How to become a rehabilitation trainer

Is becoming a rehabilitation trainer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do rehabilitation trainers do?

Still unsure if becoming a rehabilitation trainer is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a rehabilitation trainer or another similar career!

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How to become a Rehabilitation Trainer

Becoming a rehabilitation trainer requires a combination of education, training, certification, and practical experience. Here's a general outline of the pathway to the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Earn a high school diploma or equivalent. High school education provides a foundation in basic communication and math and organizational skills, and it lays the groundwork for further learning. Pay particular attention to courses in biology, health, and physical education.

Bachelor’s Degree
Obtain a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as personal training, kinesiology, or physiology. A degree in nutrition or another healthcare discipline is an alternative route to a career in rehabilitation training.

Practical Experience
While earning your bachelor’s degree, gain practical experience and relevant knowledge and skills through volunteer work, internships or part-time jobs in healthcare, fitness, or rehabilitation settings. Learn to work with a diverse range of clients and understand various rehabilitation needs.

Optional Advanced Education
Consider pursuing a master's degree in a relevant field if you want to specialize or work in senior roles.

Certifications
There are several certifications available to rehabilitation trainers that can enhance their qualifications and demonstrate their expertise in working with clients and patients in rehabilitation and fitness settings. These certifications are often recognized by employers and clients as a sign of competence and professionalism. The following are among the most common designations earned in the profession:

  • Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) – Offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the CEP certification focuses on clinical exercise physiology and working with individuals with various medical conditions. It is ideal for rehabilitation trainers who work in clinical settings, such as hospitals or cardiac rehabilitation programs.
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – Offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the CSCS certification focuses on strength and conditioning principles and training athletes. It is beneficial for rehabilitation trainers working with athletes or individuals recovering from sports-related injuries.
  • Certified Medical Exercise Specialist (MES) – Offered by the American Council on Exercise (ACE), the MES certification is designed for fitness professionals working in clinical or rehabilitation settings. It covers exercise programming for individuals with medical conditions, disabilities, or special needs.
  • Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT) – Offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the CIFT certification focuses on working with individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusive fitness programs. It is ideal for rehabilitation trainers interested in adaptive fitness and inclusive exercise.
  • Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES) – Offered by the National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA), the CES certification focuses on exercise programs for individuals with various medical conditions, including post-rehabilitation clients.
  • Fellow of the Clinical Exercise Physiology Association (FCEPA) – Offered by the Clinical Exercise Physiology Association (CEPA), the FCEPA certification emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills in clinical exercise physiology and healthcare.
  • Certified Special Population Specialist (CSPS) – Offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the CSPS certification addresses the training needs of special populations, including individuals with medical conditions and disabilities.
  • AEA Certification – Offered by the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA), this certification specializes in aquatic rehabilitation and exercise programming in a pool setting.

These certifications typically require passing an exam that assesses knowledge and skills relevant to the specific certification area. Maintaining certification often involves earning continuing education credits to stay current with industry advancements and best practices.

Continuing Education
The field of rehabilitation training is constantly evolving. Continuing education through workshops, seminars, and online courses helps you stay current with the latest research, techniques, and trends.

Soft Skills Development
Rehabilitation trainers require strong communication skills to effectively interact with clients, understand their needs, and provide clear instructions and motivation. The role also demands empathy and patience in dealing with individuals who may be recovering from injuries or facing physical challenges.

Portfolio and Online Presence
Create a portfolio and professional website or social media profiles showcasing your training programs, client successes, and any workshops or certifications you've completed. This is particularly vital if you plan to work independently or as a freelancer, but will also be helpful when applying for jobs.