How to become a sports trainer

Is becoming a sports 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 sports trainers do?

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How to become a Sports Trainer

Becoming a sports trainer involves a combination of education, practical experience, certifications, and a passion for sports and fitness. Here’s a general outline of the pathway to the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
A high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum requirement to start sports training education. High school provides a foundation in basic communication and math and organizational skills, and it lays the groundwork for further learning.

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

Coursework Relevant to Sports and Exercise
Within the bachelor's program, coursework should include subjects such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports nutrition, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, sports psychology, and sports management. These courses provide a fundamental understanding of training principles and athlete care.

Internships and Practical Experience
Gaining practical experience through internships, practicums, or hands-on training opportunities is crucial. These experiences allow you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and understand the dynamics of working with athletes.

Specialization in a Sport or Area
Focus on a specific sport or area of expertise (soccer, basketball, endurance sports, etc.). Learn about the biomechanics, training methodologies, and specific conditioning required for that sport.

Certifications and Continuing Education
While not formal educational requirements, obtaining industry-recognized certifications related to personal training, strength and conditioning, or sport-specific training is highly recommended. Many employers prefer or require trainers to hold relevant certifications to ensure competence and proficiency. Continuous learning through workshops, seminars, and conferences is also essential to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

These are some well known and respected certifications available to sports trainers:

  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – Offered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the CSCS certification is one of the most recognized in the sports and fitness field. It is designed for professionals working with athletes and focuses on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and sports-specific training.
  • Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Specializing in Strength and Conditioning – Various organizations, such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE), offer personal trainer certifications. These certifications cover general fitness and can be a good starting point.
  • Certified Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coach (SCCC) – Offered by the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa), this certification is aimed at those working in college and university settings. It emphasizes program design, coaching techniques, and athlete development.
  • Certified Sports Performance Coach (SPC) – Offered by USA Weightlifting (USAW), this certification focuses on Olympic weightlifting techniques and training. It is particularly valuable for trainers working with athletes seeking to improve explosive strength and power.
  • Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES) – Offered by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), the PES certification focuses on improving athletic performance through training, injury prevention, and biomechanics.
  • Functional Movement Screen (FMS) Certification – The FMS certification, offered by Functional Movement Systems, focuses on assessing and improving movement patterns to prevent injuries and optimize performance.
  • Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification (PN1) – While not specific to sports training, nutrition is a key component of fitness. This certification, offered by Precision Nutrition, provides knowledge about nutrition coaching and dietary strategies to support training programs.
  • Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN) – Offered by the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), the CISSN certification focuses on sports nutrition and its applications to optimize an athlete's performance, recovery, and body composition.
  • High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Specialist – HIIT specialists create high-intensity interval training programs designed to improve an athlete's cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and metabolic conditioning.
  • Certified Sports Performance Coach (CSPC) – Offered by the National Sports Performance Association (NSPA), the CSPC certification covers sports psychology, exercise physiology, nutrition, and training methods to enhance sports performance.
  • 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.
  • United States Track and Field (USATF) Level 1 Coach Certification – This certification focuses on coaching track and field sports, including sprints, jumps, throws, distance running, and racewalking. It covers coaching techniques, event-specific training, and sports science principles.
  • Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC) – Offered by the National Sports Performance Association (NSPA), the CSAC certification focuses on developing speed, agility, and quickness for athletes in various sports.

It is important to note that each certification provider has its own prerequisites, study materials, and examination processes.

Also providing career support to sports trainers are the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), and the International Youth Conditioning Association (IYCA).

Master's Degree (Optional)
Pursuing a master's degree in a relevant field is optional but can provide a competitive edge in the job market. Advanced degrees deepen your knowledge and expertise, making you more attractive to potential employers, particularly those seeking to fill more senior positions.

Networking and Relationship Building
Network with professionals in the sports and fitness industry. Attend industry events, workshops, and seminars to connect with potential employers, trainers, and athletes. Networking can open up opportunities for job placements and collaborations.

Client Base Development
If working independently as a private practitioner, build a client base by marketing your services, showcasing your expertise, and establishing a positive reputation within the community. Offer trial sessions or workshops to attract clients.