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Whats the best online personal training certification you can get?

Dieharder

New member
Ive been looking into this as something to help me get through grad school, but i dont wanna waste the money on a shitty certificate,any suggestions as to what the best certification i could get while not having it be my major/degree?
 
If you are that lazy, just print a certificate yourself.

my certifications include
C.s.C.S.
A.C.E.
Pilates mat
indoor cycling
physical Best
 
wtlftr said:
If you are that lazy, just print a certificate yourself.

my certifications include
C.s.C.S.
A.C.E.
Pilates mat
indoor cycling
physical Best
thats fantastic...thanks for the dickhead reply
 
thanks for the replies guys. im still in college full time working on a double major, but am really interested in trying to get a cert that is recognized so that i could maybe start personal training to get through grad school after this year
 
I was thinking of getting a certification, just for personal gratification really, not to really work or make any money as a personal trainer... has anyone here ever done this? Is it something I will have to keep paying to renew year after year?
 
Lestat said:
I was thinking of getting a certification, just for personal gratification really, not to really work or make any money as a personal trainer... has anyone here ever done this? Is it something I will have to keep paying to renew year after year?


most certification's it's every 2 years for renewal.....it's usually only about 100 bucks or so compared to the 600 or so you gotta pay to get the original one(for a good one).
 
you can get a personal training certification ONLINE? without going to the gym and learning equipment or anything? I don't think I'm understanding correctly.. cause that's really scary
 
What is/are the most respected certifications?
 
I just got the at home study stuff for NCSF. I looked into alot of them, I wanted one that was accepted in all the gyms in my area (I'm sick of working shitty jobs to get me through school). From what I understand NCSF is a well respected one, without first having a bachelors.
 
REBEL said:
I just got the at home study stuff for NCSF. I looked into alot of them, I wanted one that was accepted in all the gyms in my area (I'm sick of working shitty jobs to get me through school). From what I understand NCSF is a well respected one, without first having a bachelors.
so there are different certs you can get if you have a bachelors?
 
It's gotta be a bachelors in a "health-related field." EG sports medicine, nutrition, biology, blah blah blah.
 
casualbb said:
It's gotta be a bachelors in a "health-related field." EG sports medicine, nutrition, biology, blah blah blah.

yeah, there are 2 certifications that cater to this....

ACSM and i forget the other one.


NASM
NCSF
ISAA
ACE.

are all recognized and can probably land you a job(of course that's contingent on other factors). there's a bunch of other certifications out there from lesser known companies(NESTA,IFPA) but that's probably just wasting your money.


not sure about places like NFPT, AFPA...
 
I checked out the NASM site.. looks cool... if I were to go for that one It'd be good right? its $500 or so for the study at home CDs and shit....

My undergrad is in Bio Psychology... that could be sports/medicine related right?
 
why am I a dickhead for my response. Seems kinda stupid. Just responding and gave good results. Top three ACSM, NSCA (CSCS), NASCM
 
Wait... I got mixed up...


which ones are the best to get WITHOUT a bachelors?

I want to get some certs to be a trainer as a second job(already got a fulltime). Can't go back to school...
 
jstrick2 said:
Wait... I got mixed up...


which ones are the best to get WITHOUT a bachelors?

I want to get some certs to be a trainer as a second job(already got a fulltime). Can't go back to school...

define "best"......... The most info? most comprehensive? easiest? fastest? most respected? what?
and what do you mean by "some certs"? you only need one certification to get insurance.
 
CaliGirl said:
define "best"......... The most info? most comprehensive? easiest? fastest? most respected? what?
and what do you mean by "some certs"? you only need one certification to get insurance.


Best = help me get employed
 
be careful about getting into personal training. you REALLY have to commit to it for it to be any better than your average slightly-better-than-unskilled-labor job.

also, somewhere along the way certification companies realized they could demand that you shell out an additional $200-400 per year for "continuing education" courses. Otherwise you won't be current, which gyms require for employment.
 
casualbb said:
be careful about getting into personal training. you REALLY have to commit to it for it to be any better than your average slightly-better-than-unskilled-labor job.

also, somewhere along the way certification companies realized they could demand that you shell out an additional $200-400 per year for "continuing education" courses. Otherwise you won't be current, which gyms require for employment.

I thought that was only if you get hired through the gym itself (basically on their payroll), vs. independently promoting yourself and establishing your own rates, based on location.
 
casualbb said:
also, somewhere along the way certification companies realized they could demand that you shell out an additional $200-400 per year for "continuing education" courses. Otherwise you won't be current, which gyms require for employment.

which is a crock, most ceu's are worthless. You do not have to be current to get insurance, thats a fact, or even certified for that matter. Most gyms only care about the insurance, I know trainers that got their initial cert, to never renewed and still work in major gym chains.
 
Have not seen IFPA mentioned. Another place to get a cert where you dont have to actually show up. Friend took it, saw her books and videos, bascially the same information you can find on here or with any research online. But why would anyone want one of these types of certs?
 
XtremeAdventures said:
Have not seen IFPA mentioned. Another place to get a cert where you dont have to actually show up. Friend took it, saw her books and videos, bascially the same information you can find on here or with any research online. But why would anyone want one of these types of certs?


Because, if you know your shit and have experience, it does not matter who you are certified by. I know many excellent, experienced trainers who are fed up with shelling out hundreds, and in some cases thousands for CEU's and renewal fees. It's a scam. One time certs are a god send for some, and some just stopped renewing. You dont need a cert to obtain insurance, it only makes it about 50 bucks cheaper.
 
CaliGirl said:
define "best"......... The most info? most comprehensive? easiest? fastest? most respected? what?
and what do you mean by "some certs"? you only need one certification to get insurance.


Hi, there are only 4 certs that are accredited. This is a rather new thing for the certs to gain more credibility. NFPT, ACSM, NASM, and I think AFAA or ACE. These are the one's that have the most credibility.
I've seen alot of change in my 25+ years in the industry and I must say with all the certs out there ...... remember one thing. A piece of paper does not make a trainer, it comes from years of working with clients. that is the only way to make a name for yourself.

Good luck
If you go with NFPT, tell them Dr.Blaze sent you
 
Dieharder said:
Ive been looking into this as something to help me get through grad school, but i dont wanna waste the money on a shitty certificate,any suggestions as to what the best certification i could get while not having it be my major/degree?

I'm getting mine through American Fitness Professionals and Associates :)
 
I attend Towson University here in Maryland and my major is exercise physiology.

All of the doctors who have taught me have said the only associations they find credible are the ACSM and the NSCA.

They made comments like "Don't waste your time with anything else"

and

"Anything but ACSM and NSCA are bullshit" - my favorite.
 
NSCA more for strength and athletes and ACSM more for the general public....
Following behind the NSCA and the ACSM I believe are ACE and NASM anything else is most likely bullshiat... Now you go to ask why the ACSM and NSCA are the best on the market? These two organizations are both non- profit while these other certifications are out for your money... What does the NSCA and ACSM do with their money? They are the leaders in exercise and sport research... Ever heard of the Journal of Strength and Conditioning, Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews ,or the Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise journal. They are the ones that fund research for colleges and exercise scientist to revolutionize the industry.Look in the back of any Exercise Physiology textbook or any college textbook related to exercise and youll see what I mean. So why would you want another certification other than these two? Just my opinion...
 
anyone ever heard of npti? i checked into it a few weeks ago....it was like 4k for everything....it was insane!
 
jpt said:
anyone ever heard of npti? i checked into it a few weeks ago....it was like 4k for everything....it was insane!

then don't waste your time. the aforementioned reputable certifications shouldnt run you more than $400.
 
bignate73 said:
then don't waste your time. the aforementioned reputable certifications shouldnt run you more than $400.

yeah i agree....i think the only difference is that they do hands on teaching....like 300 classroom hours and 50 hours in the gym.
 
THERE IS NO BEST!!! EACH EMPLOYER/GYM/HEALTH SPA MAY ONLY ACCEPT A CERTAIN CERTIFICATION. TO SAY THAT ALL THE OTHERS ARE SHIT IF A FUCKIN JOKE.

Saying that "xxxxx" or "xxxxx" is the only one worth your while is so ridiculous. NPTI is very expensive, but there is no second to the hands on learning they offer.

Trust me, a specific certification will not make you a good trainer. The cert. battle is just a gay little childrens game. I have yet to have a client say....Oh, you are certified by "-----" I heard they suck.

Learning to be a safe and knowledgeable trainer is the only thing that matters. Also, if you don't have EXCELLENT people skills you will not make it.
 
AF PROSPECT said:
THERE IS NO BEST!!! EACH EMPLOYER/GYM/HEALTH SPA MAY ONLY ACCEPT A CERTAIN CERTIFICATION. TO SAY THAT ALL THE OTHERS ARE SHIT IF A FUCKIN JOKE.

Saying that "xxxxx" or "xxxxx" is the only one worth your while is so ridiculous. NPTI is very expensive, but there is no second to the hands on learning they offer.

Trust me, a specific certification will not make you a good trainer. The cert. battle is just a gay little childrens game. I have yet to have a client say....Oh, you are certified by "-----" I heard they suck.

Learning to be a safe and knowledgeable trainer is the only thing that matters. Also, if you don't have EXCELLENT people skills you will not make it.

Well bro I’m sorry to bust your bubble but there is a huge difference in some certifications to others... If you can’t see the difference then your crazy... Yeah I know clients can’t tell what certification is what but if they could which do you think they would go for? You don’t think it means anything but it means a lot when you’re trying to find a educated trainer... So your saying these certifications that are $50 and you get to mail them in are just as good as one that has a 50% pass rate and have written and practical exams... Now ask yourself which would you want training you...
Also there is an actual study that was performed in Florida where they went around to different gyms asking trainers with different certifications 25 questions and they also questioned gym members... I can’t remember the exact number but they went all over the state and interviewed hundreds of trainers... What was the outcome? Only people certified by the ACSM and NSCA scored to competent levels somewhere around 18 I think out of 25... The rest of the trainers scored on average 10 out of 25... The GREATEST kicker of all is that the average gym person scored just as high 10 out of 25 as a personal trainer who does not hold one of the two certifications mentioned above... Now if that doesn’t say something your crazy... That means most people in the gym who work out have just as much knowledge as the average trainer...
 
glock40_1979 said:
Well bro I’m sorry to bust your bubble but there is a huge difference in some certifications to others... If you can’t see the difference then your crazy... Yeah I know clients can’t tell what certification is what but if they could which do you think they would go for? You don’t think it means anything but it means a lot when you’re trying to find a educated trainer... So your saying these certifications that are $50 and you get to mail them in are just as good as one that has a 50% pass rate and have written and practical exams... Now ask yourself which would you want training you...
Also there is an actual study that was performed in Florida where they went around to different gyms asking trainers with different certifications 25 questions and they also questioned gym members... I can’t remember the exact number but they went all over the state and interviewed hundreds of trainers... What was the outcome? Only people certified by the ACSM and NSCA scored to competent levels somewhere around 18 I think out of 25... The rest of the trainers scored on average 10 out of 25... The GREATEST kicker of all is that the average gym person scored just as high 10 out of 25 as a personal trainer who does not hold one of the two certifications mentioned above... Now if that doesn’t say something your crazy... That means most people in the gym who work out have just as much knowledge as the average trainer...

I'd like to see who that study was done by. This topic could be debated FOREVER. It is what it is, some trainers are good, some great, some could be better. Certs, OVERALL do NOT make the trainer, PERIOD. To say it does is crazy. Many elements go into making a great trainer, MANY. Not just who he/she is certified by.
 
CaliGirl said:
I'd like to see who that study was done by. This topic could be debated FOREVER. It is what it is, some trainers are good, some great, some could be better. Certs, OVERALL do NOT make the trainer, PERIOD. To say it does is crazy. Many elements go into making a great trainer, MANY. Not just who he/she is certified by.

The whole idea this raises is how can you be a good personal trainer with limited knowledge... That’s the whole point in having a very good certificate to show you are competent... Most college educated trainers tend to go for the ones I mentioned while your average trainer in a gym go the other way... So I know that it takes a whole lot more to being a great trainer but one thing I know is it first takes a huge amount of knowledge to even be able to train someone the right way... So no knowledge= not a good trainer... Also a lot of these gyms have a computer program that just shoots a program out there for a person with hardly any individualized thinking... So in reality if that is all the trainer does then he /she to me is more of a coach or motivator...
 
I'm going to make this as short as possible:
You are generalizing. I know of MANY exceptional trainers who have not set foot in a university, some are not even certified. A huge amount of knowledge can be gained by actually participating, lifting yourself, being an athlete, some people are self taught. Knowledge comes from many places, not JUST a book.
I have an education, but I have learned MORE from actual experience. Of course a great knowledge base is optimal, but it cannot be said, because someone is certified by "such and such" makes them crappy, you don't know what thier ACTUAL experience is OR who they are.
I believe the best trainers can be found via word of mouth, reputation etc. clients needs, and how they interact with clients. I believe a huge problem with trainers is they try to do too much, they all over the board trying to make a living. Specialization is the key to success... be proficient and excel at one aspect of personal training. Oh and yes, trainers ARE motivators, and coaches. Some gym chains require trainers to use their programs, though I have no experience with them so I cant speak, but common sense tells me, this would be a place for an entry level trainer, trying to LEARN more and gain actual experience training. They still have to teach and watch for correct form etc. Its not like the program does this part for them.



You still never said who the study was
done by.
 
Also you are getting off the point of this topic... The question is which is the best certification??? LIke I said I think each certification has a specific level of difficulty with that being said the more difficult the test the more knowledge it shows you have...
This is in response to your statement on trainers real life experience is just as good and not having to look at books... For instance you take a trainer with no college education, a basic cert., and 5 years of experience at Joe's Gym and with all this knowledge he gained I would bet money he would fail a high end certification... Not that real life experience is not important but how can that teach you indepth Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology (Human Movement) Biomechanics, Energy pathways (ATP-PC, Anaerobic glycolysis, Aerobic glycolysis),ECT to name a few... So education and work experience are going to get you where you need to be... So buying a $50 certification off the net isnt going to get you anywhere but in court for a law suit...
 
Here is a related article to the studies I mentioned I will find the actual studies for you though....


A few years ago personal training was considered an expensive luxury that only celebrities could afford. Today, more and more middle class people are using the help of professional trainers. A good trainer will make your workout more fun, increase motivation, set goals, track your progress, avoid injuries, help you get results faster, and make the whole process more comfortable and convenient. Personal trainers are also good resources for the latest information on health and fitness.

Choosing the right trainer for your needs can be a challenge. A recent survey found that there are over 62,000 personal trainers working in the United States. Unlike many other health professionals, personal trainers are not required by law to possess a license to practice. While there are about 200 certifying organizations in the United States, not all certifying agencies are the same. Some of them provide a comprehensive education and set high standards for certification. Others, just offer a weekend workshop or home study course. These provide very limited knowledge and skills for the future fitness professional. Testing levels can also vary greatly from one certifying agency to another. Therefore, being a "certified personal trainer" does not provide the credential to be a fully qualified and competent fitness professional.

Studies have been conducted to assess the possible relationship between formal education, type of certifying organization, and level of knowledge. One group of researchers identified 13 core courses that they considered important in preparing a personal trainer. These include anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury prevention. They conducted their study in the southwestern states from 1992 to 1995 and found that only those trainers certified by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) had completed an average of 74% of those courses. Fitness knowledge was the highest among the ACSM-certified trainers, whereas the NSCA-certified trainers were the most knowledgeable in the area of strength training. Both the ACSM and NSCA are non-profit organizations whose missions are to promote scientific research, education, and practical application of exercise science to enhance physical performance, fitness, and health.

Most recently, a survey was done by a group of researchers in southern California. They examined the relationship between commonly used indicators of knowledge in the five areas of nutrition, health screening, testing protocols, exercise prescription, and general training knowledge regarding special populations. The study revealed that a bachelor's degree in the field of exercise science, and possession of ACSM or NSCA certifications were strong predictors of a personal trainer's knowledge, whereas years of experience were not related to knowledge. Researchers concluded the fact that an individual who has worked for years as a personal trainer, or has met a minimum standard for passing a certification exam should not be taken as proof of competence in designing a safe and optimal fitness program. Although many believe that practical experience is key, the results of this study showed that formal education is a far better predictor of a personal trainer's knowledge than years of experience. In addition, this study shows that certification by the ACSM or NSCA is associated with much higher levels of knowledge than certification from any other organization, or even certification from several other organizations.

Before you hire a personal trainer, the NSCA recommends that you take the time to conduct an interview to find one that best fits your needs, goals, and personality. Start by asking a few basic questions. Does the trainer have a fitness related degree? and/or Is the trainer certified by a nationally recognized organization such as the ACSM or NSCA? The results of current studies suggest that trainers who have a college degree and are certified by the ACSM or NSCA scored an average of 85% on the Fitness Instructor Knowledge Assessment, compared with only 36% for those who don't have a college degree and certification from the ACSM or NSCA.

Other questions to ask are: Is the trainer CPR and AED certified? Does the trainer have liability insurance? Does the trainer conduct testing to evaluate your current fitness level, or perform a health screening?

A personal trainer should begin by learning about your past or current medical conditions. The trainer may also conduct fitness tests to determine a safe and effective exercise program, and set reasonable short and long-term goals. These fitness tests may be repeated every few months to assess your progress and modify your exercise prescription.

Make sure that your trainer is listening to you. Your trainer should design a program to work towards your goals, and should motivate you without intimidating you or pushing you beyond your limits. Your trainer should be prepared with a plan for each workout session. Just taking you through a line of machines and counting repetitions is not worth the money you are paying. A workout plan should show that your trainer understands your limitations, needs, and goals.

People use trainers for many different reasons. Your trainer should have experience and expertise in working with people whose goals or medical conditions are similar to yours. For instance, if you have a heart disease it would be a good idea to find a trainer who has experience working in a cardiac rehabilitation center. You may ask your doctor to recommend a trainer who specializes in working with people who have a condition similar to yours. Other ways to find a trainer are to search web sites such as www.respond.com, www.acsm.org or www.nsca-lift.org. You can conduct a free search of personal trainers in your area listing their credentials, education, experience, fees, and other information. Don't forget to ask about fees and cancellation policies. A trainer should provide you with a written copy of all policies on fees, scheduling, and cancellations. Fees may vary depending on area, length of the session, and the trainer's experience. A higher fee is not always an indicator of a better trainer. Some trainers offer discounts for packages or prepaid sessions.

Don't choose your fitness professional by appearance. Just because he or she is in good physical shape does not mean that he/she can help you to achieve similar results. Assumptions like "he has only 5 percent of body fat, so he has to know something" can be misleading. Some trainers may be slim because they are spending hours working out in the gym every day; or are consuming huge amounts of supplements, which may have numerous side effects. Finally, you should feel comfortable, and get along well, with your trainer. A trainer's personality is important. For most people who struggle to find an hour two times a week to exercise, the concept of becoming a "gym rat" is not acceptable. The goal of the trainer should be to maximize the efficiency of your workouts and to help you to get in the best shape while spending the least amount of time exercising.
 
Also for anyone else looking for anwsers on certifiations copy and paste....

http://smedia.vermotion.com/media/17270/resources/Selecting%20Your%20Personal%20Trainer.pdf#search='nscapersonaltrainerstudy'
 
glock40_1979 said:
Also you are getting off the point of this topic... The question is which is the best certification??? LIke I said I think each certification has a specific level of difficulty with that being said the more difficult the test the more knowledge it shows you have...
This is in response to your statement on trainers real life experience is just as good and not having to look at books... For instance you take a trainer with no college education, a basic cert., and 5 years of experience at Joe's Gym and with all this knowledge he gained I would bet money he would fail a high end certification... Not that real life experience is not important but how can that teach you indepth Anatomy and Physiology, Kinesiology (Human Movement) Biomechanics, Energy pathways (ATP-PC, Anaerobic glycolysis, Aerobic glycolysis),ECT to name a few... So education and work experience are going to get you where you need to be... So buying a $50 certification off the net isnt going to get you anywhere but in court for a law suit...

You missed my point, flew right over your head. I never said "a trainer does not have to look at books". Those are your words. Ha, lol. You really don't get it.
 
National Board of Fitness Examiners? this is that association or registry started up a couple years back , right? they want to standardize the industry. Take their test, pass, and then you can register with them. More money to shell out. Maybe in 10 years or so when it catches on, but for now, too much money to spend.
Consumers really don't care about this stuff, honestly good trainers retain and gain clients, bad trainers usually don't last anyway. I think all this cert talk is ego driven, who really cares? IT'S OTHER TRAINERS who care. "Mine is better!", "no mine is" "well I have this and that" "well I have this and this" dont you all see it? All of these start-up associations do, and they are taking your money! There are a few good certs. We all know what they are, to each his own. I'm done venting now.
 
CaliGirl said:
You missed my point, flew right over your head. I never said "a trainer does not have to look at books". Those are your words. Ha, lol. You really don't get it.

Okay let me know what I didnt get... Personally I think you dont get it...
 
Which is best and most credibel for non Bio bachelor's - ACE, NASM other?
Of ACE and NASM which is easier for personal trainer?
Same as above for Group Trainer?

Thanks!
 
i keep reading and just keep getting more confused? Is it jus better to call any gym you mite wanna work for and ask what they are looking for instead? what certifications?
 
ThaKing said:
i keep reading and just keep getting more confused? Is it jus better to call any gym you mite wanna work for and ask what they are looking for instead? what certifications?
yes that is a good way to start.

Big chains like 24 hour fitness have their own certification programs. They will also pay you slightly more if you get additional certifications, and they can provide you with a list of which ones they recognize.
 
Lestat said:
yes that is a good way to start.

Big chains like 24 hour fitness have their own certification programs. They will also pay you slightly more if you get additional certifications, and they can provide you with a list of which ones they recognize.


I am interested in knowing which PT Certification program would help me gain the knowledge on exercise science and physiology?
 
I got one from ISSA. I believe it's a rip-off.

The text is fine for most parts but the programming is very weak. The testing and seminar are bleeping jokes. You don't have to read squat to pass the test, just study the sample tests.

I've read a lot since then and would now go for the NSCA cert if I had to do it over again. Reasons have been stated in prior posts.
 
There are so many certifying organizations out there that it can be hard to tell what is of any value. I'd say that the three most highly respected of these are the following:

NSCA - providing the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer Distinctions

NASM - Certified Personal Trainer (NASM also offers several specialization courses)

ACSM

Each of these require several months of study in preparation for the exam and can set you apart if you are able to apply the book knowledge effectively in a "live" setting.

Best of luck,
Boh

David I. Bohmiller, BS, NSCA-CSCS, NASM-CPT
http://www.my-personal-trainer-school.com
 
I would agree with David in terms of the NSCA being well respected, though I would also add that none of the certifications are that great in regards to preparation for working with real life clients.

I've gleaned the most knowledge working in the field and continuing my education through books written by other trainers and attending seminars
 
I spent $600 to get certified with AFAA. One weekend of reviewing the 500+ page book, physical and written test. Mostly everyone failed. I feel like an idiot. I was just doing it to enhance my own knowledge. Anyone want to buy the books?
 
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