How would you describe your job? We help people reach their goals. A lot of people walk through the door needing some guidance. That's what we're here for — to help them and motivate them and get them on the right track.

(ENLARGE)

Donnie Markham, age 30 Elizabeth City Certified Physical Trainer & Co-owner Fitness Warehouse, 8 years

Has your job been affected by changes in technology or other changes? Not so much in personal training. Some of the software that we use to track workouts and things of that nature have gotten better. But as far as training techniques, it's pretty much been the same.

Besides salary, what benefits do you derive from your work? The satisfaction of helping people reach their goals.

What are the long-term or indirect benefits of your job? The better shape that people are in, the happier they are, the more they are able to contribute to the community. Exercise has not only the health benefits, it also increases morale, it increases motivation, it increases energy and you can go on and on.

How do you see your job benefiting the larger community? It cuts down on health care costs. There is some legislation that has been pending for a while to help employers to be able to subsidize gym memberships and things of that nature to get more people involved.

— Will Harris