How Hard Is It to Become a Personal Trainer in 2024?
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Simon Hook
- Fact Checked
Becoming a personal trainer can seem tough at first, but it’s completely doable if you love fitness and are willing to put in the effort.
It takes some time and work, but the process isn’t as hard as you might think.
In this article, we’ll explain the steps to becoming a personal trainer and help you figure out if it’s the right path for you.
Contents
Understanding the Learning Process
The first thing you need to do to become a personal trainer is to get certified.
This means you’ll need to study topics like anatomy, exercise programming, nutrition, and coaching.
It may feel like a lot at first, but you can manage it with a good plan and steady practice.
The good news is you don’t need a college degree to become a personal trainer.
Many successful trainers start by taking a level 2 gym instructor course, which is a great way to get your foot in the door.
You can then move up to the level 3 personal trainer course for more advanced knowledge and skills.
Even after you get certified, learning doesn’t stop.
The fitness world is always changing with new trends and methods.
To stay competitive and offer the best service to your clients, you’ll need to keep learning and improving.
What Makes the Course Hard or Easy?
There are a few things that can make the personal training course easier or harder for you:
1. Fitness Background
If you already have some experience with fitness or sports, the course might feel more familiar.
But if you’re new to these areas, it might take more time to understand things like exercise programs and anatomy.
2. Study Habits
If you’ve recently been to college or university, it might be easier to get back into the habit of studying and taking tests.
If not, adjusting may take some time, but you can do it with a solid study plan.
3. Time You Can Spend
How much time you can commit each week makes a big difference.
Many personal training courses offer flexible schedules, so you can balance studying with work or other responsibilities.
The more time you put in each week, the faster and easier it will be.
4. Learning Style
Personal training courses can be taken in classrooms, online, or at your own pace.
If you like the freedom to study whenever you want, online personal training courses might be a good fit for you.
Picking the method that suits your learning style can make the whole process easier.
5. Help from Teachers or Mentors
Having someone to guide you through the course can make things easier.
Whether it’s a teacher or mentor, they can help you with tricky topics and advise you on applying what you’re learning.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Personal Trainer?
The time it takes to get certified depends on the course and how much time you can spend on it.
A program like the Level 3 Personal Training Diploma usually takes between 12 and 18 months to complete.
Some courses are faster, but it’s better to take your time and really learn the material instead of rushing through it.
Practical experience is just as important as classroom learning.
Working with real clients helps you apply your knowledge and prepare for the job.
Employers usually prefer trainers who have solid experience, not just fast certifications.
How Expensive Are Personal Training Courses?
The cost of personal training courses can vary, but most programs offer flexible payment plans to make them affordable.
Some courses let you pay in small installments, and many offer interest-free payment options.
Make sure to check for any extra fees, like exam or certification costs.
A good program will be upfront about these, so do some research to avoid surprises.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job as a Personal Trainer?
After getting certified, finding a job can be a challenge, but there are ways to improve your chances.
A strong CV that highlights your qualifications and practical experience is key.
Practicing your communication skills for interviews will also help you stand out.
Networking is another important part of finding work.
Go to fitness industry events, connect with other trainers, and reach out to local gyms to see if they’re hiring.
Many personal training courses also offer job placement help, which can give you a boost in your job search.
Is Becoming a PT Worth It?
Becoming a personal trainer has its challenges, but the rewards can be worth it.
Trainers usually enjoy high job satisfaction because they have flexible hours and get to help people reach their fitness goals.
You can also earn a good income, especially if you build a strong client base.
Remember, there’s always room for growth in this career.
You can specialise in areas like sports performance, rehabilitation, or nutrition, or even start your own fitness business if you want to take things further.
Final Verdict
So, how hard is it to become a personal trainer?
It depends on your background, how much time you can commit, and how you approach the learning process.
While it can be challenging, especially with the practical and theoretical parts, it’s definitely doable if you stay dedicated.
If you’re passionate about fitness and willing to put in the effort, becoming a personal trainer can be a rewarding and achievable career!

Simon Hook is our lead class instructor with over 10+ years of experience. He oversees all of our personal training courses and ensures everything runs smoothly for our students.