Certification is generally not required for personal trainers; however, without recognized certification, you will have difficulty finding a job in the industry. According to "The Business of Personal Training," adding the letters CPT or CSCS after your name helps establish credibility among clients and employers -- and enhances your career potential.
American College of Sports Medicine
The American College of Sports Medicine, or ACSM, was established in 1954, making it one of the oldest agencies to certify personal trainers. ACSM claims to be the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world, boasting more than 20,000 members. The organization offers clinical and health fitness certifications, including personal trainer and health fitness specialist, which are recognized around the globe. ACSM also offers a handful of specialty certifications to already-certified professionals who wish to narrow the focus of their practices.
National Strength and Conditioning Association
Founded in 1978, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, or NSCA, has more than 30,000 members located in over 50 countries. NSCA certifies personal trainers, as well as strength and conditioning specialists. Its certification courses are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, lending an NSCA certification much credibility. According to NSCA, its certification exam is recognized as one of the industry's most challenging, which means employers and clients see trainers with NSCA credentials as some of the most qualified.
International Sports Sciences Association
A personal trainer certification from the International Sports Sciences Association, or ISSA, comes with considerable credibility. The ISSA certification is recognized in more than 80 countries and is one of the few personal trainer certifying organizations that is accredited by both the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council, as well as the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. In addition to basic personal trainer certifications, the ISSA offers certification in several other specialties, including nutrition, youth fitness and strength and conditioning.
Considerations
Other accredited organizations that offer personal trainer certifications exist, such as the American Council on Exercise and Aerobic and Fitness Association of America. However, many more organizations exist that are not accredited. Before enrolling in a program, check to see if the certification is accredited by a agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Many certifying organizations offer training courses for a fee, and then charge a separate fee -- often hundreds of dollars -- to take the certification exam. Make sure you know the total cost of certification prior to enrolling in any program.
References
- American College of Sports Medicine: About ACSM
- American College of Sports Medicine: Get Certified
- NSCA Certification: About the NSCA
- International Sports Sciences Association: About the ISSA
- International Sports Sciences Association: Training Courses
- "The Business of Personal Training"; Scott Roberts; 1996
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