Playing in the Great Lakes, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, and the state’s 2,500 miles of natural trails are just a few ways that Wisconsinites get their exercise fix. Of course, indoor facilities like Snap Fitness, Wisconsin Athletic Clubs, and Curves for Women also help residents sweat it out. As a personal trainer, you can also become a major asset to the state’s active community and make a great salary while you do it!
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently conducted a survey to gauge the level of physical activity among residents in each state. The results of this survey found that Wisconsin held the seventh largest percentage of residents that reported meeting the CDC’s weekly aerobic activity recommendation. Despite this impressive ranking, Wisconsin remains determined to increase the frequency of physical activity within its population.
In fact, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services is currently implementing a health initiative called the Nutrition and Physical Activity Program outlining how the state can decrease obesity while increasing physical activity and enhancing nutrition. Fitness leaders and educators such as personal trainers are considered key contributors to this progressive project, and can therefore expect more job opportunities and more competitive salaries as a result.
Personal Trainer Salary Expectations Based on Experience
Whether you are an independent contractor, or a part-time or full-time employee, as a personal trainer, your salary is largely dependent upon your ability to network and establish a solid client base. In general, potential clients are more likely to pay higher salaries for personal trainers that have a proven track record and experience.
For example, in 2013, the United States Department of Labor found that fitness trainers in Wisconsin earned the following annual salary averages depending on their level of experience:
- Entry-Level: $16,700/yr.
- Mid-Career: $23,600/yr.
- Experienced: $46,500/yr.
In that same year, fitness trainers in Wisconsin that received hourly wages also found their income was greatly impacted by their level of field-related work experience:
- Entry-Level: $8.02/hr.
- Mid-Career: $11.36/hr.
- Experienced: $22.34/hr.
Aside from gaining experience, you can proactively invest in your own salary earning potential by earning a postsecondary degree in a discipline like kinesiology, physical education or exercise science. Another way to attract ideal pay offers is by getting your personal trainer certification through a recognized certifying agency like the American College of Sports Medicine.
Regional Salary Differences for Personal Trainers in Wisconsin
While experience, education, and certification are all factors that will help determine your personal trainer salary in Wisconsin, your location of employment is also important.
For instance, in 2013, the United States Department of Labor found that fitness trainers working in Fond du Lac, Madison, and the Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis area earned the highest salaries of any region in the state: