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Notice: The NSCA website is scheduled to undergo system maintenance from 12:00 AM - 2:30 AM EST. During this time, there may be short service interruptions across the site and some parts of the site may not be accessible. We apologize for any inconvenience while we work to improve the website experience and security.
Some positions within the fitness industry can be tricky to classify. This article helps businesses decipher the difference between a hired employee and an independent contracted position.
Personal trainersLegal IssuesProfessional DevelopmentIndependent ContractorEmployeesTaxesAudits
Join the 2026 NSCA Performance Science Integration Summit in Austin, TX, on March 28. Explore applied sport science research, train hands-on, and earn 0.8 CEUs.
Little information is available for personal trainers in regards to differentiating the requirements and responsibilities of working as an employee or an independent contractor. Personal trainers and gym owners would benefit from understanding professional guidelines, details, and general knowledge of these two options.
Personal trainersOrganization and AdministrationIndependent ContractorPersonal Training
Join the 2026 NSCA Training Prescriptions for Overhead Athletes Summit in San Diego on March 28. Learn advanced biomechanics, train hands-on, and earn 0.8 CEUs.
Stay at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, host hotel for the 2026 NSCA
National Conference. Enjoy on-site amenities, our group rate, and downtown
access. Book now.
Join the 2026 NSCA Power Sports Performance Summit in Plainfield, IN, Sept. 26. Build explosive qualities with cueing, loading, + sport transfer. Earn 0.8 CEUs
Join the 2026 NSCA Exercise Techniques & Progressions Summit in Springfield, MA, on Sept. 26. Refine cues, progressions, and training adjustments. Earn 0.8 CEUs