PT cert graduates feel unready to train real clients

“I'm an actor and I'm studying to be a PT and I wanted to know what's personal training like at the beginning of your careers and what pitfalls to avoid. I do love exercising and anatomy has become fascinating. I just want to know what I'm in for. submitted by /u/hotchocalatesauce [link] [comments]”

I'm in the process of it!

“Just have a few if anybody would be willing to listen. Would rather the experience of someone else who’s actually done it submitted by /u/liljaytj [link] [comments]”

“Been a personal trainer since 2019. Graduated in 2022 with a Health Sciences Degree, was accepted into Physical Therapy and Osteopathic Schools, ended up sticking with personal training but didn’t get enough clientele and went to IT in 2024 full time to pay off bills. However, I still have a strong passion for training and training others and want to go for the CSCS and give Personal Training a go again with better credentials and better knowledge in the athletic area. What are the best preparat”

“Hey y’all. For a little bit of context I’m a 24 year old warehouse worker. My family started doing really well (really really well) and offered to pay for me to go back to college. I took them up on this offer and I’m in my final year of getting my bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. I originally thought I wanted to be a trainer or strength coach, but after working in a S&C facility for few months it became apparent I don’t like the competitive sports environment or babysitting the youth stude”

“Hi all, I'm looking for some potential advice for a noob. I just finished a weight loss journey (from 440lb to 190lb) and in that time frame I have become addicted with fitness in general. I'm looking to get into the industry this next year but tbh am feeling some imposter syndrome as I'm still new to fitness myself really, as well as me having used a GLP1 for my own weight loss goal (I likely wouldn't of had the willpower to do so without). I watch a bunch of fitness related con”

“lol ok what’s the best way? Safe to say I got myself in a lil pickle I had to dig myself out of thinking I could just shut single off and turn on the quad lol I think pt was on like 0.08? submitted by /u/Skeeler2023 [link] [comments]”

Yay PCT!

“I love fitness and educating others on the subject. I recently quit my old job making sandwiches and decided I wanted to try something new that I’ll enjoy. Long story short, decided to apply to crunch and now I’m a trainer. The first week has just been me going to Crunch and sitting down for 4 hours reading the same script over and over again. They want me to memorize the sales pitch which is 4 pages long. I came in on my third day excited to give a pitch to my manager, and when I started I was”

“This isn’t an annoying game I’m playing, more I want to understand the potential “worst days/clients/pay “ etc that people have experienced to gather a more rounded idea of the industry. All I hear from my trainer friends are 99% positives and I just struggle to believe that. They’re real about getting into the right place and the general difficulties with most new worlds, but not about the nitty gritty. Would love some more rounded - aka honest - perspectives 🫶 submitted by /u/ttra”

“Hello! I was wondering if any trainers know of free/low cost CPDT-KA CEUs? I’ve done the free secret work videos from catch, and a few instinct courses, but trying to not spend too much money. submitted by /u/dogandstuff- [link] [comments]”

“Hello, I’m in the start of my career in tech, this is my first job and I’m struggling a lot mentally. I love movements, climbing, lifting and Yoga, etc. absolutely anything. At the minute, I’m considering getting Level 3 PT qualification from PureGym (I’m based in the uk), what is the next step I can take? What do I do from here? Or is there an alternative qualification you’d recommend? submitted by /u/busybubun [link] [comments]”

“Hello! I am a relatively new Trainer (I like to think of myself as a trainer-in-training) and one of the things I'm doing before attempting to launch my own business for training is poll people who have done this before. I've written a survey, if anyone is willing to complete it, I would be greatful. https://forms.gle/iHFgsrHP5o6xdYW29 submitted by /u/Rambling-SD [link] [comments]”

“I don't care right now about full time online coaching, I'm talking about full time irl training. As a part time trainer right now, how long did it take you guys to go full time and have consistent clients that didn't fall off due to moving to a state, financial issues, etc? submitted by /u/BlackBirdG [link] [comments]”

“I'm new to this field (I previously did white collar work), and I'm working at a commercial gym. My main focus has been with seniors, but I also train just about every type of person. I'm starting to get very frustrated, because my new boss (lots of turnover here) informed me that a few of my clients are complaining about how I train them. One client is an older woman who is significantly overweight and deals with arthritis pain. She has a fear of movement and thinks she is made of g”

“I'm a recently certified PT. To be honest, I originally did the certification just for funsies after spending eight years in the gym and turning fitness into my special interest. Right now, I work full-time. I'm also helping out as a fitness coach for my rugby team, which is going really well, despite the usual challenges and frustrations that come with it. I've never worked for myself and never really thought I would. As I said, getting certified was simply something I did because I”

“Hey everyone, ​I’m starting out in my personal training journey and wanted to get some perspective from trainers who have been in the career for a while. ​If you could go back to Year 1: ​What would you spend more time learning? What certifications or courses have actually been worth the money? ​What would you stop worrying about? ​How long did it take you to become genuinely confident on the gym floor? ​A few specific questions I’m figuring out: ​Skill Priority: What matters most early on asses”

“Like another recent post, I’m someone with a background in tech and data science who wanted to learn more about workout programming and the science behind exercise adaptation in the human body. The downside of being in tech is you’re inclined to record everything you do for the metrics and data, then you’re constantly looking up how to apply what you’re seeing. I had been going to the gym for years since college, and I also worked with personal trainers before as a client. Ten plus years of regu”

“Hey everyone! I’m a new grad, just passed my board exams and I’m on the hunt for my first job. I’ve mainly been in contact with 2 companies that’s I’ve been trying to decide on. First is PT Solutions who offered me a very competitive salary with a nice sign on bonus. They told me I would only have to see a minimum of 12 patients by month 2-3 and then after full ramp up I can be booked up to 3 an hour. I voiced my concerns about this saying I never wanted to work at a “mill” but I was reassured i”

“I am having a hard time choosing a review center. Could you guys please suggest one based on my current situation? • I graduated in 2018. Having an 8-year gap means I don't really have a strong foundation in Anatomy. • I prefer live classes with a structured schedule because I have a hard time planning on my own. I would really appreciate your suggestions. Thank you! submitted by /u/Dreamfyre-00 [link] [comments]”

“I got my NASM cert last month and started working at a big box gym a couple weeks ago. Tomorrow is my first real day training real clients, and I am so nervous! I have my program planned out and I know instinctually I’ll be fine, but I am just so scared I will mess up, stumble on my words, or look dumb and inexperienced. I’m just curious if a lot of you trainers out there felt this way on your first day too? submitted by /u/Significant_Dot7632 [link] [comments]”

“I got my NASM certification about a month ago and was hired at a 24 hour fitness about two weeks ago, and Monday I have my very first clients. Three of them are the free introductory session that comes with a new membership and one of them is a real paid session. I have been shadowing the other trainer, he is very knowledgeable and helpful but he totally has his own very unique style. And with all the information online and endless options of workouts to choose from, I am completely overwhelmed”

If anyone is appearing for the same, please DM! If someone has enrolled for Global Physio Academy, please please DM me! submitted by /u/Much-Potential9375 [link] [comments]

“Hello, Background info, life experiences : I've been strength training for almost 8 years, and I got my certification from NASM almost 2 years ago, my date to renew is soon. I wanted to get it for myself- but also because I knew I may want PT as a side gig or a fallback option, as I currently work as a software engineer as my day job. I've had 2 PTs in my life - this was awhile before I'd go onto getting my cert . While they were both knowledgeable - the sessions were never fulfillin”

“Hi all, I've posted here and there. Just came to say I passed my CSCP Certification today. I've read on this sub many posts about passing, super grateful for those. Just came to return the favor for all the insight. Anyone who studies and applies themselves can pass! I used the following to study: - CSCP Learning System Course - Pocket Prep - CSCP Learning YouTube Channel found here: ( https://youtube.com/@cscplearning1044?si=74t7i75t-1zcg1CV ) - Claude and ChatGPT (to create practice qu”

“Hello everyone! New here. Hoping to get advice and insight on a new journey. I am considering getting my CPT with a GLP1 focus (because that’s been my journey and I been successful with it so far) which would eventually lead to Nutrition education. However, I’m not sure where to start. Here was the plan. Edge Fitness is hiring PTs. They require you to get licensed in the first 6 months of hire. They will reimburse you for certifications. My concern is: I work full time. I am not leaving my job b”

“I learned that one later than I should have, too! It's amazing how many assumptions sound completely reasonable until you put them in front of someone who's willing to pay for it. I think a lot of founders avoid those conversations because they're hoping people will validate the idea. It's really insightful (and humbling) when someone tells you why they wouldn't buy it.”

“Just got my certification, still a college student and planning to train part time. What is some advice you all have for a new trainer? submitted by /u/Forsaken_Guide_8072 [link] [comments]”

“Personal training is available submitted by /u/Adventurerofthesea [link] [comments]”

Consistency is key

“Hi all, so I am a CPT with the general NASM certification and a couple other minor certifications as well. I've been working as a trainer for about a year and a half (started commercial and now independent), and I've had a strong desire to do another certifcation that not only improves my overall knowledge & practice but that specifically teaches me more about injury rehabilitation. A decent number of people I encounter who want training are hesitant because of past injuries or they”

When you can train someone

“This is coming from someone who actively works in personal trainer education and development alongside having multiple instances of quick growth and success in various gyms. I would start in a big box gym or your local popular gym as those typically have the most foot traffic. 1. You HAVE to be present in the gym you work at. Especially starting out. - It is not glamourous, but floor hours are your best friend. Make sure you are there in the hours you would want to train. If thats 6-10am; 4-8 pm”

“I will be a personal trainer at my college gym's rec center next year because I passed their in-house certification. However, I was thinking of getting certified by ACSM or NSCA so I could apply to work at gyms for a summer job during college. None of the certification practice exams have been too tricky for me, as I study kinesiology, I've taught my friends/family, and am a regular gym-goer. Sometimes I've noticed I actually get the questions wrong because I think the test itself st”

“I’ve been a PT for 3 years now, I’ve never had a solid idea of where I wanted to go with this job but it’s started to make sense lately. I’ve realised I want to go in to coaching athletes at a competitive level, so need the relevant qualifications behind me. I’ve already coached athletes at a smaller level, but thats not enough to enter the field I want to go in. I’ve enrolled into university this September to study sport & exercise science, and after that I’ll be doing my masters in S&C”

“We all have made this mistake at least once where we didn't act as professional as we would have liked. submitted by /u/BlackBirdG [link] [comments]”

“This is really valuable. Before the physical results became noticeable, what signs helped you believe the training was working — strength gains, progress photos, measurements, consistency, or something else? And what would have helped you set more realistic expectations in the beginning?”

“Just passed my (NASM) certified personal trainer exam on the first try! I purchased the bundle that also includes the corrective exercise specialist course and the nutrition course which would you guys recommend taking next? Also, if you are studying for your exam and you have any questions, please let me know. I’d love to help out some people! submitted by /u/Square_Ad_4195 [link] [comments]”

“Hey Friends! I’m looking for fun things you did to train yourself to stay in proper body mechanics. Got tips on specific workouts, or brain tricks you use? I know after school it can be easy to develop bad habits, and I want to mitigate that if possible. Up for any tips and information! submitted by /u/TranslatorComplex957 [link] [comments]”

“Hey everyone, I just wanted to post this to have a back and forth discussion about the field of PT. First, to explain where I am at. I am wrapping up my first clinical experience and am set to begin my 2nd year in my program. My clinical experience is 10 weeks and I have spent it at an urgent care PT clinic with workers compensation patients. I have really enjoyed it, I have a great relationship with my CI and I have learned a lot. While I have been here I have given the PT career a lot of thoug”

“Hey everyone! I have just been offered a position at a major gym chain here in Aus and it is a rental position. This will be my first job as a PT and I am 90% done on completing my Cert 4 in Fitness It is $300 a week which is roughly 4 clients. The job offer does include a 2 month rent free launch along with leads and training. I am just unsure of leaving my current job and putting my all into this during the 2 month launch, or do I got part time with my current job to ensure I have income whils”

“Been working in tech for years! Want to move to PT. For those who made a big change what was the biggest struggle? What’s your biggest advice? submitted by /u/sweet_sweetrevenge [link] [comments]”

“Hey guys, during a training session I jokingly called one of my clients "lazy" because she often doesn't push herself much during exercises and sometimes doesn't put in much effort. Despite that she always pays on time and consistently attends twice a week. Was calling a client once "lazy" even as a joke unprofessional? Should I be worried? submitted by /u/Low-Reaction6351 [link] [comments]”

“This is going to be interesting topic. There is two side of coin with this. End of the day your average potential are going to hire you for fat loss at the beginning and having some might be good for marketing. You got the other side where those that can afford your service aren't going to do what it takes to even get drastic transformation. I guess its also what your clientele is.If you market yourself as fat loss expert yeah you better have a lot of them. I also don't believe you'r”

“Hi, old man of 55 here 😊 just about to complete my level 3 PT course. I’ve trained for 20 years in gyms so thought it was something I would like to try. I enjoy reading about fitness, specifically weight lifting, and have built up a decent bit of knowledge over the years. I’ve also just signed up to a level 4 Nutrition course. My worry is I won’t make a living. I have a non- fitness related job but I want a change, I’m just terrified of giving that up and not being able to make a living as a PT”

“Hi guys, So a few years ago I became certified as a PT, but due to availability issues, never did get the chance to actually persue a career in the field. Recently, I've become recertified, and am ready to make my first attempt. Here's the thing. I have a zoom interview tomorrow morning with a very reputable gym, known for pretty heavy lifting, in fact.. I strength train, personally, and I look the part, but I'm also a woman of relatively small stature and frankly, I'm wondering”

Gamifying fitness definitely has an up and coming vibe - this looks great!

“I'm just getting my feet wet in the personal training world and would love to hear about other people's experiences. I have a bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, and my own journey with fitness hasn't been straightforward. I've struggled with my weight, disordered eating, and body dysmorphia, so my relationship with exercise has definitely changed over the years. Over the past two years, I've truly fallen in love with strength training and being active. My emplo”

“I’m 28 and work as both a personal trainer and a nutritionist in Brazil. Lately I’ve been questioning my career path. My income depends almost entirely on selling my time, and there’s only so many hours I can work. On top of that, I don’t see much room to significantly increase my hourly rate in the city where I live. It makes me feel like I’ll eventually hit a ceiling unless I build or sell something that can scale beyond my own working hours. For those of you who’ve been in a similar situation”

“I mean all we got is our own anecdotal experiences to give advice by really. The math is obvious, if it was a logical/math question you sprint. Life is rarely that simple though and you’ve got to balance wealth with happiness. Over about 10 million or so another few million doesn’t change things until you get to a phenomenal number. I don’t know what that phenomenal number is however because I never reached it. I can tell you I hit a point where I was 2 million over “my number” and realized: dam”

“Does anyone here have experience training at Crunch? What was it like? Would you recommend for a newer trainer? Thank you! 🙏 submitted by /u/Many_Term2062 [link] [comments]”

“Hello everyone, I recently just passed my NASM CPT exam and just had my first interview today at an entry level gym. While this is super exciting, the fitness manager was a middle aged man and definitely gave me mixed signals. I currently do not have any experience training clients, but did let him know I did study kinesiology for about 2 years, in which we did hands on structured programming and role played in multiple classes. I also have trained a couple friends within these last couple month”

“I want to apologize, I am not a personal trainer but I am starting to head in that direction. I also know it's a career that chews up and spits out a lot of people, so am thinking a pragmatic way to explore this is to continue following my interest (/obsession) and plod away at quality learning material and experiment with my own training to gain practical learning before jumping off the ship of my current mid life career (with associated kids / family life, etc etc etc). Current interest is”

“Hello, I'm a physical therapist assistant looking into going into personal training. I'd love to be able to work with similar populations as I do at work now (neurological disorders, geriatrics, post-surgical, etc) rather than just standard personal training or athletic training. But my question is, is it worth it to get an MES cert? Or are there avenues from a standard CPT into working with more medical/post-rehab populations that would make more sense? And if becoming an MES is worth i”

“Gross anatomy lab wasn’t just memorizing. It changed how I see and cue the body. Anyone else? submitted by /u/Pokkiesmith [link] [comments]”

“graduated a year ago. i am currently working as a pt in a small gym but it’s a really weird way of working that we have here since all the clients are from all the workers (qe are 3) so basically it’s not really MY client because the workouts keep switching sine i don’t always have them. Anyways, i am probably gonna start in a new place next week and im gonna be earning more but also it’s gonna be way different and I’m scared to not be enough. Help me. submitted by /u/notanyonehere66”

“A little background about me, currently I am preparing for CAT but I have immense passion for fitness, I have been training consistently for the last three years and I have made significant progress from being a skinny dude to someone who has a strong physique,Beyond just the physical growth, the journey has helped me become a much more confident and social person. Because of this, I've always wanted to pursue something fitness-related, like becoming a personal trainer. I'm feeling reall”

“I am already NASM certified as a PT and am wondering if getting a GFIC would be worth it on top of it. I am pretty fresh so I’ll be working for commercial fitness gyms for at least a while. Anyone had both and it was useful? Anyone regretted it? submitted by /u/Obviously-an-Expert [link] [comments]”