Physical fitness is more than a lifestyle choice. For many, it is a weapon in the fight against obesity, heart disease or diabetes, among other maladies. Fighting the battle alone is a test of will and determination, which is where a fitness consultant comes into the picture. These professionals design programs for exercise, wellness and weight management, as well as motivate and assist in rehabilitation. It can also be a lucrative field. The U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average yearly salary for a fitness trainer was $35,340 in 2009, while the the highest 10 percent of salary earners in the field make more than $62,000 annually. While there is no specific fitness consultant certification, the American Council on Exercise offers four wellness certifications.
Personal Trainer Certification
The American Council on Exercise is the nation's largest accrediting organization for fitness professionals with industry-recognized certifications. The ACE Personal Trainer certificate is awarded to students who pass an exam testing their knowledge of lifestyle modification, instructional techniques, exercise development and science, nutrition, and risk and fitness assessment. The preparation material and exam are geared for individuals looking to provide one-on-one or small-group instruction. Applicants must be 18 or older, and hold valid CPR and AED licenses.
Group Fitness Instructor Certification
ACE-certified group fitness instructors can consult with fitness clubs and community centers to provide instructor-led activities. This would serve as a supplemental certification for a yoga or pilates instructor, or other teachers of specialized exercise. The exam measures the applicant's knowledge of anatomy, kinesiology and physiology, as well as classroom management techniques like class design and management. Applicants must be at least 18, and hold valid CPR and AED licenses.
Lifestyle and Weight Management Coach
The lifestyle and weight management coaching program is an advanced certification offered by ACE. In order to earn the credential, an applicant must be 18 years old, hold valid CPR and AED licenses, and be an ACE-certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor or advanced health and fitness specialist. The exam covers psychological and physiological causes of obesity, lifestyle coaching techniques, exercise programming and weight management strategies.
Advanced Health and Fitness Specialist Certification
Like its lifestyle and weight management coach certification, ACE's advanced health and fitness specialist certification is a supplementary program that one can take after receiving her personal trainer, or lifestyle and weight management coach certificate. ACE also requires 300 hours of experience in the design and implementation of fitness programs for both healthy and high-risk audiences. The advanced specialist certification tests knowledge of psychological and physiological impacts of health issues and diseases, as well as how to design programs for people with cardiopulmonary ailments, metabolic disorders, muscular or skeletal programs, and those in differing age groups.
References
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009
- American Council on Exercise: Person Trainer Certification
- American Council on Exercise: Group Fitness Instructor Certification
- American Council on Exercise: Lifestyle and Weight Management Coach
- American Council on Exercise: Advanced Health and Fitness Specialist Certification
