ISSA Cert

EmmaOtis · 05-08-2008, 09:41 AM

Hey everyone,

I am working on my ISSA Certification, and will probably be finished in a few weeks. I have been wanting to do this for a loooooooong time and am really excited about it. Now, I know I am going to have to "start at the bottom" but that works for me. My husband is in the Military (we are new to this) and are making our first Military Move to Augusta, GA this summer. Just waiting for my 8 year old daughter to finish school. I am just wondering how exactly I should present myself to a gym when I am ready to start training. Or rather, I am asking for tips on how I should form a resume when I am brand new to all of this...

I will say this, I am VERY excited about this and very motivated. I look forward to my own personal time at the gym as well as talking with clients when I worked the desk at the gym. I am currently working for the state, in what is essentially the "welfare office." Being involved with Social Work has only proved to me that there are a lot of people out there who live very unhealthy lives...and not always because they choose to, but because they don't know any better. Not something I want for my daughter!!! So anyway, if anyone has any suggestions...I would love to hear them!

innerstrength07 · 05-08-2008, 11:31 AM

I have earned my personal training certification through ISSA and if you get with Dr. Sal he will be able to point you to many options that will help you in developing a resume. Good Luck with your future in fitness.

And congrats

KryticalMass · 05-09-2008, 08:01 AM

It really depends on what gym you are wanting to work for:
If the gym is a "big" chain gym such as: World's Gym, Powerhouse Gym, Gold's Gym, Urban Active Fitness. They may want you to be involved in sales as well as training (They thrive off of numbers). You need to let them know that you are willing to do a little extra to help them reach their numbers goal. You will get upgrades through clients just from your training (if it is worthy for client retention). They also might want you to carry a large number of clients so let them know that you are ready for the challenge. The next thing is the ability to adapt to their ways, the ability to create personal workouts, diet guidelines, and cardio routines for clients. At gyms like this as long as the clients are happy they are happy.

If you go to a smaller gym. You have a lot more freedom, and you will be a lot more independent.

Keep those ISSA books close by, you will always need to freshen up on it.

homerun16 · 05-10-2008, 08:07 PM

iam thinking abouting takeing the issa course also let me know how yours turns out

mydamnself · 05-11-2008, 06:15 PM

Regarding specific course, based upon my experience it doesn't really matter that much which one you do as far as your actual ability to train clients. Most of that stuff you don't even end up using. The most important thing is to always continue your education. I've run into way too many trainers who do a cert and pretty much never learn anything else. Also, go independent as soon as possible. You don't want to spend your time making someone else money.

EmmaOtis · 05-12-2008, 12:09 PM

Thanks, I am so excited about everything.

Richie_Awesome · 05-12-2008, 12:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by EmmaOtis

Thanks, I am so excited about everything.

Me, too! Good luck!

Environ · 05-12-2008, 04:02 PM

Have you read the book 'Fiscal Fitness' (does that book still come with the certification course?). There's lots of ideas in that book. But, when it comes to presenting yourself to a gym, be honest. You have no experience, so do not try to be somebody that you are not. Focus on your enthusiasm and you (presumed) willingness to learn.

Did you play any sports in school? Have you done any work in this area in the past? Actually, what you been doing for your career? These are things that could go in your resume. Also, I would suggest that you train friends and colleagues first for a few months to get some experience. That will give you both some experience and a few references.

It's late, and I'm tired, so that's all I can think of right now.

sLiPkNoT Fan · 05-13-2008, 10:07 PM

I got my ISSA certification last year. I found the course informative and you only get out of it what you put into it. It may not be a 4 year degree in Kinesiology, but I do not judge a person by a piece of paper, only their actual knowledge in what they do. I am not looking for a personal trainer job at this time and may never do so, but I was curious as to the course content. I currently work full time in Corrections and perform the self defence, restraint and physical training for new and current staff. I have used some of what I learned in my training. I know I could be a great PT, but I do not have the time right now.

Yourke · 05-15-2008, 09:40 AM

I was thinking of going with ISSA for my certification. Is it a good choice? There are so many choices out there.

Mr_Kinney · 05-27-2008, 03:00 PM

I'm getting my first cert from ISSA. Now through the 9th they're Taking $100 off the price as a 20th aniversary special so I figure why wait any more?