The Personal Training Industry
Certification is a Mark of Distinction for Trainers
Obtaining certification through an accredited program ensures that the personal trainer has learned the necessary skills to effectively train clients.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of fitness workers is expected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations through 2014. Entering "personal training certification" in a search engine results in page after page of programs and schools from which to choose. However, not all certifications are created equal and the reputation of each can vary.
Criterion for personal trainers include: experience designing exercise programs for specific goals, knowledge of medical conditions that affect exercise programs, listening to the client’s questions and concerns, and focused attention on the client to assess progress. Most important is the personal trainer’s education. While a degree in exercise science is not mandatory, a personal trainer should at least be certified through a reputable fitness organization.
Whether you are hiring personal trainers for your facility or you want to become a personal trainer, certification is a mark of distinction. Health club managers should be knowledgable of a trainer's education and experience, and how they will be applied to clients with specific needs.
The National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) sets quality standards for credentialing organizations, and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) is the accreditation body of the NOCA. The mission of the NCCA is to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of the public through the accreditation of certification programs that assess professional competency.
The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) recommends that its member facilities hire personal trainers who hold at least one current certification from an organization that has accreditation from an independent and nationally-recognized agency. NCCA accreditation is considered the gold standard.
As of December 15, 2006, the following certification organizations and programs have been accredited by the NCCA:
- American College of Sports Medicine (Certified Personal Trainer, Exercise Specialist, Health/Fitness Instructor)
- American Council on Exercise (Clinical Exercise Specialist, Group Fitness Instructor, Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant, Personal Trainer)
- The Cooper Institute (Personal Trainer Certification)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (Certified Personal Trainer)
- National Athletic Trainer's Association Board of Certification (Entry-Level Athletic Trainer Certification)
- National Council on Strength and Fitness (National Certified Personal Trainer)
- National Federation of Professional Trainers (Certified Personal Fitness Trainer)
- National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Certification Commission (Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist)
In an industry where anyone can hang a shingle and claim to be a personal trainer, it is important to know where and how they obtained their experience. Obtaining certification through an accredited program ensures that the personal trainer has learned the necessary skills to effectively train clients.
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