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Am I too old to be a Personal Trainer?

Will age as personal trainer be a problem? I am 57 and would like to start my own business as a personal trainer but worry it would not be worth the time or money. What are your thoughts on this issue?

Marilyn

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The vast majority of certified personal trainers I've seen in gyms are in their 20's or early 30's. Are older people unable to find employment in this field? I am in my early 60's.

Aubrey

Comments for Am I too old to be a Personal Trainer?

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Turn your age into an asset
by: Katie - Admin

Your age is an asset if you use it right. Many older people feel more comfortable training with somebody their own age because the trainer really understands the changes our bodies go through as we age. Mature age trainers are rare, but very popular. In many cases, if an older client makes an inquiry, the gym owner knows that the older trainer will be the better fit. You end up having a whole niche market to yourself.

For more info, check this page particularly...

Niche Opportunities

Personal training is such an easy career transition. It doesn't cost much and you can be up and running in a few short months.

Good Luck...and go for it!

Katie

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Older people get intimidated at the gym
by: Aubrey

Hi Katie,

I really appreciate your prompt response to my inquiry and the helpful information you provided. During my workouts at my gym, 6-7 days a week, I noticed that, on many occasions, an older person who is 50+ years old who was new to the gym would be seen using the facilities for only a few days.

I can't help but think that these individuals were intimidated and felt out of place when looking at all the much younger and pumped up young people.I have maintained a fairly high level of physical fitness over the years and received a black belt in the martial arts at the age of 56, in 2001. Personal Trainer Certification would help me to see that these individuals achieve their goals.

Thanks again

Aubrey

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I'm going for it!
by: Sue

After 30+ years with Andersen Windows I am starting school to be a Personal Trainer. I start in October and I am really excited.

I will complete in Oct 2008 and which gives
me 1 year before I retire to get a business going. Now an empty nester, I plan on converting my basement into a gym. My target market is women
like me - overweight, menopause, and don't want to go to a gym. I have 2 years to get in shape. I will have to go through the Lease vs. Buy
decision for equipment. It would be nice to have the newest technology. I already have 6 clients.... This will be a wonderful thing in my life. Taking care of myself, and getting the fellowship I need after retirement.

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NEVER TO OLD TO TRAIN
by: REALFITNESSONLINE

You are never too old to train. New studies show that people can be well into there 60's when they start to train. The benefits are amazing!! And of course older people are going to want older personal trainers that understand the aches and pains of aging.

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Be Their Inspiration
by: Anonymous

If you are fit and exercise regularly, and can show people that you can be in great shape as a mature age person, you will inspire them. Show them what you would do to them and that you aren't too old to stay in great shape. You may even be an inspiration to those who aren't sure if they can do it.

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Never Too Old
by: Gary Tanaka

As long as you believe you can do it, you can!! Don't put limitations on yourself. Just go for it, and if it's not for you, then at least you'll know that you tried. The worst feeling in the world is regret. Did you hear about the 59 yr old guy who made his COLLEGE football team??!?!?! (Mike Flynt - it was all over the news recently). You're never too old!! Good Luck!!

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Never say Never
by: DD

Time is a man made concept and so is age - you really are only as old as you think your are. So think yourself and your clients young again by honoring the divine, ageless, limitless soul within.

Namaste,

DD

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Too old for What?
by: Anonymous

I am 56 and just completed my ACE certification. After spending 20+ years in the corporate world, I decided to pursue a second career. I am of the belief that the aging population provides a huge market and these clients are more apt to seek out mature and older trainers that they are able to relate to.

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Never too old!
by: Helen Lawson

I'm 38 years old and have been a personal trainer for just about a year now. My advice...

Emphasize your strengths: If you are very flexible then take Yoga & Pilates certification classes. If you are a good dancer then take some dance certifications (Zumba, Hip Hop, etc...). Even though these certifications are targeted towards group fitness you can use the things you learn to help your clients (your age) with calorie burning, stamina, balance, etc... My point: it doesn't have to be about just pumping iron! Mix it up!

Start off slowly by taking just a few clients a week. Gradually increase your schedule as your body allows. Make sure you have time for your own exercise program. Don't over do it! Your body will let you know when its reached its limits.

Helen Lawson
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
& Group Fitness Instructor
Home Fitness Trainers
Covering NY's capital region
HLawson@CapitalRegionFitnessTrainers.com

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Never too old to be a personal trainer
by: Dee, Mission Viejo CA

I turned 43 this year. I decided at age 40, after giving birth at 38, to become a fitness Instructor. I have gotten more business as a fitness Instructor than I could have imagined. However, one can only teach so many group classes.

I am currently studying to become a Personal Trainer as we speak. In fact, it is why I found this site. One of the reasons I am becoming a Personal Trainer is that I have been approach by many members at the gyms where I teach. They have asked me to be their trainer. However, I don't want to start until I am certified officially.

One of the biggest comments I heard is that many are not interested in choosing the cocky/militant young guy/girl working with them. Not everyone turns to a personal trainer to look like an athlete. For some, it is medically necessary.

With age comes wisdom. I believe if you are in great shape and know your stuff, you will surpass the young crowd and will gain more respect. Think who the clientele is? Most twenty year olds won't want or even need a trainer yet. Most are in their 40's or older needing a trainer with the expectation of maybe triathletes.

I teach aqua aerobics. Most of my participants are older. They have had issues of weight, surgeries, stressful careers, childbearing etc. I can related to all of those things because I have been through them myself. Clients appreciate that you have gone through some of the same things. A young 20 or 30 year old may not relate. You have a better chance of retaining your clients.

So don't give up. I'm not. I waited to become a Mom at 40. I don't want to go back to a corporate job.

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TOO OLD?????
by: Anonymous

I love telling students,(it's been my moto): When YOU get to be MY age I want YOU to be able to do what I can do.

I was pronounced with diabetes twice. One time I was running a lumber yard sitting in an office all day, the other time I was studying all day at college. I beat it both times: Get up and move.

I work hard, I play hard and I love hard. I take all my training to the extreme. When my friends and my doctor tell me I'm too old, I correct my friends and find a new doctor.

My new wife (Younger)and I, take 4 and 500 mile trips on a motor cycle, camping along the way.

I'm Sixty one and in the best shape of my life, Oh, I still have two semisters to go to finish my major in Physical Education.

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You have an advantage...
by: Klee

Hi,

I am an independent trainer working out of a private studio. We have a trainer in his 60's - He's always busy!

Most of my clients are over 50. I'm 34. I think that I'm at about the youngest age that works with their age. Otherwise, its difficult to relate- a 23 year old doesn't know much about trying to recover from exercise at 50. Conversation is also more natural for 'peers', a big part of keeping clients.

Older trainers who are in decent physical shape can actually have an advantage. Don't get psyched-out about who is "supposed" to be a trainer. Get out there!

www.scottsdale-fitness-training.com

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No way!
by: Dymphna

My personal trainer is 59 & inspired me to get my qualification as a PT. Age should not be a barrier...maybe do mobile or outdoor pt...not everyone wants to work out at a gym! Good luck!

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This is inspirational
by: Paul

Hi there,

I'm in the UK and have been wondering about this question for ages - I'm 47 and trying to embark on my new career as a PT but I'm stilghtly apprehensive to approach gymnasia as I feel I'm a bit old. I'm very aerobically fit (marathon time 3 hours 15 mins) and very compentant on weights.
Now I think I'll give it a go - please dont forget apathy still looms large in the UK - we're not as forward thinking as you lot across the pond !!

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Thank you for your positiveness!
by: Anonymous

It is so nice to read these very positive comments. You all are very inspiring. I’m 42 years old, and I absolutely love Zumba. I began considering to be a certified Zumba instructor, but a small part of me is telling me I might be too old. I have never taken any dance classes in my life, but I do feel that at age 42, I found my niche. All of your positive comments definitely helped me not to give up on my dream. Thanks guys!

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looking for a mature trainer
by: Glory

I am looking for a mature trainer who started their fitness success for themselves late in life. I want to know it is possible to transform ones body after 50.

Glory

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Thanks for the inspiration & encouragement
by: Wanderlust

I just wanted to thank you all for your postings. They've helped me make a very important decision in my life. I'm a 41 year old female and lead a very active, fit life. I've been thinking about starting to train to become a Pilates Instructor and Personal Trainer but have been worried about my age. Your postings have solved the problem for me! Thanks particularly to the person that said "our souls are ageless". It's so true that we have to take the plunge and have the courage to follow our dreams. Life is far too short and we can spend the majority of it wishing and wondering but never doing because we impose so many limitations on ourselves. If it's something we truly want, we can do it. I am currently training for the La Rochelle Marathon in November and the London Marathon next April. If I can do that I KNOW I can do anything!

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Great Pep Talk
by: Holly

I have been pondering about whether I was too old to become a cpt for the first time. I am 45 and have been in sales/project management for many years. I really enjoy working out, but was always too busy or tired to be consistent with my fitness program. Finally I realized that this would be a great career choice since this is always what I think about. I would not only have the time to get in better shape, but mostly the chance to motivate and haelp others too.
Thank you for all these very positive and motivating posts for these have eased my worries of the "Am I too old" question? I will be looking into classes today!

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Thank you so much for the inspiration
by: Bernadette Lewis

I am 42 in July and an Assistant Manager in a Bank and have also previously worked in Education for many years as a Business Tutor. I have become very disillusioned with where my life is going The one area I have always seem to excel in and feel at peak happiness is fitness and exercise. After being very ill last year and almost dying I decided that life is just too short to continue in an area of work that I absolutely loathe. I dream of becoming a fitness instructor in Body Balance, Fitness Pilates, Fitness Yoga and Aqua Aerobics but have been doubting myself because of my age and also the fact that I am very overweight and comparing myself to the fitness instructors feel that I could never match up. I know I have a very long way to go if I am to achieve this dream and am inspired that I can do it now that I have read the comments on this site. So many people are amazed at how flexible I am and make comment that I should become an instructor especially in Body Balance but I don't usually tell them that that is what I want to do. I wish Brits in general were as positive as Americans and inspire each other, it would help people to do so much more with their lives. Thank you.

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Trainers with Ailments
by: Anonymous

I am wondering if there are any personal, fitness, aerobic, yoga etc., instructors around my age(40+)that became certified despite certain health conditions (Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia etc.,)
If so I am wondering how you prevent,manage, recover from the flares that can sometimes occur with these ailments.

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THANKYOU ALL
by: Anonymous

I have always regreted not becoming a fitness instructor, its what I always wanted to be but after raising my 3 children I've found myself 33 an ambitionless because I didn't follow my dream, reading these posts has lifted my spirits beyond words, its not to late and I'm going for it thanks to you all, good luck everybody!

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Age & Fitness
by: Gabriella

I am now 60 years old. I began working out at age 50 and attained the best body of my life. So good, in fact, that I had professional lingerie pictures taken for my boyfriend. But,I allowed my self to regress, as i had a desk job for 8 years and did not keep up my exercise regimen. I am now getting back into it again and will never ever let myself deteriorate - because that is what will happen - it's called entrophy. I am going to go to my local technical college and take classes to be certified in the field of Fitness Instructor/Personal Trainer. If there ever was a fountain of youth, it is EXERCISE.

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Older Trainer Success
by: Anonymous

I have trained people full-time for 13 years, have several accredations in pertinent areas (Nutrition, Advanced PT, Special Populations Trainer, Martial Arts,etc.)All the above enable me to take about any client and start at "Point A" snd work with them till they get to their own "Point B", some continue past that, but I agree with "Boomer" age folks like to work with a fit example of another Boomer because it serves as an example that it's not past their reach. Most importan, this is what I use consistently to land clients: "There's just no way a 28 year-old Trainer knows what a 55 year-old's body will feel like the day after they get "worked" by the Trainer."

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Go for it
by: SlimThin bootcamp

Hi
I think you should go for it.
Like the other comments say you can advertise yourself to people who don't want the young uninterested trainers but want someone who can have a coversation and can train them. You will also be alot more understanding about the difficulties faced by older people.
I hope you do it and its successful.

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Community College vs. College
by: Maria

Does it matter if you get your certificate from a community/technical college or a regular university? And if I can only afford a community college, can I do things on my own that can strengthen my degree?

Thank you in advance for your reply, Maria

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Please tell me more!!
by: Antony

I just atarted my Level 2 Gym instructors course, at 54?! Its great to read these comments!! I plan to carry on and just do it! Smile!!

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too choose or not to choose
by: vanessa

I'm 30 years old and working as the assisstant to secretary general in a well-known organization. but it is years that I think this is not what i like to do for the rest of my life. I'm pregnant (week 12) and i will have maternity leave in 6 monthes. this has made me to think of career change. I read some articles on natural talent and know I think maby it would be a good idea to become a fitness instructor. but it is 11 years that I have not exercise regularly (i was a professional volley ball player before). do you think I should risk mjy current job and start a major which i do not have experience? am not old for starting a professional career? (I want to make money out of this and support my future). help me... so confused..

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Thanks!
by: lyn

I have today, on impulse, decided that i want to become a fitness instructor at the age of 50.I have never exercised regularly and i am unsure what made me consider this.I thought maybe i was being 'silly'but after reading everyones comments it has brought me to tears by realising that there is so much positivity and encouragement for each other, not to mention a niche in the market for 'mature' trainers. Thank you and good luck to all!

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Never Give up
by: Manoj Acharya

The comments from all of you are inspiring.Me too had a question mark on the age point for becoming a professional fitness instructor.I am 42 and have been a banker for more than 15 yrs.Have quit the rat race to live my new life to the fullest, on my own terms and conditions.Have finally decided to persue it and prove the world .

Thank u all

Cheers................

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Looking To Talk To 50+ Personal Trainer
by: Steve

I am 55 and thinking about getting my certification and would like to talk to any personal trainers who started after they turned 50.

Thanks,

Steve Curran
steve@thewalk.org

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Can't wait to get certified!
by: Lorraine

First, good luck to everyone who has decided to move forward with their career choice! Second, you've all reminded me why I want to become a CPT at the age of 42. I've ALWAYS been interested in physical training, among other things, but was always influenced by others to "play it safe", i.e., get an office job. Well, I recently trained with one of the BEST people I have ever met, and though much younger, he's honestly the first person to EVER tell me that this was something that I "NEED" to do. I wil begin studies soon and can't wait to take on clients! I hope I can be as inspirational to others as my Trainer has been to me.

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Thank you all for the incredible encouragement
by: Vincent

I started (serioulsy...) working out two years and now in the best shape I've ever been at 55. I've discovered my love of the fitness world and have recently been thinking of a career change into personal training and out of corporate project management...But, as you all have commented, I've been spooked about this decision because of my age.

You have all boosted my confidence and confirmed my thoughts that and older FIT person can really set an example and help to relate to older clients.

Thanks to all of you. Enjoy your Health and Fitness

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Thank you!
by: Anonymous

I was a certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer in my thirties. I loved every aspect of what I did. Due to major changes in my life, I stepped away from teaching and training. I am now 53 and have decided to get recertified. Thank you all for your posts. I wasn't sure if I was making the right decision, but now I am confident I am.....

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A Super Car (just like your body)is always a Super Car if you maintain it.
by: Paul Pavlou

I'm 59 and it only dawned on me about 10 years ago that when we're about 20 years old we were given a 20 year old Super Car in almost perfect condition. What we didn't realise about this gift was that it was the only vehicle we'd have to travel this planet in for the rest of our lives. Yet we treat our bodies worse than our cars; that we can readily repair or replace.
Just like many of you, I too entertain the thought of becoming a Personal Trainer to the Boomers (it could possibly be the only thing I want to become when I grow up).
Almost anyone in their 20's can build muscle, run a marathon (become a personal trainer if they want)and generally look fabulous. However once in your 30's and beyond if you don't maintain the vehicle, it turns to rusty heap of crap (pardon the french).
The older the vehicle the more maitainence it needs. Sometimes you have to go harder to stay in the same place.
I ask myself "Do I want to spend months with a class of 20 year olds (who learn more easily), studying a course that probably won't focus on those in their 50's and beyond....Convince me that I should."

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I am inspired!
by: MJ

Hello Everyone! After reading all your comments, I saw myself so touched and in tears... You like other have inspired me, I truly believe that you think how you want your life too be! If workout out and teaching others to be healthy and fit makes you happy, well that is what you all (no matter the age) should do. Life is met to be beautiful and happy, you are born here to be ALL successful and happy! I from Ontario, Canada and I am 30, with 3 children, with no career yet, I am presently in a PSW course, but not sure if that is truly for me... I have a true for fitness and good nutrition... I have yesterday decided, that I want to become a fitness instructor for the older generation, like teacher yoga, and showing a healthy holistic diet to live longer and stronger!!! Thank you for your positive energy and inspiration! I will work and save money to realize my calling!! It is never too late xox

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Age is a nothing but a number....and a belief
by: Anonymous

I am 48 years old - just got my Zumba (Basic) Certification today. I started Zumba in January 2011. I've lost over 65 pounds thus far and have transformed my body and the transformation continues. I also take Jazzercise & Pilates...started working out with small weights in gym. When I started Zumba in January, I had just one class and couldn't make it through an entire class without going into the hallway to rest for a few minutes because I felt light-headed. I grew into 3-4 classes per week, and was up to 9-10 Zumba classes over this summer, not because I had to but because I LOVED it! So, here we are, less than one week to Thanksgiving, and I just took and passed the Zumba Instructor training with ease! If someone would have told me that at the beginning of this year (or ever)...I would have not believed it. I've come to the conclusion that the only limitations are those that we put on ourselves....there is nothing that we cannot do if we can see it and believe it. The song, "I Believe I can Fly" comes to mind. Let nothing stand in our way of doing what we want to at the time...we do not know what lies ahead...but we do know that a chance not taken, is an opportunity wasted. I am so a mom of a larger family, spent my life going raising the kids, working, going to school. While I still have kids in school, I have more time for ME...who is been on the back-burner for almost 30 years of life. Do it, folks! Let no one tell you that you can't!!! Inspire others! I am inspired by those who have lived a life of working, raising children, taking care of others...and somehow have never let their dreams die. It makes me cry just typing this, because I never thought that I would be doing this - this year, yet here I am....and you can too!!!!

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NO!
by: Carla

With age, comes wisdom and knowledge. I'm a 38 year-old PT, and the advice I take is from the PTs that are older and more experienced than me. I wouldn't trust a trainer in their 20's!

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Never too old
by: Anonymous

I will be studying at Akron U this coming year for preparation for CPT and Sports Nutrition. I'll be 52 in January '12. I had worked out over the years on and off and have always been conscience of nutrition and the health benefits of exercise. I was able to leg press 950 pounds at one time! :) not bad for a casual exerciser.

I had a TIA 6 years ago due directly to neglecting my health. My BP was high, obese and extremely out of shape. My wife will tell you that I originally gained 10 pounds for every child she delivered j/k. That accounts for 40 pounds, the other 60 came from over eating.

Long story short... the last 4-5 years I've worked on myself and achieved some amazing results that I would never have dreamed of. This year 2011 I bicycled almost 5000 miles and I'm now at 180 pounds lost about 100).

With the amount of excitement, energy and determination that has come from my efforts and lifestyle change...my age doesn't worry me one bit!

I'm looking forward to helping others by sharing what has helped me regain my life back.

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Never too old!!!
by: Anonymous

Hello, at the age of 41 I just enrolled at Mueller College here in San Diego to do their Personal Fitness Trainer program. I am taking out a bg student loan but I am so tired of liing my life with regrets. I love working out and lead such a healthy an active lifestyle. I figure I will only be on this earth once and just want to live the second phase of my life with passion.

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Becoming a personal trainer at an older age
by: Anonymous

I am turning 50 this month. I have run 5 NYC marathons and worked in gyms for years. I have a personal trainer who is amazing but i have had a strong desire to train clients myself. My trainer has a saying "Age is just a number". Ive had so many people at the gym approach me to train them I now feel I'm gonna go for it! I take my first certification course this month. Look out here I come!

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the older the better
by: monica

I started my p.t. career in my early 30's. I've been training for 10 years and have worked in all types of settings. Health clubs and some p.t. studios tend to attract younger trainers but many private studios like to hire older more mature fitness pros that older people (60+) can relate to better.

At our studio most of the trainers are independents and are over 40. I'm 42 and probably one of the youngest there. Our market is the 50+ crowd and if you do your research you'll see that this is the best and fastest growing market.

Young people probably gravitate to young trainers but kids are not the ones who have the money. The key to being successful is to have specialty certifications such as corrective exercise, postural correction, menopause, cancer, etc. Training older folks with special needs is more fun and more rewarding plus you can charge a lot more ($70-$80 per hour in a small town) vs. $45-$50 per hour.

You just have to know how and where to market yourself to these people. The best part about it is if they love you they seem to make it their job to get you more business too.

40+ trainers rule right now so take advantage of this trend.

Monica Neave

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go for it!
by: will

i too live in the UK and agree with my fellow brits that we're not as positive and have the 'go for it' attitude that you have in USA, I'm 47 and potentially going to be made redundant in the next few months. love many aspects of my job but not the management but have always been keen on training/coaching people to be the best they can be. If you don't go for it you'll never know. I intend to

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Age is nothing but a number!
by: Anonymous

I am 41 years old and I recently certified as a Zumba instructor. I am soon testing to get certified as a Group Fitness Instructor. I love dancing and if I have a chance to teach others what I do best then why not? At the zumba certification, a 20 something year old girl who barely had any rythum at all said to me "I didn't know this was for "older" people too, good for you!" If I had any doubts about teaching at my age, this comment only made me want to do it even MORE! I know I'm good at teaching dance and the only fears I had were about my age, but reading all of these comments have inspired confidence in me. Thanks ya'll

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Starting NOW!
by: Luann Combs

I just celebrated my 50th Birthday. This is the year I will fulfill a dream of transitioning into my own Personal Trainer business. I plan to niche market to the 40+ population, but not limiting myself either. My background includes 7 years as an Athletic Trainer, and 2 years as a high school Health Teacher. But for the past 10 years I have worked in retail sales and banking. I am counting on my diverse background serving me well as I launch this new career. This article has helped me see what I already thought about being an older personal trainer, so I am going for it!

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Teaching aerobics at age 55
by: Mare

Hi all;)
Your posts have inspired me so much.
I teach aerobics(Cardio Jam) and I'm going to 56 next month.
Age is a state of mind! And I feel young:))
Thank you to everyone for making me feel inspired.

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Age can actually work to your advantage
by: Brian

One of the best aspects of being a personal trainer is the fact that age can actually work to your advantage. Older personal trainers are valued for their wisdom and maturity, gained through years of real life experience in dealing with a variety of people and handling diverse situations that can really set them apart and make them sought after by niche clientele. The possibilities are limitless and age is certainly no barrier. If personal training is truly what you want to do, don’t let anything stop you.

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'Doubts'
by: Anonymous

'These wings were made to fly'. Our doubts are traitors and make us lose the good we often might win by appearing to attempt. Shakespeare.

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Thanks Everyone!
by: Gary

I ran across this site by accident, but so glad I did. I started working out seriously at age 48, out of boredom. I had moved to a new city and didn't know anyone so the local YMCA became my social life after work. I'm now 52 and in the best shape of my life. People who haven't seen me in years are amazed at my transformation.
I just left a Fortune 500 company after a 26 year career and am excited to be starting on my Certification to be a Personal Trainer. I intend to target the 50+ age market. I know if I can do what I have done with my body, others can too. I hope to be an inspiration to others my age. I would like to communicate with others who might have done something similar (career change at this age). Any advise would be welcomed. Thanks everyone for the inspiring posts! garyd6952@gmail.com

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Getting Started
by: Bob

Hi,

I am a 61 year old male interested in becoming a physical trainer. I majored in Physical Education in college but became an IT professional (It's a long story). I'm in shape and I workout between one and two hours every day.

My question is how is the best way to get started and what is the best certification? I don't have much money to invest in education at this time but I do want to start moving forward with becoming a physical trainer.

Thank you,
Bob

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life starts when you decide
by: Anonymous

I couldn't be happier.....I am totally elated reading the comments above .. Its all I needed to read at this point in my life....so unhappy with my job ..recently started considering a weight management dance class and everytime I think about my age .. I am 40 in January... Now I know better with no excuses not to... Thank you and good luck to all

Xoxo
Nubian

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thanks for your encouraging words
by: Pat

My thanks to all of you, for your words of encouragement. I am 57 have been a rehab aide for 21 years laid off in 2012 have always workout and wanted to be a CPT but, thought I too was to old. Now I work at the YMCA as a fitness coach. Still on the fence..... thanks guys, God Bless

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Inspiring comments!
by: Rob

Great comments All. Thanks!! I am 54 and recently laid off ( retired?) from the banking biz. I am enrolling next month to start my personal training cert program. A few years ago I had a full hip replacement, and have since changed my life. First was the diet. Then the workouts. I'm now a 54 year old with a six pack. And what learned in the process was illuminating. I've wondered if anyone else would be interested - and at my age I'm a little nervous, but reading this string really helped! Thanks again All!
Rob

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pt at 57
by: mike

hi to everyone,just read about becoming a pt a 57,well i am a pt a 57 if you were to ask me why the reason is i have liked fitness from school dod lot s of martial arts ,yet why be a pt now the reason is very personal yet i will share to those that have doubt ,not in you skills but in yourself,i was left with 5 children i was 52 one got cancer,lost a grand daughter,children missed there mother and how she could just walk away. so for me a none drinker or smoker, for 1 month poor me ,and thats poor thinking,so now have been a pt for 3 years ,this helps my beautiful children,don't ever look for reasons to back out of anything that helps you get fit ,or a pt at your age ,you can do it you already have done it in your mind a thousands times.good luck.mike.

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pt at 57.
by: mb,pt

hi, to the guy that lost so much and became a pt at 57,my god ,train me.mb.

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84
by: John

I became certified as a personal trainer earlier this year at age 83. A few months later I became certified as a senior fitness specialist. I'm just starting my practice; first client is 74 and a stranger to upper body work. My age is an asset. I'm in excellent shape, and my message is, if I can do it, so can you

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Too old to do what??
by: Saintsil

I am a 57 y old man and last march I got certified as a Spinning Instructor. Since June I have been coaching cycling classes two to three times a week, and my energy and enthusiasm while teaching those classes have been the talk of the moment around of the gym, and my classes are always full. Now I am looking forward to get my group fitness certification.

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CAREER CHANGE
by: Ana

Thank you all for your personal stories, very inspiring!
I am 53. After years of office work and raising a family, I now have time to enjoy myself. Fitness, in particular Zumba, have helped deal with the "Empty Nest" and I am ready to embrace a new career.
I beleive that as a Zumba instructor I will be able to do for others what it has done for me: make me fit, happy and ready to enjoy the coming decades.
So, wish me luck as I wish you all, success and happiness.
Ana

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Go for it!!
by: Gigi

Wow, I'm glad I stumbled upon this page. I have always wanted to be a physical fitness trainer. I have had women come up to me at the gym, the grocery store an other places asking me about my fitness routine. I would love to help other people get in shape. I am 42, soon to be 43 and have a full time job. It pays well but I would really live to follow my dream .I am very inspired by all the posts I've read , thank you.

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I'm scared to about my age and person training....
by: Jo

I'v just started a certificate 3, My age got me self concious ,because the rest of the students are so much younger, and avoided me, when we had to do practical tasks , didn't want to work with me.

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having the same dilemma!!
by: Anonymous

I say go for it! age is only a number. I have the same dilemma.
I currently work in corporate, almost sixteen years in the same company. I am 46 years old and would love to make a change in career. I love dancing, love Zumba!!
I am so afraid to make the move. My gut tells me to go for it, but, I have 3 kids and I have very good medical insurance thru the company I work for.
Is my biggest fear not to have that cover.
any input?

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I'm Ready to take the leap
by: Anonymous

I'm 39 and rapidly approaching 40.. I have been in great shape most of my life but went downhill in my 30s. I bounced back about 3 years ago and as soon as I looked good again, I went back to old habits.. Its been a roller coaster for me.. I have thought about becoming a personal trainer, but wasn't sure at my age if that would be a good idea. 1st I need to get back in shape, then worry about the business. I figure the best way for me to stay in shape is to incorporate it completely in my life including my career. Thanks for convincing me that it's not impossible.

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Starting young and wondering about the future
by: Anonymous

I'm NSCA certified and was at an upscale fitness center for 12 years, right out of college. Also, Kinesiology degree. I absolutely loved my clients and most of my co-workers. It was an enjoyable job. Here's where the problem set in: management decided that you had to increase revenue to maintain full time status. I was happy with my schedule, and didn't really want to change it much. In the beginning, I felt like my facility really appreciated me. Around year 6 or 7, it became apparent that they were really just like the sleazy gyms that just focused on money only; didn't actually care about the lives I changed--and never asked how my clients were doing. Then, they hired a sleazy, fast-talking manager...the kind of person that everyone loathed...made my skin crawl. His job was to bring in more money. Also, I started to think about the future: do I really want to grind like hell just to scrape by on a mediocre salary? I also started really thinking about the future, and being an old man trainer...could I really do this job until I was in my sixties...especially knowing that many of my beloved clients would eventually move on or pass away--then I'm starting all over again? Grinding to find more clients to get by at an old age did not sound appealing. It was a very hard decision, but I decided to change professions in a field that I could see myself doing for another 25-30 years. I cherish every moment I had as a trainer, and wouldn't change it. The harsh reality is that this is usually the kind of job you love for a while, but can't hustle and grind for 30-40 years; there's a reason why most trainers only last maybe 3 years. However, I think it is a great profession for someone who worked another job for 20-30 years, and had a passion for fitness and helping others, and decided to start training at 50 or 60. I feel like many trainers will end up hitting age 45 and thinking, "Can I really do this forever?" It's kind of just the harsh reality of the business. I felt like my time and experience peaked around 7 years of training. It was very difficult, but I decided to gracefully exit the profession that I dearly loved because I had to think of my, and my family's future. I am at a new job that I really enjoy, but still have a passion for fitness, and do still miss it. I can see myself eventually training part time, because I do love helping others improve their life. I just won't have to worry about grinding for some sleazy used car salesman-type...Ill do it on my own terms--the reason I got into it in the beginning: to help others; not just increase revenue for a gym's bottom line.

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Age is just a number
by: Kath

Take this moment to seize this opportunity and go after your dream! I am 54 and became certified at age 51. I taught in a boutique gym for 2 years and left to start my own business. I now own an in home studio and have a great client base which continues to increase. My sweet spot is clients that range between 45 and 65. We have such an opportunity to really impact someones life in this age group and add years to their life by helping them implement fitness and lifestyle changes. Good luck to anyone thinking about doing this. Don't overthink it, if this is your passion and it is speaking to you follow it. My life and stress level has improved significantly since I made a move to help others on their fitness journey.

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Of course you can be an older trainer
by: Anonymous

I received my ACE certification at 52 and trained for ten years. Took a few years off, am now studying for the NASM exam, which I love, and hope to start studying for my degree in nutrition once NASM is in the bag. I am a female to boot, which makes people's eyes widen a bit. My very first client, if you can believe it, was a 17 year old sprinter who wanted to compete in the Olympics but had been injured. After therapy she came to me. Oh yeah, age is just a number. You go!

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