Is a Career in Fitness Training Right For You?
Take the Readiness Quiz
Take the Career Assessment
Program: Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Kevin Marine's journey from working three jobs to becoming a fitness professional and pursuing a Doctor of Physical Therapy showcases resilience and the transformative power of mental strength.
Program: Master of Science in Exercise Science
Discover Daniel Higdon's inspiring journey from personal trainer to aspiring Naval Aerospace Physiologist through his transformative experience at Lionel University. Explore his unique path and invaluable lessons.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
Fitness professional Rich Fitter transformed his career by earning a degree from Lionel University, highlighting the importance of continuous education and flexible online learning in the fitness industry.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science
At 60, Harvey Cola returns to school for Exercise Science, proving it's never too late for education and personal growth at Lionel University.
Program: Master of Science in Exercise Science
Discover Candace Rose's inspiring journey from a late bloomer to a dedicated lifelong learner in health and wellness, overcoming challenges and embracing education.
Program: Personal Trainer Certificate
Discover Celia's inspiring journey from outdoor enthusiast to empowering fitness coach, highlighting her unique path, passion for strength training, and transformative experience at Lionel University.
Program: Personal Trainer Certificate
Discover how chiropractor Aaron expanded his impact by integrating fitness and personal training, enhancing his approach to health and patient care.
Program: Personal Trainer Certificate
Discover how Edward Nichols transformed his training career through Lionel University's unique certification program, emphasizing real-world impact and behavior change.
Program: Master Trainer Certificate
Discover Donna Cottrell's inspiring journey from U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral to exercise science expert through Lionel University, transforming lives and pursuing lifelong learning.
Many students choose Lionel because they can balance school with work, family, military service, and other responsibilities.
Candace Rose, who completed her associate's degree and continued into graduate studies, shared:
"One day I'm sheet rocking. One day I'm walking my dog and one day I'm doing studies. There's that flexibility that makes it really nice."
Leah Balmer, a single mother, Army combat veteran, and graduate student, explained:
"The flexibility, support, and quality of education make it an excellent option for those with demanding or non-traditional lifestyles."
Gabriel Valdez, an active-duty Air Force member and EMT student, said:
"You guys' structure is real easy and flexible to work with... I'm a grown man. I got a wife and kids, active-duty work, EMT school, and online courses."
Yes. Many Lionel students are active-duty military members, reservists, veterans, or military spouses.
Darian Wilton, Army veteran and Bachelor's graduate, said:
"I had a regular job, the reserves, family, and school. It was tough in the beginning, but once I got into that routine, it was smooth sailing."
Dominique Loving, an Army service member, shared:
"When I was in Iraq, I told my instructors assignments would be late. They said, 'Just get it to us anytime you can.'"
Harvey Cola explained:
"The enrollment process took the fear out of it. It was streamlined, super easy, and I felt welcome from the very first day."
Many students began with certifications before deciding to pursue a degree.
Terika Harrison, a fitness professional with multiple certifications, said:
"If I had known this, I would've gone straight to the associate's degree versus the certification because you're more knowledgeable."
She added:
"With the degree, you're more in depth. You're learning things that I can apply on the gym floor with my actual clients right now."
Rich Fitter, who held more than 50 certifications before earning his degree, explained:
"The degree was the missing piece. I had the experience and certifications, but employers wanted to see that bachelor's degree."
Students consistently report applying coursework immediately in their careers.
Terika Harrison said:
"I have a corrective exercise course where we're doing case studies, and it's helping me on the floor with my actual clients right now."
Kevin Marine, who works in physical therapy and sports performance, shared:
"One of the biggest takeaways was learning about transformation from a psychological standpoint. It changed how I coach people."
Candace Rose explained:
"The bachelor's degree actually got me the job. My employer asked if I had a four-year degree, and when I said yes, she told me she wanted me for the position."
One of the most common themes throughout student interviews was faculty support.
Terika Harrison said:
"No matter what your grade is, you get feedback. Even if you got a perfect score, the professor's feedback takes you to the next level."
Harvey Cola shared:
"The instructors are top-notch. If you're having an issue, all you have to do is reach out and it gets handled."
Candace Rose explained:
"I've never had a bad experience with a professor or advisor. They're dead-on with helping me."
Many Lionel students returned to school after years—or even decades—away from education.
Harvey Cola started Lionel at age 60.
"At 60 years of age, I decided this is something I needed to get a formal education in. Receiving my associate's degree made me realize this is doable."
Candace Rose described herself as a "late bloomer" and said:
"I never actually thought I would get this far. I started with an associate's degree, and here I am in graduate school."
Students often pursue Lionel degrees to open doors for advancement.
Candace Rose shared:
"The bachelor's degree actually got me the job."
Rich Fitter, now helping build an exercise oncology program in Hawaii, said:
"If it wasn't for Lionel and the program, I wouldn't be where I am today."
Darian Wilton, who graduated on the Chancellor's List and moved into a master's program, explained:
"Lionel opened up doors and showed me how much more there is to fitness than I ever realized."
Many students entered Lionel with multiple certifications.
Terika Harrison, a trainer with numerous certifications, explained:
"The certification is good and it's quick to start, but once you're out there in real time and people start asking questions, you're going to want deeper knowledge."
Rich Fitter, who held over 50 certifications before enrolling, said:
"The degree was the key that opened the door."
Students consistently point to flexibility, support, industry-specific education, and community.
Darian Wilton:
"It's a win-win. If you're thinking about it, don't think about it. Just do it."
Harvey Cola:
"You are not a number here."
Gabriel Valdez:
"The entire program was created by people who actually came from the fitness industry."
Leah Balmer:
"Even when life is unpredictable, it is still possible to pursue your goals and achieve meaningful success with the right support and determination."
I have been in and out of the fitness scene for the better part of 10 years. Slowly, it became a part of life, and every day, I found myself at the gym during my lunch break. I realized how much better I felt about myself in every way after my workouts. I started working on my degree with Lionel University [and] I graduated with my Associate of Science in Exercise Science as well as 6 additional certifications. I chose Lionel because it allowed me to be flexible with my studies. When I started, I was working a full-time job, while raising two kids with my husband, & maintaining a household! Lionel's staff has gone above and beyond from the initial contact all the way through my graduation.
Where do I start? I can never say enough about Lionel. The education I am receiving, the staff, the resources to help us succeed are outstanding! I thought I had a handle on fitness and nutrition, and it wasn't until I enrolled in the Associates Degree Program to realize I had some bad habits which I quickly rectified and it shows in my training. I live in Iceland in a small town and some other trainers asked me what am I doing, so I Let them know about Lionel. I also let them know that two trainers who have created Bootcamp Reykjavik also enrolled in a few certifications at Lionel and now Lionel will have a few more students. Lionel is where you should be. Thank you for everything!
The education and experience at Lionel University has been absolutely amazing. The courses truly challenged me, the instructors provided constructive and timely feedback and the interaction with other students was enlightening and fun. I am proud to have earned my Associate degree and Master Trainer Certificate from Lionel and am excited to continue in their Bachelor's degree program. I can't wait to apply what I have learned in helping my clients to lead active, healthy and rewarding lives.
I am currently pursuing graduate studies in Exercise Science. I am a certified master fitness trainer, health and wellness coach, nutrition coach, kickboxing trainer, and travel wellness coach. In addition to my professional work, I am a homeschooling single mother and a U.S. Army combat veteran. These experiences have shaped my passion for helping others pursue balanced, sustainable approaches to health and well-being.
I chose Lionel University because I needed a program that offered flexibility while maintaining strong academic standards. Balancing single motherhood, business development, and my transition from military service required an educational path that could adapt to my life while helping me continue to grow. Lionel’s mission and structure aligned perfectly with those goals.
My experience at Lionel University has been both rewarding and motivating. The support from professors and staff, combined with the accessibility of the online format, helped me stay engaged even during difficult seasons. The program has challenged me to think critically, apply my learning in real-world settings, and remain committed to my academic goals. Being named to the Chancellor’s List is an honor that reflects the dedication and consistency I have worked hard to maintain.
Like many nontraditional students, my journey has not been straightforward. As a single mother and combat veteran, I have faced personal, professional, and health-related challenges that continue today. Balancing school, family, and life responsibilities has required resilience, adaptability, and purpose.
What keeps me moving forward is the commitment I made to myself and my daughter. I want her to see that no matter what life brings, you never give up on your dreams. Earning a place on the Chancellor’s List during this season represents more than academic success—it reflects perseverance, determination, and the belief that progress is always possible.
Attending Lionel University has strengthened my knowledge, confidence, and ability to serve others through my work in health and wellness. The education I am receiving continues to shape how I support my clients, my family, and my community.
Looking ahead, I plan to expand my work in health, wellness, and travel coaching while developing programs that help individuals and families lead healthier, more balanced lives. I am especially passionate about creating flexible, accessible resources for military families and single parents working toward their goals.
For anyone considering Lionel University, I encourage you to take that step. The flexibility, support, and quality education make it an excellent choice for students with demanding or nontraditional lifestyles. My experience has shown me that with determination and the right support, meaningful success is always within reach.
Lionel University has been a life-changing experience. I recommend it to all my co-workers, friends, and family members who have a passion for fitness and want to continue their educational journey.
I currently serve on active duty in the United States Marine Corps. I originally began my journey with Lionel U pursuing the Master Trainer certificate. Upon completion, I decided to continue my education and earned my associates in exercise science through Lionel University. Now I instruct at the Force Fitness Readiness Center where we train new Force Fitness Instructors for the Marine Corps. I couldn’t have done it without Lionel University.
My experience with Lionel University has been life changing in the best way. Not only have I learned so many new skills, but my resume is quite long due to all of the Special Certifications I have received. I was recently contacted by another “women-only” trainer with her own business who was looking to expand. She almost immediately offered me a job as her first hire, almost sight-unseen! Now, I work at two gyms and can offer training to different types of populations. I have no doubt my educational qualifications had something to do with the ease of which I have been able to stay successful in this rapidly emerging profession.
The education and experience at Lionel University has been absolutely amazing. I am proud to have earned my Associate degree and Master Trainer certificate and am excited to continue in the Bachelor's degree program. I can't wait to apply what I have learned to help my clients to lead active, healthy and rewarding lives.
Lionel University helped me add tools to my toolbox. I now have the knowledge and education to succeed and can implement my training in my client sessions. It is amazing to see how my clients have benefited from my education.
When I started at Lionel University I thought I was going to just get my personal training certification. The courses opened my eyes and showed me how much the field of exercise science has to offer and how much more there was for me to learn. As I continue through the curriculum I find myself get equipped with the tools I need to make me successful in this field.
A week after graduation I was hired at a gym. I attribute this to the knowledgeable staff and outstanding curriculum at Lionel University. While attending classes I got the support I needed from counselors and teachers and I’ve now earned multiple certifications as well as the Master Trainer Certificate and an Associate’s degree. The education I received gave me the ability to formulate programs that produce positive changes in a wide variety of clients lives through fitness.
My experience with Lionel University has been amazing. This journey has helped to build my brand more and more. Overall this is the best place to get the knowledge and help you need to get to the next level of training.
I'm so grateful to Lionel U for my Associate Degree in Exercise Science. I am the Gym Manager, Strength & Conditioning Coach and CrossFit Instructor at Derby City MMA & Derby City Barbell in Louisville, Kentucky. I transitioned very easily into the coaching role because Lionel U prepared me so well. I used to dread getting up and going to my boring office job which I did for 19 years, now I wake up and can't wait to get to the gym. It's not like a job, it’s fun and I love it. Thank you Lionel University for helping me turn my professional career into something I love.
Lionel University gave me the practical knowledge I need both inside and outside of the gym. My education gave me the ability to earn my college degree, obtain multiple fitness certifications, and work in the industry all at the same time! Lionel University is the place to be for any future fitness professional.
I am beyond thrilled to have been awarded the Fredrick C. Hatfield Scholarship! Being a fitness model/influencer, I have made it my goal to spread my passion for fitness with others in hopes that it can help the lives of many in the ways that it did mine. Living with Anxiety was a constant battle growing up until I made the choice to start going to the gym. In no time, the gym became my therapy. I have improved both mentally and physically in ways that I never thought possible. I am determined to use my past experiences as well as my new-found education as a guide to helping those who have the drive to improve their overall wellbeing.
There is absolutely no commitment and no credit card required. The application is designed as an investment in you—to help you name what you truly want, evaluate all that you juggle, and design your future. Stop and start the application as needed. Your work is saved as you go.
Apply Now