From Pharmacy Technician to Personal Trainer: My Hilarious Career Change Journey
Changing careers can be a big leap, especially when you’re going from working as a pharmacy technician to becoming a personal trainer and nutrition coach. But trust me, if I can make the switch from counting pills to counting squats, anyone can! Here’s the funny (and sometimes chaotic) story of how I swapped prescription bottles for dumbbells and my journey into the fitness world.
The *”Wait, You’re Doing WHAT?” Moment
I spent years working as a pharmacy technician, filling prescriptions, advising patients on medications, and trying to remember if that one drug interacts with grapefruit (spoiler: it does). But as much as I loved helping people manage their health with the power of pills, I started to feel like something was missing. My inner wellness warrior was calling me to do more than just hand out pills—I wanted to help people get strong, feel better, and live healthier lives.
So, I made the decision to change careers and become a personal trainer. You can imagine the looks I got from friends and family when I dropped the bomb. “Wait, you’re leaving pharmacy to become a personal trainer? Are you sure? What about all those pill bottles?” they’d ask, eyebrows raised. Yes, I was sure. And no, I wasn’t about to start a “Personal Trainer and Prescription Cocktail Bar” (though that would be a pretty fun side hustle). Instead, I traded my pharmacy gloves for a gym shirt and dove into a career that involves more squats than syringes.
From Pill Pusher to Push-up Master
Getting certified as a personal trainer was like trying to run a marathon after a lifetime of sitting behind a counter. As a pharmacy tech, I was great at memorizing medications, managing insurance claims, and explaining the side effects of antihistamines. But learning about muscles, joints, and how to avoid injuring someone with a kettlebell? That was a whole new ball game.
The first time I taught a client how to do a bicep curl, I realized I’d spent more time talking about the Krebs cycle in college than I had actually doing a bicep curl. So, there I was, doing my best to explain muscle contractions while quietly Googling, “What’s the best way to hold a dumbbell?” Spoiler alert: It’s not like a bowling ball. But with practice, I got the hang of it. Now, I’m the one showing others how to lift with proper form, without the need for any pharmacy-grade bandages.
Nutrition Coaching: From Medications to Meals
Another funny part of my career switch? Nutrition coaching. After years of talking to people about their medication schedules, I suddenly found myself talking about carbs, protein, and “How many servings of vegetables is too many?” (The answer: there’s no such thing as “too many” veggies, trust me).
As a pharmacy tech, I could tell you everything about cholesterol-lowering medications and insulin doses. But convincing someone to eat kale or swap out their sugary breakfast cereal for oatmeal? That took a little more finesse. Yet, I soon realized that nutrition is just as important as exercise when it comes to helping people achieve their health goals. And trust me, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing someone go from “I hate spinach” to “Hey, I just made a spinach smoothie!” That’s real progress, folks.
The Final Laugh
Looking back on my career change, I’m proud of the journey. Sure, there were some hiccups along the way—like the time I tried to teach a plank and accidentally knocked over a water bottle—but I wouldn’t change a thing. Now, I get to help people get stronger, fitter, and healthier, all while making them laugh. Whether it’s lifting weights or lifting spirits, my job is all about encouraging people to take care of their bodies, mind, and soul.
So, if you’re thinking about making a career change, take it from me: don’t be afraid to take the plunge. Whether you’re leaving a pharmacy or a desk job behind, there’s always room for a little humor—and a lot of squats—in the journey ahead.
Ready to start your fitness journey? Let’s get moving—no prescription required!