Personal Trainer Courses Or Certification

If you're passionate about fitness and helping others, launching your career as a personal trainer may be an ideal option for you. As a trainer you'll be able to work directly with clients to help them meet their fitness goals in a safe, healthy way -- whether in the gym or in their homes. Demand for personal trainers is growing in response to increased concerns about obesity in this country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you're ready to join the fight against the epidemic, obtaining certification from a reputable organization will help you land a position.

American College of Sports Medicine

Founded in 1954, the American College of Sports Medicine has over 20,000 members worldwide .The organization offers several certification programs including one for personal trainers; in fact, ACSM was the first to certify fitness workers, according to the organization's website. You must be 18 years old, have a high school diploma, or the equivalent, and possess valid certification in CPR to be eligible for the CPT credential. ACSM offers study kits to prepare for the multiple-choice, computerized examination required for certification.

National Academy of Sports Medicine

The National Academy of Sports Medicine does not offer only fitness certifications. The organization is also partnered with postsecondary schools to teach undergraduate and graduate students NASM curricula. NASM's Certified Personal Trainer credential requires that you be 18 and hold both CPR and automated external defibrillator certification. You have the option to purchase packages that include not only the CPT exam but also several preparation materials, such as an online course, live workshop, textbook, study materials and practice exam.

American Council on Exercise

The American Council on Exercise is a nonprofit organization with tens of thousands of members. ACE, too, offers several certification options for fitness professionals. As with other programs, you must be 18 and have valid CPR and AED certification to be eligible for the ACE Personal Trainer Certification. You can use the organization's prep course materials and online study coach program to prepare for the examination. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions in addition to two written simulations.

International Sports Sciences Association

The International Sports Sciences Association offers online certification programs for fitness professionals. The Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council has accredited these programs. Although you have eight months to complete the certification course, ISSA reports that most students finish in a little over three months. Course materials include a textbook, workbook, online quizzes, exercise reference DVD and student forum. The final exam contains 160 questions including case studies and essays. Once you obtain certification, you can set up your own website through ISSA to promote your career.

National Strength and Conditioning Association

The National Strength and Conditioning Association's certifications are the first fitness programs to be accredited through the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. You must be 18, have a high school diploma or equivalent and CPR and AED certification. While not required, NSCA recommends its preparation materials for study purposes, especially if you do not have formal training in exercise science. The certification exam is multiple choice and covers exercise knowledge, program planning and client assessment.