Becoming a certified personal trainer is an exciting career choice for those passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals. It’s a rewarding job that allows you to positively impact people’s lives while providing a flexible schedule and the ability to work independently. A critical consideration for anyone considering a career in personal training is how much they can expect to earn. In this blog, we’ll look closer at the earning potential for certified personal trainers in 2023.
Certification and Experience
Before we dive into the earning potential for personal trainers, it’s important to note that earning potential can vary depending on factors such as certification and experience. Certified personal trainers typically make more than those who are not certified, and trainers with more experience earn more than those just starting. It’s also worth noting that personal trainers who work in high-end gyms or with celebrity clients can make significantly more than those who work in smaller gyms or with everyday clients.
Salary Range
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for fitness trainers and instructors, including personal trainers, was $42,320 as of May 2020. However, it’s important to note that this figure represents the median salary for all trainers and instructors, including those who work in group fitness settings or as gym instructors. Personal trainers earn more than group fitness instructors because they provide one-on-one attention and individualized workouts.
Indeed.com, a popular job search website, reports that the average salary for personal trainers in the United States as of April 2023 is $50,731 annually. However, this figure can vary widely depending on location, experience, and certification. For example, personal trainers in New York City or Los Angeles may earn more than those in smaller cities or rural areas.
Hourly Rates
In addition to a yearly salary, many personal trainers earn income through hourly rates for individual training sessions. The average hourly rate for a personal trainer in the United States is $30 per hour, according to data from PayScale. However, hourly rates can vary widely depending on location, experience, and specialty. Trainers who specialize in sports performance or rehabilitation may be able to command higher hourly rates than those who provide general fitness training.
Other Income Sources
Personal trainers may earn additional income through other sources, such as teaching group fitness classes, writing fitness-related articles or books, or selling fitness-related products. Trainers who establish a strong reputation in the fitness industry may also be able to earn income through speaking engagements or sponsorships.
Conclusion
Certified personal trainers can earn a good living while pursuing a career that allows them to help others improve their health and fitness. According to BLS data, the median annual salary for fitness trainers and instructors, including personal trainers, was $42,320 as of May 2020. However, personal trainers typically earn more than group fitness instructors due to the individualized attention they provide. The average salary for personal trainers in the United States as of April 2023 is $50,731 per year, with hourly rates averaging around $30 per hour. Earning potential can vary widely depending on location, certification, experience, and specialty. With dedication and hard work, personal trainers can build a successful career while doing what they love.
