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Health & Wellness Management

Image of female helping male with exercise training.

Department: Health & Wellness Management

Program Type: Health Professions


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Overview

For aspiring Group Fitness Instructors or Personal Trainers, ECC’s Health and Wellness certificate program prepares students to succeed. These professionals promote, develop, and implement health and wellness routines. Students interested in the Health and Wellness certificate(s) should see an academic advisor or program director to create an educational plan. The curriculum utilizes materials from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) for personal training and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) for group fitness instructors. The Health and Wellness certificates prepare graduates to take any nationally accredited certification exam for personal trainers and/or group fitness instructors. Classes offer solid knowledge in anatomy, physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, and hands-on experiences to enhance practical skills. 

ECC’s program is ideal for recent high school graduates, adults changing careers, or those seeking a quicker path toward working credentials. Health and wellness professionals are integral in promoting, developing, and implementing health and wellness programs. Certified personal trainers and group fitness instructors design customized fitness programs for active and fit people working towards more excellent fitness and sedentary individuals striving to become active, as well as the elderly and overweight. The workplace is varied and may include athletic clubs, schools, health/fitness clubs, YMCAs/YWCAs, clients’ homes, and private studios with one-on-one sessions and small or large groups.

If you're passionate about fitness and enjoy helping others feel their best—make it your career!

Get additional information, including course listings and class descriptions.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The future employment outlook for Personal Trainers and Group Trainers is positive. The demand for health and wellness professionals is expected to grow as the population ages and the need for preventative health care increases. Additionally, the trend toward integrating wellness programs into the workplace is expected to continue, resulting in a greater need for professionals with expertise in this area. Job opportunities are expected to be available in various settings, including health care facilities and corporate wellness programs. Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding related occupations and compensation.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the health and wellness management plan of study and course descriptions.

Basic Vocational Certificates

What does a Personal Trainer do?


A personal trainer is a fitness professional who works with individuals to help them achieve their health and fitness goals. Their primary duties include:

  • Conducting initial consultations to assess the client's fitness level, health history, and personal goals.
  • Adjusting programs as clients progress or as their goals change.
  • Demonstrating proper techniques and form to prevent injury and maximize effectiveness.
  • Encouraging clients to stay committed to their fitness routines.
  • Keeping detailed records of clients' progress, including workouts, measurements, and improvements.

Personal Trainer Certificate

Personal Trainers instruct individuals in exercises, relying on their knowledge of physiology to determine the type and difficulty of the exercise, specific movements, and correct form. Students who pursue this option earn a Basic Vocational Specialist certificate in Personal Training. The program at ECC prepares students for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Personal Trainer certification exam. Personal trainers typically instruct individuals in beginning or advanced exercises, relying on their knowledge of physiology to determine the type and difficulty level of training, specific movements, and form correction. Trainers often demonstrate exercises and equipment, offering individualized guidance and encouragement. Graduates work by helping others and developing individualized fitness and exercise programs. See details about the salary and job opportunities in personal training and individual coaching on the ECC Career Coach site.

What does a Group Fitness Instructor do?

A group fitness instructor is responsible for leading and instructing exercise classes for groups of people. Their primary responsibilities include:

  • Designing and planning workouts that are safe, effective, and enjoyable.
  • Creating routines that cater to different fitness levels and participants' goals.
  • Selecting appropriate music to enhance the workout experience.
  • Demonstrating exercises and techniques to ensure participants perform them correctly and safely.
  • Monitoring participants during the class to ensure they perform exercises correctly and safely.

Group Fitness Instructors Certificate 

Group fitness instructors teach classes for groups of various fitness levels. They design classes to deliver memorable experiences for the participants, helping them to achieve their health and fitness goals. ECC's program prepares students to lead, instruct, and motivate groups in exercise activities. This role involves designing and implementing workout routines, ensuring safety and proper technique, and fostering a supportive and energetic environment. Students seeking the Group Fitness Instructor option can earn a Basic Vocational Specialist certificate. 

Personal Trainers and Group Fitness Professionals are in Demand

Whether you are interested in working as a Personal Trainer or Group Fitness Instructor, Our program is designed for students to learn hands-on skills and gain experience helping participants achieve their fitness goals. You'll have the knowledge you need to become certified as a personal trainer or group fitness instructor. Students who pursue this field earn a Basic Vocational Specialist certificate. Areas in this field include fitness instructor, wellness specialist, individual personal trainer, or group fitness professional; You can contact our admissions office for more information

 

Learn more about the Health Wellness Management department at ECC!

Earning a Basic Vocational Certificate at Elgin Community College can set your career in motion.

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

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Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Health & Wellness Management Program

Building A, Room A153.06
847-214-7203
healthwellnessinfo@elgin.edu