If you've been to the gym recently, you may have noticed it's busier than usual. This isn't surprising: the UK's most-popular new year's resolution is to exercise more, which causes a January gym spike. Likewise, many of us vow to eat more healthily and seek the advice of health and fitness experts.
Whether you are a fitness instructor, nutritionist or dietician – working in health and fitness can be highly rewarding. According to figures from the Cabinet Office, it also improves personal wellbeing: the industry is ranked in the top five happiest places to work.
So, what do you need to succeed in the industry? Commitment is essential, says Daniel Selmann, HR manager for Fitness First. "We look for people who are extremely passionate about the industry and love what they do."
Similarly, you need to be able to analyse the latest scientific studies to find the best diet and fitness plan for clients, says Dr John Buckley, senior lecturer in exercise and nutrition at the University of Chester. "There are different fads in fitness and you will be able to evaluate the latest evidence to support your actions."
So, what is the best route to break into a career in health and fitness? And what skills do you need to work in this industry? Join us on Thursday 22 January from 1-3pm GMT for a live chat with the experts. We'll be discussing:
• How to break into a career in fitness
• Career options
• What qualifications and skills do you need
• How to make sure your health and fitness job applications are successful
The Q&A takes place in the comments section below this article. Taking part is easier than ever: you can create a free Guardian account, or log in using your Twitter or Facebook profiles to comment. Alternatively, you can tweet us @GuardianCareers or email your questions to charlotte.seager@theguardian.com who can post them for you.
Panel
Laura Williams is one of the UK's leading fitness experts. Laura has run her own personal training business since 2001 and regularly writes and comments on all things fitness for a wide range of national and international titles.
Neil Tune is a chartered fellow of the CIPD and has over 25 years HR experience leading teams recruiting and developing talent. He is the UK HR director for Fitness First – one of the largest employers in the Fitness Industry with just under 2,000 personal trainers.
Jo Travers is a registered dietitian and a media spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association. Her experience in the field includes time working in three NHS Trusts and five years in private practice as The London Nutritionist.
Nick Mitchell is the founder of Ultimate Performance, the leading Personal Training company with gyms in the UK, Europe and Asia. Nick has been a columnist in all the preeminent fitness magazines and is author of bestselling book: The 12 Week Body Plan.
Charlotte Ord has been twice named UK Personal Trainer of the Year and is the owner of two Surrey based fitness clubs. She is also the creator of the health and wellbeing app, Fitra.
Annemarie Aburrow is an expert dietitian and nutritionist, having worked in the NHS for eight years, followed by two years working self-employed. As well as advising clients privately, she has a growing project portfolio as a consultant dietitian.
Will Pike is an ex-personal trainer turned life and health mentor and holistic health writer. Will's Alignment approach teaches people to find health and fulfilment by listening to their own bodies and intuition.
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