Description: Personal trainers are strength and conditioning coaches who lead, instruct, and motivate individuals or groups. They set goals, develop programs, provide feedback and accountability, and perform fitness assessments.

Knowledge Required: Most trainers require certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid, and have extensive knowledge of nutrition, human anatomy, and exercise techniques.

Skills: Customer service, verbal and written communication, motivation, physical fitness, problem-solving

Career Path: Personal trainers obtain degrees in fields related to health or fitness, such as exercise science, kinesiology, or physical education. Personal trainers also become certified and obtain licenses in various fitness disciplines.

Best Cities for this job: New York City, Miami, San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco

Median Annual Income: National: $31,720 CA: $64,230

Future Growth: Employment of fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 13 percent from 2012 to 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

From the field:  “In this profession, the more languages you speak, the more viable you are, and I think that’s true for any profession.” – Tiffany Ann Fields

Did You Know: On average, every minute you walk extends your life by one and a half to two minutes.