Perceptions of fitness professionals regarding fitness occupations and careers: A phenomenological analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine fitness professionals’ perceptions of their profession and careers. Sixteen Portuguese fitnessinstructors (M age= 28 years old) took part in semi-structured interviews regarding their perceptions of their profession. The data was analysedthematically using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (Smith & Osborn, 2003). The participants were asked to consider topics like their professionalfunctions, profile and abilities; social, group and organizational factors; personal factors relating to their profession and the labour market; and theirjob’s social and financial prospects. From an analysis of the interviews, a comprehensive list of sentences was drawn up, expressing opinions and ideasby the interviewees. These were organized and included in pre-defined categories, leading to a network of sub-themes. This study has highlighted somecharacteristics specific to the profession that should be considered at a more general level, with significant implications on the professional guidancegiven to young people, in the organization of workflows, and in the training and organization of the professional activity as a whole.