8 Fitness Certifications to Become a Fitness Pro

There are two types of fitness trainers we tend to come across. Those that have oodles of experience in training themselves and others, and those that are experienced and certified in training others. 

Now, obviously, the fitness trainers with certifications are more in demand, and command a higher fee than those who aren’t certified. If you want to become a certified fitness professional, here’s a quick look at 8 essential fitness certifications to become a fitness professional. 

The Importance of Fitness Certifications

Before we dive into the specifics of each certification, let's understand why these certifications are crucial. Fitness certifications not only validate your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to staying informed about the latest trends and advancements in the fitness world. They instill confidence in your clients, assuring them that they are in capable hands.

Types of Fitness Certifications

There are different types of fitness certifications, each aimed at honing a specialized fitness skill. Let’s take a look at the types of fitness certifications. 

Personal Training

Personal training certifications serve as the cornerstone for individuals seeking one-on-one guidance on their fitness journey. These certifications delve deep into understanding the unique needs and goals of individual clients. The curriculum typically covers:

• Anatomy and Physiology: In-depth knowledge of the human body's structure and function.

• Exercise Physiology: Understanding how the body responds and adapts to exercise.

• Program Design: Crafting tailored workout plans based on individual goals and fitness levels.

• Nutrition: Providing fundamental knowledge of dietary principles to complement exercise routines.

Personal training certifications empower fitness professionals to create personalized and effective fitness regimens, fostering a strong client-trainer relationship.

Group Fitness

For those drawn to the energy and camaraderie of collective workouts, group fitness certifications are essential. These certifications focus on the dynamics of leading group exercise classes. The curriculum typically includes:

• Group Dynamics: Understanding how to engage and motivate individuals within a group setting.

• Choreography: Learning to create fluid and effective exercise routines.

• Effective Class Management: Developing skills to organize and lead group workouts efficiently.

Group fitness certifications equip trainers to create dynamic and inclusive classes that cater to a diverse range of participants.

Clinical Fitness

Clinical fitness certifications address the specialized needs of individuals with specific medical conditions. Trainers holding this certification are adept at designing safe and effective exercise programs tailored to those with health concerns. The curriculum often covers:

• Pathophysiology: Understanding how medical conditions affect the body.

• Exercise Prescription: Designing workouts that accommodate and improve various health conditions.

• Client Assessment: Learning to evaluate and adapt exercise programs based on individual health profiles.

Clinical fitness certifications empower trainers to work collaboratively with healthcare professionals and enhance the well-being of clients managing medical conditions.

Strength and Conditioning

Fitness enthusiasts aspiring to work with athletes and those pursuing high-intensity training programs benefit from strength and conditioning certifications. The curriculum typically includes:

• Sports Nutrition: Understanding the nutritional needs of athletes for optimal performance.

• Periodization: Planning training cycles to maximize performance gains.

• Advanced Strength Training Techniques: Mastering specialized exercises for strength and power development.

Strength and conditioning certifications prepare trainers to elevate the athletic prowess of their clients, focusing on performance enhancement and injury prevention.

Specialty

Specialty certifications cater to niche markets within the fitness industry. Whether it's yoga, Pilates, or senior fitness, these certifications provide in-depth knowledge for specialized training. The curriculum varies based on the specialty but often includes:

• Specific Exercise Modalities: In-depth training in the chosen fitness specialty.

• Population-Specific Considerations: Understanding the unique needs and challenges of the target demographic.

• Hands-on Practice: Gaining practical experience in delivering specialized workouts.

Specialty certifications enable trainers to carve out a niche for themselves in the competitive fitness landscape, attracting clients with specific interests or requirements.

8 Essential Certifications for Fitness Professionals

Our team of experts have curated 8 essential certifications for fitness professionals. These certifications are a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, designed to cater to diverse training styles and fitness interests. 

All of these certification programs require applicants to be 18 years of age or above, have a high school diploma or the equivalent of one, and to possess CPR and AED certifications.

1. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)

An ACSM certification empowers fitness professionals and trainers with the scientific and practical knowledge to use facilities such as fitness centers, gyms and health clubs to impart knowledge as group trainers and personal trainers.

Training Duration 

The training duration for ACSM varies, providing flexibility for individuals to progress at their own pace.

Topics Covered

Here are the topics covered under the ACSM certification program.

• Exercise Physiology: Understanding the body's response to exercise.

• Nutrition: Learning about the role of nutrition in fitness.

• Anatomy: In-depth knowledge of the structure of the human body.

Program Design: Crafting effective and individualized fitness programs.

Credits Required 

ACSM requires certified professionals to obtain continuing education credits for recertification, ensuring they stay updated with the latest advancements.

Cost

The cost of ACSM certification varies. ACSM members pay $249 for the certification, while non-members are charged around $349. 

2. American Council of Exercise (ACE)

An ACE certification allows fitness professionals to become personal trainers, athletic coaches, fitness instructors and more.

Training Duration 

The ACE certification program typically spans approximately 3-4 months.

Topics Covered

• Exercise Science: A comprehensive understanding of the science behind exercise.

• Program Design: Designing safe and effective workout programs.

• Client Coaching: Developing effective communication and coaching skills.

Credits Required

ACE, like ACSM, mandates continuing education credits for recertification to ensure that professionals remain well-informed. 

Cost 

ACE certifications vary from $675 to $975.

3. National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)

The NASM curriculum covers everything from what you’d need to be a personal trainer to owning your own fitness business, client nutrition and more.

Training Duration 

The NASM program typically spans 10-12 weeks, providing a structured timeline for completion. However, you can choose to do this certification at your own pace as well.

Topics Covered

Among the topics covered are:

• Corrective Exercise: Identifying and addressing movement dysfunctions.

• Program Design: Creating tailored fitness programs.

• Client Assessment: Understanding and assessing individual client needs.

Credits Required

Continuing education credits are required for NASM recertification to ensure ongoing professional development.

Cost

The NASM certification cost currently varies from a one time fee of $799 for a self-study course to $1,699 for their premium certification bundle.

4. National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)

NSCA certifications enable fitness professionals to become personal trainers, sports scientists, work with differently abled people and more.

Training Duration

NSCA provides flexibility in training duration, allowing individuals to progress at their own pace.

Topics Covered

• Strength Training: Techniques for building strength.

• Conditioning: Strategies for improving cardiovascular fitness.

• Sports Nutrition: Understanding the nutritional needs of athletes.

Credits Required

NSCA, similar to other certifications, requires continuing education credits for recertification.

Cost

The cost of NSCA certification varies depending on whether you are a member or not. Fees start from $250 onwards and in some cases, exceeds $475. 

5. International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)

ISSA offers certification programs for nutritionists, physical trainers, sports coaches and medical professionals. 

Training Duration 

ISSA certification programs typically span approximately 2-4 months, providing a condensed but comprehensive curriculum.

Topics Covered

• Exercise Science: Understanding the scientific principles of exercise.

• Program Design: Creating effective workout programs.

• Nutrition: Learning about the role of nutrition in fitness.

Credits Required 

ISSA, like other certifications, mandates continuing education credits for recertification.

Cost

ISSA certification programs range from $79 per month for 12 months for the Fitness Coach program to $149 per month for 12 months for the Master Trainer program.

6. International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA)

IFPA certifications cover advanced levels of personal training and nutrition.

Training Duration

IFPA's training program typically spans approximately 2-4 months, offering a focused curriculum.

Topics Covered

• Exercise Physiology: Understanding how the body responds to exercise.

• Program Design: Designing individualized fitness programs.

• Nutrition: Learning about the impact of nutrition on fitness.

Credits Required 

Continuing education credits are required for IFPA recertification.

Cost

The cost of IFPA certifications range from $449 to $897.

7. National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT)

NFPT certifications specialize in programs for personal trainers. 

Training Duration

NFPT's training program typically spans approximately 3-4 months, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

Topics Covered

• Exercise Science: Understanding the principles of exercise.

• Program Design: Designing effective fitness programs.

Client Assessment: Assessing individual client needs.\

Credits Required

NFPT, like other certifications, requires continuing education credits for recertification.

Cost

NFPT certification packages vary from $199 to $324.

8. National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association (NESTA)

NESTA offers online personal trainer certifications that are valid for 4 years.

Training Duration 

NESTA's training programs typically span approximately 3-6 months, allowing for a thorough understanding of the material.

Topics Covered

• Exercise Physiology: Understanding the physiological aspects of exercise.

• Program Design: Creating effective fitness programs.

• Coaching Skills: Developing effective communication and coaching abilities.

Credits Required 

Like all other certification programs, NESTA requires continuing education credits for recertification.

Cost

NESTA certifications will put you down anywhere between $349 and $697.

Conclusion

Getting certified as a fitness professional from one or more of the institutions mentioned above is a fool proof way of giving your fitness career a shot in the arm. Not only will it help establish your credibility as a subject matter expert, it will also make it easier for you to find profitable employment, be it as a personal trainer or as a trainer at a well-established gym or fitness club.

If you’re considering setting yourself up as a personal trainer, or opening your own fitness business, your fitness website is an essential part of your marketing arsenal. And you need to look no further than CoachGenius to make that website a reality. 

Our no-code website builder offers you easy to use fitness themes, easy to navigate website layouts, scheduling capabilities, payment gateway integrations, content management tools, and e-store and much more, all at a price point guaranteed to not break the bank. 

Sign up for a hands-on free trial with CoachGenius today, and explore the endless possibilities for growth we offer our clients before you choose a plan that caters to your needs.