Top 10 Highest Paid Personal Trainers in 2024
Learn from the highest paid personal trainers in the world including Gunnar Peterson, Harley Pasternak, Lou Ferrigno, and more.
Learn more about America’s highest-paid personal trainers and what makes them so successful. See why the highest earning personal trainers make, how much the celebrity personal trainers make, and what aspiring personal trainers can learn from the most successful personal trainers.
- Celebrity personal trainer salaries and earnings can be quite high, and often place them at the top of the highest paid personal trainer lists
- An expert personal trainer must be knowledgeable, innovative, and skillful.
- Highly-paid personal trainers are not just trainers. They juggle several roles.
- Trainers made it on our Top 10 list because of their optimal level of entrepreneurship, reputation, and results.
Then be sure to also check out our list of the richest fitness industry billionaires, the richest fitness influencers, and, of course, all of the ways that you can make money from fitness.
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From running online fitness challenges, to creating one of the best fitness influencer apps (check out the best white label fitness app software), to selling workout of the day memberships, to learning how to create a fitness app, to much more, there are many ways to make money with fitness, and with the Exercise.com platform you have the best online fitness coaching software and the best software for fitness influencers all in one! (Not to mention the best gym software and the best personal training software).
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Manage, message, and market to your online personal training clients and leads.
All from your very own custom branded fitness apps.
Highest Earning Personal Trainers
In researching who are the top ten highest-paid personal trainers in America and the highest-paid personal trainers in the world, one thing became clear very quickly: Highly paid trainers donāt publicize their annual incomes.
But, among famous and high-priced celebrity trainers, we can, with reasonable accuracy, name the top ten. Reading up on the curriculum vitae of the top personal trainers in the U.S., we ran into a recurring theme:
Almost without exception, the most sought after and well-known personal trainers donāt just earn their salaries solely as personal trainers (even though they can demand $300 or more per hour).
Their chief incomes come from being authors of self-help books, spokespersons and motivational speakers, merchandisers of their own products related to health and fitness, and even actors and models.
Top 10 Highest Paid Personal Trainers in America
Since we canāt get an accurate picture of their personal training income, we have new criteria for choosing the top ten highest-paid personal trainers. For the purpose of this blog article, we will focus on each trainer’s entrepreneurship, reputation, and results.
#1 ā Gunnar Peterson
Gunnar Peterson is the personal trainer for celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Angelina Jolie, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, J. Lo, and many others. Known for his witty humor and his charismatic way of winning people over, he has over 20 years of experience in the industry and has clients ranging from professional athletes to movie stars, to the guy next door.
He is one high-energy trainer that makes his workouts engaging and fun for the client. Theyāll get crowās feet from laughing! Peterson can be hired for personal appearances and for speaking engagements, and he has been featured in many different publications, such as Menās Health, Self, Glamour, US Weekly, InStyle, Fitness, and on network television as a guest expert on several talk shows.
To learn more about Gunnar, check out his website: https://www.gunnarpeterson.com/
#2 ā Harley Pasternak
Harley Pasternak is the personal trainer for Lady Gaga, Alicia Keys, Jessica Simpson, Orlando Bloom, Halle Berry, Miley Cyrus, Katherine Heigl, and Jimmy Fallon, just to name a few! Pasternak has a Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology.
He has authored a book on a diet he created ā 5-Factor ā and is a very enthusiastic spokesman for his own diet food product line called 5-Factor World Diet. He packs a suitcase of his 5-Factor bars when he travels, never missing an opportunity to bring them out.
Pasternak is highly intelligent, too. Right before Lady Gaga went onstage at the Grammy Awards, he facilitated a workout session with her. Why then? Because he knows that a strenuous workout boosts confidence and brings about mental clarity, and he wanted Lady Gaga to knock āem dead. That she did!
He also takes time to play spokesman for Coca-Colaās Fuze drinks and for New Balance shoes. Heās one busy guy who runs his enterprise like a Fortune-500 business.
#3 ā Lou Ferrigno
Lou Ferrigno is the personal trainer for many celebrities. He is also a bodybuilder and has won several titles, including Mr. Universe and Mr. America.
He has also been a television actor for the hit series The Incredible Hulk from 1977-1982. He has appeared on various sitcoms, such as Reno! 911 and The King of Queens. Ferrigno was a big-screen actor in films, such as the famous weightlifting classic movie Pumping Iron, plus Sinbad of the Seven Seas, I Love You, Man, Cage, and Cage II.
He has made many cameo appearances and done plenty of voice-overs in cartoons, and he has quite a few commercials to his credit as well. He has also appeared on countless magazine covers and in dozens of feature articles. He also has a merchandise line on his website, ranging from posters to DVDs to T-shirts. Of the personal trainers on this list, heās the only one with a fan club!
Ferrigno and his wife Carla, also a personal trainer, are noted philanthropists, giving of themselves generously for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Lou Ferrigno is definitely one of the good guys in the industry.
#4 ā Bob Greene
Bob Greene is the personal trainer for Oprah Winfrey, has authored several books, has created an online weight loss membership program called Best Life, and offers personalized diet plans for people ready to make changes in their diets and lifestyles. He also has a quality weight loss butter replacement product line, also known as Best Life.
He is helping many diabetics lose weight and improve their medical condition, thus saving their lives.
Greene has a loyal following of diet and fitness fans, plus the respect of the medical community for waging war on Type II Diabetes in America.
#5 ā David Buer
David Buer is the personal trainer for L.L. Cool J, Leonardo DiCaprio, Joey Lawrence, Tyler Perry, Cedric Boswell, and a long list of athletes, celebrities, and everyday folks.
Buer who, once upon a time, was an overweight little boy who didnāt speak English well and was bullied in school, now has a long list of certifications and credentials, and he has his seriously chiseled physique plastered on billboards around his base in Atlanta, GA.
After his own dream of competing on the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Team was destroyed in a serious auto accident, David developed techniques for helping people with post-injury and post-surgical physical rehabilitation.
#6 ā Mark Jenkins
Mark Jenkins is the personal trainer for Sean āP. Diddyā Combs, Mary J. Blige, Beyonce, Busta Rhymes, Missy Elliot, and many others in the biz. He has a line of nutritional supplements sold at GNC stores and a DVD called 90-Day Transformation.
He became the spokesperson for United Way in 2010 and has created a fitness program for children called Fun, Fly & Fit. He has been featured on the TV channels MTV, BET, and E! Entertainment, and in the publications Essence, Ebony, and Muscle and Fitness. He is the co-author of The Jump Off: 60 Days to a Hip-Hop Hard Body.
Jenkins is also the founder and co-owner of International Fitness, a company which specializes in physical training for performing artists.
#7 ā Michael George
Michael George is the personal trainer for many L.A. celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon, Julianne Moore, Meg Ryan, Christian Slater, Sela Ward, and Dennis Quaid. Heās the whole package and offers mind, body, and spirit transformation through blending Eastern and Western philosophies, yoga, martial arts, strength training, and core training, among other tools.
Earning dual degrees in both marketing management and communications, George is the consummate entrepreneur and has driven himself and his business into the spotlight with his highly successful total body fitness program. He calls his program āIntegrated Motivational Fitnessā and the results are phenomenal.
George has reached customers in more media platforms than his competitors after doing the following:
- Creating an iPhone app ā Intelitrainer ā for physical fitness training for busy people
- Introducing an Xbox 360 game called, Your Shape Evolved
- Authoring a book in 2005 titled,Ā Body Express Makeover: Trim and Sculpt Your Body in Less Than Six Weeks
#8 ā Joe DiAngelo
Joe DiAngelo is the personal trainer and monthly magazine column writer for Inside Fitness Magazine and bodybuilding.com. He is an internationally-known motivational speaker, fitness specialist, and nutritionist, as well as a former medaled swimming champion. DiAngelo was named the best personal fitness trainer by New York Magazine, Oxygen Fitness Magazine, and Newsweek.
He has a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology and is a sports psychology expert, teaching mental strategies to his clients to keep them in peak form both physically and mentally.
#9 ā Tracy Anderson
Tracy Anderson is the personal trainer for Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. She is also the creator of the Tracy Anderson Method of physical training, which is a Pilates-style program. Andersonās first workout studio opened in New Yorkās Tribeca in 2009, and her program is now worth $100 million.
She invented an exercise machine called the hybrid body reformer and has introduced many new exercise moves and stretches. She emphasizes low weights and a lot of reps; up to 60 for most clients, but 100 for Madonna, two hours a day, six days a week.
The workouts definitely do show on Madonna, who has never looked better, and is in her 60s! Anderson firmly believes in age-defying exercise and says that there is no excuse for anyone not to have a great body, even in old age.
#10 ā Danny Musico
Responsible for Leonardo DiCaprio’s physique in “The Fighter,” Hillary Swank’s physique in “Million Dollar Baby,” and Sylvester Stallone’s physique in “Rocky,” Danny Musico is often touted as the “Picasso of celebrity trainers.” These are just a few of the notable names that trust the former super middleweight boxing champion to keep them shredded.
Not only can Musico whip anyone into movie-star shape, but he motivates them as well by utilizing his experience as a motivational speaker. If motivational speaking and training A-list celebrities are not enough, Musico also has his own clothing line.
Whatās the Secret to Their Success?
Without a doubt, these top trainers know what theyāre talking about. Most of them have a degree in some sort of field pertaining to physical fitness or physiology. They have received certifications in everything from personal training, to nutrition, to being a first responder for ill or injured clients.
An expert personal trainer has to be knowledgeable about nutrition and fitness equipment, and innovative and skillful in motivating their clients to achieve their fitness goals.
So, it makes perfect sense that the top personal trainers write books, promote worthy product lines, and align themselves with celebrities. Their names are now well-known brands, just like the stars they sculpt!
What is the highest paying personal trainer job?
The highest paying personal trainer jobs are typically found in affluent urban areas or working with high-net-worth clients, including celebrities and professional athletes. Specializing in specific training methods or achieving advanced certifications in areas like sports performance or rehabilitation can also lead to higher earnings.
Read More: Highest Paying Fitness Jobs
Who is the richest personal trainer in the world?
The richest personal trainer in the world is difficult to pinpoint due to privacy and variations in income sources; however, celebrity trainers who have built their own fitness empires, including product lines and media presence, are among the wealthiest. Trainers like Tracy Anderson and Tony Horton have amassed significant wealth through their comprehensive fitness brands and endorsements.
Read More: Top Fitness Industry Billionaires
What kind of fitness instructor makes the most money?
Fitness instructors specializing in niche areas such as Pilates, yoga for rehabilitation, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) for athletes tend to earn the most. Instructors who expand their offerings to online classes, personal coaching, and creating their fitness products or programs also see higher earnings.
How much does Kim Kardashian’s trainer make?
While specific earnings are not publicly disclosed, celebrity trainers like those who work with Kim Kardashian can command high rates, potentially earning six-figure salaries or more, especially when their clientele includes multiple high-profile individuals and when they have their own branded businesses and media appearances.
Can you make $100,000 as a personal trainer?
Yes, making $100,000 as a personal trainer is achievable, particularly for those who work in major metropolitan areas, specialize in a niche market, manage their own business, or develop additional revenue streams such as online training programs, fitness writing, or public speaking at industry events.
Read More: Can you make $100,000 as a personal trainer?
Can you get rich as a personal trainer?
Becoming rich as a personal trainer is possible but requires diversifying income sources beyond hourly training sessions. Successful trainers often create fitness products, write books, engage in speaking engagements, or develop online training courses to significantly increase their earnings.
Who is the Kardashians’ trainer?
The Kardashians have worked with several trainers over the years, including Gunnar Peterson, Melissa Alcantara, and Don Brooks. Each trainer brings a unique approach, focusing on strength training, body sculpting, and high-intensity workouts tailored to their specific needs.
Can you become rich being a personal trainer?
Yes, it is possible to become rich as a personal trainer if you leverage your expertise into multiple income streams such as private training for wealthy clients, developing a recognizable brand, engaging in product endorsements, and utilizing digital platforms to reach a global audience.
How to become a celebrity personal trainer?
To become a celebrity personal trainer, start by building a strong foundation in fitness education and certification. Network in industry hotspots and work in high-profile gyms known for celebrity clientele. Develop a niche or signature training style and maintain a professional online presence to attract attention from potential celebrity clients.
Where can athletic trainers make the most money?
Athletic trainers make the most money working for professional sports teams, universities, and in private healthcare settings where they provide care for athletes. Positions in large, metropolitan areas or those involving managerial responsibilities also tend to offer higher salaries.
Who is the best personal trainer in the world?
Naming the best personal trainer in the world is subjective and depends on the criteria used, such as client results, innovation in fitness programming, or influence in the fitness industry. However, names like Joe Wicks, known for his accessible and effective fitness programs, are frequently mentioned among the top globally.
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How do personal trainers make so much money?
Personal trainers make substantial money by diversifying their income through private sessions, group classes, online coaching, fitness products, and sometimes endorsements or partnerships. Many successful trainers also develop their brands and reach through social media and fitness apps.
Is a personal trainer a good career choice?
Yes, being a personal trainer can be a good career choice if you are passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals. The profession offers flexible hours, the potential for high earnings, and the satisfaction of making a positive impact on others’ well-being.
Is becoming a personal trainer lucrative?
Becoming a personal trainer can be lucrative with the right strategy. Focusing on building a diverse client base, continuing education, and expanding into online and media opportunities are key factors that can lead to financial success in this career.
How much does the average personal trainer earn in the US?
The average personal trainer in the US earns approximately $42,000 per year, with a wide range depending on location, certifications, the scope of services provided, and whether they work independently or through a gym.
What are some ways to make money from fitness?
Ways to make money from fitness include personal training, group fitness classes, online coaching, fitness blogging or vlogging, selling workout plans, opening a gym or studio, and creating a fitness app. Additionally, selling fitness equipment or supplements can also be lucrative.
Read More: Ways to Make Money From Fitness
Who are the best male personal trainers?
Some of the best-known male personal trainers include Tony Horton, creator of P90X; Bob Harper, known for his role on “The Biggest Loser”; and Gunnar Peterson, a favorite among Hollywood celebrities. These trainers are recognized for their innovative approaches and successful client transformations.
Read More: Best Male Personal Trainers
Who are the best female personal trainers?
Notable female personal trainers include Kayla Itsines, co-creator of the BBG program; Jeanette Jenkins, known for her celebrity clientele and holistic approach to fitness; and Cassey Ho, founder of Blogilates. Each has built a strong online presence and successful fitness brand.
Read More: Best Female Personal Trainers
Who are the richest fitness influencers?
The richest fitness influencers often have large online followings and diverse income streams, including Kayla Itsines, Joe Wicks, and Simeon Panda. Their wealth typically comes from their training programs, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.
Read More: Richest Fitness Influencers
What are some of the highest paying fitness jobs?
Some of the highest paying fitness jobs include roles as directors of corporate wellness programs, fitness program directors at luxury resorts or cruise ships, and personal trainers for high-net-worth individuals or celebrities. Specializing in lucrative niches like sports performance or rehabilitation can also lead to higher earnings.
Read More: Highest Paying Fitness Jobs
How can I become a fitness influencer?
To become a fitness influencer, start by building a strong, authentic presence on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok. Focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that showcases your unique fitness philosophy and lifestyle. Consistency, engagement with followers, and collaboration with brands are crucial for growth.
Read More: How to Become a Fitness Influencer
Which personal training certification is the best one?
All of the various personal training certifications have different requirements, costs, study materials, exam details, recertification requirements, and continuing education credits (CECs) or units (CEUs). Itās important to do your homework and review all of the details before deciding on which one is best for you. The certifications that have been NCCA-accredited are more reputable than others that are not accredited because they have met a certain level of standards for the certification.
Read More: Best Personal Training Certifications
How can I start an online personal training business?
Starting an online personal training business involves getting the proper certification, setting up a user-friendly website, and using social media to attract and engage clients. Offer tailored workout and nutrition plans, use video for training sessions, and provide consistent support and motivation through digital platforms.
Read More: How to Start an Online Personal Training Business
What is the best software for personal trainers and fitness influencers?
The best software for personal trainers and fitness influencers includes platforms like Exercise.com, which offers tools for workout creation, client management, and business automation. These features help streamline the process of scheduling, tracking client progress, and managing payments, making it an ideal choice for fitness professionals looking to expand their reach and efficiency.
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