The Future of Fitness Education: Tyler Valencia on Standards, Soft Skills & Staying the Course

What if the secret to longevity in the fitness industry isn't just science, but soft skills? In this episode, Tyler Valencia shares how trust, adaptability, and mentorship are shaping the next generation of professionals—and why now is the time to elevate education for real-world success.

Tyler Valencia, Ph.D.(c), has been on the front lines of fitness education for nearly two decades. As President of KIPS, a course creator, and longtime content producer, he’s helped shape how personal trainers enter and thrive in the industry. In this insightful conversation, Tyler discusses the realities of certification, the role of mentorship, how trainers can build trust with clients, and the business-side skills most education programs miss. He also gives us a preview of what he’ll be teaching at IDEA World 2025—including unconventional tools, Aqua Fitness, and how to stand out in a crowded market.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

✅ The difference between certification and real-world readiness

✅ Why soft skills and business acumen are critical to trainer success

✅ How registry systems like USREPS could shape the future of fitness hiring

✅ Tyler’s approach to building trust and retention with personal training clients

✅ Why he says Aqua Fitness is a business opportunity trainers shouldn’t overlook

✅ What to expect from his IDEA World 2025 sessions on unconventional tools and pool-based training

Sign up for Tyler’s sessions live at IDEA World 2025—register now at https://www.ideafit.com/world/

Download the Brochure

Get in touch with Tyler:

• Instagram: @_tylervalencia_, @kipsfitness
• Facebook: Kinesiology Institute for Performance Specialists - KIPS
• Website: https://kipsonline.org/

Connect with IDEA® Health & Fitness Association

• FB: @ideafit
• IG: @ideafit
• LI: @ideafit
• X/TW: @ideafit   
• Threads: @ideafit
• YouTube: @ideafit
• TikTok: @ideafit

IDEAfit PRO SHOW is hosted by Amy Boone Thompson; executive produced by Rominna Rufin; engineered by Michael Hilding. 

About IDEA® Health & Fitness Association  

IDEA® Health & Fitness Association has served as the World’s leading organization of fitness and wellness professionals for over 43...