If you're looking for the gold standard, it would be the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Started in 1987, it is a 37-year-old company renowned for its rigorous, science-based approach to personal training certification.
NASM's best programs for aspiring personal trainers are not very expensive. For instance, the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) course costs $899, or $79/month, and it lasts 11 months.
Key Features
Optimum Performance Training Model: This is NASM's foundational model, structured around progressive training stages, scientifically proven to help clients increase strength, endurance, and flexibility safely and effectively.
Diverse learning materials: NASM offers a range of educational resources, including digital textbooks, interactive learning tools, and extensive video content, so it caters to different learning preferences.
Specialization courses: Beyond your certification, NASM provides a variety of specialization courses, such as Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), Nutrition Coaching, and Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES). This way, NASM allows you to focus on niche markets.
Benefits
Global recognition: Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), NASM's credentials are recognized and respected worldwide. In addition, NASM is available in 100+ countries and has over 12k gym partnerships. This program can open doors to numerous employment opportunities in the fitness industry.
Online and flexible learning options: NASM provides an online learning platform, so you can study at your own pace - ideal for juggling multiple engagements.
Comprehensive support system: In addition to customer support and mentorship from industry experts, NASM offers job placement assistance and additional business and marketing tools to help you succeed in your personal training career. After completing the program, you will have access to a network of NASM-certified trainers, exclusive job postings, and career development resources to help you kickstart your career.
Another one of the best programs for personal trainers is the American Council on Exercise (ACE). With their personal trainer certification, you will be NCCA-accredited and get continuous support from ACE to support your career growth.
The program costs as low as $595, and you can learn online. Once you complete the training, you must pass a comprehensive exam to get certified. You have two options: The non-proctored certificate exam is included in the course price but isn't NCCA-accredited.
The accredited exam costs an additional $99, can be taken in person or online, and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions.
Key Features
ACE Integrated Fitness Training® Model (ACE IFT®): This model comprises most of the ACE curriculum. It provides a systematic approach to developing personalized fitness programs that adapt as clients progress.
Wide variety of learning materials: ACE offers a blend of digital and hard-copy textbooks, interactive study aids, and comprehensive course materials that cover a broad spectrum of fitness and wellness topics.
Behavior change emphasis: The program places a significant focus on behavior change strategies, equipping you with the skills necessary to help clients make long-lasting health and lifestyle adjustments.
Two exam options: You can choose the non-proctored Ace Personal Training Certificate exam or the NCCA-accredited Ace Certified Personal Trainer Exam. The latter is your best bet if you want to succeed as an international personal trainer.
Benefits
Accredited by the NCCA: ACE's certification is accredited by NCCA, ensuring it meets high standards for the health and fitness industry.
Flexible study options: Whether you prefer self-study or structured learning, ACE offers packages to suit various learning styles and schedules.
Career support: Upon certification, you'll join a vast network of ACE professionals, gaining access to continuing education and career advancement opportunities that can significantly enhance your professional journey.
#3. International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
The ISSA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) course equips you with the knowledge and skills to train individuals of various fitness levels.
Plus, as a globally recognized program, it offers a comprehensive approach to fitness education, including exercise science, nutrition, and client management.
NCCA Accreditation: ISSA's certification is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.
Flexible exam options: You can choose to take the final exam as an open-book test online or as a proctored exam.
Extensive gym partnerships: ISSA boasts relationships with over 10,000 gym partners worldwide, which will improve job placement opportunities for certified trainers.
Comprehensive curriculum: The ISSA Purpose-Driven Training Model includes in-depth coverage of motivation techniques, anatomy and physiology, nutrition and exercise, behavioral change, and more to prepare you for any client.
Free website: Once certified, you qualify for a free professional personal trainer website to market your services.
Rich learning materials: ISSA provides various educational tools, including a detailed textbook, online quizzes, multimedia lectures, and a virtual workbook. Additionally, you will receive unlimited educational support even after certification.
Benefits
International recognition: The certification is recognized and respected worldwide. With NCCA accreditation, you can work in any gym in the US and beyond.
Career readiness: ISSA offers guaranteed job placement with gym partners, and the comprehensive training ensures you are job-ready upon certification.
Own your gym: The ISSA program prepares you to own and run your gym or work with ISSA's renowned partners like F45, Camp Gladiator, and more.
Continuing education: ISSA encourages lifelong learning by offering a variety of specializations and advanced certifications, which allow you to grow your expertise and offerings as a fitness professional.
#4. National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Is your career plan to work with athletes as a coach? If so, the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) qualification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is your prime choice.
They also offer a Certified Personal Trainer qualification, so if you want to work in both fields, the NSCA will have you covered. Their CSCS course has been running since 1985, and they started qualifying personal trainers in 1993.
The NSCA is renowned for its strict standards and comprehensive approach. However, it doesn't offer a traditional personal training course. Instead, you'll purchase an exam prep collection for the certification you want to complete.
To become a Strength and Conditioning Coach, you can buy and download a range of study materials and get access to an online study course.
The Essential package costs $336 for non-members, and the Platinum package is $585 for non-members. If you join the NSCA, you'll get significant discounts on the study materials and the exam costs. The CSCS exam is $340 for members and $475 for non-members.
Key Features
Eligibility: You must have at least a bachelor's degree or be a final-year college student and possess a current adult CPR and AED certification to sit for the exam. In addition, the CSCS credential is valid for three years. Maintain it through NSCA's continuing education credits, recertification exams, and up-to-date CPR certification.
Sport-specific training programs: You will learn to design and adjust training plans that target specific goals across varying time frames for athletes at all levels.
Gold standard certification: CSCS is the top certification for those training higher-level athletes, including professionals and Olympians.
Rigorous assessment: The certification exam is detailed and challenging. It requires a deep understanding of science applied to athletic training.
Study material options: You can choose from several packages based on your prior knowledge and budget.
Global acclaim: As a CSCS holder, you will be recognized globally, significantly enhancing your credibility and career opportunities in the broad fitness industry.
Benefits
Career advancement: Elevate your professional profile and open doors to opportunities in various athletic and fitness settings, from local sports teams to national training facilities.
Networking opportunities: Join a community of over 60,000 members, including some of the industry's most respected professionals, to foster growth and collaboration.
The ACSM Certified Personal Trainer is one of the best programs for personal trainers if you want to unlock your full potential.
The program will help you deeply understand the science of fitness and use this knowledge to design effective training programs for clients at a wide range of fitness levels.
The way they structure the student journey is similar to the NSCA. You can purchase the prep course and the exam separately or as a bundle.
The latter costs $649. However, if you join the ACSM, you can get over 30% off and pay only $439 for the prep course and the exam. One requirement is that you have to sit your exam by the end of the year.
Prerequisites include a high school diploma or equivalent and current adult CPR and AED certifications.
Key Features
Scientific approach: ACSM's program is grounded in the physiological principles of fitness and focuses on correct form and effective training methodologies.
Comprehensive online coursework: You will receive access to a detailed 20-hour online course, including 19 modules and over 453 lessons. The program also includes more than 200 interactive knowledge checks to ensure comprehension.
Accredited: ACSM is recognized for its peer-reviewed publications and significant contributions to fitness education through annual conferences.
Supportive community: When you enroll, you gain access to the official Facebook group that provides community support and resources for exam preparation.
Benefits
Versatile training: The program equips you with the skills to train a wide range of clients, from those in peak health to individuals managing chronic conditions.
Credibility: ACSM's respected standing in the fitness community enhances your professional credibility and employability.
Continuing education: The certification encourages ongoing professional development with affordable recertification fees and various continuing education opportunities.
#6. National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT)
It teaches fundamental knowledge in exercise science and practical training skills. It's one of the best programs if you're looking to quickly start a career in fitness with a solid understanding of training principles and client interactions.
The Standard Package costs $299, including prep materials and one exam attempt. You can choose the Premier Package for $399if you'd like access to practice tests.
The exam alone costs$199. You can learn in person or online; while not mandatory, a background in fitness can enhance your understanding and application of the course material.
Key Features
NCCA-accredited: The certification meets the strict standards of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, so you're guaranteed quality and professional recognition.
Flexible learning and examination: You can learn at your own pace with online materials and opt to take the exam online or at various testing locations.
Focused curriculum: NFPT emphasizes practical skills in personal training, covering anatomy, physiology, and program design tailored to individual client needs.
Free continuing education: Once certified, NFPT provides free continuing education opportunities that allow you to stay current in the field without additional costs.
Affordable pricing: With options ranging from basic to comprehensive packages, NFPT offers some of the more affordable paths to certification in the industry.
Benefits
Quick entry into the profession: The curriculum's streamlined process and essential focus make it possible to start your training career swiftly.
Continued support: NFPT guarantees to offer ongoing support to its trainers so you will have the resources needed for career longevity.
Community connection: As an NFPT member, you will have access to a supportive community through online forums and groups that help you stay motivated and informed.
Career flexibility: The certification is respected in various fitness settings so that you can target many job prospects across the fitness industry.
#7. National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association (NESTA)
The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) offers a unique Certified Personal Fitness Trainer Certification you will love for its extended four-year validity period - it's longer than the standard two-year recertification period required by most other programs.
As such, it's an attractive option if you prefer less frequent testing cycles. Plus, the NCCA-accredited program costs between $349 and $697 and is entirely online.
Key Features
Long certification validity: NESTA certifications are valid for four years, two years more than what you get from other programs for personal trainers on this list.
Exhaustive curriculum: The certification covers various important topics, including exercise physiology, kinesiology, anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition, client assessments, and more.
Integration of technology: NESTA's curriculum includes modern technological tools like heart rate tracking and digital exercise logging. After training, you will be prepared for today's tech-driven fitness environment.
Business skills training: The program includes a focus on crucial business components like personal trainer business marketing, sales, and online coaching, which are essential for a thriving personal training career.
100% online: You can complete the certification online, which provides flexibility and convenience, especially if you are balancing other commitments.
Benefits
Cost-effective: The longer validity period and inclusion of continuing education can lower the overall cost over time compared to other certifications that require more frequent renewal.
Global recognition: NESTA certifications are NCCA accredited and accepted by fitness clubs worldwide.
Comprehensive support: NESTA offers ongoing support and resources, which are particularly beneficial as you start and grow your personal training career.
Preparation for a diverse market: The broad curriculum prepares you to work with many clients, including those with special needs. Once you start practicing, you can cater to different client requirements.
Conclusion
If you want good training courses, these are our seven best programs for personal trainers in 2024.
We recommend them because of their international accreditations, focused training in different niches, and continued support after your certification.
These programs for personal trainers will open many doors for you - you can even start your own fitness or personal training business.
By then, you will only need cutting-edge personal trainer software to create fitness plans and track your client's progress.
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