For those of us who are passionate about sports, physical activity, and fitness, opening a gym is a recurring idea that many of us have had at some point. Starting a business in the world we love is exciting, and at companies like BodyTone, we often see many entrepreneurs who decide to venture into this kind of project. However, one of the most common questions that arises is whether a qualification is required to open a gym. In this article, we’re going to answer this question in a simple way, but with some important details to keep in mind.
Is a qualification required to open a gym?
The answer is simple: no specific qualification is required to open a gym. Anyone who wants to become an entrepreneur can do so, as long as they comply with the legal and technical steps, such as choosing a suitable location, preparing the space, and equipping it properly. No formal education is required to be the owner of a gym.
The importance of qualifications in gym management
Now, just because a qualification is not required to open a gym doesn’t mean that having the right knowledge to manage and operate the business isn’t important. Although you can open a gym without a qualification, the people who work inside the gym performing specific tasks like activity supervision, training, or sports advice must have professional training. In this sense, to perform duties as a gym instructor or fitness trainer, it is essential to have an official qualification that supports it.
What qualifications are needed to work as a gym instructor?
If your intention is to work as an instructor or trainer in the gym, you’ll need a qualification that allows you to perform those duties. The most common qualifications are:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences (CAFD): This degree lasts 4 years and is the most comprehensive for those who want to become professional trainers or take on sports management roles.
- Professional Training as a Sports Technician: This is a 2-year program, followed by 4 months of complementary pedagogical training. This qualification allows you to work as an instructor in various sports disciplines.
- Official Certificate of Professionalism: Some courses and programs offer official certification that enables professionals to work in the sports field.
It’s important to know that, in the event of a labor inspection at your gym, one of the main aspects that will be checked is whether the employees responsible for sports activities have the proper official qualifications.
How to start a business without a qualification?
If you don’t have one of the aforementioned qualifications but still want to start a business in the fitness sector, you have several options:
- Open your own gym and hire qualified personnel: You can manage the business, handle marketing, administration, and other commercial aspects, while hiring certified professionals to conduct classes and provide sports guidance.
The most important thing is that the professionals you hire have the right qualifications for each specific task they’ll perform in the gym. These qualifications must align with the responsibilities of each employee, and this should be clearly reflected in the gym’s business plan, something we explain in other posts on our blog.
Getting qualified to work in the gym
If you want not only to be the owner of the gym but also get involved directly in its sports activities, you can obtain the necessary qualifications to work as an instructor. Here are several training options you can consider:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Activity and Sports Sciences (CAFD): This 4-year degree prepares you to be a well-rounded professional in the sports world. Formerly known as INEF, this program will give you the knowledge and skills to work as a personal trainer or manage a sports center.
- Professional Training as a Sports Technician: If you prefer a shorter option, this program lasts 2 years plus 4 months of pedagogical training. It’s a great choice for those who want to start working quickly in the sector.
- Specific certificates: There are more specialized qualifications related to specific fitness areas, such as Fitness and Strength Training Instructor, Personal Training, or Group Fitness Instructor. These courses, offered by public and private institutions, are a good option for specialized training in more focused areas of sport and fitness.
It’s advisable to research the available options and choose the training that best suits your interests and professional goals. Many of these certifications can be completed either in person or online, allowing you to adapt them to your needs.
