Personal training industry growing, especially among baby boomers
Jan 22, 2014, 5:00 AM | Updated: 5:00 am
While Americans continue to grow fatter, the personal training industry continues to expand and evolve.
According to the Chandler-based National Academy of Sports Medicine, the personal training industry’s revenue is expected to grow 2.9 percent over the next four years.
It is expected to reach $10.8 billion by the year 2017.
“I used to think that people who wanted to become personal trainers were young people, gym rats who wanted to spend all of their time there,” said NASM President Andrew Wyant. “We have people who are retired teachers, firefighters or police officers who are 50, maybe even getting into their 60s [who] are interested in health and fitness and have a passion for helping other people.”
The industry welcomes baby boomers and the numbers suggests they are finding success in their new, post-retirement careers. Data shows the number of certified trainers over the age of 40 has grown nearly 10 percent from 2012 to 2013.
The industry could prove to be lucrative and appealing for those interested in a new career.
“Those who have gained the expertise and built their business can earn over $100,000 a year,” said Wyant.
