It’s a win:win. Increasingly fitter New Zealanders living healthier livesalongside an exciting opportunity to credibly build our industry’s professional reputation. With an emphasis on recognised certification.
It’s a trend gaining momentum. Coming in at number 6 in the internationally recognised Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2019 was Employing Certified Fitness Professionals.
It represents a significant step toward improving the global credibility of the exercise industry. An industry that has traditionally operated with lots of passion but not necessarily much professionalism.
It recognises that fitness enthusiasts are looking for experts they can rely on to meet their fitness goals. Trainers who understand the science behind exercise and can tailor exercise to individual need, implement effective programmes, keep them safe and stay up to date with thelatest research and information.
Fortunately, we’ve moved on from a time anybody can call themselves a personal trainer. I’m pleased we’re steadily raising the bar, but there’s more work to do.
It’s time to really shape up.
We don’t let unqualified builders loose with our homes or unregistered midwives deliver our children. We shouldn’t leave New Zealanders’ health and fitness in the hands of someone with no professional knowledge, experience or a recognised qualification.
Certified fitness trainers are in demand. Let’s give people what they want – qualified graduates from one of the manyreputable courses, which upon completion allow graduates to be recognised by the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), alongside professionals registered with the same body.
For trainees it’s a chance to learn, grow and gain an internationally recognised qualification in a growth industry. It’s certification that not only has them working within 6-12 months but also equips them with essential marketing and business skills. This is particularly relevant for helping to build client lists or for those harbouring ambitions for their own businesses.
Let’s seize this opportunity. As educators, trainers, trainees and fitness providers let’s not settle for anything below 100% certified personal trainers across the board.
Te Rangimaria Ngarimu is the National Graduation Manager at Fit Futures Academy. ‘T’ has more than 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, previously working as a Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor and as a Manager at Snap Fitness. Her motto for life is ‘karawhiua’, which means ‘give it everything’.
Become a Personal Trainer with the Fit Futures Academy Certificate in Personal Training. If you want to be part of an industry with endless opportunities, and enter it in the most flexible and supported way, get in contact now through info@fitfutures.co.nz or 0800 99 88 98. Online and evening classes available.
