Having the right qualifications and credentials is an important part of any job. The world of health and wellness is no different; knowing the difference between a pulse squat and plyometric squat is just part of it. Having the proper training will give you a leg up on the competition (literally), as you will be equipped with the necessary resources to give your clients exactly what they need. And if you’re hiring a personal trainer, knowing they have the right qualifications will help you safely and smartly meet your fitness goals. While no one program is better than the other, they all have a slightly different approach. Some certification programs are more scientific in their approach (National Academy of Sports Medicine), and other programs remain grounded in the principle that experience is the most important teacher (American Council on Exercise). Whether you’re an aspiring personal trainer or already a fitness professional, here are some of the top certification programs available.
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
Approximate cost: $700-900
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
You can choose from four different kinds of programs depending on your schedule, ranging from a basic Self-Study program, which lets you learn at your own pace and has no set schedules, to an All-Inclusive program, which provides guided support, weekly assignments, and mentoring. Within the last 10 years alone, NASM has successfully certified over 190,000 personal trainers. Approximate cost: $500-1400
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
Approximate cost: $800
American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
Approximate cost: $279-349
National Strength And Conditioning Association (NSCA)
Approximate cost: $435
