Unlocking Your Fitness Career: The best personal training courses

If you’re passionate about fitness, helping others achieve their health goals, and transforming lives, a career as a personal trainer awaits you. But where do you start? Well, the basic requirements usually are a CPR/AED certification, a personal training certification (or equivalent) and in some cases personal liability insurance. However, in this post we’re focusing on the most requested one - the personal training certification

If you have no experience or any guidance, then choosing the right certification program is crucial. I have to mention that a university degree in human movement or sports, is also acceptable in most gyms but for the sake of those who don’t have a degree, here are your best options.

Are these the ONLY options? Obviously not but these are some of the most common ones. It has to be said that a personal training certification does not make anyone a great trainer. As a matter of fact, there are plenty of great trainers who may not have a certification per se and there are plenty of rubbish trainers who are fully certified but that doesn’t take away from the requirement of having one. If you want to work for a gym or health facility, you’re more than likely going to be required to have one.

More importantly, when it comes to learning about personal training, (in my humble opinion) nothing beats the hands on training you recieve in a gym when guided by another trainer. You can read everything you want about personal training but you won’t truly grip any concepts or theory as much as when you’re actually doing the darn thing! Start with learning and improving yourself, then focus on helping others. 

Most gyms or health facilities (in the US) require a certification of some form, so let’s explore the "best" personal training courses available, complete with examples, application guidance, and ESTIMATED costs at the time of writing this.

1. National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)

• Why It’s Top-Notch:
  • Gold Standard: NASM is renowned globally for its evidence-based approach.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering exercise science, program design, and client assessment.
  • Career Support: NASM-certified trainers are highly sought after by employers.
• Estimated Cost: Varies, but starting around $699
• How to Apply: Visit the NASM website and explore their rich curriculum.

2. International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)

• Why It’s Exceptional:
  • NCCA Accreditation: ISSA’s Personal Trainer Certification is highly respected.
  • Flexible Learning: Self-paced courses accessible remotely.
  • Professional Website: Graduates receive a free professional website.
• Estimated Cost: Starting at around $649
• How to Apply: Learn more on the ISSA website.

3. American Council on Exercise (ACE)

• Why It’s Worth It:
  • Behavioral Coaching Focus: ACE equips trainers to motivate clients effectively.
  • Holistic Approach: Covering exercise science, nutrition, and program design.
  • Industry Recognition: ACE-certified trainers excel in the field.
• Estimated Cost: Varies, but starting around $599. 
• How to Apply: Navigate the ACE website and ignite your fitness career.

4. OriGym

• Why It Stands Out:
  • Blended Learning: OriGym offers a mix of online and in-person training.
  • Active IQ-Approved: Recognized by one of the largest awarding bodies.
  • Flexible Options: Choose from various courses tailored to your goals.
• Estimated Cost: Depends on the course; 
• How to Apply: Explore OriGym’s website for details.

5. YMCA Fit

• Why It Excels:
  • Established Reputation: YMCA Fit has a long-standing legacy.
  • Practical Skills: Focused on real-world application.
  • Diverse Courses: From personal training to group exercise.
• Estimated Cost: Varies
• How to Apply: Check YMCA Fit’s website for specifics.

​Remember, the best personal training courses align with your goals, offer quality education, and prepare you for a successful career. These options are the most favored in AMERICAN gyms, more specifically in New York at the time of writing this. There is also nothing wrong with choosing one, then later on choosing a different one that aligns better with your goals. 

Research, choose wisely, and embark on your fitness journey! 🏋️‍♂️💪

Disclaimer: Always verify details directly with the respective certification programs.
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