Employment in the fitness industry is expected to grow faster than the average of all other occupations, according the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Balancing work, family, and other things in life, can make it difficult to attend a physical school to become a personal trainer. Online personal training schools can provide certifications and diplomas for time-strapped individuals, allowing a convenient learning environment.
There are numerous online schools to become a certified personal trainer. However, a potential trainer should look into several factors before choosing a school such as cost, accreditation, prerequisites and if a degree is required. Other factors to check out are: course duration, continuing education and available resources.
Cost
The cost of an online personal training school can vary from no cost at ACT certification and up. Potential personal trainers need to make sure to look at all the costs involved. Many schools will have separate fees for materials such as books, online workshops, exam and renewal fees.
Accreditation
The National Commission for Certifying Agencies is the No. 1 accrediting organization in the fitness industry. Other accrediting agencies include Distance Education and Training Council and International Association of Continuing Education and Training. Accredited personal training schools demonstrate compliance of established accreditation standards. The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association recommends that club owners only hire personal trainers with certifications from NCCA accredited schools or through schools with an equivalent accrediting organization.
Prerequisites
Most, if not all, personal training schools require a minimum of prerequisites in order to obtain certification. The two most common prerequisites are being at least 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Many certifications require CPR/AED certification and a few require a college degree. Experience in the fitness industry may also be required for some certifying agencies.
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