According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, personal trainer certification programs help assure that personal trainers can adequately assess, motivate, educate and train a client to support his individual fitness needs. Fitness trainer certification programs help verify that trainers have the skills to design safe and effective exercise regimens and respond appropriately to emergency situations.
Study
You may complete a fitness trainer certification program by passing a certification exam. You can prepare for the exam by taking classes with an instructor at a college or university, online or via correspondence. Organizations that certify fitness trainers may offer study materials like books, CD-ROMs and other audio and visual materials. Certification programs may also offer workshops and seminars to help you prepare for the exam. Fitness trainer certification programs may require you to work alongside an experienced trainer before being allowed to train clients alone.
Qualifying Criteria
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recommends getting certified by a top organization. You can identify a reputable certifying organization by verifying that the organization holds accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Fitness trainer certification programs may require participants to have a high school diploma or G.E.D. in addition to CPR certification. The National Strength and Conditioning Association's personal trainer certification program does not require formal coursework above the high school level.
Required Continuing Education
Fitness trainer certificates eventually expire. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, certification generally lasts two years. Trainers must recertify by attending continuing education classes or conferences, writing articles or giving presentations. The National Federation of Personal Fitness Trainers requires you to complete continuing education requirements to keep your certification current. Continuing education requirements evaluate and validate your competency. You can complete NFPT continuing education requirements by taking self-tests.
Alternative Continuing Education
Personal trainer certification programs may allow trainers to recertify by acquiring more advanced or specialized skills. A trainer may enhance his skills by completing course study or attending fitness conventions. Some organizations may offer more advanced certifications that require a college degree for trainers want to train athletes or work with ill and injured people. Fitness trainers with specialized expertise may train people with orthopedic, cardiovascular and other chronic health conditions.
Material
All certification exams have a written component, and some also have a practical component. Certification exams measure your knowledge of human physiology, your understanding of exercise techniques, your ability to thoroughly assess a client's fitness level and your ability to develop appropriate exercise programs. Candidates for the NSCA fitness trainer certification program must have knowledge of biomechanical concepts, training adaptations and up-to-date knowledge of fitness data that pertains to special populations such as obese or diabetic individuals.
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