35 Personal Trainer Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Accomplishment Questions
- 2. Adaptability Questions
- 3. Ask The Interviewer Questions
- 4. Career Goals Questions
- 5. Compatibility Questions
- 6. Competency Questions
- 7. COmpetency Questions
- 8. Customer Service Questions
- 9. Direct Questions
- 10. Discovery Questions
- 11. Education Questions
- 12. Experience Questions
- 13. Problem Solving Questions
- 14. Scenario Based Questions
- 15. Teamwork Questions
- 16. Trust Questions
Accomplishment
1. Without naming the person, please tell me about a client you have had the most transformation with.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear about your training skills and how you help others succeed. Share a story about a client whose health and fitness has been transformed in part by your efforts. Describe how that client achieved their goals.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"The client that had the most transformation while working with me is a young lady who was getting married in six months. She wanted to lose 40 pounds and tone up her arms and shoulders. I developed a plan after learning about her lifestyle and health history. She had a habit of snacking late at night and drinking a six-pack of soda every day and was borderline diabetic. I developed a HIIT workout plan which helped her burn calories and tone up her entire body, along with recommending a low-sugar eating plan. She lost even more weight than she had hoped and fixed her blood sugar issues. On her wedding day, she had lost almost 60 pounds, and her strapless dress showed off her beautifully toned arms and shoulders."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Adaptability
2. Are you available to work weekends?
How to Answer
Gyms and fitness centers are often open seven days a week. The interviewer wants to see if you can work weekends as they are often busy with clients needing personal training services. Be honest about your needs, but remain as flexible as possible.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I am available to work weekends. As a trainer, I understand I need to be flexible with my schedule to accommodate my client's needs. There is no day of the week that I am not available to work."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Ask The Interviewer
3. Do you have any questions for me?
How to Answer
If this question is asked, you always want to ask the interviewer a question. It shows that you are interested in their company and want to learn more. Be sure not to ask a question that could easily be found on their website or job posting. Your question could include asking the interviewer what they like most about the company, when they will fill the position, or when you can expect to hear back from them.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I have a question. When might I hear back from you regarding this position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Career Goals
4. What are your career goals?
How to Answer
It's essential to think about how the position you are interviewing for will fit into your long-term goals. As you know, it takes a lot of hard work to become a personal trainer. You learn about the body, nutrition, fitness, and how to design a fitness plan specific to each client. You may want to consider building your own business as you gain clientele. You might even want to study different forms of exercise or techniques that can help you in the field. Think critically about what you want for your future and share how this role will benefit you by helping you get to the next step.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"My career goals are to continue taking online classes to receive my doctoral degree in physical therapy. As a Personal Trainer, I have many clients who are recovering from injuries. I feel that with my degree in physical therapy, I will be better able to help my clients with their recovery and fitness goals."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Compatibility
5. How do you like to be managed?
How to Answer
The interviewer may ask this question to get an idea of your ideal working environment and if their management style aligns with your answer. Through your research of the company, you may have learned what management style the company incorporates. The interviewer wants to see that you are a good fit for the company. Being honest when responding will help you find a company that is well suited for you.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I like managers that trust that I have the experience to do my job effectively with little supervision. I enjoy working with people who give me the freedom to do my job but offer guidance and constructive feedback when needed."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Competency
6. Tell me about your experience with nutrition.
How to Answer
While you may not be prescribing supplements, as a personal trainer, you can influence your client's ability to make healthy choices in their diet. The more knowledgeable you are about nutrition, the better you can help them. It also makes you more marketable. Share any areas of expertise. For bodybuilders, you can talk about the importance of incorporating the right amount of protein and carbohydrates. For weight loss, you can talk about cutting out sugar and increasing vegetables and high-fiber foods. Share whatever you have found through research and experience that has worked for you and your clients.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"During my personal training course, I was offered additional training in nutrition at a reduced cost. I felt that having experience in nutrition would make me a more knowledgeable trainer and would benefit my clients. As a sports nutritionist, I can increase my client's endurance while decreasing recovery times by creating a meal plan specific for each client."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Competency
7. What do you know about our gym?
How to Answer
Do your research! Read employee reviews online and ask employees what they like about working there. Check out the company website. Do your share of investigating so that you can give a knowledgeable answer that shows you are invested. Visit the company website to learn critical information such as current seasonal promotions and ongoing events. Watch the videos on their website, and take note of the information on their 'Careers' page if one is available. Get to know their mission statement, vision statement, and core values so that you can show off your knowledge about the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I know that the gym was founded in 1995 by a single mom who wanted a ladies-only fitness center. Over the years, the gym has expanded to 20,000 square feet and has a membership of over 15,000 people. Your gym offers a smoothie bar, 50 various fitness classes, an outdoor boot camp, daycare, free weights, and personal training is included with the membership fees. For the past ten years, you have been ranked #1 in the People's Choice Awards."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Competency
8. What is the best way to test cardiovascular endurance?
How to Answer
Fitness testing helps personal trainers assess their clients to set attainable goals. Depending upon the person, there are a variety of tests you could do. You could try the 3-MinuteStep Test, timing the client as they step up and down a platform for three minutes, or use the Rockport Walk Test. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different cardio endurance tests.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are many ways to test cardiovascular endurance. I have found the simple 3-Minute Step Test is an excellent indicator of a client's cardiovascular endurance. If my client wants a more comprehensive test, I recommend they get a doctor's referral to a lab that performs VO2 max testing."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
COmpetency
9. How would you set up a training program for a client strictly looking for weight loss and toning?
How to Answer
Explain to the interviewer what you know about training others for weight loss. When a person is looking to tone their body, they don't want to put on a lot of muscle, so describe how you would train them. You may want to go so far as to list off three to five exercises you would have your client complete on certain days. Be prepared to go into further detail.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"The top fitness goals of my clients are weight loss and toning. HIIT training works well for some of my clients because it gets their heart rate up, builds muscle, and is something they can do on their own without taking up too much time. Generally, I combine a cardio circuit with weights to build strength and boost metabolism."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Customer Service
10. How do you grow your client base?
How to Answer
Give the interviewer an example of how you increase your clientele. You will be expected to sell your services to current gym members, and they may or may not provide sales training. From your experience, describe what has been the most helpful. Explain if you have any techniques that seem to work well for you.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I work with the sales team to find out about new members. After someone signs up, I introduce myself and offer a free session to identify their fitness goals and see if we're a good fit. During this time, I get to know my client and try out different exercises with them to find out what they enjoy, what they need help with, and what works best for them."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Customer Service
11. Tell me about your customer service experience.
How to Answer
You will be working one-on-one with clients and building relationships with them. Your prior customer service experience will help you to communicate effectively with customers and understand their needs. The interviewer wants to hear that you prioritize the customer and will deliver excellent customer service.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"While working in restaurants, I learned how to handle difficult customers and keep a positive attitude. Everyone wants to be heard. I learned to be patient and listen to customer's needs so I can provide them excellent service and make sure they leave happy."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Customer Service
12. How would you define excellent customer service?
How to Answer
Give a definition that shows you understand customer service and what it means to go above and beyond. You can also give a specific example of a time you provided excellent customer service, showing that you have the qualities the interviewer is looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Identifying the customer's needs is the first step to excellent customer service. Once I understand their needs and wants, I can assist them much better. Next, I give the customer what they need with a good attitude and always work to exceed their expectations."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Direct
13. Why are you leaving your current job?
How to Answer
When answering this question, you want to keep your answer upbeat. You must never talk badly about your previous job, employer, or coworkers, even if you were unhappy in your last position. And, it is not recommended to answer that you want to make more money or have better benefits. Explain how you want to advance in your career, work at a busier gym, or work closer to home. If you are a new trainer and are leaving your previous job because it was in an unrelated field, be sure to let the interviewer know that is the reason.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am leaving my previous job as a retail clerk because I recently obtained my Personal Trainer certification and I want to gain experience in my new career. I could not build up my clientele if I continued working at my previous job, even though I loved the company and the people I worked with. I want to work full-time as a trainer and put all my energy into this profession."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Direct
14. How would your former employer describe you?
How to Answer
Think about positive traits others use to describe you. Focus on the characteristics that are most valued as a personal trainer. If you have a letter of recommendation from your previous employer, use words they used to describe you. If you have a copy of the letter with you, now is an excellent time to offer it to the interviewer.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
" My former employer wrote me a letter of recommendation, and they described me as an empathetic trainer with a strong work ethic and positive attitude."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Direct
15. Why are you the best candidate for us?
How to Answer
Think about all of the other personal trainers who may be applying for the job. Think of what you have in common. You are all certified, have experience, and have a passion for fitness. Explain what you have to offer that will add value to the team and how you will meet and exceed expectations. Share qualities that will help you to be a better trainer. Your communication skills and knowledge about the human body are essential. If you have any techniques or accomplishments that will stand out to the interviewer, share them!
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am sure you are interviewing a lot of qualified trainers, but I believe I am the best candidate for you because I have a loyal clientele who will follow me to any place I work. I also average five new clients a month. These two revenue streams mean more money for the company and increased membership as well."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Direct
16. Why do you want to work for us?
How to Answer
At the heart of this question, the interviewer is looking for compatibility. They want to know that, besides your qualifications, you are a good fit for them, and that they are a good fit for you. So as you prepare to answer this question, think about your own career goals and what makes you satisfied at work, and think about what the company offers. Give an example that demonstrates your research and your synergy.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Before I applied for the job, I researched your gym and loved your mission statement. It seems we share the same values of offering a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming and non-intimidating environment. I talked with several employees and members when I took a tour of the gym, and everyone was so happy and kind. This is the exact environment where I want to work."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Direct
17. How did you hear about this position?
How to Answer
There are many ways for a company to advertise that they are looking for employees. The interviewer wants to see what methods work in attracting new candidates for the position. They also want to hear if you were referred by another employee or one of their gym members, which would look favorable for you.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I heard about the position on a Personal Trainer job board that I subscribe to. The job board is on my certifying agency's website that lists fitness jobs around the country."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Discovery
18. What do you like to do in your free time?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn more about your personality and what you like to do for fun. Your answer can be fitness-related or another type of hobby you enjoy doing. Give a few short examples.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"In my free time, I love to be outside playing with my two kids and dog. We go for walks and bike rides, play frisbee golf, and enjoy going to the river. I am also an avid reader and try to spend at least 30 minutes a day reading."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Discovery
19. If you could pick a different career other than personal training, which would you pick?
How to Answer
The interviewer may be interested in how you chose personal training. You may have considered physical therapy or nutrition. You might have considered a different field entirely. The interviewer wants to get to know you and your interests. If you have plans to work towards another career, share how this role will help you get there. You want to show that you are invested, even if this is something you plan to do for a short time.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I used to want to be a yoga teacher, but when I started learning more about the benefits of cardio and weight training, I decided to pursue my career in personal training. I think I will still get my yoga training certification to use with my clients, but I want to continue to focus on growing my client base as a trainer."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Discovery
20. What motivates you?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see your personality and what drives you to succeed and help others. For a trainer to motivate others, the trainer needs to have something that inspires them. It could be that you are motivated to help others achieve their health and fitness goals, that you are motivated by working as a team, or that you love being creative and developing new training and nutrition programs. Be sure your answer is relevant to the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am motivated when I can see incredible changes in my clients through my coaching efforts. When I hear stories about how their lab work has changed for the better, and they can cancel certain medications, or participate in their first-ever 5k, or have the stamina to play with their kids, that inspires me to keep doing what I am doing. I am motivated every day I go to work."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Discovery
21. Why did you decide to become a personal trainer?
How to Answer
Explain what motivated you to coach and train others. Give an example from your personal life or from your work experience that influenced your decision.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I used to work out at a gym by myself, wandering around trying different machines, and it felt kind of pointless. I started going to workout classes and eventually began to train. My personal trainer taught me more about my body than I ever thought I could learn at the time. I became interested in doing the same thing for others, coaching them and helping them achieve their goals as my trainer helped me."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Education
22. How do you keep your fitness knowledge up to date?
How to Answer
As an expert in the fitness industry, you will need to stay on top of the latest research. There is always new information out there exposing myths and uncovering the truth about which methods work. Explain what you're reading and any personal research that interests you regarding health and wellness.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am really interested in how nutrition can assist with weight loss. I strive to inform my clients about ways they can change their diet, without cutting out fat or calories. I receive newsletters with tips about diet trends and I seek out information on fitness blogs that I follow. I also stay up to date with my fitness knowledge through the continuing education units that are required to recertify every two years."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Education
23. Are you CPR certified?
How to Answer
Most gyms and fitness centers require their trainers to be CPR certified. They may hire you contingent upon the completion of your CPR training if you are not currently certified. If you have not taken a CPR course, you might want to consider signing up for one now. Working with clients in a fitness setting means there could be a risk of heart attack or another health issue that would require CPR knowledge. Be sure to find out if your gym requires it, and take the course!
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I am currently CPR, AED, and First Aid certified and have been for 20 years. I feel everyone should take the training because you never know when a loved one or someone around you may need your help."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Education
24. Tell me about your certifications.
How to Answer
Clearly, the interviewer can read your resume and see the certifications listed. They are more interested in hearing about your education and the training you may have completed to receive those certifications. The interviewer wants to see that you have the qualifications they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I received my Personal Trainer certification from International Sports Sciences Association. I have had my certification for ten years and recertify every two years as required. I am also a certified Nutritionist, which is beneficial when helping my clients with their meal plans. In addition to those certifications, I have my CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications through the American Red Cross."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Experience
25. What sales experience or training do you have? Would you be willing to get additional sales training?
How to Answer
As a Personal Trainer, you must promote yourself. Working in a gym environment, you will need to talk with members about why they will benefit from sessions with you. If you have no sales experience, respond with an enthusiastic, 'Yes, I would be happy to get some training!' Prepare for your interview by thinking about how you would sell your services. Think about how you would approach a client and how you would talk about your training sessions.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have never had any formal sales training, but I would be happy to learn. The only experience I have in sales is at the last gym I worked. When signing up new members, I would offer them a free training session, showing them the different packages I offer. I had 80% sign up after the first session, and I am proud of my success rate."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Experience
26. Tell me about your previous experience as a Personal Trainer.
How to Answer
Rather than recite everything on your resume, explain some of the highlights of your career. Share what you have learned works for clients, and give examples. Your success stories will speak volumes to the interviewer and help them to feel confident in your skills. If you are a newly certified trainer, explain that you are a new trainer and that you are excited for the opportunity to gain experience with the company you are interviewing with.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been a certified Personal Trainer for the past seven years. I started an outdoor boot camp with three individuals, and it has now grown to over 50 members. My primary focus is using variety in the workouts I design so my clients have fun while exercising. Although I have a successful boot camp, I am excited about the opportunity to work for your fitness center, where I can do one-on-one training with my clients who prefer personal training sessions."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Experience
27. Have you ever helped train a friend or family member? How did that work out?
How to Answer
When training a client, they come to your gym with the intention of working out and eventually achieving their fitness goals. When you train a friend or family member, it may not be as easy to get the same commitment from them. Describe any experience you have had with training a friend or family member.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Training a friend can be more difficult than training a client because we already have a relationship outside of the context of fitness. I tried to train a friend who wanted to lose weight, but it was hard to get the same commitment from them. We often ended up leaving the gym and going out to lunch instead."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Experience
28. Give me three essential exercises you would have any client do? Why are they in your top three?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know what type of trainer you are and what exercises you find essential to share with your clients. Make sure you explain the reason you chose the three exercises by talking about the benefits. Think about how these exercises could help anyone, whether they are in shape or new to fitness.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Squats, lunges, and push-ups. Each of these exercises aids in the basic functions of daily life. Strength, balance, and coordination are all gained through correctly executing these exercises."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Experience
29. What is your personal experience with fitness and working out?
How to Answer
Describe what inspired your fitness journey and share what you're working on now. If you are training for a triathlon, talk about your goals and how you can achieve them. If you have tried many different forms of exercise, share what you have found helpful. The interviewer wants to be sure that you are the kind of trainer that will take care of their own needs as well as helping others. You will be expected to lead by example.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been involved in fitness from an early age. My family is very active, and I grew up skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. Currently, I stay fit by working out at least five times a week and race mountain bikes on the weekends. There is no form of exercise that I do not like."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Problem Solving
30. How do you handle a disagreement with a coworker?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you have conflict-resolution skills and will be easy to work with. They want to see that you are mature enough to handle a disagreement without getting others involved unless necessary. Describe how you handle a dispute with a coworker and aim to resolve the issue.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"If I disagreed with a coworker, I would ask to speak to them privately so we could resolve the issue. I would stay calm, let them speak, and actively listen to what they had to say. I would ask them how we could resolve the issue and make sure they were happy when we were finished with the conversation."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Scenario Based
31. Having a current CPR card is part of the requirement to work here. What would you do if you showed up to work, and realized your CPR card had expired a month ago?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you are an honest person and can own up to an oversight or mistake. They do not want to hire someone they cannot trust to do the right thing. The best answer is to immediately let your supervisor know about the expired CPR card and work to resolve the issue promptly.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"If I realized my CPR card had expired, I would immediately let my supervisor know of my oversight and work to rectify the situation. I would not be able to work without it, so I would let my supervisor know that I would get online right away and get recertified. I would apologize for not realizing that the card had lapsed, and promise to be more alert in the future."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Scenario Based
32. What would you do if you saw a member of the gym using a machine incorrectly?
How to Answer
If a member of the gym uses a machine incorrectly, they could be injured. The interviewer wants to see if you step in and offer to show the member the correct way to use the machine or feel that it is not your responsibility. How you approach the member is also being evaluated when answering.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have had this happen frequently in my previous job. When I see a member using a machine incorrectly, I am worried they may hurt themselves. I approach them, introduce myself, and ask if I may show them a little trick with the machine to obtain better results. I try to be discreet, so I don't embarrass them in front of the other members. I explain that the machine will be more effective if they use it 'this' way, and I demonstrate how the machine is to be used. That method has been effective for me, and has even got me some new clients."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Teamwork
33. How would you handle a situation with an unhappy coworker?
How to Answer
When coworkers are unhappy, it can effect the mood of everyone. Describe how you can encourage and motivate your coworkers just as you do with your clients. Explain how you would approach your coworker and how you might remedy the situation.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would privately talk with my coworker and find out what was wrong. I try my best to be understanding and listen. If there were anything I could do to help, I would offer it. I would also try to be positive and make them laugh. It's important to have a positive work environment, and I do my best to contribute."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Trust
34. How would you describe your previous employer?
How to Answer
When answering this question, you want to keep your answer positive. You must never talk badly about your previous employer, even if you did not get along. When you speak badly about someone in an interview, it shows your character in a negative light. Think of positive traits that you liked about your previous employer, and describe why you enjoyed working with them.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"My previous employer was a positive, upbeat person. She was a great mentor and taught her employees the value of hard work and how to provide excellent customer service. I learned a lot from her and it wasn't easy to say goodbye, but I am truly excited to begin a new chapter in my life as a personal trainer."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Trust
35. What do you like least about your job as a Personal Trainer?
How to Answer
While most trainers love their job and would find it hard to describe what they like least, there are a few aspects of working as a Personal Trainer that are not enjoyable. Unreliable clients, irregular income, lack of sleep, keeping tax records, or clients who ignore the plans you work so hard to create for them. Remember to answer in a positive light despite the nature of the question.
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"It is hard to describe what I like least about working as a Personal Trainer because I enjoy my job. But it is tough when clients cancel at the last minute, or are no-shows. When that happens, I make the best of it and take care of other tasks that are in my day planner or put together new training programs."
Written by Krista Wenz on October 5th, 2021