Fixated on Fitness

Have you noticed everyone’s got a new fitness goal these days? Whether it’s finishing a half-marathon, pushing PBs in CrossFit, clocking steps on a smartwatch, or prepping macro-balanced meals for Instagram—fitness culture in Australia is more alive than ever.

And it’s more than a trend. It’s a necessary response to a national health challenge. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), over two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese—a figure expected to rise without proactive health measures. Add to that an ageing population and a greater focus on mental wellbeing, and it’s clear: we need more qualified fitness professionals now and into the future.

Australia’s Fitness Industry: From Fad to Full-Time

Fitness isn’t just a personal passion anymore—it’s a thriving career path. Industry participation rates have climbed steadily in recent years, and the market is valued at over $3 billion annually in Australia. From boutique gyms to outdoor bootcamps and online coaching platforms, there’s a place for trainers across a wide variety of settings.

In fact, fitness instructors are listed among Australia’s national skills priority areas, with employers seeking graduates who combine technical knowledge with communication and motivation skills.

Why People Are Switching to Fitness Careers

More Australians are turning to fitness as a second career or flexible side hustle. Why?

• Flexible hours: Work around your lifestyle, not the other way around.
• Work that matters: Help others improve their mental and physical health.
• Industry growth: Opportunities in group fitness, one-on-one training, online coaching, workplace wellness, and more.
• Job satisfaction: A recent survey showed high levels of satisfaction across sport, fitness, and wellness professionals.

If you’re always raving about your latest PB, meal prep hack, or yoga pose—it may be time to channel that passion into a rewarding profession.

Fitness Career Pathways: Find Your Niche

Whether you see yourself coaching athletes or helping everyday Australians move better, the fitness industry is full of opportunities to specialise. Here are a few in-demand pathways:

• Group fitness instructor – Lead high-energy classes at gyms, schools, or studios.
• Personal trainer – Tailor training programs to help individuals achieve their goals.
• Strength and conditioning coach – Support athletes and sports teams with performance training.
• Wellness coach – Focus on holistic health, including movement, mindset, and nutrition.

Institutions like the Australian College of Physical Education (ACPE) offer nationally recognised programs, from Certificate III and IV in Fitness to degrees in Sport and Exercise Science.

ACPE: Training Australia’s Future Fitness Leaders

Founded in 1912, ACPE is one of Australia’s longest-standing institutions in health and physical education. With a strong focus on practical learning and industry relevance, it has launched the careers of fitness professionals who have worked with elite athletes, major sports teams, and wellness brands.

Graduate Rob Rowland-Smith—who has trained champions like Kelly Slater and Layne Beachley—says the hands-on learning experience at ACPE shaped his career. “They focus on more than just academics. Studying helped me realise how much I loved sharing fitness with others and watching them grow,” he says.

See ACPE’s current fitness course offerings.

Want to Start Your Fitness Career? Here’s How

Whether you’re fresh out of school or ready to change careers, you can get qualified to work as a personal trainer, coach, or wellness professional in under 12 months. Entry-level fitness packages like the Certificate III + IV in Fitness allow you to train clients, lead classes, and run your own business.

Many programs are offered online with flexible study options—so you can learn while you work, train, or raise a family.