Degrees and Certificates - Click for Program Outline:
Enrollment: Fall, Winter, Spring
Program Description
The Health/Fitness Technician program is a two-year professional technical curriculum offered at Spokane Falls Community College. This program is designed for students who are looking toward a career in the health/fitness industry. Students who complete the two-year program and receive an associate in applied science degree (AAS) can enter the job market immediately. Students interested in transferring to a four-year college can utilize an articulation agreement with Eastern Washington University. This agreement allows students the option of transferring directly into the Exercise Science program at EWU.
Certification for fitness professionals, with its emphasis on safety, reliability and high standards, is required in most fitness facilities. The HFT program prepares students for the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s personal trainer exam. The NSCA-CPT exam is the only accredited personal trainer exam in the nation. SFCC is a host site for this national exam in June and December each year.
The HFT program provides instruction in professional areas such as exercise physiology, anatomical kinesiology, sports nutrition, care and prevention of injuries, functional training, personal training, health screening, and exercise prescription. Related courses include stress management, therapeutic massage, first aid/ CPR and exercise for older adults.
Students interested in athletic training can work with experienced college trainers. Students can gain valuable experience working with a wide variety of sports and athletes.
Program Goals
Upon completion of the program students should be able to:
- Sit for the National Strength and Conditioning Association's Certified Personal Training exam.
- Obtain employment as a fitness professional.
- Perform a variety of tasks related to health and fitness including, but not limited to, matching the appropriate exercise for each of the major muscle groups, demonstrate proper exercise technique, carry out basic health and fitness assessments, and develop exercise programs for a variety of clientele.
- Exhibit professional behaviors which include empathy, respect, communication skills, and ethics.
Career Opportunities
Job opportunities in the fitness industry are increasing in response to an expanding fitness market. A recent survey published in the Journal of Business reported that the number of full-time fitness jobs has increased to approximately 300. There are about 400 part-time jobs in the Spokane/Coeur d’Alene area. The most recent increases are in the areas of personal training, youth fitness, and programs for the elderly. The average starting wage for a HFT student with a two-year degree is between $8 and $10 an hour. Certified personal trainers can earn $15 to $30 an hour depending on the health club.