Potatoes! That’s the first thing many associate with Idaho. But this Rocky Mountain state is also home to millions of acres of wilderness and over 70 types of gemstones. Plus, it ranked 17th overall on the 2024 America’s State Health Rankings report.
Help your fellow Gem State residents improve their health and fitness by becoming a personal trainer in Idaho! Here’s what you need to get started:
- Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
- A current CPR/AED* certification
- A recognized personal trainer certification
- Liability insurance
*Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) / Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
While these are not all official legal requirements, they are the accepted industry standards. Meet these minimums, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful fitness career.
Age Requirements for Idaho Personal Trainers
You must be at least 18 years old to become a personal trainer in Idaho. This is primarily because being 18 with a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite for taking the certifying exams.
Learn the CPR and AED Certification Requirements in Idaho
Personal trainers in Idaho typically need to have an adult CPR/AED certification to work in most fitness facilities. Plus, personal trainer certification programs usually require you to have this certification before you can take the final exam.*
Depending on individual gyms ‘ policies, you may also need to have child and infant CPR and/or first aid credentials. These are often combined with and/or provided by the same organizations as the standard adult CPR class, like The American Red Cross.
CPR training is typically offered online, in a classroom, or hybrid settings. However, the trainer certification agencies typically require a hands-on evaluation via an in-person or blended course.
For further information about CPR/AED training and where to find a class, check out:
*The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) states that all personal trainer certifying bodies accredited by the NCCA must require CPR/AED certification.
Additional Education
You don’t need a four-year degree to start your career as a personal trainer, but additional education in fields like kinesiology and exercise science can boost your resume. Especially if you want to pursue leadership or other specialized roles.
Some higher education programs in Idaho include:
- Exercise, Sport, and Health Sciences, University of Idaho
- Sport and Exercise Science, Idaho State University
- Kinesiology, Boise State University
Explore Personal Trainer Certifications in Idaho
Most fitness centers prefer hiring personal trainers with certifications from an NCCA-accredited training program. Many recognized certified personal trainer (CPT) programs offer this accreditation.
Pro Tip: Some CPT programs have an open-book or remote exam option. These exams are typically not NCCA-accredited, and therefore may not be accepted at all fitness facilities.
Some of the most common personal trainer certifications in Idaho include:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
To find the best course for you, check out our review of popular CPT programs.
Get Idaho Personal Trainer Liability Insurance
Like in most states, you’re responsible for carrying your own liability insurance in Idaho.
Some larger gyms may cover your work under their liability policy, if you’ve been hired as an actual W2 employee. However, the company could still want you to have your own liability policy regardless of the facility itself’s coverage.
If you’re self-employed or hired as an independent contractor, you will need your own personal trainer liability insurance to protect you from expensive claims stemming from — real or perceived — client accidents, injuries, and other damages.
Fast Facts About Personal Training in Idaho
Personal trainer pay in Idaho averages $27.60 per hour. Some of the best areas for personal trainers include Lewiston ($29.37/hour), Idaho Falls ($28.18/hour), and Coeur d’Alene ($28.65/hour)*
If you hire at least one employee, you may be required to carry workers compensation insurance in Idaho**
Idaho ranked 17th overall on the 2024 America’s State Health Rankings report
Average cost Idaho personal trainers pay with Insurance Canopy: $15.71/month
*From ZipRecruiter
**Insurance Canopy offers workers’ compensation insurance as a separate coverage! Get a free quote.
FAQs About Personal Trainer Certification in Idaho
How Much Does It Cost to Become a Personal Trainer in Idaho?
It will likely cost between $400 and $1,000 (depending on the course) for the course itself, study materials, the final exam, and CPR/AED classes.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Certified Personal Trainer?
Anywhere between one and eight months, depending on how much time you have to study each day. Most programs range from 3 to 6 months.
Where Can I Find Personal Trainer Jobs in Idaho?
Beyond applying to jobs online, leverage your network and talk to local studios, gyms, community centers, and other fitness facilities.
Chain or big box gyms:
Local and/or municipal locations:
- Senior centers
- Community centers
- Retirement communities
- Corporate wellness programs
Boutique studios, independent gyms, and others like:
- Jack City Fitness, Boise
- Kova Strength, Idaho Falls
- American Strength and Performance, Coeur d’Alene
Resources for Personal Trainers in Idaho
Personal Trainer Certification Reviews
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
- Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
- National Association for Fitness Certification (NAFC)
- National Aerobics and Fitness Trainers Association (NAFTA)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)
