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What has the re-opening of gyms at different rates across the United States looked like? How have (or haven’t) gyms adapted to consumers, and how have instructors approached the re-hiring process? It’s no secret that many fitness instructors increased revenue during the pandemic by starting their entrepreneurial ventures. Vincent Metzo, MA, CSCS, shares his outlook on the last few years and how the fitness industry has changed post-pandemic. Vincent is the Senior Director for Fitness Education of Town Sports International and oversees the training of newly onboarded and existing instructors.
A significant topic we discuss is the dilemma gyms face as they recruit instructors and how the pandemic has changed this process. Vincent also discusses his outlook on fitness education and his advice for instructors wanting to get hired as entry-level trainers.
Topics Discussed in This Episode
- How gyms have approached hiring instructors.
- The evolution of fitness education.
- Advice for fitness instructors looking to get hired.
Five Tips to Get Hired at a Gym
Getting hired as a personal trainer at a gym can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out. Here are some key tips for new trainers:
1. Get Certified: Check the gym’s hiring requirements and see what certifications they will accept for new personal trainers. This step can save you hundreds of dollars on your initial investment in becoming a personal trainer. Remember, your certification is your ticket to the fitness industry.
2. Build a Strong Resume: Highlight your certifications, relevant experience (if applicable), and any specialties, such as strength training, nutrition, or group fitness. Tailor your resume to emphasize skills that align with the gym’s focus and clientele.
3. Develop a Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Identify what differentiates you from other trainers. This could be a specific training style, personal fitness journey, or niche expertise.
4. Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions, showcasing your passion for fitness and commitment to helping clients achieve their goals.
5. Maintain a Professional Online Presence: Use social media to share your fitness journey, tips, and client success stories, positioning yourself as an authority in health and fitness. Gym will check your social media, which can be a valuable proposition when looking for a pay raise!
By following these tips, you can enhance your chances of securing a position at a gym and launching a successful career in personal training.
Book mentioned by Vince – CLICK HERE.
Article mentioned by Vince – CLICK HERE.
Careers at NYSC – CLICK HERE.
View Online Education – CLICK HERE.
Additional Reads
About the Author
Vincent Metzo, MA, LMT, is the Vice President of Programming for KIPS. Previously, he served as Vice President of Academic Affairs at Lionel University, Dean of Personal Training at the Swedish Institute, and Director of Education for Kettlebell Concepts in New York City. His background in dance, theatre, and acrobatics inspired his career in exercise science and education. Vincent’s passion for kettlebells stemmed from his early training and studies at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, where he explored acrobatics and tumbling. This experience motivated him to return to NYU to pursue a Master’s Degree in Exercise Physiology and Fitness Management.
About the Host
Tyler Valencia, Ph.D.(c), is the President of KIPS. While working for the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA), an online fitness education company, he started his first business, Time 2 Train Fitness, which specialized in boot camp and personal training. Time 2 Train Fitness went on to receive the distinction of 3X Best Bootcamp and 2X Best Personal Trainer with the Long Beach Press-Telegram. Before founding KIPS, Tyler was the Vice President of the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT) and Smart Fitness.