Need a job? Personal training jobs on the rise despite economic concerns

CLEVELAND - We live in tight times and many people have had to find second jobs in order to make ends meet. Others have been laid off and are starting over from scratch. With the obesity problem in the country, there's one career that is in high demand. People are training to be personal trainers.

"Gyms are looking for people, chiropractors are looking for people, wellness centers and medical facilities are looking for personal trainers" student Cheryl Sullivan said.

After years in education, Cheryl Sullivan is in school at the National Personal Training Institute of Ohio to be a personal trainer. A shoulder injury required help from a trainer. Sullivan said she was so impressed it made her second guess her job.

"I thought to myself what do I really want to do? I have all my educational skills. I could apply that to personal training," Sullivan explained.

According to the Department of Labor, the number of personal trainers grew by 44 percent in 2010 and 2011. That's why so many unemployed Americans are trying to transform their passion for fitness into a new career.

Rich Samera has been a personal fitness trainer for 6 years. He said the need for improved health hasn't been affected by the economy.

"Fitness isn't necessarily a fad. Someone you know is overweight, needs help, the demand is always going to be there," Samera explained.

Surprisingly, the fitness industry is one of the few growing businesses since the recession began adding nearly 10 million jobs and gym members since 2007.

The career possibilities make Sullivan believe this is the right path for her.

"You can earn a base salary starting around $40,000. You can go on your own and charge your own rate. It's flexible," Sullivan explained.