How to Become a Sports Instructor

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Sports are complex athletic activities that involve a variety of methods, strategies, rules, and regulations. Sports instructors are specially trained athletic professionals that provide instruction on many different sports to a variety of athletes.

What does a sports instructor do?

Sports instructors explain the fundamentals and rules of many different types of professional and nonprofessional sports such as swimming, bowling, skiing, golf, tennis, karate, and gymnastics. They often provide individual and group instruction and they coordinate, teach, train, and direct athletes in a variety of ways. They provide classroom instruction using a variety of teaching methods such as textbooks, illustrations, models, and demonstrations. They organize many different exercises, drills, and other activities to help improve athletes’ performance and strengthen their techniques. Some provide instruction using training equipment such as weights or trampolines. They sometimes hold daily practices and supply the necessary supplies and equipment. Sports instructors often work with athletes one-on-one to create individual training plans. Many sports instructors specialize in a particular sport or activity.

What kind of training does a sports instructor need?

Sports instructors typically need a bachelor degree in sports physiology, physical education, or other related field and sufficient experience in a particular sport. Prospective sports instructors often complete courses in sports science, kinesiology, physiology, fitness, nutrition, sports medicine, and physical education. Sports instructors must also have an extensive understanding of the how to play the sport and the related strategies, rules, and regulations. Many sports instructors have several years of experience participating in a variety of community and school sports. Most employers require sports instructors to be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Some employers require sports instructors to obtain formal certification. Sports instructors complete continuing education and additional training as needed throughout their careers.

What are the prospects for a career as a sports instructor?

Employment of sports instructors is expected to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 23% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in a variety of sports will drive job growth.

Job prospects are expected to be very good especially for sports instructors with advanced training and extensive experience. Some job openings will result from the need to replace sports instructors that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.

How much do sports instructors make?

As of February 2010, sports instructors with 1 to 4 years experience earn average annual salaries between $28,648 and $68,784 (2).

A career as a sports instructor is a great choice for people with a strong interest in sports and providing instruction to a variety of athletes. Sports instructors must have a solid understanding of the concepts, rules, and regulations of the sport they teach. Physical stamina, determination, patience, self-confidence, and good problem solving skills are necessary characteristics. Sports instructors must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to interact, lead, and motivate a variety of individuals.

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