subject: Become a Fitness Trainer: Freelancer or Employee? [print this page] Author: Chris McCombs Author: Chris McCombs
You may have made up your mind to make a career in the lucrative fitness sector. It is definitely a great decision considering the growing awareness about health and fitness among people all over the world which has resulted in a huge demand for trained fitness professionals. But having said that, you may also need to decide whether you want to work for a company or be an independent trainer. The correct decision regarding this may actually help you maximize your growth and earning after you become a fitness trainer. If you keep reading you may find it easier to make the correct choice.
The first bit of information that you may need is regarding the opportunities that you may have as an employee and also as a freelancer. So, as an employee you may look to work at:
Gyms and fitness centers
Health spas
Hospitals and rehab clinics
Large corporate houses as their in-house trainer
Sports teams as part of their back-room staff
Being an independent trainer can allow you to:
Start you own fitness business
Become a personal trainer for many different clients
Start online fitness coaching
Thus, you can understand that both choices can give you ample work opportunities once you become a fitness trainer.
And whether you freelance or work for someone else, you will have to follow the same path of taking exams for getting certified in your chosen specialization. Therefore, a closer look at the two options in question may, be the only way forward.
By remaining an independent consultant after you become a fitness trainer, you can enjoy,
Control over your work hours and duration
The freedom to charge clients as you deem fit.
The ability to pick and choose your clients, thus avoiding the ones with whom you feel that you just cannot strike up a professional relationship.
Unlimited growth and earning potential as you gain reputation.
Tax benefits that are provide to entrepreneurs, in case you start your own business.
But you may also have to face,
Difficulty in finding clients when you are just starting out and so are relatively unknown in the fitness game.
Any liability that may arise, such as injuries to your clients and probable compensation claims.
On the other hand choosing to find a job after you become a fitness trainer can,
Ensure a steady paycheck every month
Ensure added benefits such as free health and occupational risk insurance.
Help you learn the ropes and build your reputation gradually.
At the same time you will have to,
Slug it out with your fellow trainers in a highly competitive environment.
Contend with very little scope of growth on the job.
Work with all types of 'difficult' characters without being able to put them in their place!
Considering all of the above, it might be a wise decision if you start off by finding a job somewhere, spend some time in building your reputation and skill and then break off the shackles and become your own boss. Try this career path after you become a fitness trainer and every success may be yours! About the Author:
