Jobs for personal trainers and yoga instructors were in demand at the time of publication. Whether you are looking to change careers or supplement your current work, many certification options are available for becoming a personal trainer or yoga instructor. The type of certification you pursue depends on how in-depth you want the training and how much you are willing to spend.
AFAA
The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, AFAA, is a leading organization in fitness certifications. In a three-day workshop, AFAA offers a personal trainer certification for $489, in which you will have to use your acquired knowledge to demonstrate various skills, such as a fitness assessment for a first-time client. After the workshop, you will receive a study guide and must pass a written exam before you can receive full certification.
NASM
Another avenue for personal trainer certification is The National Academy of Sports Medicine, NASM. Like AFAA, a written examination is required before you can receive certification. With NASM, however, you have the option of multiple packages, starting at approximately $580. You can purchase the Standard Package, consisting of online practice exam, study textbook, DVD, iPod/audio presentations and online study content. For a higher fee, you can register to take a study workshop in person. You must take the written NASM exam at a local proctored site that the company specifies.
YogaFit
If you would like to pursue yoga certification, YogaFit offers training nationwide. You must start with Level 1 certification and work up from there, with trainings that extend to Level 5. If you register early for the workshop, you receive a $30 price reduction, which ends up costing $379 for a one-day workshop. With this price, you receive a training DVD, a music CD for your class and an instructional booklet. Level 1 trainees are also required to donate eight hours of their time teaching yoga.
Yoga Alliance
Yoga Alliance is the leading certification body for yoga instructors nationwide. It recognizes various yoga studios and companies as official "Yoga Alliance certified" schools. The minimum number of hours required to be a Registered Yoga Instructor, RYT, through Yoga Alliance is 200 hours. If you want to train further, you can acquire a 500-hour certification as well. Thus, if you are looking for a more in-depth yoga certification recognized at any studio or gym, search the Yoga Alliance directory for schools in your area offering certifications. The cost will vary but typically averages around $3,000.
Member Comments