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Published on: May 1, 2018
Personal Trainer Demographics, Current Practice Trends and Common Trainee Injuries
Gregory R Waryasz1, Alan H Daniels1, Joseph A Gil1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University , Providence, RI.
Most personal trainers have exercise degrees and certifications, yet practices vary widely. This study identifies common client injuries, highlighting potential gaps in trainer education and its impact on exercise prescription effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Science
- Sports Medicine
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Growing interest in healthy lifestyles increases demand for personal trainers.
- Limited research exists on personal trainer education, practices, and client injury trends.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing client safety and training efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey personal trainers regarding their education, certifications, and observed client injuries.
- To identify common injuries encountered by personal trainers during client sessions.
- To explore potential correlations between trainer qualifications, practices, and injury incidence.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed online to 605 personal trainers.
- Data collected included educational background (bachelor's degree in exercise-related fields) and personal training certifications.
- Participants reported the most frequent injuries observed in their clients.
Main Results:
- 89.0% of trainers held a personal training certification; 64.2% had an exercise-related bachelor's degree.
- Top certifications included American College of Sports Medicine and National Strength and Conditioning Association.
- Most common injuries: lumbar muscle strain (10.7%), rotator cuff issues (8.9%), shin splints (8.1%), ankle sprains (7.5%), and cervical muscle strain (7.4%).
Conclusions:
- Significant variability exists in personal trainer education and certification backgrounds.
- Observed injury patterns suggest potential areas for improved training and practice standardization.
- The clinical implications of practice variations on injury rates and exercise effectiveness require further investigation.
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