How to Earn a Certification as a Personal Trainer

Many personal trainers find employment at the local gym.

If you want to be a personal trainer, the first step is to become certified. The certification process generally includes education on anatomy, nutrition, fitness assessment and other topics designed to help you safely instruct clients in proper lifestyle modification and exercise techniques. There are many options when it comes to certification; you can take courses online or through many local community colleges or training centers. Some courses take as little as three days while others may take several months to complete.

Instructions

1. Determine which program best suits your needs. There are many types of certifications offered by different organizations. If you want to work at a specific gym or health club, start by asking them which program they recommend. Request information from the various programs in your area and online and then review the coursework to see what fits best with your personal career goals.

2. Meet the prerequisites. Some programs require that candidates have current CPR or other certifications, while others may have no prerequisites. Review the materials to make sure you need the requirements before applying to the program.

3. Sign up. If you are taking courses at the local community college, you will need to apply to the college and enroll in classes. If you are taking a local workshop, apply and pay your enrollment fees. Online classes are more flexible, allowing you to complete your work and take the tests at your convenience.

4. Complete the coursework. Depending on the program, this could consist of reading the textbook and taking chapter tests. For in-person classes, you may need to demonstrate skills in a classroom setting. The coursework is designed to help you pass your final certification exams.

5. Take the exams. Once you take and pass your final exams, you will be certified through that organization.

References

• American Council on Exercise: Personal Trainer Certification
• National Academy of Sports Medicine: Certified Personal Trainer
• Aerobics and Fitness Association of America: Find Fitness Certification Workshops

Resources

• Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
• National Academy of Sports Medicine
• American Council on Exercise