With so many different personal trainer certifications available, choosing the right one for you can be daunting. There are certifications for general fitness, strength and conditioning, functional training, and more. Within each of these categories, there are dozens of different certifications to choose from. So how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision.
Getting Started: Physical Training Career Options
Before you can choose the best personal trainer certification it’s important to have a clear idea of what your goals are. Here are a few tips on discovering the right career learning path.
1. What Is Your Area of Interest or Expertise?
If you’re passionate about a particular area of fitness, then you should look for a certification that specializes in that area. For example, if you’re interested in helping people with weight loss, then you should look for a certification that specializes in nutrition and weight management. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in helping people build muscle or improve their athletic performance, then a strength and conditioning certification would be more appropriate.
2. What Is Your Preferred Learning Style?
Some people learn best by reading textbooks, while others prefer hands-on learning or listening to lectures. There are many different ways to get certified these days, so make sure to find a program that offers instruction in a format that works best for you.
3. What Is Your Schedule Like?
Do you have time to commit to a live class or an in-person workshop? Or would you prefer an online program that you can complete at your own pace? There are many great online programs available these days that offer the same quality of education as traditional classroom instruction, so don’t feel like you have to choose one over the other.
4. What Is Your Budget?
Certification programs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. If cost is a factor, then look for a program that offers payment plans or scholarships. You may also want to check with your employer to see if they will cover any or all of the cost of certification.
5. What Are the Requirements of the Certification Program?
Each program has different requirements in terms of prerequisites, experience, education, and examination process. Make sure to review the requirements carefully before applying to make sure you’re eligible and prepared for the program.
Where to Get Physical Trainer Certifications
As you can see, there are many different personal trainer certifications to choose from. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular certifications:
- The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) offers several personal trainer certifications, including the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), and Certified Special Population Expert (CSPE).
- The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) offers several personal trainer certifications, including the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES), Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES), and Weight Management Specialist (WMS).
- The American Council on Exercise (ACE) offers several personal trainer certifications, including the ACE Certified Personal Trainer (ACE CPT), ACE Health Coach, ACE Group Fitness Instructor, and ACE Integrated Fitness Training Specialist.
- The Cooper Institute offers several personal trainer certifications, including the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).
- The National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) offers several personal trainer certifications, including the Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), Group Fitness Instructor (GFI), and Health/Fitness Instructor (HFI).
Common Types of Physical Training Certifications
Certified Physical Trainer (CPT)
A Certified Physical Trainer is a personal trainer who has met the standards set forth by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). To become a CPT, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited personal trainer certification program, and pass a national examination.
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
A Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist is a personal trainer who has met the standards set forth by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). To become a CSCS, you must have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field, complete an accredited personal trainer certification program, and pass a national examination.
Registered Physical Trainer (RPT)
A Registered Physical Trainer is a personal trainer who has met the standards set forth by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). To become an RPT, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited personal trainer certification program, and pass a national examination.
Functional Training Certified (FTC)
A Functional Training Certified personal trainer is someone who has met the standards set forth by the International Function Fitness Trainers Association (IFFT). To become FTC certified, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete an accredited personal trainer certification program, and pass a national examination.
Final Thoughts
Deciding on the right personal trainer certification for you doesn’t have to be difficult. Consider your personal goals, fitness interests, and career aspirations when making your decision. And remember, you can always pursue multiple certifications to further your career and enhance your knowledge base.
