Choosing your Personal Trainer Certification

Acquiring high quality Personal Training education will add some credibility to your resume and put some confidence in your step.

If you haven't been around the fitness industry for very long, it is very difficult to know which organizations are reputable and which certifications actually hold some weight. Our aim in Chapter #2 is to make sure that you do not waste your time with a "no-name" organization.

Chapter #2 Overview

We have compiled a list of the most highly respected qualifications around the world. The following pages will document pros, cons, and comparisons of each with information about each organization's history, philosophy, costs, and accreditations.

Each of these organizations will provide a slightly different focus. Some are heavily centered on enhancing the performance of athletes (a fun and exciting niche), others are more invested in research and medical application, and others are terrific for application to a more generalized population such as your weekend warriors or those looking to improve quality of life.

There are no rules as to how many certifications you may obtain. IMPORTANT: Don't put too much on your plate. I've seen too many Personal Trainers try to take on too much all at once. Use this guide to find those that you are most interested in and that will assist you most in your current setting. There will always be time to add more education in the future.

Article Descriptions

Personal Trainer Education - Here we explore the difference between a health sciences degree from a college or university as versus the many existing certifying organizations. Find out which is most important for your business success.

NSCA Personal Trainer Certification - Thinking of working with athletes and designing programs for athletic teams? You'll want to find out more about this well-respected organization.

NSCA Certified Personal Trainer - Not planning on working in an highly competitive, athletic environment, but you still want the high quality provided by the NSCA? The NSCA-CPT takes many of the same principles and applies them effectively to the general population.

NASM Personal Trainer Certification - The NASM-CPT headed by Mike Clark draws heavily from his physical therapy background, helping to create a system of smart, safe progressions for your clients.

ACE Personal Trainer Certification - One of the most popular and recognizable certifying organizations, ACE provides a curriculum that has been pivotal in the growth of the personal training industry.

Personal Trainer Information - Our QuickView comparison table. Take a look at the information most critical to your certification decisions.

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Thank you for visiting My-Personal-Trainer-School.com. As a health professional for much of the last decade, I understand the ups and downs of the fitness industry and the successes and frustrations that many of you have.