Introduce Types of Trainer Certification Early On
Personal trainer certification is a vital component of having a successful career in personal training. However, there are multiple different types of certifications to choose from. Depending on the individual’s individual goals, experience and education level, one may be better suited for them than others.
ACSM (public health, science-based organization) certification is widely recognized and requires a bachelor’s degree as well as an examination by an accredited pathway. NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) and NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) are two other science-backed certifications often favored by those with diverse fitness backgrounds who take a holistic approach to their program design. Performance-Engagement Coaching Certification is geared toward more experienced trainers who want to accelerate their career potential through developing advanced coaching competencies, unique philosophies, higher levels of self-awareness and practical experience.
On the other hand, Personal Training Institute Initiatives offers shorter courses that will prepare students for entry-level positions but don’t have the same level of industry recognition as the aftermentioned programs do. Other popular options include Certified Les Mills Instructor Programs or American Council on Exercise Certifications which focus primarily on group classes rather than one on one training sessions with clients. In addition to these different types of certifications there are hundreds available across trainer niches such as nutrition, yoga or martial arts instruction that require special assessment standards based on the type of physical activity being taught.
Clarify Essential Qualifications
Physical Requirements
– Good physical health with the ability to demonstrate and explain proper form and technique for exercises.
– Adequate strength, endurance, and flexibility needed to perform all job functions.
– Ability to lift or move heavy weights or weighted equipment, as well as objects that may require bending or stooping.
Mental Requirements
– Ability to anticipate the fitness needs of individuals and adapt personal training sessions accordingly.
– Knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, nutrition basics, benefits/contraindications of exercises, and training program design.
– Excellent interpersonal skills with an understanding of customer service best practices and a can-do attitude when dealing with clients’ concerns and questions.
Ages Restrictions:
– Personal trainers must be at least 18 years old in order to obtain certification.
Cert Counts:
– Depending on the certifying body chosen by the individual trainer, there will be different cert counts associated with different qualifications. For example, ACE (American Council on Exercise) requires applicants to have four separate certifications while NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) will accept two separate certifications related to personal training.
New Section On Course Outlines
The most popular personal trainer certification programs all require a set of outlines to ensure trainers are knowledgeable in the field. The details and curriculum vary from program to program, but usually include the following topics:
– Exploring Anatomy & Kinesiology: Trainers will be taught human anatomy and structure, including common bone patterns and muscular strength. They’ll also learn how muscles move and how they interact with other body parts.
– Exercise Physiology & Biomechanics: This section covers how different exercises used by trainers affect their clients’ bodies, as well as the techniques they use to maximize results.
– Nutrition & Health: Trainers will learn about nutrition principles, dieting trends, vitamin supplements, health risks associated with obesity, eating for energy and recovery time after exercise.
– Knowledge on Training Equipment: Trainers will understand the importance of understanding and recognizing the proper equipment for training clients based on a variety of factors.
– Legal Responsibilities: This includes things such as knowledge of safety protocols when working with clients, insurance liabilities, contracts and more legal considerations that involve being a personal trainer.
– Professional Excellence & Practice Management: Foundational business skills that trainers need to practice any successful career in fitness such as time management or data collection are covered in this unit so trainers can offer top quality services each time.
Expand Next Steps Section
Once you have determined that a Personal Trainer Certification is the right path for you, it’s time to start looking into the available programs and training centers. Start by researching certifying organizations such as American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and more. Each offering provides its own unique advantages–be sure to do your research and compare each organization’s training resources, cost structure, career network/placement opportunities, continuing education/growth options and more.
You’ll want to make sure that you accurately complete the enrollment forms filled out with the organization of your choice. Typically completed online or over the phone, the form may ask for basic contact information, background checks or prerequisites for entry. To avoid any confusion throughout this process it’s important to save or print all necessary forms once received from a certifying body so that documentation can be easily accessed in case needed later down the line.
Remember that while obtaining a certification is incredibly meaningful and beneficial work, no certificate will ever guarantee you a job at any specific facility – even after completing hundreds of hours studying and fieldwork! Make sure you take time to check with potential employers before enrolling in any program based on anticipation of job placement after successful completion.
Relevant Resources Section
Books:
1. The Anatomy of Exercise and Movement for Personal Trainers by Kevin Steele
2. Calculated RISKS: A Guide To Knowing When To Act on Your Gut Instincts by Loral Langemeier
3. Designing Strength Training Programs and Facilities by Steven J. Fleck
4. Essentials of Personal Training by Michael Boyle
Blogs:
1. ACE Fitness – Resources For Becoming a Certified Personal Trainer
2. IFPA Fitness Professional Blog
3. NSCA Blog – Strength & Conditioning Research
4. Physique360 – The Science Behind the Art
Videos:
1. Planet Fitness Training Institute Video Series
2. National Academy of Sports Medicine Short Courses Videos
3. American Council on Exercise Virtual Education Library Videos
4. NASM EDGE Free Online Courses
Other Resources:
1. CPT – CertifiedPersonalTrainerResourceGuide e-book
2. Human Kinetics Coaching Education Library Online Course Packages
3. National Council on Strength and Fitness resources Page
4. International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association Accreditation Exam Prep Program
Passionate about providing useful information to anyone with an interest in the field of Personal Training, I strive to pass on to our readers quality information and to answer any questions about Personal Trainers, the work they do and how to become one.
