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If you’ve Googled “personal trainer job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again.
Bullet points. Buzzwords. Boredom.
You’ll get a list of vague responsibilities like “conduct fitness assessments” and “create workout plans,” followed by a generic call to action: “Apply now.”
But here’s the truth: great personal trainers aren’t drawn to lifeless job posts.
They want to know what kind of clients they’ll work with. What your training philosophy is. Whether they’ll have autonomy—or be micromanaged. They want clarity on pay, expectations, and culture. Most job descriptions? They skip all of that.
So the best trainers scroll past your post and apply somewhere else.
The good news? Writing a job post that actually attracts high-quality, committed fitness professionals isn’t hard—you just need the right format.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to write a personal trainer job description that actually connects, converts, and helps you build a stronger fitness team.
📚 Want to learn the strategy behind effective job posts? Check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
What Does a Personal Trainer Actually Do?
Here’s a plain-English definition that sets the tone and gives real clarity on the role:
A personal trainer helps clients improve their fitness, build healthier habits, and reach their goals—whether that’s weight loss, strength training, or general wellness. But this role isn’t just about reps and sets.
It’s about coaching, motivating, and guiding people through change.
Great personal trainers know how to personalize workouts, adapt to different energy levels, and build real relationships with clients. They’re part fitness expert, part accountability partner, part mindset coach.
That means success in this role isn’t just about certifications—it’s about empathy, communication, and the ability to inspire someone who might be nervous, unfit, or overwhelmed.
So when you’re hiring a personal trainer, you’re not just looking for someone who can teach a deadlift—you’re looking for someone who can connect, coach, and lead.
Two Great Personal Trainer Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Experienced Personal Trainer Job Description Template
📌 Job Title: Certified Personal Trainer at Forge Athletics – [Location]
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person
💰 Salary: $3,000–$4,500/month base + commission
⏰ Schedule: Mon–Fri, 6 AM – 2 PM (some flexibility)
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
Watch this quick video from our Head Coach to get a feel for who we are and how we work:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video here]
Who We Are
Forge Athletics is a strength-first training studio based in [City]. We work with ambitious professionals who want more than just a workout—they want a complete transformation.
Founded by former collegiate athletes, we’ve built a reputation for excellence in program design, client retention, and delivering visible results. No gimmicks. No bootcamp fluff. Just smart training, serious coaching, and a culture that prioritizes growth—for our clients and for our team.
Our Company Culture
We believe in ownership, not micromanagement. Our trainers are trusted professionals who run their own client roster within a collaborative system. We operate on mutual respect, open feedback, and a relentless commitment to progress. Whether you’re coaching a session or brainstorming with the team, your voice matters here.
At Forge, you’ll find a team that’s competitive but supportive, structured but flexible. We train hard, laugh harder, and hold each other to a high standard—because we care.
What You’ll Be Doing
This is not a clipboard-and-count role. You’ll have true ownership of client results. You’ll be expected to lead with confidence, coach with empathy, and build long-term relationships that keep people coming back.
- Conduct 1-on-1 and small group training sessions
- Perform client assessments and goal mapping
- Build and adapt customized fitness programs
- Coach proper technique and injury prevention strategies
- Track progress and report on client performance
- Support client retention through communication and accountability
- Collaborate with fellow coaches to share knowledge and refine systems
What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 2 years of hands-on training experience
- Certification from NASM, ACE, ISSA, or similar recognized body
- Deep understanding of strength training, conditioning, and movement quality
- Strong communication and people skills
- Bonus: Experience with athlete or high-performance clientele
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll work with clients who are motivated and committed—not just passing through
- You’ll be part of a team that values mastery, not burnout
- You’ll have the autonomy to coach in your own style—inside a proven system
- You’ll receive ongoing mentorship and professional development
- You’ll be recognized for results, not just hours on the floor
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base pay + commission for new client packages
- Paid certification renewals and continuing education stipend
- Free access to our facility + recovery tools
- Monthly wellness bonus
- Annual team off-site retreats
- Clear path to leadership roles (Head Coach, Studio Director)
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time—and we believe hiring should be fair and clear. That’s why we use WorkScreen to help evaluate every candidate based on skill and potential, not just resumes.
Click the link below to start your short, structured evaluation. We review every application and will follow up with clear next steps.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link here]
🌱 Entry-Level Personal Trainer Job Description Template
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Personal Trainer – Train & Grow at VitalCore Wellness | [Location]
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person or Hybrid
💰 Salary: $2,300–$3,000/month base + bonus potential
⏰ Schedule: Tues–Sat | Mornings + Flexible Evenings
🎥 Get to Know Us
Watch this 2-minute video from our Studio Director to see what it’s like to work at VitalCore Wellness:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube video here]
Who We Are
VitalCore Wellness is a growing boutique wellness studio in [City] dedicated to helping everyday people move better, feel better, and live longer through functional fitness.
We serve clients of all backgrounds—busy professionals, new moms, seniors, and weekend warriors—by offering supportive, habit-focused training that emphasizes progress over perfection. We’re not looking for ego or hype. We’re looking for people-first trainers who want to grow with us.
Our Company Culture
VitalCore is built around collaboration, humility, and lifelong learning. Our trainers aren’t just coaches—they’re trusted guides who meet clients where they are and help them move forward with care.
We value progress, not perfection. Curiosity, not competition. And kindness, always.
Here, you’ll never be thrown into the deep end. You’ll receive real mentorship, shadowing opportunities, and guided development so you can grow into a confident, trusted coach—without needing years of prior experience.
What You’ll Be Doing
We’re looking for someone passionate about fitness and personal growth—even if you’re just starting out. You’ll be trained and mentored on the job to coach both individuals and small groups safely and effectively. Your core responsibilities will include:
- Shadowing experienced trainers and learning best practices
- Supporting warm-ups, cooldowns, and client check-ins
- Assisting in creating client plans and tracking progress
- Leading sessions once you’re ready, with full guidance
- Helping with studio maintenance and ensuring a welcoming environment
- Building trust with clients through follow-up, support, and encouragement
What We’re Looking For
- A genuine passion for health and helping others
- Strong communication and empathy
- Willingness to learn, be coached, and grow into the role
- A basic fitness background or certification in progress is a plus
- CPR/AED certified or willing to obtain it within 60 days
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll be trained, mentored, and supported from day one
- You’ll work with clients who care more about showing up than showing off
- You’ll gain hands-on experience and gradually build toward full-time coaching
- You’ll never be just a number—you’ll be a trusted teammate
- You’ll grow your career inside a studio that actually invests in you
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Paid internal training and mentorship program
- $250 annual continuing education stipend
- Free membership for you + discounted family rates
- Wellness bonus every quarter
- Option to cross-train in breathwork, mobility, or nutrition coaching
- Studio socials, community events, and birthday perks 🎉
📥 How to Apply
We believe great trainers aren’t always born—they’re developed. That’s why we use WorkScreen to fairly assess your potential, not just your resume.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation. We review every applicant and promise to follow up with next steps—no ghosting.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link here]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Personal Trainer Job Posts Work
Let’s break down what makes each of these job descriptions actually effective—and why they attract the right candidates.
✅ What Makes These Job Posts Effective
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
- Instead of vague titles like “Personal Trainer Wanted,” we lead with clarity:
- “Certified Personal Trainer at Forge Athletics”
- “Entry-Level Personal Trainer – Train & Grow at VitalCore Wellness”
- “Certified Personal Trainer at Forge Athletics”
- These titles instantly communicate who the job is for, where it’s based, and even give a hint of culture and values.
2. Human, Contextual Introductions
- Each post opens with a video and a warm intro that explains the why behind the role—not just what it is.
- This helps applicants connect emotionally before getting into the details.
3. Real, Specific Company Descriptions
- The “Who We Are” sections don’t sound like filler—they reflect the actual mission, tone, and niche of the company.
- Instead of writing, “We’re a growing fitness brand,” the posts say things like:
- “We serve clients of all backgrounds—busy professionals, new moms, seniors, and weekend warriors.”
- “No gimmicks. No bootcamp fluff. Just smart training and serious coaching.”
- “We serve clients of all backgrounds—busy professionals, new moms, seniors, and weekend warriors.”
- This level of specificity makes it easier for the right trainers to say, “This sounds like my kind of place.”
4. Dedicated Culture Section
- Including a clear “Company Culture” section builds trust and gives candidates a sense of what it’s actually like to work there.
- It’s more than just buzzwords—it sets expectations, shows values, and attracts culture-fit candidates.
5. Transparent Compensation
- Both posts include salary ranges and pay structure (including bonuses and commissions), which helps build credibility and trust.
- Hiding compensation is one of the biggest red flags for today’s candidates—and both posts avoid that mistake.
6. Well-Defined Responsibilities (That Show Impact)
- Rather than just listing generic duties, each task is framed with meaning:
- “You’ll have true ownership of client results”
- “You’ll be trained and mentored on the job to coach both individuals and small groups”
- “You’ll have true ownership of client results”
- This helps the applicant visualize how their work matters and what success looks like.
7. Respectful, Modern Hiring Process
- Both job posts show that candidates are valued:
- There’s no “we’ll only contact shortlisted applicants.”
- Instead, both roles explain that all applications are reviewed and that a clear process (via WorkScreen) is followed.
- There’s no “we’ll only contact shortlisted applicants.”
- This is a huge plus in a job market where ghosting is common.
8. Strong Call to Action (Without Being Pushy)
- The CTA in both descriptions invites the right applicants with warmth, clarity, and a clear next step.
- They’re framed like an opportunity—not a transaction.
Example of a Bad Personal Trainer Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Let’s look at a real example of what not to do when writing a job post. This version is uninspired, lacks key details, and fails to connect with serious candidates.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Personal Trainer
Company: FitNation Gym
Location: [City]
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
FitNation Gym is hiring a personal trainer to join our team. You will be responsible for training clients, helping them reach their fitness goals, and maintaining a clean workout environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver personal training sessions
- Provide advice on health and wellness
- Track client progress
- Ensure equipment is used safely
Requirements
- Certification from a recognized provider
- Prior experience preferred
- Good communication skills
- Able to work flexible hours
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to jobs@fitnation.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Flat
1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
- “Personal Trainer” doesn’t say anything about who the role is for, what kind of gym it’s in, or why it matters.
2. There’s No Personality
- The company intro is flat and tells the candidate nothing about what makes FitNation different.
- No mention of values, mission, or who they help.
3. It’s Missing Compensation Info
- No mention of pay, commission, or benefits. This lack of transparency pushes away serious candidates who want clarity upfront.
4. Culture Is Nowhere to Be Found
- What’s it like to work there? What does the team value? What kind of energy or vibe does the gym have? There’s zero context for what a day feels like.
5. Responsibilities Are Vague
- “Deliver personal training sessions” and “Track client progress” could be copy-pasted into any job post. Nothing is tailored to this gym’s clients or approach.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Cold
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” sounds dismissive—and leaves most applicants expecting to be ghosted.
7. The CTA Is Cold and Passive
- There’s no warmth, no excitement, and no reason for a candidate to actually apply.
This type of post might get dozens of low-effort applications—but it won’t attract the right trainers who are committed, curious, and driven by purpose.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Once your job description is clear, human, and well-structured, these small additions can take it from good to magnetic—especially for roles like personal training, where trust and communication matter.
✨ Bonus Tip #1: Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE to Build Trust
With job scams on the rise, even legitimate posts can raise suspicion. A short, visible note at the bottom of your job post can reassure applicants and make you look more professional.
What to write:
⚠️ We take the safety and privacy of every applicant seriously. We will never request payment, personal financial details, or banking information at any stage of the hiring process.
This small detail can dramatically increase confidence in your job post.
✨ Bonus Tip #2: Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Even in the fitness world, rest matters. Candidates want to know if they’ll be overworked or supported with time off to recharge.
What to say:
Enjoy up to 18 paid personal days per year—because rest is part of performance.
Even for entry-level roles, flexible scheduling or rest days can be a deciding factor.
✨ Bonus Tip #3: Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Especially for junior trainers or career changers, knowing they can grow in your company makes a huge difference.
What to include:
We don’t expect you to know everything on day one. You’ll get a 4-week onboarding period, mentorship from a senior coach, and a $250 annual education credit to keep building your skills.
This reassures growth-minded candidates and positions you as an employer that invests in people.
✨ Bonus Tip #4: Add a Video from the Hiring Manager
We already included this in both job templates—but it’s worth highlighting again here. A short Loom or YouTube video can:
- Show off your personality and training environment
- Reduce anxiety for applicants by putting a human face to the process
- Set your job post apart instantly
Even a simple “Hey, I’m Jess, the Studio Manager. Here’s what we’re looking for…” can work wonders.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
AI Caution – How to Use It Without Ruining Your Job Post
AI can save you time. But if you use it the wrong way, it can also cost you great candidates.
Here’s how to think about using AI when writing a personal trainer job description (or any role):
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
Just typing something like:
“Write me a personal trainer job description for a gym in New York.”
…will give you a generic, lifeless result.
You’ll get a post that sounds like every other one on the internet—full of bullet points, clichés, and no reflection of your brand, your values, or your clients.
And here’s what happens next:
- It attracts low-effort applicants who are mass-applying to every fitness role.
- It repels great trainers who are looking for meaning, mentorship, or a specific culture.
- It reflects poorly on your company—it looks like you don’t care enough to write your own post.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
AI isn’t a replacement for your input—it’s a refinement tool. The best job descriptions start with your raw materials.
Here’s a prompt that actually works:
“Help me write a personal trainer job post for my company, VitalCore Wellness. We’re hiring an entry-level trainer to support small group training and one-on-one sessions. Our culture is collaborative, humble, and client-focused. We care deeply about mentorship and long-term development. We serve everyday clients—working professionals, parents, and seniors—not athletes.
We offer $2,300–$3,000 base pay, plus bonuses, wellness perks, and continuing education.
Here’s how our hiring process works: [Explain steps or include WorkScreen link].
I’ve also written some draft notes below.”
[Paste in your rough bullets or ideas.]
Once you give AI that kind of context, it can help you:
- Polish your language
- Improve clarity and tone
- Reorganize your structure
- Tighten up sections
Pro tip: You can also give it one of the strong job post examples from earlier in this guide and say:
“Help me write something similar to this—but for [Your Company Name].”
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Templates?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what makes a strong job post. But you still want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and customize in minutes.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Job Description Template
📌 Job Title: Personal Trainer – [Company Name], [Location]
💼 Job Type: [Job Type]
💰 Salary: [Insert Salary Range]
⏰ Schedule: [Insert Days/Hours]
🎥 Meet the Team
Watch this short video to get a feel for who we are and how we work:
👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is not your average gym. We’re a mission-driven studio that helps [insert target clients: busy professionals, new parents, athletes, etc.] build strength, confidence, and long-lasting habits.
Our approach is simple: personalize the training, care about people, and coach with intention—not ego.
Our Culture
We’re a team of learners, not know-it-alls. We prioritize collaboration, accountability, and kindness. You’ll never be micromanaged—but you will be supported, mentored, and challenged to grow.
If you want a place that sees your potential and helps you level up—this is it.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Coach 1-on-1 and/or small group training sessions
- Create and adapt personalized client programs
- Track client progress and provide feedback
- Communicate with your team regularly
- Maintain a clean and welcoming training space
What We’re Looking For
- Certified trainer (or working toward certification)
- Passionate about helping others
- Great communicator and motivator
- Open to feedback and professional growth
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll work with clients who are serious about improving
- You’ll be mentored and supported—not thrown into the deep end
- You’ll join a team that cares about coaching and culture
- You’ll grow your skills in a collaborative, feedback-driven environment
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive base pay + client retention bonuses
- Paid certification renewals and education credits
- Wellness stipend
- Free studio access + family discounts
- Team events and flexible scheduling
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate all applicants based on strengths—not just resumes.
Click the link below to complete your short application. We’ll review every submission and respond quickly.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
🧱 Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
📌 Job Title: Personal Trainer – [Company Name], [Location]
💼 Job Type: [Job Type]
💰 Salary: [Insert Salary Range]
⏰ Schedule: [Insert Days/Hours]
🎥 Get to Know Us
Watch this short video to learn more about our team and coaching philosophy:
👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a results-focused training studio helping [insert target audience] improve strength, mobility, and confidence through structured coaching and personal support.
We believe great coaching comes from connection, consistency, and care—and we’re looking for trainers who want to grow with us.
Our Culture
Our team is collaborative, humble, and mission-driven. We support each other, push each other, and celebrate wins—big and small. Whether you’re a new trainer or experienced, you’ll be treated with respect and given space to thrive.
Job Brief
We’re hiring a personal trainer to join our coaching team. You’ll be responsible for delivering 1-on-1 or small group sessions, customizing client plans, and helping clients stay on track toward their goals.
Responsibilities
- Conduct fitness assessments and set client goals
- Build and adjust personalized workout programs
- Deliver sessions with attention to form and safety
- Track progress and encourage accountability
- Maintain studio cleanliness and client experience
Requirements
- Certified by NASM, ACE, ISSA, or equivalent
- Strong communication and coaching skills
- Passion for client service and long-term results
- [Insert experience requirement, or state “open to entry-level candidates”]
Perks & Benefits
- [Insert salary/bonus structure]
- [Mention continuing education or mentorship options]
- [Studio perks like wellness stipends, flexible hours, etc.]
- [Include rest days or PTO if available]
How to Apply
We respect your time and care about your experience. That’s why we use WorkScreen to run a quick, skill-based evaluation.
Click the link below to apply. It only takes a few minutes, and we review every application.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Why You Should Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Writing a great job post is only half the battle.
Once applications start coming in, you still need to:
- Figure out who’s actually qualified
- Weed out low-effort or AI-generated applications
- And find someone who not only looks good on paper—but performs in real life
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s How WorkScreen Helps You Hire Smarter:
✅ Quickly Identify the Right Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Evaluate Real-World Skills (Not Just Buzzwords)
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Filter Out Low-Effort and AI-Assisted Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✅ Save Hours of Screening Time
All of your applicants—from job boards, referrals, or social media—land in one clean dashboard. You can filter, sort, and shortlist candidates in minutes—not hours or days.
🔄 Integrate WorkScreen Into Your Hiring Flow
Once your job post is ready:
- Create a role on WorkScreen.io
- Get your shareable application link
- Paste it directly into your job post (just like the templates above)
Let the platform handle the screening while you focus on coaching and running your business
Start hiring faster, better, and smarter at WorkScreen.io
💡 Whether you’re hiring a senior trainer or mentoring a beginner, WorkScreen makes it easy to find out who actually fits—and who’s just good at copy-pasting.
FAQs – Personal Trainer Job Description
Beyond certifications, the best personal trainers bring a mix of technical knowledge and interpersonal strength. Here’s what to look for:
- Communication skills – Can they explain concepts clearly, give feedback with empathy, and build trust quickly?
- Adaptability – Great trainers adjust sessions based on mood, injury, or progress. They don’t run one-size-fits-all programs.
- Accountability mindset – They help clients follow through—without relying on pressure or guilt.
- Emotional intelligence – Fitness is personal. A good trainer knows how to read people and create a safe, supportive space.
- Growth attitude – The best trainers are lifelong learners who constantly refine their craft.
- Communication skills – Can they explain concepts clearly, give feedback with empathy, and build trust quickly?
Salaries vary depending on location, experience, and employment type. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Entry-level (0–1 year): $18–$25/hour or $2,200–$3,000/month
- Mid-level (2–4 years): $25–$40/hour or $3,500–$5,000/month
- Experienced or specialized trainers: $50+/hour or $5,500–$8,000+/month
Commission structures, client retention bonuses, and location (urban vs. rural) can significantly affect these numbers. Studios offering premium services may pay more than chain gyms.
Culture fit isn’t about whether someone is “cool”—it’s about alignment. Ask yourself:
- Do they share your values (like education, empathy, or accountability)?
- Do they believe in your training philosophy?
- Do they care about client transformation—not just looking good on Instagram?
- Are they open to collaboration and feedback?
During the hiring process, you can use structured evaluations (like those in WorkScreen) and a few values-based interview questions to assess alignment.
Not always. Experience matters—but so does potential.
For studios that offer mentorship or clear onboarding systems, entry-level trainers can be a great hire. They often bring enthusiasm, adaptability, and loyalty—especially if they’re supported early on.
If you’re open to training someone, just be clear in your job post that you’re willing to hire for attitude and invest in their growth.
