For individuals in Maine with a genuine passion for health and wellness, transforming that passion into a profession as a personal trainer is undoubtedly an exciting prospect. The state offers diverse communities and opportunities for fitness professionals to empower clients with personalized exercise programs and nutritional guidance.
This article examines the essential requirements and strategic considerations necessary for becoming a certified personal trainer in the state of Maine. We cover everything from selecting a training program and choosing an accredited certification body to exploring employment avenues across the state’s fitness scene.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in Maine
Below are the requirements to start a career as a personal trainer in Maine.
High School Requirements
Candidates typically need a high school diploma or a GED to begin a career as a personal trainer in Maine. This is required for admission into top training programs and may also be a prerequisite for employers and certification organizations.
Foundational training in high school biology and physical education can also be great preparatory steps.
Transferable Skills
Personal trainers obviously need to be in good physical shape and fit. They also need to be very good listeners and communicators.
Other transferable skills that give candidates an edge in the profession include critical thinking, problem-solving, and customer service.
Industry-Standard Training
A personal trainer needs to receive industry-standard education at a reputable institution to enhance their career prospects. However, no law requires professionals in the field to have a bachelor’s degree or complete a 4-year college program.
Completing a two-year academic program that leads to an associate’s degree is an excellent choice for those who would like to begin their careers more quickly. This can be combined with a certification preparation program that typically allows candidates to complete their coursework at their own pace.
Building Work Experience
Work experience at the initial stages of becoming a personal trainer can be gained through an internship or by working under the guidance of experienced trainers. Candidates may also provide free services or work with family and friends to refine their technical proficiency.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) are among the most popular certification organizations for personal trainers, not only in Maine but also throughout the United States of America. Certification is not compulsory by the state but by convention.
Successful personal trainers are typically certified, and clients and employers alike prefer to work with those who hold certifications. Completing an online training program and passing a professional examination are enough to pursue the certification designation from any of the organizations mentioned above.
Professionals are also encouraged to participate in continuing education to maintain their certified status.
Top Personal Trainer Schools in Maine
The institutions below are notable for comprehensive personal trainer programs in the state of Maine.
Central Maine Community College
Auburn, ME Campus + Online
Central Maine Community College offers a Physical Fitness Specialist program that is also suitable for future personal trainers. The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science degree and covers anatomy, physiology, and human movement mechanics.
Tuition
$96 - $192 per CreditContact
(207) 755-5273
enroll@cmcc.edu
National Personal Training Institute
Portland, ME Campus + Online
National Personal Training Institute offers a hybrid personal trainer program with 500 total course hours.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(800) 960-6294
info@nptifitness.com
National Council on Strength & Fitness
Online, ME Online Only
Through the National Council on Strength & Fitness, residents of Maine can pursue certification and access high-quality educational resources and training opportunities.
Tuition
$49 - $92 per MonthContact
(800) 772-6273
info@ncsf.org
Explore personal trainer schools in Maine by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
Data obtained from a comprehensive survey of personal trainers in the state of Maine showed the best places to work in the city based on annual average salary distributions to be as follows:
- Saco, with an annual average salary of $73,963;
- South Portland, with an annual average salary of $62,504;
- Scarborough, with an annual average salary of $57,526; and
- Portland’s average annual salary is $54,914.
Without focusing on the early particular criterion, the same survey shows the distributions to be as follows:
- The top 10% bracket manages an annual average salary of $100,121;
- The bottom 10% brackets manage an annual average salary of $29,300; and
- The median bracket earns an annual average salary of $47,392, according to Indeed.
Most professionals fall into the median bracket. However, they can advance in rank by developing their networking skills, enhancing their credentials, and promoting their career.
Of course, the more experience a professional accumulates, the better their chances of improving their earnings will be.




