fitness professionals about all things related to working in the industry — the ups, the downs, and everything in between. Here's what people had to say."I did not expect the toll that being an instructor would take on my mental health. When you are instructing a class, the workout is no longer for you — and you have to be '"The hours and effort go far beyond the actual time spent leading a class — and most people don't realize that.
"I find it very hard sometimes because I consistently feel like I need to prove myself to clients because my arms aren’t as toned or because my abs are hiding under the wine and cheese I’ve been enjoying. It’s a bad cycle.""While you may love chatting with some clients, most don’t realize that you’re being paid to be nice to them. I don’t want to go out after and hear about their life and problems. Sorry!""Trainers are constantly comparing each other’s bodies.
"I’ve also never seen as much body shaming and body dysmorphia in my life. It’s a very competitive industry where you are literally judged and judging others for what you look like. The better looking and fitter the trainer, the more clients they had.""Fitness and nutrition are completely different scopes of practice. Please don’t ask a group exercise instructor for nutrition tips.""I’m a fitness instructor and I technically work three to four hours a day right now.
"I dread the drive to the gym after work and sometimes it is the last thing I want to do. 85% of the time I feel better when I leave than when I go but there are days when I do not. Be nice to your fitness instructors, they are showing up for you on days they wouldn't come to class if they were just a regular participant like you.""The most uplifting instructors typically deal with a lot of self-hatred and depression.