Schools are not doing enough to promote careers in the health and fitness industry to young people, according to research carried out by health and education charity Central YMCA.

In a survey of young people at the World Skills event held in London last month, nearly half said they did not have enough information about working in the fitness industry.

A further one in eight young people had no understanding of what training and qualifications would be needed in order to pursue a career within the sector.

However, nearly two-fifths revealed they were "very" or "quite likely" to consider a career within the health and fitness industry, with nearly a quarter attracted by flexible working.

Central YMCA Qualifications business development director Lori Randall said: "It is encouraging that young people are really enthusiastic about working in the health and fitness sector, despite our research suggesting schools are not providing much in the way of information about such career options.

"We believe there is a real opportunity for schools to promote the benefits and allay some of the concerns young people have about working in the health and fitness industry."

Details: www.ymca.co.uk

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