Choosing a personal trainer certification can be difficult with so many options to choose from. In addition, it could be a setback to the advancement of your career if you choose a certification that a future employer does not accept. Thus it is important to decide if personal training is a long-term career choice or a part-time job to earn extra money. If you are choosing personal training as a career, then you should seek programs accredited by the NCAA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies). However, if personal training is a part-time option, then save on certification fees by choosing non-NCAA-accredited programs.
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
This NCAA-accredited program is the gold standard for personal trainer certifications in the industry and is accepted by most employers. The CPT (Certified Personal Trainer) exam alone will cost $279. However, if you choose to do the workshop and purchase textbooks, the cost will total up to $800. You must also recertify every 3 years for $800.
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
ACE, an NCAA-accredited personal trainer certification, is highly recognized in the personal training industry. The cost of the personal trainer exam is $219. Study materials can run from $150 to $580, depending on your budget and preference. Also offered is an online study program to supplement study materials. You must recertify every 2 years for $400.
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
An NASM personal trainer certification is NCAA-accredited and accepted by most employers. The exam alone will cost $549, but it is included in study packages ranging from $599 to $799. A notable limitation of the exam is that you have 120 days to take the exam from the time of enrollment. Recertification is required every 2 years for $700.
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
The NSCA offers one of the most respected NCAA-accredited personal trainer certifications available. This certification sets itself apart by enabling work with special-needs populations. However, this exam is one of the most difficult certification exams. Exam fees range from $235 to $405, depending on membership status. Recertification is required every 3 years for $500.
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
The ISSA is a non-NCAA-accredited personal trainer certification that is reasonably well-recognized in the fitness industry. This certification is ideal if you are seeking your first job, working part time or just interested in additional exercise knowledge. The entire program fee is $595, and the course and exam are 100 percent available online. Recertification is required every 2 years for $600.
Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)
The AFAA is a non-NCAA-accredited personal trainer certification is moderately well-recognized by employers. An AFAA certification is ideal if you are seeking your first job, working part time or just interested in additional exercise knowledge. This certification is offered online for a total cost of $469, including exam fee. Recertification is required every 2 years for $600.
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