What are military fitness training jobs like?

I'm considering a career in military fitness training after high school. Can anyone share insights about the roles and responsibilities? What kind of qualifications or skills do I need to prepare for these jobs?

Being a military fitness trainer involves a lot more than just creating workout routines or teaching fitness classes. The main responsibility of this role is to ensure that military personnel are in optimal physical condition to perform their duties effectively. You might work on a base, or you might accompany servicemen and servicewomen on deployment to ensure they maintain their fitness.

To get started in this career, you may want to consider obtaining a degree in kinesiology, exercise science, physical education, or a related field. These subjects will give you a solid background in the principles of physical fitness and the methods for teaching and training others.

In addition to education, specific skills and qualities will be useful in this career. Communication skills are critical because you need to be able to explain exercises clearly to prevent injuries and ensure effectiveness. Patience is another vital quality, as you'll need to work with individuals at different fitness levels and with varying abilities.

As far as certifications, the military doesn't typically require civilian fitness certifications, but earning certifications from reputable organizations, like the American College of Sports Medicine or the National Strength and Conditioning Association, can give you an edge over other candidates. Certification typically requires passing an exam and may require a minimum level of practical experience.

Experience in sports or fitness coaching can also be beneficial. The more hands-on training experience you can get, the better prepared you'll be to work with military personnel. Remember, working as a military fitness trainer can be challenging due to the rigorous physical standards the military maintains. However, it can also be rewarding, knowing you're contributing to the overall readiness and effectiveness of the military.

Keep in mind, each branch of the military has different physical training requirements and standards, so if you're interested in working with a specific branch, you might want to research their expectations and tailor your education and training accordingly.