Age is just a number, people while aging lose their interest. Many people make mistakes in believing that fitness is just for young people. However, this perception is not true. it’s not a further truth. Even those people who have started their fitness journeys in the later part of life are still active and healthy due to the exercise.
The best example of this is Charles Eugster who began racing at the age of 96 and has made many records. He seriously started his fitness training at the age of 87.
Although Eugster’s accomplishments are impressive, you may still be curious about the demand for older certified personal trainers.
Is There Demand for Older Personal Trainers?
When you hear “personal trainer,” do you picture a muscular twenty-something? You might be surprised to find that the average age of personal trainers is actually 39.8 years. Moreover, reports from sources like The Wall Street Journal and Forbes indicate a growing demand for trainers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. This presents a promising opportunity for those seeking to enter the fitness industry later in life.
Reasons Clients Prefer Older Fitness Trainers
Older personal trainers often attract clients for various reasons. Many older adults prefer trainers closer to their age, as this can create a comfortable environment where they feel understood. Working with someone who recognizes their unique challenges can help alleviate feelings of self-consciousness, particularly regarding any physical limitations.
Additionally, older trainers can serve as powerful role models. When older adults see their peers regularly engaging in exercise, it can inspire them to take action. This motivation is crucial, given that many older adults do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, which increases their risk of chronic health issues like heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Regular exercise is also known to enhance mental health.
Incorporating strength training into a fitness regimen allows older clients to build muscle mass and improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures from falls. As a personal trainer for this demographic, you can help clients enjoy these significant benefits.
Advantages of Being an Older Personal Trainer
Being an older trainer not only benefits your clients but also you personally. Providing personal training services keeps you active, as you will likely participate in at least part of your clients’ workouts. If you teach group fitness classes, you will certainly get ample physical activity.
Furthermore, if you specialize in senior fitness, you may find it easier to attract older clients who feel more comfortable training with someone who shares similar experiences.
If you have any reservations about becoming a personal trainer as an older adult, consider exploring inspiring stories, such as those highlighted in Prevention’s article about five individuals who became trainers after age 50. Their journeys may show you that being an older trainer is not only feasible but can also be an incredibly rewarding career.