Do you need a degree to be a personal trainer?

No, you do not need a degree to be a personal trainer. While a degree in fields like exercise science or kinesiology can be beneficial, a degree is not required to be a personal trainer.

While a college degree is not required to become a personal trainer, most personal trainers gain employment through certifications from accredited organizations such as NASM, ACE, or ISSA. These top personal training certifications are the industry standard and typically required by gyms, studios, and fitness businesses, rather than a college degree.

Choosing between a PT degree and a PT certification depends on your career goals, budget, and the time you’re willing to invest. Many of the easiest personal training certifications allow for quicker entry into the fitness industry, while a degree may be beneficial for specialized PT career paths.

Key Issue	Details
Degree Requirement	No, a degree is not required to become a personal trainer. Most trainers enter the industry with certifications from accredited organizations like NASM, ACE, or ISSA.
Certification Importance	Certifications are the industry standard and usually mandatory for employment in gyms, fitness centers, and studios. They focus on practical skills such as exercise program design.
When a Degree Might Help	A degree can benefit trainers seeking specialized roles, such as athletic trainers, sports performance coaches, or those in management and corporate wellness programs.
Best Degrees for Personal Trainers	Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Nutrition, and Physical Therapy are ideal degrees for trainers looking to deepen expertise or pursue advanced career paths.
Certification vs. Degree (Cost)	Degrees typically cost $20,000 – $100,000+, while certifications range from $400 – $1,200, making certifications a faster and more affordable entry point into the industry.
Certification vs. Degree (Time)	Degrees take 2-4 years to complete, while certification programs can be completed in 3-6 months. Certifications allow faster entry into the fitness industry.
Career Flexibility	Certifications provide enough qualifications to work in gyms and studios. A degree, however, may be necessary for specialized or academic roles.
Business Management Tools	Whether you have a degree or just a certification, tools like Exercise.com help trainers manage clients, automate billing, and scale their fitness business effectively.
Continuing Education	Certifications often require continuing education units (CEUs) for renewal, while degree holders may also benefit from ongoing education but are less frequently required to do so.
Earning Potential	Certified trainers can start earning immediately, while degree holders may require more time to recoup the higher educational investment.

In fact, many successful personal trainers do not hold formal degrees. Even ultra successful personal trainers like Jillian Michaels, Kayla Itsines, and Tony Horton often do not have degrees in fitness, but do have fitness certifications.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, most personal trainers need a high school diploma, not a college degree to be a personal trainer.

Many of the highest paying fitness jobs and the best ways to make money from fitness (like everything from learning how to become an online fitness coach to learning how to start an online personal training business) do not have degree requirements beyond a high school diploma, and sometimes even that is not required! Instead, most gyms and other fitness employers who are evaluating personal trainer credentials rely on certification programs that teach the essentials of anatomy, physiology, and program design to ensure client safety and effective training.

So, no, you do not need a degree to be a personal trainer. Learning how to become a personal trainer without a degree is as simple as evaluating the best personal trainer certifications. In most cases, a certification from an accredited organization like NASM, ACE, or ISSA is sufficient to get started in the industry. While degrees in exercise science or related fields can provide additional knowledge, they are not typically required by employers. Most gyms and fitness businesses prioritize certification, practical experience, and proven results over formal education.

However, understanding when a degree could benefit your career and how it compares to certification is key. Below, we break down the essential factors to consider when deciding if a degree is necessary for your personal training career.

To find the best personal trainer certification for your career goals, check out our comprehensive review of top personal trainer certifications, which breaks down key details like cost, areas of specialization, and accreditation status. And, if you are in a hurry to get certified as a personal trainer then check out our list of the easiest personal trainer certifications that are still respected and legitimate.

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For fitness professionals running their own businesses, what’s often more important than a degree is leveraging the right tools to manage clients, track progress, and automate administrative tasks. This is where Exercise.com comes in as the best software platform for personal trainers and gym owners alike.

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Certifications vs. Degrees: What’s More Important?

Most gyms and fitness studios prioritize certification over a degree because these certifications focus specifically on practical skills like designing exercise programs, assessing client needs, and preventing injuries. While a degree may offer deeper knowledge in exercise science, it’s not required to practice as a personal trainer.

• Certification Programs: Organizations like NASM, ACE, and ISSA offer specialized certification paths that provide the skills needed to become a personal trainer, without the time and cost investment of a degree.
• Client Expectations: Clients are more concerned with results and safety, both of which can be provided by a certified personal trainer. A degree may add to your credibility, but it’s not a necessity for most client bases.
• Job Market: Employers in the fitness industry—whether gyms or corporate wellness programs—typically require certifications rather than degrees.

Incorporating Exercise.com into your training business allows you to focus on providing exceptional service without worrying about administrative tasks. Whether you’re offering one-on-one sessions, group classes, or virtual training, Exercise.com’s software helps trainers manage schedules, track client progress, and offer personalized workout plans from one seamless platform.

Successful Personal Trainers Without Degrees

Several well-known personal trainers have built successful careers without holding formal degrees, focusing instead on certifications, experience, and practical knowledge. Here are a few examples:

1. Jillian Michaels – One of the most recognizable personal trainers, Jillian Michaels became famous as a trainer on NBC’s The Biggest Loser. Michaels does not hold a degree in a related field but has certifications from the National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). Her career highlights the importance of certifications, practical experience, and strong personal branding.
2. Tony Horton – The creator of the popular P90X workout series, Tony Horton did not pursue a formal degree in fitness or exercise science. He built his career by gaining experience as a personal trainer and developing his own fitness programs that became wildly successful. Horton’s approach emphasizes practical, hands-on experience and the ability to connect with clients through innovative fitness programs.
3. Kayla Itsines – An Australian fitness trainer and creator of the Bikini Body Guide (BBG), Itsines has gained a massive following on social media. She does not have a degree but has completed certifications with the Australian Institute of Fitness and specializes in high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Her career shows how certifications, coupled with a strong online presence, can lead to global recognition.

These trainers have achieved fame and success in the fitness industry through a combination of certification, personal experience, and innovative fitness programs, demonstrating that a formal degree is not always necessary for building a successful personal training career.

Certifications are the Industry Standard

Most fitness employers and clients expect trainers to have a certification from a recognized organization. These certifications ensure trainers have a foundational understanding of exercise physiology, client assessment, and workout program design.

• NASM, ACE, ISSA: These organizations are highly regarded in the industry and offer flexible certification programs, often completed in less than a year.
• Accredited Certifications: Accreditation from bodies like the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) ensures your certification is trusted by employers.
• Continuing Education: Certification programs often require ongoing education, keeping trainers up-to-date with the latest fitness trends and techniques.

Exercise.com can further streamline your business by integrating client management and tracking tools, helping you maintain client progress and professional credibility.

Personal Training Degree vs. Certification: When a Degree Might Help

While not required, having a degree in fields like kinesiology or exercise science can enhance your expertise. This may be particularly useful if you’re looking to specialize in niche areas of fitness, such as athletic performance, injury rehabilitation, or exercise research.

• Niche Specializations: Athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, or those working in clinical settings might benefit from a degree, especially if pursuing advanced certifications or managerial roles.
• Research and Development: If you’re interested in contributing to fitness research, a degree can open doors in academic or institutional settings.

For personal trainers looking to manage and scale their business, the most critical tool is a reliable platform like Exercise.com. Whether you have a degree or just a certification, Exercise.com’s software helps you deliver top-notch services, manage your business, and grow your client base.

How Exercise.com Supports Your Business Growth

Regardless of whether you have a degree, having the right tools to manage your fitness business is critical. Exercise.com provides personal trainers with a comprehensive software platform that makes it easy to track client progress, schedule sessions, and automate billing.

• All-in-One Platform: Manage client workouts, progress reports, and schedules all in one place.
• Custom-Branded App: Stand out by offering a personalized, branded experience to your clients, boosting client retention and engagement.
• Automated Features: Streamline your business operations with automated billing, notifications, and scheduling tools.

While a degree can be valuable for those looking to specialize or work in academic settings, it is not necessary to become a personal trainer. Industry-recognized certifications are the key to entering the fitness world and building a successful career. And with Exercise.com, certified personal trainers can easily manage and grow their business with client tracking, scheduling, and workout programming all in one place.

Book a demo with Exercise.com today to learn how our platform can help you succeed in your personal training career, whether or not you have a degree.

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What You DO Need to Work as a Personal Trainer

While a degree isn’t mandatory, there are a few essential items you’ll need to work as a personal trainer:

1. Certification from a Recognized Organization: Most employers require trainers to hold a certification from a respected body like NASM, ACE, or ISSA. These programs teach you the necessary skills in areas such as exercise physiology, program design, and client safety.
2. CPR and First Aid Certification: Many fitness centers require personal trainers to be certified in CPR and First Aid to ensure client safety during training sessions.
3. Liability Insurance: If you are running your own training business or working as an independent contractor, personal trainer liability insurance protects you from potential legal claims.
4. Experience and Client Management Skills: Managing clients, understanding their fitness goals, and tracking their progress are critical skills. Using a comprehensive platform like Exercise.com can streamline client management, automate scheduling, and enhance service delivery.

When You Might Want to Pursue a Degree as a Personal Fitness Trainer

Though a degree isn’t a requirement, there are instances where pursuing one may be beneficial:

• Specialized Career Paths: If you’re interested in areas like athletic training, sports performance, or rehabilitation, a degree in kinesiology, exercise science, or physical therapy may be required.
• Advancing to Leadership Roles: Some fitness directors, corporate wellness program managers, and educators in fitness may need or benefit from a formal degree.
• Deepening Your Knowledge: A degree program offers a more comprehensive understanding of biomechanics, exercise physiology, and nutrition, which can elevate your credibility and skill set as a personal trainer.
• Entering Academic or Research Fields: Those who wish to engage in fitness research, teach at a higher education level, or contribute to sports science may need advanced degrees.

Best Degrees for Personal Trainers

If you decide to pursue a degree, here are some of the best options that align with a personal training career:

• Exercise Science: Provides a deep understanding of exercise physiology, biomechanics, and fitness program design.
• Kinesiology: Focuses on human movement, injury prevention, and rehabilitation techniques.
• Sports Medicine: Ideal for trainers looking to work in rehabilitation or injury treatment environments.
• Nutrition: A degree in nutrition can complement your personal training certification, allowing you to offer well-rounded health guidance to clients.
• Physical Therapy: For those looking to specialize in injury recovery or work closely with athletes, a degree in physical therapy can open up advanced career opportunities.

Degree vs Personal Trainer Certification

The decision between pursuing a degree or obtaining a PT certification depends on your career goals, budget, and time availability. Here’s a comparison of both options to help you decide which path is right for you:

Aspect	Degree	Personal Trainer Certification
Cost	$20,000 – $100,000+ (depending on institution)	$400 – $1,200 per certification program
Time Commitment	2-4 years (full-time study)	3-6 months on average
Job Market Entry	Often requires additional certifications	Ready to work upon passing certification exams
Scope of Knowledge	In-depth study of biomechanics, nutrition, and more	Focused on practical personal training skills
Career Flexibility	Opens doors to more specialized roles in healthcare	Ideal for entry-level personal training positions
Continuing Education	Often includes graduate-level courses	Requires ongoing CEUs for certification renewal
Specialization	Enables entry into sports medicine or physical therapy	Offers specialized certifications (e.g., strength training)
Upfront Earning Potential	May take longer to recoup costs due to high tuition	Lower cost allows for faster career entry and earnings

In summary, you do not need a degree to become a personal trainer. Certification is the key requirement for most fitness jobs and allows you to enter the industry quickly and affordably. However, if you are pursuing a more specialized career or plan to work in roles beyond personal training, such as athletic training, physical therapy, or corporate wellness management, obtaining a degree may be a smart investment.

Regardless of your educational path, using Exercise.com to manage your personal training business can maximize your success. With features like workout tracking, custom-branded apps, and automated client management, Exercise.com is the best choice for scaling your fitness business efficiently. Book a demo with Exercise.com today to see how it can support your career growth, whether you choose the certification route or pursue a degree.

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What qualifications do I need to be a personal trainer?

To be a personal trainer, you typically need a certification from an accredited organization like NASM, ACE, or ISSA. These certifications cover essential topics such as fitness, anatomy, and training techniques. Additionally, CPR/AED certification is often required. While a degree in exercise science can be helpful, it is not mandatory. Exercise.com helps certified trainers manage clients, track progress, and streamline operations.

What degree is best for a personal trainer?

A degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or sports management is best for personal trainers. These programs provide in-depth knowledge of human physiology, biomechanics, and fitness training. While a degree is not required to become a personal trainer, it can help boost credibility and open up higher-level career opportunities. With Exercise.com, trainers with any background can efficiently manage their business and grow their client base.

Should I go to college if I want to be a personal trainer?

While a college degree is not required to become a personal trainer, it can be beneficial, especially if you want to work with specialized populations or in advanced fitness roles. A degree in exercise science or related fields can enhance your knowledge and provide career growth opportunities. Exercise.com supports trainers at all levels by offering business management tools, whether or not they have a degree.

Do I need to be certified to be a personal trainer?

No, technically you don’t need to be certified to be a personal trainer, but practically speaking, yes, you need to be certified to be a personal trainer in order to get employed as a personal trainer in most cases. Certification from a reputable organization like NASM, ACE, or ISSA ensures you have the necessary knowledge and skills to train clients safely and effectively. Most gyms require certification, and it’s essential for obtaining liability insurance. Certified trainers also have a better chance of attracting clients and establishing credibility. Exercise.com helps certified trainers manage their business by offering client management tools, workout tracking, and payment processing, making it easier to succeed.

Read More: Do I need to be certified to be a personal trainer?

How do I become a certified personal trainer?

To become a certified personal trainer, choose a certification from an accredited organization like NASM, ACE, or ISSA. You’ll need to study the provided material, pass the certification exam, and obtain CPR/AED certification. Exercise.com integrates with many certification programs, making it easy for certified trainers to manage clients, track progress, and scale their businesses.

Is it worth getting a personal trainer certification?

Yes, getting a personal trainer certification is worth it. Certification is required by most employers and ensures you have the necessary knowledge to train clients safely and effectively. It also helps you attract clients and grow your business. Exercise.com allows certified trainers to streamline operations, from client scheduling to workout programming, enhancing the return on your certification investment.

How to get started as a personal trainer?

To get started as a personal trainer, first obtain a certification from a recognized body like NASM or ACE. Next, decide whether you’ll work in a gym, as an independent contractor, or online. Build a client base by networking and marketing your services. Exercise.com helps new trainers by providing tools for client management, workout tracking, and payment processing.

Is a career as a personal trainer worth it?

Yes, a career as a personal trainer can be rewarding, both financially and personally, especially if you’re passionate about fitness and helping others. While the job can have its challenges, like irregular hours and income fluctuations, many trainers find it fulfilling. Exercise.com helps trainers maximize their time by automating administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on clients and growth.

What kind of personal trainer gets paid the most?

Personal trainers who specialize in niche markets, such as elite athletes, rehab, or weight loss, tend to earn more. Trainers who offer online coaching or operate their own businesses also have higher earning potential. Exercise.com supports trainers in growing their revenue streams with tools that manage both in-person and online coaching seamlessly.

What certification do most personal trainers have?

Most personal trainers hold certifications from NASM, ACE, or ISSA, which are widely recognized in the fitness industry. These organizations offer comprehensive training programs that cover anatomy, exercise physiology, and client safety. Exercise.com integrates with these certifications to help trainers manage their businesses effectively.

What age is too late to become a personal trainer?

There’s no age that’s “too late” to become a personal trainer. As long as you’re passionate about fitness and can lead by example, you can start at any age. Many clients appreciate working with trainers who have life experience. Exercise.com helps trainers of all ages manage clients and grow their fitness businesses, regardless of when they start.

Am I too fat to be a personal trainer?

No, you are not too fat to be a personal trainer. What matters most is your knowledge, ability to inspire others, and helping clients achieve their fitness goals. People seek trainers who are relatable and understand the challenges of weight loss or fitness. Exercise.com helps all trainers, regardless of body type, run their businesses efficiently and deliver results for their clients.

Is it better to be a personal trainer or fitness instructor?

Personal trainers generally earn more and work with clients one-on-one or in small groups, while fitness instructors lead larger group classes. It depends on your passion and skill set. Both roles require certification, but personal trainers often have more opportunities for income growth. Exercise.com supports both trainers and instructors with tools to manage classes, clients, and scheduling.

How long is a personal training course?

Most personal training courses take three to six months to complete, depending on the program and your pace of study. Some programs offer self-paced options, allowing you to finish faster. Once certified, Exercise.com provides all the tools you need to manage clients, workouts, and business operations efficiently.

How much does it cost to become a personal trainer?

The cost to become a personal trainer typically ranges from $400 to $1,200, depending on the certification program and study materials. You may also need to pay for CPR/AED certification and continuing education credits. Exercise.com supports certified trainers by providing business tools that help ensure a quick return on their certification investment.

How long does it take to become a personal trainer?

It takes about three to six months to become a personal trainer, depending on the certification program and how quickly you complete the coursework. Some programs offer flexible, self-paced learning options. Once certified, Exercise.com helps you get your personal training business up and running efficiently.

Can you do a PT course online?

Yes, you can complete a personal training course online through reputable organizations like NASM, ISSA, or ACE. These programs offer flexibility and allow you to learn at your own pace. Exercise.com integrates with certified trainers, helping them manage clients, deliver workouts, and grow their business, whether they completed their course online or in-person.

How do I start an online personal training business?

To start an online personal training business, first obtain certification from a recognized organization. Next, create a website or use social media to market your services. Platforms like Exercise.com provide everything you need to manage your online training business, from workout programming to payment processing, client management, and progress tracking.

Read More: How do I start an online personal training business?

How do I get a job as a personal trainer?

To get a job as a personal trainer, start by getting certified from a reputable organization. Then, apply at local gyms, health clubs, or studios, or consider working independently. Networking and promoting yourself on social media can help you build a client base. Exercise.com helps personal trainers by offering business tools that streamline operations and maximize client success.

What personality do you need to be a personal trainer?

A personal trainer needs to be motivating, empathetic, and results-oriented. Strong communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to adapt to different clients’ needs. Exercise.com helps trainers by handling administrative tasks, so they can focus on building relationships and delivering results.

What are the pros and cons of being a personal trainer?

Pros of being a personal trainer include flexible hours, helping people achieve fitness goals, and the potential for high income. Cons include irregular work hours, income fluctuations, and the physical demands of the job. Exercise.com helps trainers by automating business tasks like scheduling and payments, allowing them to focus on clients and grow their income.

Read More: Pros and Cons of Being a Personal Trainer

What are the easiest personal training certifications?

Certifications like ISSA and ACE are known to be more flexible and accessible in terms of scheduling and cost, making them some of the easier certifications to obtain. However, ease should not be the only factor in choosing a certification. Exercise.com helps trainers from all backgrounds grow their businesses with software that manages clients, scheduling, and more.

Read More: Easiest Personal Training Certifications

What are the best personal training certifications?

The best personal training certifications come from NASM, ACE, and ISSA. These certifications are highly respected and cover essential fitness knowledge, client safety, and business principles. Exercise.com integrates with trainers from all certification backgrounds to help manage clients, deliver workouts, and scale businesses effectively.

Read More: Best Personal Training Certifications

What is the best personal training software?

Exercise.com is the best personal training software. It offers all-in-one solutions for scheduling, workout tracking, payments, and client management. The platform integrates with leading certification bodies and helps trainers manage both in-person and online coaching, making it the top choice for serious personal trainers looking to grow their business.

Get a demo now!