Fitness workers lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups in exercise activities, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and stretching. Fitness trainers are responsible for demonstrating techniques and methods of exercise that enhance the physical fitness of their clientele. They observe participants and inform them of corrective measures necessary in order to improve their skills.

Fitness trainers work in commercial and nonprofit health clubs, country clubs, hospitals, universities, yoga and Pilates studios, resorts, and in clients’ homes. Increasingly, fitness workers are also found in workplaces, where they organize and direct health and fitness programs for employees.

People planning fitness careers should be outgoing, good at motivating people, and sensitive to the needs of others. Excellent health and physical fitness are important due to the physical nature of the job. Those who wish to be personal trainers in a large commercial fitness center should also have strong sales skills in order to encourage the growth of their clientele base.