COD offers fitness training program

Students interested in a career in fitness can enroll in a certified personal training program offered by Continuing Education at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn.

During the 60-hour course, students gain skills and knowledge about a variety of fitness training techniques and concepts, including biomechanics, exercise physiology, fitness testing and health assessment.

Offered in partnership with World Instructor Training Schools, an internationally recognized fitness education certifying organization, the program comprises a combination of lecture, hands-on practical training and a 30-hour internship at a participating site.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for fitness trainers and instructors was $36,160 in May 2015, with top earners receiving more than $70,180 annually.

As businesses, government and insurance organizations continue to recognize the benefits of health and fitness programs for their employees, incentives to join gyms or other types of health clubs are expected to increase the need for fitness trainers and instructors.

An 8 percent employment growth is projected from 2014 to 2024.

For information on this program, call Continuing Education at (630) 942-2208 or CE@cod.edu.