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Credentials that raise your rate

• CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist)

  From the National Strength and Conditioning Association. It requires a bachelor's degree. The standard for coaching athletes.

• Corrective exercise or post-rehabilitation

  Work with people coming out of physical therapy. Older clients pay well for it.

• Group fitness certification

  Fills empty hours and feeds you one-to-one clients from the class.

• Youth or senior specialization

  Two growing markets that most trainers ignore.

• Registered dietitian route

  If you want to give real nutrition advice, that is a separate degree and license.