How do I increase my personal trainer earnings with continuing personal development (CPD)?
Continuing Professional Development or ‘CPD’ is the buzzword of many professions today. It relates to an overarching commitment from an individual, who is already a qualified member of their industry, to regularly explore new learning, industry development and enhance their skills with the aim of building their career along the way.
Here at the Academy of Fitness Professionals we believe that CPD for Personal Trainers shouldn’t simply tick the boxes required to maintain a level of professional recognition. Instead we think it should be tangibly linked to a solid career plan that will develop your skills and therefore your personal trainer earnings capabilities.
Why does CPD Matter for Fitness Professionals?
In direct comparison with many other professional occupations today it is important Personal Trainers keep abreast of trends and developments that occur in this ever evolving world we live in. CPD is important because it ensures you continue to be competent in your profession and do not get left behind with out of date knowledge. But it does so much more… Great knowledge gives you greater potential to apply your skills to the clients you work with and this in turn develops client fitness and motivation and ultimately leads to an increase in your personal trainer earnings.
Great CPD Benefits
The importance of Continuing Professional Development should therefore not be underestimated – it is a career-long obligation for practicing Personal Trainers. Try to approach your CPD as an ongoing process that continues throughout your professional career rather than something stop start.
Here’s some of the benefits well planned, considered CPD has to offer;
- It safeguards the public, namely your clients as you’re keeping up to speed with fitness industry training methods and other developments. This ensures your personal trainer certification is current, your skills are always up to date and showcases to clients you’re at the top of your game.
- It shows commitment to your employer that you’re committed to your fitness career for the long-haul increasing the potential to open up job promotion opportunities and giving you a competitive edge.
- It enables you to grow useful skills that can be directly applied to your personal training business – widening your scope for success. This can take many forms such as increasing your hourly rate, charging for new fitness services, such as specialist testing, and diversifying into new areas.
Income Generating CPD for Personal Trainers
Before choosing your CPD it’s useful to take a step back, grab a cuppa and spend half an hour or so thinking about three key questions. If you’re keen to get started, grab your tablet or note book and jot down these three questions.