Wage Watchers: How much does an Army sport trainer earn?

What do you do?
For the last 10 years I have worked for the Army, of which the last year and a half at the Barracks in Heverlee where some 1000 military personal are stationed. Together with 5 other colleagues in the Sports Department, I attend to the physical fitness training of 600 military personal in our unit.

This means that every week, I guide the personal through general conditioning training, running competitions, swimming, etc. I then run fitness tests on a regular basis that each military subject must pass on a yearly basis. The time that’s left over goes towards preparing the military personal for their participation in the army’s organised events.

Do you enjoy the work?
Yes, I went to school to become a sport trainer and having sports in my daily life is very important. With my current job, I am able to satisfy this need and also help others stay fit, which I find incredibly rewarding.

Plus, I knew that I didn’t want to work in schools: school sports teachers often have to manage a full schedule of classes spread out in different schools. I choose therefore for a career in the army because it facilitated things – having my work all in the same place. Also, as army personnel, I am a part of the national military sports team and can take part in the army’s training courses and competitions. The barracks in Heverlee are also bilingual, so I can maintain my French.

I did have to wait a few years in the army however before I could begin my function as a sports trainer: in the army, you have to spend a couple of years in a general military function before taking on specialised posts.

What do you think of the pay?
I’m really happy with my net monthly salary of €1,670. My salary isn't that high, but the benefits that come with being a government employee make it worth it.

How many hours do you work a week?
I work 38 hours a week and work very little overtime.

Would you change your job for a better salary?
Not a chance. The benefits of a working for the army are just too great.

Do you manage to put money aside?
I bought a house last year, so all my savings goes towards maintaining that investment. I also manage to put money aside for retirement in a private account.

What do you not like spending money on?
On fancy restaurants, or on luxury items in general.

What do you like spending money on?
On music (CDs, concerts and festivals) and second-hand items (clothes, furniture).

What is your largest monthly cost?
Paying off my house loan.

What would you do if you won the lottery?
I would travel the world, staying longer in certain places to take on odd jobs in the sport and music world (as a manager for example). Then I would finally take the time to learn how to play the guitar.