Residents of Louisiana who envision working in a bustling gym, offering specialized private sessions, and building their own fitness brand can consider a potential career as a personal trainer in the state. The journey, of course, begins with a clear understanding of the available pathways.
Helping candidates understand these pathways is the exact objective of the resources on this page. We begin with a brief analysis of the preparatory steps and educational avenues that contribute to professional credibility, before moving on to other important areas, such as licensing and certification, career growth platforms, and specialized training programs.
We also cover the annual average salary brackets for personal trainers in Louisiana, as well as the factors that professionals can work on to improve their yearly income.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in Louisiana
Residents of Louisiana can become successful personal trainers by following the framework below.
Meeting the Basic Requirements
Conventionally, personal trainers in the state of Louisiana and across the country are expected to have a high school diploma or GED. They are also expected to be in good physical shape, possess a strong sense of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and excel at effective communication.
Finishing a Training Program
Academic training programs are not necessarily focused solely on preparing candidates for careers as personal trainers. Interested individuals can apply for kinesiology and exercise science programs, for example, to begin a career in the profession.
Another common approach is to pursue certification preparation programs, many of which allow students to study entirely online or learn through a hybrid approach.
The next section highlights the top training programs to consider for prospective personal trainers in the state.
Real-World Skills
After building a solid foundation in a training program, personal trainers can take their skills to the next level by applying them in a real-world work environment. Internships and programs that allow students to shadow professionals are great for this purpose.
Professionals can also offer free services to family and friends, aiming to refine their practical skills with real-world subjects.
Employment Opportunities
Personal trainers don’t have to work for an employer, but starting at a fitness center or a gym is a great way to leverage existing resources for career growth. The internet, professional organizations, and networking events are additional tools that personal trainers can utilize to establish a strong brand, connect with potential clients, and enhance their credibility.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Anyone in Louisiana with the right level of theoretical and practical education is eligible to practice professionally as a personal trainer. There is no state body designated to oversee professional licensing in this discipline.
Certification is a generally optional affair as well. However, because certified professionals are more valued than those who are not certified, certification is compulsory.
Professionals tend to pursue certification designations with organizations that are popular not only in their state but also nationwide. These include, but are not limited to, the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the American Council on Exercise (ACE).
Top Personal Trainer Schools in Louisiana
Prospective personal trainers in Louisiana can begin their careers by attending any of the following programs.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Online, LA Online Only
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a provision for prospective personal trainers through its online Certified Personal Trainer program. The program is designed to help with the NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) Certified Personal Trainer Certification.
Tuition
$1,595 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Louisiana State University Shreveport
Online, LA Online Only
LSU Shreveport has a NASM Certified Personal Trainer program and an ACE Personal Trainer program.
The programs are suitable for becoming certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine and the American Council on Exercise.
Tuition
$2,695 - $2,890 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Louisiana State University Eunice
Online, LA Online Only
Finally, LSU Eunice helps candidates earn the CPT credential from the National Academy of Sports Medicine and specialize as Corrective Exercise trainers. The program has 140 course hours and a maximum completion time of 12 months.
Tuition
$2,095 - $2,390 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
Explore personal trainer schools in Louisiana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Personal trainers in Louisiana can earn an annual average salary ranging from $18,194 at the lowest salary bracket to $102,189 at the highest salary bracket. Of course, neither category is where the majority of professionals are to be found.
The majority of personal trainers in Louisiana will fall within the median earners, with an annual average salary of $43,119, according to Indeed. It is only by working on their experience level, credentials, networking, and personal promotion, among other factors, that candidates can move up in the salary ranges.
Location, of course, is another factor that can be optimized. Currently, the highest-paying cities for personal trainers in Louisiana are Ruston, with an annual average salary of $61,523; New Orleans, with an annual average salary of $55,548; and Fort Johnson, with an annual average salary of $54,246.