"NSCA Certified Personal Trainer"

The NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT)

In 1993, the NSCA Certified Personal Trainer credential was created by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Originally focused on the development and performance enhancement of athletes, the NSCA noted the importance of a certification specific to Personal Trainers and their clients' needs and wants.

For those of you whose career goals do not include the possibility of working with athletes in a team setting, this may be the most fitting alternative.

CSCS vs. CPT

Many of the concepts taught in the NSCA-CSCS materials assume that their subjects are competitive athletes although these philosophies can be applied to various populations.

However, the NSCA-CPT is structured specifically for this purpose. As a Personal Trainer or Health Professional with the NSCA-CPT certification, you will be prepared to design safe and effective programs for both active and sedentary clients.

Also, whereas the CSCS requires that you hold a college degree, the CPT does not.

Prerequisites

Before taking this examination, you must have met the following requirements:

• 18 years old with a high school diploma or GED
• Hold current CPR/AED certification

Although the initial requirements are not daunting, that does not mean that the test itself should be considered a breeze. I suggest setting aside 3 months time to review all of the certification materials thoroughly.

Exam Contents

Here's what the exam includes:

• Client Consultation/Assessment
• Program Planning
• Techniques of Exercise
• Safety, Emergency Procedures and Legal Issues

There is only one part to this examination as opposed to the 2 sections of the CSCS examination. You are allotted 3 hours to complete the CPT exam. There are also 35 video related questions.

Exam and Study Cost

The NSCA-CPT investment is dependent upon your membership with the NSCA. Members of the NSCA will pay between $235 - $270 for the exam materials. Non-member costs range from $355 - $390.

Additional Certification Information

NSCA Personal Trainer Certification - The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist distinction.

NASM Personal Trainer Certification - Learn about the National Academy of Sports Medicine and their CPT offering.

Personal Trainer Course - Not only will you need your certification, but you are going to need how to communicate your knowledge to clients in order to start a personal training business.

Continue to: NASM Personal Trainer Certification

Return to Chapter #2 Index

See Also Personal Trainer Certification Headquarters

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