In 2008, fitness professionals held approximately 261,100 jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In order to work in the fitness field, you will require certification. Fitness professionals can become certified as personal trainers, group fitness instructors, sports specific trainers and more. You can obtain certification through many organizations, including the American Sports and Fitness Association -- ASFA. ASFA offers busy individuals the chance to obtain a variety of fitness certifications at their own pace.
American Sports and Fitness Association
ASFA offers career advancement opportunities for individuals looking to further themselves in the fitness industry as well as for those looking to break into the fitness industry. You can choose from a wide variety of tests. Certification in a number of fitness areas can help increase your marketability as well your profits as a fitness professional. ASFA provides quality educational materials, tests and certifications to deserving fitness professionals.
Types of Certifications
ASFA has a certification to fit the needs of all fitness professionals. You can start your career with a personal trainer certification with ASFA or work towards advanced certifications. You can receive a master personal training certification or a certification in advanced personal training. You can also study to become a group fitness instructor, a boot camp instructor, kettlebell instructor, water aerobics instructor, kickboxing instructor, Pilates instructor, cycling instructor or a self defense instructor. ASFA also offers sport specific training certification as well as golf strength training certification. You can also study sports nutrition or senior fitness, or receive a certification as a childhood obesity specialist.
Requirements
There are no requirements to take an examination with ASFA. You must complete the certification examination of your choosing with a score of 70 percent or higher. There are no age or education requirements, nor do you require previous experience in the health and fitness field.
Study Materials
ASFA provides you with a list of recommended textbooks and manuals. As of January 2011, you can purchase these books at a cost of $20 to $64 on the ASFA website. You will not be required to purchase study materials.
Testing
ASFA certifications cost between $99 and $229, as of January 2011. However, you do not pay unless you pass the certification exam. You can take the examination over and over again until you pass. You take the examination on your home computer, and it consists of 100 questions for each certification. Once you pass, you pay for your certification and will be e-mailed a PDF file to print out your certification certificate. You can request that a certificate be mailed to you at an additional cost.
Warning
The American Sports and Fitness Association is not a nationally recognized organization. There is no guarantee that these certifications will be accepted when you go to apply for employment in the fitness field.
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