Personal trainers in New York City enter the profession mostly because they have a passion for fitness and health. Of course, the drive to help people succeed and achieve their fitness goals is also a key requirement.
However, despite possessing all of these attributes, individuals still need structured education to understand how to carry out the duties of a personal trainer at the professional level. Thankfully, there are several destinations in New York City where candidates can acquire such expertise.
The list below breaks down the best options to consider and introduces readers to everything they need to know to make the right decision for their careers.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in New York City
New York City is one of the several places across the country where a personal trainer’s chances of success are more significant if they become certified. Candidates have several options to consider when it comes to certification.
The majority of candidates will first complete a program before proceeding with certification. This is done to prepare for certification examinations and to develop technical skills.
Some training programs specialize in preparing students for one particular certification, while others adopt a general approach. Some common alternatives include the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential and the Certified Personal Trainer credential from the American College of Sports Medicine.
Top Personal Trainer Schools in New York City
The following are the best programs to attend for comprehensive education as a future personal trainer in New York City.
New York Institute of Technology
Long Island, NY Campus + Online
New York Institute of Technology is one of the most comprehensive places in the state to receive foundational education as a prospective personal trainer. The school offers a Bachelor of Science program in health and wellness that includes 120 credits.
Tuition
$1,565 per CreditContact
(516) 686-7520
admissions@nyit.edu
Focus Personal Training Institute
New York, NY Campus + Online
The personal training program offered by Focus Personal Training Institute in New York is another wonderful option for starting a career in this profession. The program emphasizes hands-on education, allowing students to learn in a beautiful studio under the tutelage of accomplished instructors.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(877) 496-2333
admissions@fpti.edu
SUNY Westchester Community College
Valhalla, NY Campus Only
Aspiring personal trainers in New York can consider the training program offered by SUNY Westchester Community College to start their careers on an excellent foundation. The program is geared towards preparing candidates for certification examinations, particularly the credential offered by the National Council on Strength and Fitness.
Tuition
$218 - $490 per CreditContact
(914) 606-7027
richard.gennaro@sunywcc.edu
SUNY Erie
Williamsville, NY Campus + Online
SUNY Erie in Buffalo offers a personal training micro-credential program that allows candidates to secure employment and become certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. This program provides core knowledge of training and also instructs students regarding the professional and business side of the discipline.
Tuition
$217 - $434 per CreditContact
(716) 851-1322
admissions@ecc.edu
Queensborough Community College
Bayside, NY Campus Only
Queensborough Community College provides a personal training program that allows candidates to earn an associate's degree in health. Also known as the liberal arts with personal training concentration program, those who complete their education here will be able to qualify for certification examinations and start their careers immediately.
Tuition
$210 - $420 per CreditContact
(718) 281-5068
jdemas@qcc.cuny.edu
Alfred University
Alfred, NY Campus Only
Lastly, aspiring personal trainers in New York can also start their careers by completing the Health Fitness Management program at Alfred University. The program includes courses covering technical skills and business education.
Tuition
$1,290 - $1,361 per CreditContact
(607) 871-2006
glover@alfred.edu
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: