Before choosing a personal fitness trainer, it is crucial to learn about the certifications of each one. For example, you may want to know whether they hold the NPTI (National Personal Trainer Institute) certification or the NASM-CPT (American College of Sports Medicine) certification. The NPTI certification is the most common and is considered the gold standard. However, other certificates, such as ACE-CPT, ACSM-CPT, or NASM-CPT, are also necessary. You can also know more at personal fitness trainer Burlington ON.
NPTI certification
You can find a personal fitness trainer with NPTI certification through various sources. One of the best places to find a trainer with this certification is the National Personal Trainer Institute. This certification is relatively new and focuses on hands-on training for future trainers. There are also several in-person workshops and courses available. You can choose the type of program that best fits your needs.
The NPTI has 23 locations throughout the United States and internationally, most with just one place. The program is held at large health clubs or partner facilities. Its certification is valid for three years but does not expire, unlike many other fitness programs. While the NPTI program is expensive, it is well worth the money. Its courses are also convenient. The graduate trainees will be able to work in fitness and large health clubs and the public sector.
NASM-CPT
You’ve decided that you’d like to become a certified personal trainer. But how do you know if you’re on the right track? Follow these helpful tips from a NASM-CPT and choose a personal fitness trainer wisely. Here are some helpful tips to make the process a little easier:
Take the NASM-CPT exam. Not all tests are the same, so you should look for the certification that will allow you to practice for the exam. Ensure that the personal fitness trainer is accredited by the NCCA or DEAC, the most respected and legitimate accrediting body in the sports science field. The cost of studying for this exam varies, but you should always shop around for the best deal.
ACSM-CPT
When hiring a personal fitness trainer, you should have high expectations. Choosing a personal trainer with a degree in kinesiology or exercise science is a good sign of a solid understanding of the human body and how to coach in real-life situations. The trainer should also be well-informed about your goals and objectives.
Continuing education is also vital. ACSM guidelines are helpful for personal trainers who want to work with special populations. These courses require more education than a general fitness certification and focus on business skills. However, ACSM certification is a great place to start a career in the fitness industry. You’ll learn many valuable skills while studying for the ACSM CPT exam, including using social media to find clients.
ACE-CPT
ACE-CPT certification is highly respected in the industry. It’s a good sign that a trainer has completed several years of training and is devoted to helping people achieve their fitness goals. The ACE curriculum focuses on health and fitness assessment and how to build rapport with clients. Most exercise methodologies will be based on resistance training, and understanding biomechanics is key to general fitness.
However, not all clubs and gyms will hire a person who has an ACE certification. As a personal fitness trainer, this certification is frowned upon at many clubs. While working at a gym, I saw personal trainers with an ACE certification bagged on. However, not the most prestigious, ACE certification does open doors to many job opportunities. A better certificate is less common but still widely recognized.
National Commission for Certifying Agencies
You can check the NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies) website to find a certified personal fitness trainer. The NCCA is a national health certification agency founded in 1977. Certified personal fitness trainers are the gold standard. You can also check the accreditation of the trainer you are considering using through the NCCA. Several organizations offer these certifications online.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is a highly recognized exercise science organization. Many hospitals and wellness centers prefer personal trainers from the ACSM. They have rigorous guidelines for corrective exercise screening and fitness training. They are also well-respected in the healthcare industry and among potential employers. ACSM credentials are recommended if you already have experience, want to specialize, or plan to enter a healthcare setting.