rate of 16.7 percent over a ten-year period from 2016 to 2026. This is a favorable comparison to the national projected growth rate of 10 percent. In Washington, there is an expected 1810 jobs opening annually in this category.

Personal Trainers Career Opportunities in Washington

Certified personal trainers in Washington work primarily in fitness centers; however, they can also be found in social organizations, corporate environments and government. This career also has good potential for those wishing to establish and run their own business either at a freelance level or as fitness center owners.

In the state of Washington, potential employers include EXOS, the YMCA, 24 Hour Fitness, TATE, Incorporated, PRO Sports Club, Western Washington University, Prestige Care, Gold’s Gym and the Jewish Community Center.

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