8 High-Paying Fitness Career Paths You Should Consider
Man lifting dumbbell
The fitness industry offers numerous lucrative career opportunities, with significant growth between 2010 and 2020. Here are eight rewarding fitness careers that combine passion with profession:
- Fitness Journalist
Fitness gear and writing supplies
Fitness journalists create feature stories and workout articles, requiring expertise in fitness trends, equipment, and exercise techniques. A bachelor's degree in journalism is typically required, along with comprehensive fitness knowledge.
- Athletic Trainer
Athletic trainer assisting injured athlete
Athletic trainers focus on athlete health maintenance, injury prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Requirements include passing the National Strength and Conditioning Association exam, obtaining relevant certifications, and holding a bachelor's degree.
- Strength and Conditioning Coach
Personal trainer assisting female client
These professionals develop comprehensive training programs to enhance athletes' speed, agility, flexibility, and strength while minimizing injury risks.
- Sports Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist Treating Athlete
This growing field requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, state licensing, and certification from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties (ABPTS).
- Sports Physical Therapist Assistant
An entry-level position requiring an associate's degree, state licensing, and certification. PTAs work under physical therapists to implement treatment and recovery programs.
- Nutritionist
Nutritionists work with teams, schools, and healthcare facilities, requiring a bachelor's degree and state licensing. They create dietary plans and monitor nutrition for optimal performance.
- Personal Trainer
Personal trainer coaching gym client
Personal trainers need specialized certifications (ACE, AED, or CPR) and typically a bachelor's degree. The field has seen 24% growth over the past decade.
- Exercise Physiologist
Physiologist guiding athlete during training
Exercise physiologists require a bachelor's degree in kinesiology or exercise science, plus certification from ACSM or ASEP. The field has experienced 20-28% growth in the past decade.
These careers offer stable employment with strong growth potential. Success requires proper education, certification, and dedication to the field.