Average Salaries

• The income for a personal trainer has a wide variance. According to Start a Personal Training Business, an online resource for getting into the personal training business, the average pay across the United States as of 2010 is between $34,000 and $48,000 per year. My Salary, a wage-earner website, indicates an average income of $52,924 a year. Salaries can reach $120,000 a year for trainers who own their own business.
  
  

Salary Variations

• Many factors contribute to the average pay of a physical trainer. Your geographic location is one of the key factors to income, reports the Start a Personal Training Business website. Places such as California, Texas, Florida and New York tend to pay better than northern Midwest states. Top cities for personal trainers include Washington, D.C., Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, New York and Boston. Other factors, such as years of experience, certification and education, can also have an impact on your salary.
  
  

Social Influences

• Cultural factors play a role in why California, Texas and Florida pay trainers better. For example, people in California are considered more aware of personal health and fitness. This mindset opens opportunities for more physical trainer business. In Florida, the influence may be a combination of more health awareness and the number of retirees wanting to maintain their health. You may have additional opportunities by specializing in senior programs. Older people have different exercise needs than other age groups, although seniors still need both cardio and weight training.
  
  

Emerging Opportunity

• Youth physical fitness is an emerging market for physical trainers. According to AltMD, many children are considered overweight or even obese. Parents are seeking the help of personal trainers. This program can be offered one-on-one or in group settings. To expand your income opportunities, consider specializing in the youth market.