Raising the Standard: The True Role of the Fitness Professional
By Erik Schreiber, MS, CPT – Founder, NSFTA
Tagline: Together, We Raise the Standard.
Let’s be honest—our industry has a perception problem.
Say the word “trainer,” and too often, the image that comes to mind is a stopwatch, someone counting reps, shouting clichés, and then scrolling through their phone during rest periods.
That’s not a fitness professional. That’s a warm body in a logo tee.
At the NSFTA, we believe the role of the fitness professional is much more than that—it’s admirable, transformative, and desperately needed. And it’s time we start acting like it.
More Than Sets and Reps
The true fitness professional is a difference-maker. We impact lives physically and mentally, helping clients:
Move better
Feel stronger
Rebuild self-belief
Reduce pain
Increase energy and performance
Regain confidence and autonomy
We’re the first line of defense against chronic disease, stress, and self-doubt. That’s not a small job. That’s a responsibility.
Show Up Like It Matters (Because It Does)
If you’re scrolling Instagram mid-session, mentally checking out, or treating this as a side gig until “something better” comes along—you’re missing the point.
Our clients are trusting us with their bodies, their time, and often, their insecurities. That’s not something to take lightly.
Here’s what we believe real fitness professionals should be doing:
Staying engaged during every session
Leading with purpose and presence
Setting healthy boundaries, but still caring deeply
Honing their skills continuously
Taking pride in the craft of coaching
Bringing value to every single rep
Pride + Intentionality = Impact
I’ve built a 7-figure fitness business, not because I know everything—but because I approach this profession with intention, curiosity, and consistency. And I teach my team to do the same.
I study. I refine. I experiment. I lead.
Not to impress, but to serve better—and that’s what this industry needs more of.
Dispelling the Myths, Redefining the Role
Being a Fitness Professional is not a fallback job.
It’s not a “plan B.”
It’s not a hobby with a t-shirt and a playlist.
It’s a powerful career—one that can change lives, and if done right, build legacy-level businesses.
The NSFTA exists to raise the standard of our industry.
Because we believe every trainer has the potential to be a consummate professional —and we’re here to help you become exactly that.
Final Thoughts
It’s time to shift the culture.
It’s time to lead with pride.
It’s time to stop settling for mediocrity and step into mastery.
Let’s raise the standard—together
