How to Become an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer

If you want to pursue a career as a personal trainer, consider acquiring a national certification. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is an organization dedicated to training and certifying health fitness professionals and personal trainers. Getting certified as an ACSM personal trainer can lend your practice credibility.

Instructions

1. Join the ACSM (see Resources below). The website contains information on membership, certifications, conferences, continuing education and job resources for personal trainers. ACSM members also receive discounts on the exam and study materials. ACSM offers different membership rates for students, graduate students and professionals.

2. Prepare for ACSM's personal trainer exam. Purchase study materials including The ACSM's "Resources for Personal Trainers," "Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription" and "Certification Review." ACSM also offer workshops and online quizzes covering exam material.

3. Register to take the ACSM certified personal trainer exam. You must be 18 years or older, have a current American Red Cross or American Heart Association CPR certification and have a high school diploma. The exams contain computer-generated multiple choice questions. You can take the exam at any Pearson Vue testing center.

4. Pass the exam and you'll receive a certified personal trainer card you can carry in your wallet. Utilize ACSM's resources to continue your education and further your career.

Resources

• Get information on the certification and exam at ACSM's website.