Posted on 29 January 2024
As the Gladiators theme tune once again plays out in British living rooms, nostalgia is set to sweep the nation. After a lengthy hiatus, the cult TV show is making a triumphant return, rekindling memories of Saturday evenings spent marveling at the athletic prowess of Wolf, Jet, Hunter, and Lightning.
But there might be more to this revival than just entertainment. Could it have the potential to spark a surge in people considering a career switch to fitness? Gavin Baxter, Head of Business Development at Active IQ looks at the advantages of the industry and why personal training is a good career option.
The original Gladiators, a staple of 90s television, was more than just a show; it was a phenomenon that inspired an entire generation to value fitness and athleticism. It wasn’t merely about the competition but the embodiment of strength, agility, and determination – qualities fundamental in personal training. Fast forward to today, and the relaunch of Gladiators arrives at a time when career shifts are increasingly common, reflecting changes in personal priorities and societal values. The pandemic was a catalyst for many to reassess their career paths, seeking more fulfilling, flexible, and health-oriented professions. The fitness industry, and personal training specifically, stands out in this landscape.
The connection between Gladiators and personal training is more than just aesthetic. Both require a blend of physical prowess and the ability to motivate and inspire others. A Gladiator's ethos – discipline, resilience, and a commitment to personal bests – mirrors the core attributes of a successful personal trainer, but the profession itself offers much more than that:
1. Empowering others
Just as the original Gladiators encouraged a generation to embrace fitness, personal trainers have the unique opportunity to empower individuals. They help clients smash their fitness goals, improve health, overcome mental barriers, and transform their lives – an incredibly rewarding aspect of the job.
2. Flexibility and autonomy
In an era where work-life balance is paramount, personal training offers flexibility. You can set your hours, choose your clients, and in many cases, be your own boss. This autonomy is a significant draw for those transitioning from more traditional nine to five careers.
3. Continual learning
Just as Gladiators must adapt to different challenges, personal trainers must continually update their skills and knowledge. From nutrition to the latest fitness and wellness trends, learning never stops, keeping the job fresh and exciting.
4. Community and connection
Being a personal trainer is about building relationships. It's about creating a community, much like the Gladiators did with their audiences. These connections can be deeply fulfilling, both personally and professionally.
5. Physical and mental wellbeing
This career is not only about improving clients' fitness; it's also beneficial for your physical health and mental wellbeing. It’s a career that keeps you active and engaged, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
6. Inspiring transformation
The transformation stories in Gladiators are about strength and overcoming obstacles. Personal trainers witness and guide these transformations every day, making a real impact on people's lives.
A rewarding career path
For those contemplating a career switch to personal training, or even gym and fitness instructing, the timing couldn’t be better. The return of Gladiators is a powerful reminder of the joy and benefits of physical fitness, not just as a hobby but as a rewarding career path.
But the journey to becoming a personal trainer doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. Accredited courses and qualifications are readily available. These programmes not only equip you with the necessary fitness and physical activity knowledge but also teach essential skills for client management and business management.
As we tune in to watch the new generation of Gladiators, it’s a chance to reignite our passion for fitness and wellness, and perhaps consider a path that leads to the gym floor and other forms of physical activity rather than the office desk. For those who are inspired, or have always had a passion for health and fitness, now’s the time to step into the arena.
Whether you’re interested in one-on-one coaching, group exercise classes, specialised training, like Pilates or Yoga, or even online coaching, there’s a niche for every aspiring trainer. The return of Gladiators isn’t just a blast from the past; it’s an opportunity to look to the future and turn a passion for fitness and wellness into a fulfilling career, inspiring others, and making a real difference in their lives.
If this month’s blog has inspired you to start your career within the physical activity and fitness industry, Active IQ can help. We have over 500 approved training providers across the UK and internationally who provide accredited training to set you on the path to success. If you’ve already started your journey and are looking to upskill and take your career to the next level, our training providers can support you with your ambitions. For further details on finding your nearest Active IQ approved training provider, please email csteam@activeiq.co.uk