No longer just for body builders, fitness professionals more and more are being looked to for guidance on how to live a fuller, healthier, and non-sedentary life. Personal trainers, coaches, and fitness instructors might have different duties, but they're unified in teaching the average Joe how to maximize the body's potential, prevent injury, and combat illness.
Though many fitness jobs do not require certification, having ... certain credentials can mean better job options and better pay. Many health clubs and gyms prefer their employees to have an educational background in exercise or sports science. Like any educator, individuals who want to be physical education teachers must get certified
Usually, associate's and bachelor's degree programs in Fitness, Exercise or Sports Science focus on kinesiology, which is the study of human movement, along with anatomy, physiology, first aid, and nutrition. Depending on the specialization, coursework can include recreational leadership, fitness and health management, fitness for the disabled, or sports training. Those who study at the master's level may be more involved in researching the effects of physical movement on the body or in whole populations.