From Student to Personal Trainer

Active has had many standout students, but one who has truly impressed us is Jeanett Bibow-Jensen.
Read her story here!

Name: Jeanett Bibow-Jensen
Age: 27
Location: San Diego

Where do you work now?

I’m about to begin a master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership at the University of San Diego.

How long have you worked as a personal trainer?

I became certified in the fall of 2012, when I completed what was then called the “Personal Trainer 1” program through Active Education in Bali.

Why did you choose Active Education?

I chose Active because of the opportunity to complete my PT education in Bali. Active Education had a strong reputation and was the first in the market to offer a program like this—one that allowed me to stand out while also developing my personal passion for fitness in the most effective way possible.

What did you think of the education?

The PT program from Active Education in Bali stood out from other courses, as it offered students both knowledge and experience delivered by Norwegian professors with extensive backgrounds in personal training, athletic development, sports, and academia.

As students, we grew confident in our roles as personal trainers because the curriculum was truly holistic—comprehensive in both theory and practice. I believe both aspects are essential for any aspiring PT, and this gave me the confidence to say I could do my job in the best interest of the client. The program also included opportunities to specialize in different training methods, allowing you to return to Norway with your own unique niche.

What has been your strategy for success?

I believe my success is mainly rooted in my passion for fitness and my motivation to learn. Any education is an investment, and it’s important to start from day one with the mindset that you’re there to get the most out of every single day. The program was definitely demanding from the start—almost every day was packed with new material—so it’s essential to stay focused and make the most of every class to avoid falling behind.

Your top tip for someone who wants to become a personal trainer:

To succeed in the PT program, you need a genuine interest in both fitness and people. Be open to learning—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach—and understand the importance of critical thinking. You’ll likely need to let go of some training or nutrition myths you’ve previously believed in. Start studying the material early so you build a strong foundation for the rest of the curriculum. Active Education offers a holistic learning approach where everything is connected. Be curious, ask questions, and make full use of the professors and instructors—they’re there to help you grow in every way.

Why would you recommend Active Education to others?

Active Education offers a truly high-quality education, but what really sets them apart is how well they take care of their students. They genuinely want you to succeed. I don’t regret my choice for a second—and I would absolutely do it all over again.