Enjoying exercise alone is not enough to become a personal trainer. It’s not only about helping people get fit—like any profession, it includes a business aspect.
If you’re interested in working as a fitness trainer in Canada, there are many things to think about. These include the many kinds of trainers, required qualifications and accreditations, and potential earnings.
If you want to go to Canada as a fitness trainer, one of the most crucial decisions you will need to make is whether you will work for someone else or start your own business. This will affect both your risk and liability as well as the insurance you will require.
Canadian Fitness Industry Overview
According to Ibis World, Canada has around 9,200 gyms and fitness clubs. Because of the COVID-19 epidemic, many of these facilities have shuttered and will incur significant financial losses in 2020.
As in other nations, demand for online fitness services has expanded, and fitness instructors can take advantage of this trend to contact potential consumers all over the world.
The disadvantage is that teachers face increased competition from international coaches, personal trainers, athletes, and other industry experts.
A fitness instructor certification might help you stand out in the crowd and charge what you’re worth. In addition, your clients will believe that you adhere to industry best practices.
Unlike the United States, Canada does not have a governmental body to oversee this profession or certify certifications.
Simply put, anyone can call themselves a fitness teacher. Also, anyone can establish and sell certification programs for fitness instructors and personal trainers. That is why it is critical to investigate your options and eliminate problematic products that provide little or no benefit.
According to the Vancouver Public Library, Canadian fitness instructors are not required to hold a professional certification. The absence of regulations affects the sector as a whole and causes issues for both teachers and their clients.
For instance, a lot of untrained “fitness instructors” can lead workout courses that end up hurting people. A person with a damaged back may suffer from terrible pain and herniated discs if they are instructed to perform hard squats.
Enrolling in a fitness instructor certification program might help you become more knowledgeable and show prospective clients that you are competent. Additionally, it can make it more likely for you to get hired for a high-paying position.
It could be simpler for you to market your services and establish credibility if you choose to operate as an independent fitness instructor after earning your certification.
The most well-liked certification courses, their contents, and how to select the one that best suits your requirements are all covered in the material that follows.
How to Go to Canada as a Fitness Trainer
Let us walk you through the steps to help you move to Canada as a fitness trainer:
1. Learn About Canada’s Fitness Industry
Before you pack your bags, take a moment to understand how the fitness industry works in Canada. In big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, fitness centers and gyms are everywhere.
These cities love fitness, and you’ll find many people eager to work out and stay healthy.
But smaller towns might not have as many gyms or fitness centers, so it’s important to choose the right place to start your career.
Spend some time researching where fitness trainers are needed most. You can even look up the types of fitness programs popular in different provinces or cities.
2. Pick the Right Immigration Pathway
There are different ways to move to Canada, but as a fitness trainer, there are three main options:
a. Express Entry System (Federal Skilled Worker Program)
The Express Entry system is one of the fastest ways to move to Canada if you’re a skilled worker. To qualify, you need to meet some requirements:
- Work Experience: You should have at least one year of work experience as a fitness trainer or in a similar job.
- Language Skills: You must take a test in English (like IELTS) or French to show you can communicate well.
- Education: You need a diploma or degree in fitness, sports, or a related subject, and you’ll have to get your education evaluated to match Canadian standards.
b. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Canada’s provinces can pick people they want through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Some provinces may need more fitness trainers than others.
Research provinces like British Columbia or Ontario, as they usually have a higher demand for fitness professionals.
c. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
If you want to try working in Canada for a short time first, you can apply for a job through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.
If you get a job offer from a Canadian gym or fitness center, you can work temporarily and later apply for permanent residency.
3. Get Certified in Canada
Even if you’re a qualified fitness trainer in your country, Canada might require you to have local certifications. These certifications show that you meet Canadian standards for fitness training.
Here are some popular certifications in Canada:
- CanFitPro: One of the most well-known fitness certifications. They offer courses like Personal Trainer Specialist (PTS) and Fitness Instructor Specialist (FIS).
- Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP): This certification is great for those who focus on exercise science or advanced personal training.
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA): If you’re more into strength and conditioning, this certification is highly respected.
Find out which certifications are recognized in the province you plan to live in and start working on getting them.
4. Find a Job in Canada
Having a job offer can make your immigration process smoother. Canada’s fitness industry is growing, so gyms and wellness centers are always looking for qualified trainers.
Big fitness chains like GoodLife Fitness or YMCA are great places to start.
You can search for fitness trainer jobs in Canada on websites like:
- Indeed.ca
- Workopolis
- Job Bank (Canada’s official job search website)
Make sure your resume is ready for Canadian employers! Highlight your fitness experience, certifications, and any special skills you bring to the table.
5. Prepare for Your Move to Canada
Now that you’ve got the certifications and job offer sorted, it’s time to prepare for the big move! Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Health Insurance: Canada has a public healthcare system, but it might not cover all services for temporary residents. Look into health insurance plans before you go.
- Housing: Depending on where you plan to live, the cost of housing can vary. Big cities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive, so it’s important to budget for rent.
- Networking: Connect with other fitness professionals in Canada through social media or local fitness groups. Networking can help you learn more about the industry and find more job opportunities.
6. Know What to Expect in Your New Job
In Canada, fitness trainers can work in gyms, wellness centers, or even as independent personal trainers. You might work with individual clients or teach group fitness classes.
As for salary, fitness trainers can earn anywhere from CAD $35,000 to $70,000 per year depending on the city, your experience, and your certifications.
Many trainers also explore opportunities in online coaching or corporate wellness programs, which are becoming more popular, especially after the pandemic.
Conclusion
Moving to Canada as a fitness trainer is an exciting opportunity to grow your career and live in a country that values health and wellness.
By following these steps—learning about the industry, securing the right certifications, and choosing the best immigration pathway—you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in Canada.
So, are you ready to take the leap? Start preparing today, and soon you could be helping Canadians achieve their fitness goals while building a new life in a vibrant and welcoming country.