Need input re: big decision

[Crankin]

I retired last year and also thought I would do the personal training thing. I even spent $400 to buy the study materials for the exam. However, as I started studying, I realized that I really didn't want to work in a health club; although there are plenty of trainers my age at my club, generally you don't get treated that well when you work in a gym. This is based on my ten years experience as a group exercise instructor. I thought really hard about what I wanted to do and decided to go back to school to become a clinical mental health counselor. I want to work with people dealing with eating, weight, health issues. Although it is going to take me 3 years to get the degree and another 2 years of working full time to be able to call myself "licensed," I feel much more comfortable in this role.
I am the same age as you and I say do what you want!

[Katie.Marie]

Go with your first instinct! It will never let you down. **See right now what are you thinking when I said that??*** THere is your answer

[Dogmama]

Go with your first instinct! It will never let you down. **See right now what are you thinking when I said that??*** THere is your answer

I cracked up when I read this!

You guys are THE BEST!!!!

I'm meeting with the dog trainer today, after telling her I had to think about this a little. I think I have my answer.

I have about $600 invested. In a year's time, or 10 year's time, it will seem like nothing. I certainly don't want to be miserable over $600. I've thought that the fitness industry was really cutthroat. I would have to start in a "big box gym" (love that!) because I have no clients and nowhere else to train. BUT, it hasn't been a total waste. I'll still get my cert because I'm really close to finishing my studies and I've learned a LOT about training me.

And yes, dog training is basically people training!

I remember sitting at my desk thinking that I'd sure rather be training dogs than working with faculty. Dogs are much easier. They work for cookies.

[Pedal Wench]

They work for cookies.

Personal trainers work because of cookies.

[tulip]

It sounds like you could always go back to the personal training, but the dog training opportunity is here and now.

It would be great to have a personal trainer who specializes in exercising with your dog. Now there's a market niche.

(From what I've seen at dog shows, alot of handlers could use some personal training...)

[sundial]

Well.....I might be biased but I'd vote for a career in dog training.

I used to be a certified aerobic instructor and while it was fun, I couldn't continue the pace and eventually dropped the fitness instruction. Gyms do seem to be geared for the younger market although the Baby Boomers do make up a larger market.

You obviously have a lot of working knowledge of showing and training dogs. I would think you would enjoy the challenge of helping dog owners establish a good relationship and enjoy the full benefits of responsible ownership.

[LBTC]

It would be great to have a personal trainer who specializes in exercising with your dog. Now there's a market niche.

I *love* this!

Sending lots of butterflies to help you through these next few weeks. Even when change is good, it's stressful, so hopefully the butterflies will help.....

H&B
~T~

[snapdragen]

It would be great to have a personal trainer who specializes in exercising with your dog. Now there's a market niche.

I was thinking this too! Kind of a Mommy and Me fitness training, only it's Doggie and Me.

**OK, let's bench press these Schnauzers....**

[Dogmama]

How about drafting a greyhound? 'Cept, he wouldn't point out the potholes

[carpaltunnel]

Personal trainers work because of cookies.

I need to hang that on the vending machine at work!!