While health clubs and gyms make up one type of work setting, there is a great variation between each individual club. The type of work environment differs greatly from one club to the next, depending on factors such as size, location, management, hours, pay, and job requirements. Therefore, there is much to consider when looking for a position.

On-the-Job Training

A good health club has management that adequately trains its employees. Receiving proper training will greatly increase your success, and therefore, your income. Unfortunately, not every club gives proper training, and few do it well. If the club expects you to sell memberships, training packages, and/or nutritional supplements, they should have a standard sales presentation. If you're going to work the desk in the fitness center, you should be trained in how to use the computer system and how to educate new members on the equipment, as well as any other policies and procedures applicable to your club.

Deciding if the Club Fits You

There are many other factors to consider in choosing a place to work. What are the educational requirements for personal trainers? Some clubs require only that their trainers be certified. Some require a specific certification and others require a college degree. You will need to consider whether you have or are willing to obtain the education required for the job. If you meet or surpass the necessary requirements, consider whether or not the club's educational standards are high enough for you. Your reputation is influenced by the environment in which you work.

You must also consider whether or not there are bonuses, pay raises, and room for advancement. If you're interested in management, is it a possibility at this club? Do you receive bonuses for selling memberships and packages? How the club pays you for personal training appointments is also important. Some clubs pay a flat rate; others use a split such as 50/50 or 60/40. Other clubs use a sliding pay scale, such as 50/50 for up to twenty sessions per week and 60/40 for anything over twenty sessions. Will you always be at the same split, or will the percentages change over time? If you have a base salary, will it increase? Are benefits included, and if so, to what degree? The answers to these questions will vary widely from club to club. There are no right or wrong answers, only what is favorable to you and your desired lifestyle.

Another major factor to consider is the type of schedule you'll be working. Unlike many businesses, most clubs are open early and remain open late. Some are even open twenty-four hours. It is important to know when you are expected to be there and if those expectations fit your lifestyle. Some clubs schedule your personal training sessions for you, while others allow you to make your own appointments. You may be covering the desk in the fitness center and taking members through appointments at the same time. Or you may have a certain number of hours to cover the desk, and the rest of the time you are able to conduct personal training sessions.