"NSCA Personal Trainer Certification"

An Introduction to the NSCA Personal Trainer Certification

The NSCA Personal Trainer Certification's governing body the NSCA is recognized worldwide as the foremost authority on Strength & Conditioning. Established in 1978, their membership base includes Personal Trainers, Strength Coaches, Physical Therapists, Doctors, Registered Dietitians, and Nutritionists among others. Their impact on continued research and development is undeniable.

Certification Offerings

The NSCA offers two certifications which should be considered in your quest to become a Personal Trainer. They are the:

• NSCA-CSCS: Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
• NSCA-CPT: Certified Personal Trainer

Let's take a closer look at each of these.

Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist

The NSCA Personal Trainer Certification of CSCS is highly focused on improving the performance of athletes in individual and team sports. Many current Strength and Conditioning professionals at the high school, college, and professional levels hold this esteemed certification.

The National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA) recognizes only this Strength and Conditioning certification for national accreditation.

The ranks of college and professional strength coaches can be difficult to break into, thus, we have seen an increase in the number of Personal Trainers who possess the NSCA Personal Trainer Certification.

The principles taught in the NSCA coursework not only apply to those in an athletic setting, but to the men and women that we see in the health clubs everyday.

Not a Strength Coach?

Even if you aren't working with the New England Patriots or Boston Red Sox (I'm from Beantown), and you find yourself starting your career at a health club or studio, this certification will have an impact on your clients.

Athletes can't win championships if they are hurt or injured, right? Well, your clients won't be able to "win their championships" or reach their goals if they are hurt or injured. That is where this certification comes in. An athlete's career and financial position is dependent on his or her ability to be on the field, court, or ice. Your clients' success is dependent on your ability to design a safe and effective, comprehensive program.

The Exam is Not Easy

I have held the NSCA Personal Trainer certification of CSCS since 2000. It is the certification that I draw from the most in my fitness program design for all of my clients. I was fortunate to have a full semester of study dedicated to preparation for this exam. Not everyone is in that position.

IMPORTANT: You will need a minimum of 3 months time to fully devour the NSCA Personal Training Certification Exam Materials.

Here's what you will be tested on:

• Exercise Science
• Nutrition
• Exercise Technique
• Program Design
• Organization and Administration
• Testing and Evaluation

The Exam is given in 2 sections, one of which includes 40 video questions focused on exercise technique and anatomy. The total exam time is 4 hours (1.5 hours for Part 1 and 2.5 hours for Part 2).

Prerequisites

Not everyone may register for the NSCA Personal Training Certification. To be eligible, there are several requirements:

• Submission of academic transcript verifying attainment of your B.S. or B.A. degree from an accredited college or university
• College seniors enrolled at an accredited institution may take the exam
• Proof of current CPR/AED certification

Points to Remember

The NSCA Personal Training Certification of CSCS is one of the most highly sought after certifications in the world. Preparing for this exam is a "full-time job". Your extra effort in study will pay off once you have your certification in hand.

Continue to: NSCA Certified Personal Trainer

Return to Chapter #2 Index

See Also Personal Trainer Certification Headquarters

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