Personal Trainer AFAA Certification
Anybody can call himself a personal trainer--but a personal trainer certified by a well-established organization will enjoy much greater credibility and employment opportunites. The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) has been a part of the fitness industry since 1983 and has certified over 250,00 trainers worldwide over the past three decades. The AFAA personal trainer certification prepares fitness professionals to work one-on-one with clients.
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Benefits
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Personal training is one of the fastest growing occupations today, with a 29 percent increase in jobs predicted for the 2008 to 2018 decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) of the U.S. Department of Labor. The BLS also reports that most fitness workers wil need to be certified. Though few regulations are currently in place concerning mandatory educational or training requirements for personal trainers, most gyms and health clubs prefer to hire trainers certified by an accredited organization.
The AFAA is accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council and is affiliated with the National Board of Fitness Examiners.
The AFAA certification can be earned relatively quickly in comparison to some other personal trainer certifications, and, unlike some certifications, it does not require a college degree. Trainers new to the profession who are not ready to invest a great deal of money or time into entering the business might consider a certification such as the AFAA personal trainer certification ideal.
Features
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The AFAA certification program entails a training workshop and a cumulative certification exam. The AFAA regularly hosts workshops in major cities across the United States. The AFAA advises that candidates prepare by reading the provided study guide and recommended textbooks prior to attending the workshop, although this is not mandatory. The workshop itself focuses on such topics as exercise routine design and choreography, fitness assessment procedures, nutrition and anatomy. Leadership and motivation skills are also considered. The exam encompasses both a written and a practical component. A trainer must show proof of current CPR certification before receiving his official personal trainer certification and ID card.
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Time Frame
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The AFAA training workshop takes three days to complete. Trainers take the certification exam immediately following the workshop. Candidates may study the recommended textbooks and study materials at their own pace for as long a period of time as they wish, prior to the start of the workshop.
AFAA personal trainer certification remains valid for two years. To renew certification, trainers must complete continuing education units.
Costs
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As of 2010, the personal trainer certification program fee was $489. The fee does not include the costs of optional textbooks and other study materials.
Considerations
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Specializing in a niche--whether kickboxing, pilates or aquatic fitness--can increase a personal trainer's marketability. The AFAA offers certifications, workshops and self-study options for a variety of specialized exercise methods. Personal trainers are not required to show exclusive loyalty to a single certifying organization. Earning multiple certifications can improve a trainer's job options and salary potential. Some gyms and health clubs regard certain personal trainer certifications more highly than others. Contacting local employers can help trainers ascertain which certifications might give them the best employment opportunities.
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References
- Photo Credit gym man image by Pavel Losevsky from Fotolia.com
