Passionate about fitness? How about turning that enthusiasm into a career? Becoming a gym instructor or personal trainer is an excellent way to develop your skills and support others along their fitness journey.

However, if you’re new to the industry, then one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make is whether to focus on gym instruction or personal training.

There’s no right or wrong answer, as both paths have unique benefits. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about both options so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

What Does a Gym Instructor Do?

Gym instructors (also known as fitness instructors) work in leisure centres or gyms as employees. These are entry-level roles, where the focus is on helping clients learn how to use the equipment and keep the floor running smoothly.

However, when you gain a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification, gain valuable experience on the gym floor.  ^[a][b][c]

While many people choose this qualification as an entry path into the industry, some prefer to remain as Level 2 instructors.

If you love running group fitness classes but want to diversify your skillset, opting for an Exercise to Music course or a Children’s Fitness Instructor diploma can offer more flexibility.

What Does a Personal Trainer Do?

Personal trainers are advanced fitness professionals who work one-on-one with clients and help them reach their goals.

For example, if a person wants to lose weight or enhance their muscle tone, a personal trainer will create a tailored fitness and nutrition plan.

Some trainers also work with small groups running bootcamps, and there’s also the opportunity to specialise in working with certain groups.

You’ll need a Level 3 Personal Training diploma, which you can access instantly if you already have a Level 2 fitness qualification.

While gyms and health clubs employ some PTs, many choose self-employment because it offers greater flexibility.

So, Which Career is Better?

The best career path for you depends on multiple factors, including how much you want to earn, what your long-term goals are, and where your passions lie.

Average Salaries

In the UK, a fitness instructor typically earns between £17,000 and £27,000 a year, depending on experience and their employer. Once you gain more experience, your salary will increase (GOV.UK).

Personal trainers are more qualified, which means they have higher earning potential. The average UK salary is just under £34,000 a year (Glassdoor), but self-employed PTs can earn significantly more.

For example, an established PT can earn over £40,000 annually, while trainers working with specialist clients, such as athletes, can exceed £100,000.

However, it’s important to factor in the costs of running a business, including admin, marketing, travel, and other additional fees.

Your Long-Term Goals

Career stability is important for a lot of people, and gym instructors are usually employees. When you work in a large gym like Nuffield Health, Virgin Active or David Lloyd, you can benefit from stable contracts and development opportunities.

Personal training can be less stable, as most trainers are self-employed. You might go through months where you have limited clients, and building a loyal client base takes time.

However, if you’re successful, you can build a business and look forward to greater autonomy.

Work Balance and Lifestyle

Another important consideration is your current lifestyle. Most gym instructors are shift workers, which means you’ll need to be willing to work mornings, evenings, and weekends.

On the plus side, once you clock out, you don’t have to worry about work emails and can switch off.

Personal trainers can set their own hours, but they also have to accommodate clients. For example, some clients might want a session after work, so you’ll need to adjust your evening schedule.

When to Choose Each Career

As you can see, both careers offer a range of benefits, and the right option for you depends on your long-term goals.

Choosing the Gym Instructor Route

If you’re new to the fitness industry, the Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification is the first port of call. It’s also an excellent opportunity to gain experience and learn from more experienced professionals.

Our Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification is fully online and CIMSPA-endorsed. Once you complete the course, you’ll gain a recognised qualification and can find employment in one of the UK’s many gyms and health centres.

Choosing the Personal Trainer Route

If you already have a Level 2 qualification and want to progress your career, the Level 3 Personal Trainer diploma is a great investment. It lets you work with clients one-on-one and build a lucrative career.

Our Online Personal Trainer Course is ideal if you’re new to the industry, as it combines both the Gym Instructor and Level 3 PT qualification into one convenient course^[d][e][f]. Plus, when you purchase the combined course, you can save money.

Plus, when you’re ready to work with specialist clients, you can progress to the Level 4 PT Diploma.

Final Thoughts

The fitness industry is full of fantastic opportunities for passionate people. Whether you love the idea of working in a gym and want to develop your skills or are ready to become a qualified PT, studying with The Fitness Circle gives you access to accredited online courses.

Our graduates frequently progress to work in the UK’s most respected gyms, while personal trainers have opportunities to specialise.

We also offer flexible payment options and access to a team of professional tutors with experience in the fitness industry. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your career options, please book a free call today.