Core Viewpoint - The rapid growth of the fitness market has led to an influx of fitness coaches, but concerns about their professionalism and qualifications have emerged, resulting in a lack of trust among fitness enthusiasts [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Issues - The fitness coaching industry is experiencing a surge in unqualified coaches due to low entry barriers and a lack of standardized certification, leading to varying levels of expertise among trainers [1][2]. - The prevalence of "quick training" programs for fitness coaches poses significant risks, as unprofessional coaches may fail to create effective training plans and could even provide harmful guidance, resulting in injuries and undermining clients' fitness progress [2]. - The industry's chaotic growth and regulatory gaps have led to a decline in consumer trust, which could harm the overall reputation of the fitness sector and hinder its sustainable development [2]. Group 2: Recommendations for Improvement - Establishing a strict entry system for fitness coaches is essential, including clear requirements for professional knowledge, skills, and qualifications to prevent unqualified individuals from entering the field [3]. - A standardized training framework should be implemented, with oversight of training institutions to ensure quality and relevance in both theoretical and practical training [3]. - A comprehensive certification management system is needed, including unified standards for issuing certificates and regular reviews to maintain the credibility and authority of fitness coaching qualifications [3].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the mismatch between the increasing number of university sports students and the actual demand for fitness coaches in the industry, highlighting the need for better alignment between education and industry requirements [4][20][26]. Group 1: Current State of Fitness Coaching Industry - The fitness coaching industry in China is facing a talent shortage, with 48% of fitness coaches lacking a professional background, leading to concerns about the overall quality of coaching [4][20]. - The educational background of fitness coaches is diverse, with 41.1% holding a bachelor's degree, while 33.8% have a college diploma, and 18% have a high school or vocational education [20][22]. - Despite the influx of university sports students, only about 10% of them pursue careers as fitness coaches, with many opting for roles in education or other fields [22][24]. Group 2: Educational Mismatch - University sports programs are not adequately preparing students for the practical demands of fitness coaching, as many skills required in the industry are not taught in academic settings [9][27]. - The curriculum in sports education often focuses on specialized sports rather than general fitness coaching, leading to a gap in practical application for fitness trainers [10][30]. - There is a perception among students that fitness coaching is a less stable career option compared to other professions, which affects their willingness to pursue this path [35][36]. Group 3: Future Directions - The industry requires a more structured approach to integrate university sports students into the fitness coaching workforce, emphasizing the importance of practical training and career guidance [13][43]. - Initiatives to raise awareness about the fitness coaching profession and its potential benefits are being implemented, aiming to increase student interest and participation in the field [43][44]. - The future of the fitness coaching profession may hinge on developing a more comprehensive educational framework that aligns with industry needs, ensuring that graduates are better equipped for the demands of the job [39][41].