Here's how you can assess if Functional Training internships are the right career path for you.

1 Assess Passion

Your enthusiasm for fitness and helping others achieve their health goals is a key indicator of your potential success in a functional training internship. Reflect on your personal commitment to staying active and your interest in learning about the human body's functionality. If the thought of designing and implementing training programs that improve someone's quality of life excites you, this could be a sign that an internship in functional training is a good fit for your career path.

2 Career Goals

Consider how a functional training internship fits into your broader career objectives. Are you aiming to become a personal trainer, physical therapist, or strength and conditioning coach? An internship can offer a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities of these professions and help you gain the practical skills necessary to excel. Ensure that the internship will provide opportunities that align with where you see yourself in the future.

3 Internship Scope

Investigate the scope of the internship program to determine if it will provide the comprehensive experience you need. A quality functional training internship should offer a balance of observational learning, hands-on practice, and mentorship. You'll want to ensure that the program covers a wide range of functional training methods and principles, and that it will challenge you to grow both personally and professionally.

4 Learning Style

Your learning style is an important factor when considering a functional training internship. Do you thrive in a hands-on, dynamic environment, or do you prefer structured, classroom-based learning? Functional training internships typically involve a lot of active participation and on-the-job learning. If this type of environment stimulates you and matches your learning preferences, an internship in this field could be a beneficial step in your career.

5 Industry Demand

Research the demand for functional training specialists in the fitness industry. With a growing emphasis on holistic and preventative health, functional training expertise is becoming more sought after. Understanding the market demand can help you gauge the potential for job opportunities post-internship and may influence your decision on whether to pursue this path.

6 Mentorship Value

The value of mentorship in a functional training internship cannot be overstated. Having an experienced professional to guide you, provide feedback, and share industry insights is invaluable. Inquire about the mentorship component of the internship programs you are considering. A strong mentor can not only enhance your learning experience but also help you establish connections that could be beneficial for your future career in functional training.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?