Can you be a personal trainer with a criminal record?

Yes, it is possible to be a personal trainer with a criminal record, but it depends on several factors.

There are no state or federal laws that prohibit a person from becoming a personal trainer just because they have a record. However, each licensing agency sets its own standards and qualifications. If you have a criminal history, there are things that you can do to make yourself a more attractive candidate.

If you aspire to get certified as a personal trainer, it’s important to examine the best available personal trainer certifications. For an easier route, consider the most accessible easy personal training certifications from leading institutions such as ISSA, NASM, and more.

Read on for a detailed walkthrough of the key considerations aspiring personal trainers with criminal records need to know. Learn about if gyms hire felons, how to get certified as a personal trainer with a criminal record, and other qualifications to become a personal trainer.

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How to Be a Personal Trainer with a Criminal Record Online

When you want to learn how to become a personal trainer, you might wonder if your criminal history is going to stand in your way. Here are key considerations:

1. Severity and Type of Offense: Some fitness certification organizations and employers may have specific policies regarding criminal records. Serious offenses such as violent crimes or sexual offenses may disqualify candidates from certification or employment.
2. Certification Organizations: Many personal training certifications require a background check. Some organizations may consider the type of offense and how much time has passed since the conviction when deciding on certification eligibility.
3. Employment Policies: Fitness centers and gyms often conduct background checks as part of their hiring process. Policies regarding criminal records vary by employer, and some may consider the context of the offense or its relevance to the job.
4. Self-Employment: If becoming certified and employed by a gym proves challenging, some individuals with a criminal record choose to start their own personal training businesses. This allows them to work directly with clients, though gaining clients and establishing credibility might require additional effort.
5. Legal Rehabilitation: In some jurisdictions, expunging or sealing criminal records may be an option, which could improve chances of certification or employment in the fitness industry.

It’s not uncommon to make a few mistakes when you’re young. Sometimes, these mistakes can end up on your criminal record. When you want to become a personal trainer, you might wonder if your criminal history is going to stand in your way. Fortunately, it’s possible to become a personal trainer, even if you have a few mistakes from your past. In fact, some people use a career as a personal trainer to rebuild their life.

The State Won’t Stand in Your Way

There are no state or federal rules for who can become a personal trainer. You don’t have to apply to a state licensing agency or take any other steps to get a state license like you have to when you’re a doctor or a lawyer. Instead, you can become a trainer as soon as someone’s willing to hire you to train them. No career is perfect—there are pros and cons to being a personal trainer—but this won’t stand in your way.

Different Organizations Have Different Standards

Because there are no government rules to say who can and who can’t become a personal trainer, it’s up to each licensing organization to set their own rules (read our guide here on the best personal training certifications). The rules vary from organization to organization. For example, the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) has requirements that aspiring trainers must meet in order to take their certifying exam.

Applicants should not have any irregularities with their certification test such as concerns with cheating. They should not have a mental problem that impairs their ability to exercise sound judgment.

In addition to these limitations, the NCSF prohibits applicants with a conviction, guilty plea, or no contest plea to any criminal offense if the offense might interfere with the applicant’s ability to work as a qualified personal trainer. They list sexual abuse, assault with a dangerous weapon, and distribution of a controlled substance as examples of disqualifying offenses.

They say that these convictions violate their code of ethics and make a person ineligible for initial certification or renewal of their personal training certification.

What’s more, is that organizations such as NCSF may also provide domestic abuse resources and other guidelines to help ensure both trainers and clients understand what is, and isn’t, acceptable behavior.

Other organizations don’t have prohibitions for applicants with a criminal history. For certification from the National Federation of Personal Trainers, anyone who’s 18 years of age and older with a high school diploma or its equivalent can take the certifying exam. They require certified trainers to report new felony convictions, but they handle discipline for felonies on a case-by-case basis.

You Must Convince a Gym to Hire You

If you’re able to get a personal training certification, the next step is to convince a gym that you’re a good choice to hire. Unless you choose to start your own gym or training facility, or start an online personal training business, or learn how to make money selling workout plans online—both great personal trainer career options, and one of many ways to make money from fitness that anyone willing to start a personal training business on their own should consider—you need a gym to work out of to conduct training sessions.

Just like each licensing organization chooses their own qualifications for who can test for certification, each gym sets its own policies for who to hire. That means you can research the hiring policy of each gym to see if it’s worth your while to put in an application.

Large companies with multiple locations may have the information posted online. For gyms that are small, there may not be an official policy. While some employers might look at a criminal conviction skeptically, others may be willing to overlook it if you have other qualities that make you an outstanding candidate.

Think About Why the Company Should Hire You

When you apply for a position, you may have the opportunity to explain your conviction. An opportunity to explain is your chance to tell the potential employer what you’ve learned from the experience. If you completed your probation without any violations, it may help to include this information.

If you’ve completed anger management or substance abuse counseling, it can show the prospective employer that you’ve put the event behind you. You may also do other things to help you stand out from the crowd and help an employer overlook a mistake in your past. An advanced certification or college coursework in anatomy and physiology may help.

Dressing well for your interview and having available references can help. Anything that you can do to put your best foot forward as you would at any job interview can help you get a job as a personal trainer despite a criminal record.

Consider Sealing Your Criminal History

Most states have procedures to allow some offenders to make their convictions nonpublic. They call this procedure expunging or sealing a criminal record. Every state has its own requirements and procedures for expunging a conviction. The first step to expunging a criminal record is to determine if you’re eligible. Some states might allow a person to expunge one or more misdemeanors.

A state might allow you to expunge a felony if you don’t expunge any misdemeanor offenses.

In most cases, there’s a waiting period of several years between your conviction and your application to expunge your record. Often, a judge’s decision to expunge or seal your record is discretionary. Just like evidence of training and rehabilitation can work to your favor when you apply for a job, these same things can help convince a judge that you’re worthy of an expungement.

In addition to expungement, if you’re facing new criminal charges, there are often pre-prosecution or sentencing diversion programs that allow you to avoid a criminal record. If you take advantage of one of these programs, you can honestly answer “no” when someone asks you if you have a criminal conviction.

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What are the easiest personal training certifications to get with a criminal record?

Certifications that do not require background checks or are more lenient about past criminal records may be easier to obtain. For instance, organizations like the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) may consider the nature of the offense and how much time has passed since the conviction.

What are the strictest personal training certification agencies for those with a criminal history?

Organizations like the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) tend to be strict in their background check policies. They may scrutinize the severity of the offense, its relevance to the role, and how long ago it occurred, potentially disqualifying candidates with serious criminal records.

Do gyms do background checks for gym staff?

Yes, many gyms conduct background checks for their staff, including personal trainers, managers, and other employees. This practice helps ensure a safe environment for clients and staff, and it may be a legal or insurance requirement in some jurisdictions.

Should I tell a gym I have a criminal record?

If a gym conducts a background check, it is advisable to be honest about your criminal record upfront. Being transparent can demonstrate integrity and allow for an open conversation about the context of the offense and how you’ve moved past it. Additionally, some gyms may be more lenient or consider the nature of the offense and time elapsed since the conviction.

Should I tell my personal training clients I have a criminal record?

Disclosing a criminal record to your personal training clients is a personal choice, but consider the potential impact on trust and the client relationship. If you anticipate it affecting your business or have concerns about your clients discovering it elsewhere, a straightforward, honest conversation might help maintain transparency and prevent misunderstandings.

What types of things will cause someone to fail a gym background check?

Several factors can lead to failing a gym background check, including:

1. Serious Offenses: Violent crimes, sexual offenses, and drug-related charges are often disqualifying.
2. Recent Convictions: More recent offenses can raise red flags, regardless of their nature.
3. Employment-Related Crimes: Offenses like fraud, theft, or embezzlement may disqualify someone from a role involving monetary transactions.

Do gyms hire felons?

Some gyms may hire felons, depending on the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since the conviction, and the gym’s policies. However, serious crimes or offenses related to the fitness industry may significantly reduce the likelihood of employment.

If I have a criminal record and gyms won’t hire me, should I start my own fitness business?

Starting your own fitness business can be a viable option. This path allows you to leverage your skills directly with clients, avoiding traditional employment barriers. Building a reputable business may take time, but effective marketing, certifications, and client testimonials can help establish credibility.

How do I start an online fitness business?

To start an online fitness business:

1. Define Your Niche: Identify your target audience and the specific services you want to offer, such as workout programs, nutrition plans, or coaching.
2. Obtain Certifications: While not always required, having recognized certifications can enhance credibility.
3. Create Digital Content: Develop online programs, video tutorials, and other resources for clients.
4. Build an Online Presence: Create a website and leverage social media to market your services.
5. Use Management Software: Exercise.com offers tools to manage clients, deliver programs, and track progress online, streamlining operations.

Read More: How to Start an Online Fitness Business

What are some online fitness business ideas?

Some online fitness business ideas include:

1. Online Personal Training: Offer customized workout programs and coaching via video calls or digital platforms.
2. Nutrition Coaching: Provide dietary guidance and meal planning services.
3. Fitness Classes: Host virtual classes such as yoga, pilates, or HIIT sessions.
4. Digital Content Creation: Develop and sell workout guides, e-books, and instructional videos.

Read More: Online Fitness Business Ideas

How can Exercise.com help me run a successful personal training business?

Exercise.com provides comprehensive tools to manage and grow a personal training business effectively:

1. Custom Branded Apps: Offer personalized apps for delivering workout programs, tracking progress, and engaging clients.
2. Scheduling & Payments: Streamline appointment bookings, memberships, and payments in one platform.
3. Client Management: Track client progress, schedule sessions, and communicate seamlessly.
4. Business Analytics: Gain insights into client engagement, revenue, and business performance to optimize growth.

Read More:

• How to Build a Personal Trainer App
• Best Apps for Personal Trainers
• Best Personal Training Software

What are some personal training career options that someone with a criminal record should consider?

1. Independent Personal Training: Starting your own personal training business offers flexibility and bypasses traditional employment barriers. You can build a client base directly and develop a unique brand.
2. Online Personal Training: Providing virtual training programs and coaching can help you reach a broader audience and reduce potential stigmas associated with in-person opportunities.
3. Group Fitness Instructor: You can offer group fitness classes independently or through studios open to working with those who have a criminal record, helping you tap into a larger client base.
4. Niche Specialization: Consider specializing in areas like senior fitness, sports-specific training, or weight loss coaching, which can attract specific clientele and build a loyal following.
5. Corporate Wellness Programs: Some companies may offer wellness programs or independent contracts, allowing you to work as a personal trainer or fitness coach for employees.

Read More: Personal Trainer Career Options

What are some of the highest paying fitness industry jobs that are still available to someone with a criminal record?

1. Freelance Fitness Consultant: Advising businesses on fitness programs, gym design, and marketing strategies can yield high earnings, particularly for those with industry experience.
2. Corporate Wellness Coach: Providing fitness and wellness services to companies can lead to lucrative contracts, particularly in urban areas or with large corporations.
3. Specialized Personal Trainer: Trainers who specialize in niche markets such as sports training, rehabilitation, or prenatal fitness can charge premium rates, attracting clients willing to pay for specialized expertise.
4. Fitness Content Creator: Creating and selling digital fitness content, such as workout guides, instructional videos, and e-books, can generate significant revenue streams, especially if leveraged effectively through online platforms.
5. Online Fitness Coaching: Offering remote coaching services can attract a broader clientele and enable personalized training at scale, resulting in higher income through increased client numbers or subscription models.

Read More: Highest Paying Fitness Jobs

Can a felon be a personal trainer?

Yes, a felon can become a personal trainer, but there are challenges. Certification organizations and gyms may consider the nature of the offense and time since the conviction. Some felons may opt for self-employment or online training to avoid traditional barriers.

Does Crunch Fitness hire felons?

Crunch Fitness may hire felons, but hiring decisions depend on factors such as the severity of the offense, relevance to the role, and time elapsed. Individual gym locations may also have different policies, making it essential to inquire directly.

Does Planet Fitness hire felons?

Planet Fitness may hire felons, depending on the nature of the offense, time since conviction, and individual gym policies. Hiring decisions may also depend on state laws and the specific circumstances surrounding each case.

Does Gold’s Gym hire felons?

Gold’s Gym’s hiring policies may allow for the employment of felons, but this depends on the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since conviction, and individual gym policies. It’s advisable to inquire directly at specific Gold’s Gym locations for clarification.

Does 24-Hour Fitness hire felons?

24-Hour Fitness may hire felons, considering factors such as the type of offense, relevance to the role, and time since conviction. Policies may vary by location, so contacting individual gyms directly is essential for specific information.

What is a good second chance gym for personal trainers?

Some smaller, independent gyms may offer more opportunities for second chances, focusing more on individual skills and experiences than criminal history. Additionally, certain community centers or gyms with social outreach programs may be open to hiring individuals with a criminal record.

What are the issues with gym members having sex with a personal trainer (and how does it affect a personal trainer’s career)?

Gym members having sex with a personal trainer can lead to various issues:

1. Professional Boundaries: Crossing boundaries can blur the line between a professional and personal relationship, potentially affecting the trainer’s ability to provide unbiased guidance.
2. Conflict of Interest: The relationship might skew training outcomes or result in favoritism, impacting other clients and undermining the trainer’s professional integrity.
3. Legal and Ethical Concerns: Sexual relationships between trainers and clients might lead to accusations of misconduct or abuse of power, which could result in legal actions or professional repercussions.
4. Reputation Damage: Word of such relationships could harm the trainer’s reputation, affecting client trust and future employment opportunities.
5. Termination: Many gyms and fitness organizations have policies against such relationships, and violations could lead to immediate termination, ending the trainer’s current career.

Read More: Personal Trainer Client Romantic Relationships

Do I have to be qualified to be a personal trainer?

Technically, there’s no universal legal requirement to be qualified as a personal trainer, but certifications are highly recommended. They provide credibility, enhance knowledge, and may be required by gyms or clients seeking professional training.

Do you have to be certified to be a personal trainer?

While certification is not legally required, it is highly recommended. Certifications from recognized organizations like NASM, ACE, or ISSA enhance credibility, provide essential knowledge, and may be required by some gyms or clients.

Do you have to be ripped to be a personal trainer?

No, you don’t have to be ripped to be a personal trainer. What’s more important is having knowledge, skills, and certifications to provide effective training. Physical appearance may contribute to the image, but professional expertise and interpersonal skills play a crucial role.

What qualifications do I need to be a personal trainer?

Qualifications for personal trainers include:

1. Certification: Recognized organizations like NASM, ACE, or ISSA offer comprehensive certifications.
2. Education: A background in fitness, health, or a related field can be beneficial.
3. CPR/AED Certification: Many gyms and certifications require this for safety.
4. Soft Skills: Communication, motivation, and adaptability are essential for client relationships.

How do I start being a personal trainer?

To start being a personal trainer:

1. Get Certified: Obtain a recognized certification to demonstrate expertise.
2. Gain Experience: Consider internships or assistant positions to learn industry nuances.
3. Develop a Niche: Define your target clientele, such as beginners, athletes, or specific age groups.
4. Market Yourself: Build an online presence, network in the industry, and leverage client testimonials to grow your business.

Read More: How to Become a Personal Trainer

What is the difference between a certified fitness trainer and a certified personal trainer?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but a certified fitness trainer typically focuses on group fitness classes or general fitness programs. A certified personal trainer works one-on-one with clients, creating personalized workout plans and offering tailored guidance based on individual goals.

Can you sell workout plans without being certified?

Technically, yes, you can sell workout plans without being certified. However, certification provides credibility, ensuring clients of your expertise. Lack of certification may deter some clients and limit opportunities for business growth.

Read More: Can you sell workout plans without being certified?

Do you need a certification to be an online fitness coach?

While certification is not legally required, having one is highly recommended for online fitness coaches. It provides credibility, demonstrates expertise, and can increase client trust, which is crucial for growing an online coaching business.

What percentage of personal trainers fail?

The failure rate of personal trainers can vary widely depending on factors like business acumen, market conditions, and specialization. It’s estimated that around 80% of new trainers leave the industry within the first year, emphasizing the need for strong business strategies and client engagement skills.

Can I run a fitness class with no qualifications?

Yes, you can technically run a fitness class with no formal qualifications. However, having certifications enhances credibility, improves your skills, and may be necessary to work with certain facilities or attract clients.

Read More: Can I run a fitness class with no qualifications?

What personal trainer certificate is most respected?

The most respected personal trainer certificates include those from:

• NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine)
• ACE (American Council on Exercise)
• NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association)

These organizations provide comprehensive education and are recognized within the industry for their rigorous standards.

Is it hard to make money as a personal trainer?

Making money as a personal trainer can be challenging, particularly at the start. Success depends on factors such as client acquisition, retention, marketing, and specialization. Building a strong brand, offering unique services, and leveraging tools like Exercise.com to streamline business management can improve financial success.

Which personal training certification is the best one?

All of the various personal training certifications have different requirements, costs, study materials, exam details, recertification requirements, and continuing education credits (CECs) or units (CEUs). It’s important to do your homework and review all of the details before deciding on which one is best for you. The certifications that have been NCCA-accredited are more reputable than others that are not accredited because they have met a certain level of standards for the certification.

Read More: Best Personal Training Certifications

How long should I study for a personal training certification exam?

It varies among individuals. If you recently finished a degree with courses covering most of the content in the exam, you might be able to take it more quickly than someone who does not have that background. With NESTA, once you register for the exam, you have 90 days to complete the exam. Other organizations will vary on their timelines.

Where can I train my personal training clients?

There are a number of places where you could train your clients like a gym, a park, your home, their home, or your own studio. After you’ve secured a position as a personal trainer, you need to think about how you plan on managing your training business. Use Exercise.com to run your entire fitness business in one place.

Read More: Where can I train my personal training clients?

Where do personal trainers make the most money?

Personal trainers typically make the most money in:

1. Urban Areas: High demand and affluent clientele can lead to higher rates.
2. Niche Markets: Trainers who specialize in areas like sports-specific training, post-rehabilitation, or senior fitness may charge premium rates.
3. Corporate Wellness Programs: Working with companies to offer training services to employees can provide lucrative contracts.

How much should I charge for a workout program?

The price of a workout program can vary greatly depending on factors such as:

• Experience and Certifications: Trainers with advanced credentials may charge higher rates.
• Program Length and Depth: Longer, more comprehensive programs can command higher prices.
• Market Demand: Research local rates to remain competitive. Prices can range from $50 to $200+ for detailed workout programs.

Read More: How much should I charge for a workout program?

What is the best personal training software?

The best personal training software is Exercise.com due to its comprehensive features tailored for trainers:

• Custom Branded Apps: Personalize your business, deliver workouts, and track client progress.
• Client Management: Streamline scheduling, communication, and progress tracking.
• Business Analytics: Gain insights into revenue streams, client engagement, and business growth.
• Integration: Exercise.com integrates with other tools, making it a versatile choice for personal trainers seeking a complete management solution.

Get a demo now!

References:

1. https://www.msnbc.com/all/states-push-provide-some-ex-felons-second-chance
2. https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/personal-trainers-2
3. https://www.ncsf.org/certexam/policy.aspx
4. https://www.nfpt.com/certification
5. https://www.nfpt.com/resources/codes-of-conduct
6. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/expungement-of-criminal-records-basics-32641.html
7. https://ag.hawaii.gov/hcjdc/expungement-frequently-asked-questions/
8. https://www.sado.org/content/pub/10007_Expunging-Adult-Convictions.pdf