RELATED: Best Personal Training Certifications

The Precision Nutrition (PN) certification is unique as it focuses on both nutritional science and behavior change coaching, teaching you how to help clients with goal setting, healthy habits, and much more. Other nutrition certification programs often put more emphasis on the science of nutrition, with less focus on how to coach people in the real world.

In this Precision Nutrition certification review, I’ll explain the ins and outs of PN’s Level 1 Nutrition certification and help you decide if it’s the right course to help you become a certified nutrition coach.

Certified Experts With Personal Experience

When researching certifications, you need to make sure you’re listening to experts you can trust. Our testers have a variety of certifications from NASM, NSCA, and USA weightlifting, and I’ve personally completed the PN Level 1 certification and re-taken the exam several times over the years to renew my certification. As a fitness and nutrition coach with 11 years of experience, I’ve used the principles from the certification countless times over the last decade with my clients. 

In this review, I used our in-depth testing methodology for certification courses to review and rate the following categories on a 1-to-5-star scale: 

• Course and exam price
• Course length
• Accreditation 
• Prerequisites 
• Continuing education requirements
• Study materials and learning options
• Final exam 

Precision Nutrition Certification

Precision Nutrition Certification

GGR Score: 3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Nutrition coaching certification 
• Over 150,000 industry professional certified 
• Used in more than 50 countries
• High-rated and recommended
• No prerequisites required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Study at your own pace
• Potential to earn CEUs
• Highly regarded certification

Cons

• Limited spots during enrollment periods
• Not NCCA-accredited
• No big final exam

Bottom Line

The Precision Nutrition Certification (specifically the PN Level 1 certification) is a well-known and well-liked nutrition coaching program for fitness industry professionals. Enrollment is limited and not open all year long. Once admitted, you’ll have the ability to go at your own pace or follow along with the 20-week course for live discussions and chapter reviews.

A Quick Look at the Precision Nutrition Certification

As a company that offers nutrition coaching services directly to clients, along with a variety of certifications for online coaches and personal trainers, Precision Nutrition has become one of the most well-known companies in the nutrition industry. Founded by Dr. John Berardi and Phil Caravaggio, PN has consulted with seven professional sports teams and has coached more than 100,000 clients over the last 15 years.

PN has several other certifications and courses, including a Level 1 Sleep, Stress Management, and Recovery certification, as well as a Level 2 Master Health Coaching certification. PN also offers ProCoach, a paid software designed to help online coaches and trainers implement PN’s behavior-change approach with clients. This review will focus on the PN Level 1 Certification. 

One of the things Precision Nutrition is best known for is its holistic approach and focus on behavior change and building healthy habits, which can be especially useful for those who’ve never paid much attention to their nutrition. Rather than starting clients with rigid meal plans and a food scale, PN encourages habits like adding palm-sized servings of protein to each meal or building your meals by dividing your plate into portions for veggies, protein, and starches.

RELATED: High-Protein Foods for Weight Loss

While the nutritional science is very comprehensive, PN also focuses on coaching skills, like understanding how to use different coaching styles, determining someone’s readiness for change, appropriate goal-setting, and much more. 

It’s worth noting that the Precision Nutrition Level 1 certification doesn’t have any prerequisites, there’s no final exam, and there are no ongoing education requirements to maintain your certification. The course is heavy on science and very thorough with its coaching principles, so the requirements and exam process almost feel a bit too easy for how good the actual content is.

Before You Buy

• While the nutrition science portion is in-depth and thorough, the coaching part focuses more on habits and behavior change with simplified food rules. The Level 1 certification is best for those who work with general population clients but aren’t focused on helping advanced athletes, physique competitors, or clients who may need very precise, advanced plans.
• Rather than having to cram for one large exam at the end of the certification, you’ll be tested on each chapter one at a time, and you can complete the entire certification from the comfort of your home. 
• At about $1,400 regular price, the certification isn’t cheap, but you’ll be certified for life. All you need to do is retake a short exam every two years to renew your certification. And, as long as your certification is active, you can be listed on their certified coaches directory.

Is the Precision Nutrition Certification Worth It?

At about $1,400 USD, the PN Level 1 Certification costs more than the ISSA Nutrition Certification or NASM Nutrition Certification, but it’s widely regarded as one of the best nutrition certifications for fitness professionals, and you don’t need to pay any recertification fees or earn CEUs to keep your certification active. 

The textbook material is designed for coaches who want to help their clients build healthy habits, and the sections on behavior change psychology are particularly useful to help you learn how to speak with your clients. This is a great choice for coaches who want to help general-population clients improve their health via nutrition advice. Keep in mind though that simply becoming a certified nutrition coach does not give you the qualifications to make specific meal plans, diets, or supplement prescriptions–only registered dietitians (RDs) or licensed dietitians (LDs) can do that. 

Nicole Davis, senior editor at Garage Gym Reviews, and a CPT, PN1-NC, said: “As a certified personal trainer, I found the PN Level 1 course to be a valuable addition to my toolbox when coaching clients. Nutrition is a super important part of the equation when you’re talking about helping your clients achieve results, so getting the practical, science-backed knowledge about nutrition was just what I needed to become a better coach.”

The coaching techniques focus on simple, easy-to-follow rules, like using your palm or thumb to measure portion sizes, rather than a food scale. This is a great way to build solid nutritional habits, but certain people may need more precise methods to reach their goals.

That said, the actual science portion is incredibly detailed and thorough and provides a very solid understanding of human physiology, biochemistry, and nutritional science. From personal experience, I can say that the level of detail in the scientific chapters is very similar to college-level physiology and advanced nutrition courses. 

Finally, it’s worth noting that the PN Level 1 Certification isn’t accredited by any education boards, which may be a dealbreaker for some. The content is still very useful, but if you’re looking for an accredited certification, you’ll need to go with a different option.

Because of this, the certification earns a 1-out-of-5 rating for accreditation. If you don’t need accreditation, don’t let this discourage you, as the content is still useful. 

Precision Nutrition Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

Precision Nutrition doesn’t list any prerequisites to sign up for the certification. However, many other nutrition certifications often require a basic CPR/AED certification, so that may be worth considering if you’re interested in taking the Precision Nutrition Certification and working with clients.

Even though there are no prerequisites, the course covers all of the foundational knowledge you’d need to be a successful nutrition coach, so the PN Level 1 Certification scores a 3 out of 5 for course prerequisites.

Course Options and Pricing

There are two options: the Self-Guided program and the Expert-Guided program. Both options include:

• Three textbooks covering 20 chapters
• Workbook and study guide
• 20 videos, one to go with each chapter
• Private community of experts and peers
• Real-world case studies from PN’s own clients to use for practice
• Short, end-of-chapter exams
• 40+ premium coaching tools, including assessment tools, food journals, and more
• PN’s Pro Calculator
• 70+ done-for-you social media posts, nutrition infographics, blog articles, and email newsletters to share with your audience as your own. 
• Listing on Precision Nutrition’s directory of PN-certified coaches

The Self-Guided program is 100% self-paced and allows you to complete the certification on your own schedule. The course costs around $1,400, but payment plans are available and may be discounted throughout the year; all in all, we gave it a 3 out of 5 rating.

PN also offers an Expert-Guided program, which places you in a cohort led by PN’s master coaches. Each week, you’ll join a virtual discussion that focuses on each chapter, and have the opportunity to work through the case studies as a group. This program also offers five additional weeks of business coaching to help you start your coaching practice and access to all of the live session recordings. 

The Expert-Guided program is open for enrollment twice per year. You can join the Early Access List and save 30% on the cost of the program.

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

The Precision Nutrition Certification will teach you the PN approach to coaching, thoroughly explain nutritional science, teach you how to work with a wide variety of clients, and introduce the basics of setting up a coaching business.

You’ll also learn how to interview potential clients, and what sort of assessments you should be doing when working with clients in person.

There are 20 chapters in the textbook and online materials, divided into three main categories. 

The Precision Nutrition Approach

• Chapter 1: Introduction
• Chapter 2: Your Learning Plan
• Chapter 3: What is a Great Coach?
• Chapter 4: Helping People Change
• Chapter 5: What is Good Nutrition?

The Science of Nutrition

• Chapter 6: Intro to Nutritional Science
• Chapter 7: Systems and Cells
• Chapter 8: Through the GI Tract
• Chapter 9: Energy Transformation and Metabolism
• Chapter 10: Energy Balance
• Chapter 11: Macronutrients
• Chapter 12: Micronutrients and Whole Foods
• Chapter 13: Water and Fluid Balance
• Chapter 14: Stress, Recovery, and Sleep

Working through the PN Coaching Process

• Chapter 15: Coaching in practice
• Chapter 16: Working with Level 1 clients
• Chapter 17: Working with Level 2 clients
• Chapter 18: Working with Level 3 clients
• Chapter 19: Special Scenarios
• Chapter 20: Business 101

Course Design and Layout

When you begin the certification, you’ll create an online account to access your course, and you’ll get physical copies of the textbooks and workbooks sent to you.

Everything is very easy to navigate. For each chapter, you’ll watch the video lesson, read the chapter textbook, and answer the study guide questions. Next, you’ll be able to practice with real-life case studies that accompany each chapter, using data taken from PN’s coaching clients. 

Many certifications teach you the science but don’t show real examples of how to apply it in the real world. I found the case studies incredibly helpful, as they taught me exactly how to apply PN coaching principles with real clients. 

RELATED: NASM Nutrition Certification Review

You can work your way through the course at your own pace, though Precision Nutrition suggests focusing on one chapter per week. Nicole, GGR’s senior editor, originally purchased the certification in 2021 with all intention of finishing it within a few months. But, life got in the way, and it took her until the fall of 2022 to get certified. However, she said it was very easy to hop in and out of the course curriculum, and she had no issues when she took an extended break.

Finally, you’ll take a short exam at the end of each chapter, rather than a cumulative exam at the end of the course. The exams are open-book, which means it’s easy to pass each individual exam on the first attempt, and you don’t need to remember everything for a final exam. 

I found that the chapter exams felt a bit too easy for how scientific the textbook was, so completing the certification didn’t feel quite as rewarding as I’d hoped. Other certifications I’ve taken in the past have a very challenging final exam to study for, and it felt good to test my knowledge and pass the final exam. I wish Precision Nutrition had something similar. 

That said, even though the exams feel too easy, the content is evidence-based and stays up-to-date with cutting-edge research. The 4th edition textbooks were written by Krista Scott-Dixon PhD, CSCS, Brian St. Pierre, MS, RD, CSCS, Helen Kollias PhD, CSCS, and Camille DePutter. The textbooks are fully referenced, with a comprehensive list of peer-reviewed studies at the end of each book. 

Studying Experience

With the intuitive course layout, textbook, workbooks, and real-life case studies, the PN Level 1 certification is a very thorough and easy-to-navigate study experience.

The nutrition science section is very thorough and will teach you everything you need to know about metabolism, macronutrients, micronutrients, digestion, cellular health, and much more. If you’ve never studied nutrition, this material may feel complicated, but it’s important to know if you’re going to be helping clients with their nutrition. 

If you’ve never studied human anatomy and physiology before, some of these chapters may feel a bit challenging at first. Nicole found the digestion chapter to be a bit tricky, and I found that memorizing the different categories of energy systems in the body took quite a while. 

The study guide helps you focus on the most important parts of each chapter, and the real-world case studies are incredibly helpful. Many other certifications teach you how to adjust nutrition for clients, but you don’t get as much real-world practice, which is where PN shines. Using your scientific knowledge to help real clients can be challenging when you’re just getting started, so the PN case studies are a great way to see each chapter’s concepts applied in the real world.

The Self-Guided certification is 100% self-paced, so you can work through the material as quickly or slowly as you’d like. If you’re working full-time and have limited time, you won’t feel any pressure to rush through the course before a deadline.

The Expert-Guided program opens twice per year, and runs for 20 weeks, with each week focusing on a single chapter. You’ll have an expert-led video call and plenty of time to discuss the chapter and case studies with your cohort group. At the time of writing, the next scheduled cohort opens in March of 2024.

Precision Nutrition also recommends that those who choose the self-guided course focus on one chapter per week, so you can expect the certification to take about 20 weeks to complete.

With an average time of 20 weeks to completion, no time limit, and so many resources to help you study, the study experience earns a solid 5-out-of-5 rating. 

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

When it comes to sitting for the “final exam,” PN’s process is easy. They don’t use a final exam, which is slightly concerning, as there’s no way to verify that program graduates remember information from the early chapters. 

Registering for the Exam 

There is no final exam, or anything you need to schedule. Instead, you’ll take a short quiz at the end of each chapter covering that chapter’s material. Once you pass the quiz, which requires a 75% or higher, you’ll unlock access to the next chapter, and will then be able to complete your chapter studies and take the next quiz. 

Quiz Format

Each chapter quiz consists of 10 questions, which are either multiple-choice or true or false questions. There are 20 chapters in total, so you’ll take 20 of these quizzes to earn your certification. 

The course is taken at home, which means the online quizzes are open-book and can be taken whenever it’s convenient for you.

With no final exam, you simply need a cumulative score of 75% across all 20 chapter exams, which means you’ll need to answer 150/200 questions correctly. You won’t be able to proceed to the next chapter until you pass each chapter exam, which means that as long as you’re completing each chapter’s exam, you’ll be certified upon completion of the final chapter.

Because there is no comprehensive final exam, but there are checkpoints along the way via chapter quizzes, the rating for the final exam is a 3 out of 5.

Post-Certification Perks

Once you complete your certification, you’ll have access to a wide variety of tools and resources provided by PN. 

First, included with the certification are over 40 premium coaching tools to help you work with your clients. You’ll receive a variety of forms, questionnaires, and worksheets to assist with food planning, goal setting, planning and problem-solving, mindset and psychology, and more. 

Upon completion of the course, you have the option to add yourself to Precision Nutrition’s directory of PN-certified coaches. You can add as many details as you’d like, including your city, address, contact information, and any areas you specialize in. Potential clients can search PN’s directory by city or name, and find your services. 

RELATED: How to Become a Health Coach

The certification is eligible for CEUs with ACE, ACSM, AFAA, CIMPSA, CDR, CPTN, EREPS, ISSA, NASM, and NBHWC. This is a huge perk, especially for people like Nicole who are CPTs and are looking for ways to satisfy CEU requirements. You can also now count your PN certification towards credit at certain colleges and universities in the U.S. if you complete an additional proctored exam at the end—that’s a definite perk!

Finally, at the time of writing, U.S.-based PN Level 1 Certification graduates are offered a guaranteed job interview with Equinox, Life Time Fitness, and FORME, assuming they meet the minimum requirements for the position. 

Precision Nutrition Certification Recertification Requirements

To recertify, you’ll need to retake a short, 50-question exam every two years, which consists of questions randomly selected from the individual chapter exams.

Retaking this exam is free, and PN will send you a reminder when your certification is close to expiring. Even if you let your certification expire, as I accidentally did, you can retake the exam at any time, for free, and immediately have your certification renewed.

With no continuing education credit requirements for recertification, the PN Level 1 Certification earns a 1 out of 5 rating.

PN Level 1 At Work

As someone who’s been a fitness and nutrition coach since 2012, I can confidently say that earning my PN Level 1 certification made a huge difference in how I coach clients, especially those new to healthy eating. 

I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, and during that time, most of my coaching experience involved working with high-level athletes through my senior internship. After graduating, my first job was working in a commercial gym, training beginner clients who didn’t need advanced training and nutrition methods. 

In the beginning, I struggled to simplify things and find the right beginner habits for new clients. The Precision Nutrition certification taught me the most important habits to focus on for beginners, which made nutrition much more approachable and effective for my clients, and I’ve continued to use the PN coaching principles throughout my entire coaching career.

GGR’s senior editor, Nicole Davis, also found that the PN Level 1 certification helped her as a nutrition coach.

“I worked as a nutrition coach as well, with my target client being professional women,” she explains. “They were all Level 1 clients, and we followed the PN protocol, starting with a focus on protein, adding fruits and veggies, etc. before having clients graduate to counting macros if they wanted to. I definitely pulled out my PN books at points throughout my coaching experience to help explain concepts, look up specific questions about digestion, etc.”

RELATED: Nutritionist Certification vs Degree

Precision Nutrition Certification vs ISSA Nutrition Certification

ISSA Nutrition Certification

ISSA Nutrition Certification

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Nutritionist certification
• 8-month timeline to complete 
• Fully online

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Offer online or in-person nutrition coaching
• No prerequisites
• Accredited course by NBFE
• Open book final exam

Cons

• Not the most intuitive nutrition certification
• 2-year recertification cycle

Bottom Line

The ISSA Nutrition Certification offers fundamental education on nutrition and provides coaching tools so you know how to implement the knowledge with clients. The final exam is open book and if you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can go back to review and change your answers for free (on the first attempt only).

Another popular nutrition certification is the ISSA Nutrition Certification. ISSA is another reputable certification company that can help any fitness coach take their coaching practice to the next level.

Unlike PN, the ISSA Nutrition Certification does have prerequisites—anyone wishing to take the certification must have at least a high school diploma and a CPR/AED certification. 

The ISSA Nutrition Certification also has an open-book final exam in addition to individual chapter exams, while PN only uses individual chapter exams. The ISSA exam is accredited through the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE), while the PN Certification isn’t accredited by any educational boards. You’ll have eight months to complete your ISSA exam, while PN has an unlimited timeline.

The ISSA Nutrition Certification is also a bit cheaper, costing $799, and can be bundled with ISSA’s Certified Personal Trainer Certification for $999. The bundle also includes a HIIT training course, a strength and conditioning course, and one specialization course of your choosing.

While both certifications focus on the fundamentals of nutrition science, the ISSA Nutritionist Certification is best for those who wish to have an accredited certification and focus slightly more on the science, while the Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification is best for those who want a bit more focus on the coaching side of things, especially when learning how to help your newer clients build proper nutrition habits. 

Precision Nutrition Certification: Final Verdict

Overall, I highly recommend the Precision Nutrition Certification to anyone who wants to improve their nutritional knowledge and help clients with their nutrition. The nutrition science chapters are just as thorough as the physiology and nutrition courses I took in college, and the coaching chapters are a great way to learn how to work with clients in the real world. 

The biggest flaw is that the individual chapter exams are quite easy to pass, with only 10 open-book questions for each chapter. There’s also no comprehensive final exam or time limit to complete the course. You could spend years working on this certification, and after you pass a chapter’s exam, you won’t be tested on that material again until it’s time to recertify. 

Overall, the whole exam process feels pretty easy, especially compared to how in-depth the study materials are. There are also no requirements for CEUs to maintain your certification, so there’s no way to make sure you’re keeping up with your nutritional education.

I wish PN had stricter prerequisites, and a final exam to make sure you retained all of the knowledge from each chapter and ongoing CEU requirements. 

That said, the material and references you’ll receive are high-quality and a fantastic way to start your nutrition coaching career, and this is a great certification for anyone looking to get started with nutrition coaching.

Full Rating

Precision Nutrition Certification

The Precision Nutrition Certification (specifically the PN Level 1 certification) is a well-known and well-liked nutrition coaching program for fitness industry professionals. Enrollment is limited and not open all year long. Once admitted, you’ll have the ability to go at your own pace or follow along with the 20-week course for live discussions and chapter reviews.

Product Brand: Precision Nutrition

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 1428

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3

Precision Nutrition Certification FAQs

Although I’m not a certified nutrition specialist, I’m familiar with educational organizations like the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), which also offer credentials for certified personal training and other specialized training programs. I’m an NSCA-CPT and I’ll use my personal experience with fitness nutrition and personal training to review the ISSA Nutritionist Certification. I followed our in-depth testing methodology for certification courses to review and rate the following categories on a 1-to-5-star scale: 

• Course and exam price
• Course length
• Accreditation 
• Prerequisites 
• Continuing education requirements
• Study materials and learning options
• Final exam 

In this ISSA nutrition certification review, I’ll walk you through the prerequisites, course materials, and the final examination process of this popular nutrition certification program. 

Fitness Professionals and Nutrition Experts Here to Help

You know you can rely on the experts here at Garage Gym Reviews for unbiased takes on the best home gym equipment from squat racks and barbells to treadmills and rowing machines. But did you know you can also count on us when it comes to the best personal training certifications and nutrition courses? 

Our team of experts includes certified personal trainers, certified nutritionists, and nutrition coaches. We also call on our expert panel of registered dietitians to help us dive deeper into the science of nutrition and review things like high-quality pre-workout supplements and protein powders. 

For this ISSA Nutrition certification review, I worked with a former colleague, Catie Herman, who is an ISSA-CPT and nutritionist. She let me in on her study process and experience with the certification exams. 

ISSA Nutrition Certification

ISSA Nutrition Certification

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Nutritionist certification
• 8-month timeline to complete 
• Fully online

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Offer online or in-person nutrition coaching
• No prerequisites
• Accredited course by NBFE
• Open book final exam

Cons

• Not the most intuitive nutrition certification
• 2-year recertification cycle

Bottom Line

The ISSA Nutrition Certification offers fundamental education on nutrition and provides coaching tools so you know how to implement the knowledge with clients. The final exam is open book and if you don’t pass on your first attempt, you can go back to review and change your answers for free (on the first attempt only).

A Quick Look at ISSA Nutrition Certification

Before we dive into the details of the ISSA nutrition certification, I’m going to first let you know what a nutritionist is as a career path (or career booster). A nutritionist is a generalist and offers generalized nutrition coaching or nutrition counseling. To offer nutrition advice and guidance, you don’t need a four-year degree in a related field. You can take a nutrition course covering the basics of nutrition science to understand the fundamentals and help educated clients make better lifestyle choices. 

Many fitness trainers will take a sports nutrition course or become a certified nutrition coach in order to further help clients reach their goals (because nutrition plays a huge part in your body composition, sports performance, and overall health). That said, a nutritionist does not have the qualifications to recommend specific meal plans, diets, or supplements to clients. 

RELATED: Best Meal Delivery Service

A registered or licensed dietitian (RD or LD), on the other hand, can make specialized meal plans, diets, and recommendations on specific supplements or vitamins to fill a micronutrient gap. Dieticians have proper training and a deep understanding of nutrition science to make specific recommendations and work with people with specific needs (like diabetes, chronic disease, or eating disorders). 

Dietitians have either bachelor’s or master’s degrees in the field of nutrition, have completed a dietetic internship, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam, and obtained a state license. 

RELATED: Nutritionist Certification vs Degree

Before You Buy:

• The course doesn’t come with a hardcopy of the textbook. 
• When certifying with ISSA (with any program) you’ll be required to have your CPR/AED certification. 
• A nutritionist certification does not allow you to create meal plans, prescribe supplements, or make diagnoses. 

Is the ISSA Nutrition Certification Worth It?

Although the ISSA nutritionist certification is not cheap at $799, there is quite a bit to like about this program. ISSA offers interest-free payment plans for six-month and 12-month loan terms. You’ll have an eight-month window to complete your coursework and take the final exam, (which can be done at your own pace). 

It’s also an accredited program through the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE), which means the coursework has been reviewed and recognized as legitimate coursework by a certifying agency. I mention this because not all nutrition certifications are accredited, and this is something to look out for if you’re comparison shopping. 

Because it’s an accredited program and offers financing options, the ISSA nutritionist certification earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for overall value. 

ISSA Nutrition Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

All ISSA certifications and specialty programs require two things: A high school diploma and a CPR/AED certification. You don’t have to be certified at the time of enrollment, but you’ll need to be certified by the time you complete your exam. 

You can get CPR/AED certified through accredited organizations like the American Heart Association or American Red Cross. ISSA also offers an online CPR/AED course that costs about $50, which is a bit less expensive than in-person training from the Red Cross, but you won’t get the hands-on experience of performing chest compressions or using an AED. 

Course Options and Pricing

To register for the ISSA Nutritionist Certification on its own costs $799. You can pay up front or sign up for interest-free payment plans of six or 12 months. This cost is less than (but close) to two of the most popular options on the market: Precision Nutrition Certification ($999) and NASM nutrition coach certification course ($899).  

The ISSA nutritionist course includes: 

You can also bundle the ISSA Nutritionist Certification with a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) course. There are two bundle options to do this, which I outline in the in-depth ISSA CPT Certification review. The Elite Trainer package is $999 and includes a CPT course, Nutritionist course, HIIT training course, strength and conditioning course, and one specialization course of your choosing.

RELATED: Best Strength and Conditioning Certifications 

The next bundle option is called the Master Trainer package and includes all the same items as the Elite Trainer package but lets you choose up to four specializations and offers a Certify for Life option which waives the membership $99 renewal fee, provides discounts for CEUs, and free CPR/AED training every two years. The Master Trainer package is $1,799. 

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

When you enroll, you’ll immediately have access to your course materials and an online version of the textbook, International Sports Sciences Association Fitness Nutrition (First Edition). You can also purchase a hardcopy of the text from the ISSA bookstore. 

In total, there are 18 chapters in the Fitness Nutrition textbook. Each section of the textbook will have a practice quiz consisting of eight to 10 multiple-choice questions. You are not required to pass the practice quiz to move on to the next chapter, but you will need to take practice quizzes to access the final exam. Essentially the practice quizzes unlock the next level: the final examination. 

When it comes to the quality of course materials, ISSA earns a 4-out-of-5-star rating. I dock one point because the coursework lacks (and I confirmed this on forums) tools to help clients with behavior change around food and nutrition. If you’re already in the health and nutrition industry, you know that our actions and choices around food are often rooted in psychology. 

RELATED: High-Protein Foods for Weight Loss

Here is a quick look at all 18 chapters: 

Additional chapters include: 

• Chapter 11: Stages of Change and Motivational Interviewing
• Chapter 12: Client Assessment and Goal Setting
• Chapter 13: Business in Nutrition Coaching
• Chapter 14: Dietary Guidelines
• Chapter 15: Product and Supplement Labels and Claims
• Chapter 16: Supplements
• Chapter 17: Navigating Successful and Trending Diets
• Chapter 18: Special Nutrition Scenarios

Studying Experience

To earn your nutritionist certification through ISSA, you’ll use the online study portal to access your digital textbook and other study materials. From the time you register for ISSA, you’ll have an eight-month window to complete your studies. 

The way the ISSA is formatted is a little different than other similar education organizations. For the most part it’s self-paced study, but you will need to complete a practice quiz at the end of each chapter, which is about eight to 10 multiple-choice questions. You won’t need to score them all correctly, but taking the quizzes at the end of each chapter essentially grants you access to take the final exam. 

Catie Herman, ISSA-CPT and nutritionist, says she bought a hard copy of the textbook in addition to the digital copy provided. She appreciates the fact she was able to go at her own pace and viewed the practice quizzes as a check-in opportunity after each chapter. If there were questions she missed, it was a chance to go back and review the material again at her own pace. 

Catie also mentions that when she enrolled in the Elite Trainer bundle course, each personal trainer coach certification course had a six-month timeline for completion and the nutritionist course had a separate eight-month time. She thought both timelines were appropriate even with her work schedule and being a mom of two kids. 

RELATED: Personal Trainer vs Athletic Trainer

It’s also worth mentioning that enrollment in any study package with ISSA includes your own coach assigned to you if you have questions or concerns. Plus, you’ll have access to weekly live nutrition bootcamp courses to help enhance your self-study efforts. With all of the study options you’ll have access to with the ISSA, this course earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for study package options. 

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

The ISSA Nutrition final exam is 100% online and open-book. You’ll have two sections: The first consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and the second is six essay questions. 

The exam is untimed and you can even close the browser and revisit the exam as many times as needed. The exam also has one free retake if you fail either of the two sections. You’ll need a passing score of 75% to earn your nutritionist certification.  

You may like to know that the exam is accredited through the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE), which is a popular accreditation organization in the fitness industry, second to the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). Although this was not explicitly noted on the ISSA website, I spoke with an ISSA admission council named Dominick who answered all my questions. Overall, the exam experience earns a 4.5-out-of 5-star rating. 

RELATED: What is the ACE CPT Certification?

Post-Certification Perks

ISSA offers more post-certification general help than any other certification I’ve reviewed. You’ll have access to generic client forms that you’ll use as a professional nutritionist working with clients. These forms are also editable to customize to your clientele. 

You’ll also be able to make a free website and email address using ISSA resources. This perk also grants you access to tech support if you’re based in the USA. ISSA earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for post-cert perks. 

ISSA Nutrition Recertification Requirements

Much like personal training certifications, the ISSA nutritionist certification requires professionals to recertify every two years by participating in continuing education units, aka CEUs. The ISSA has a two-year recertification cycle for both nutritionists and personal trainers. 

RELATED: What is a Personal Trainer?

To recertify, you’ll need a current CPR/AED certification and completed 20 CEUs. ISSA offers a variety of specialization courses that can be used toward CEUs or you can take coursework from one of the ISSA’s approved partners. 

ISSA Nutrition Certification vs NASM CNC

NASM CNC

NASM Certified Nutrition Coach Course

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Product Highlights

The NASM nutrition coach certification course covers all of the basics of nutrition science one would need to know in order to provide sound nutritional advice to a variety of populations. In addition to covering the hard-and-fast science of nutrition, the course also dives into soft skills that coaches need to be successful: communication, interviewing, listening, motivating, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• All online format
• Completely self-paced
• Easy to navigate the course portal

Cons

• This course doesn’t come with a paper textbook
• There’s no real accountability; self-driven people will get the most out of this course

Bottom Line

Students who complete this course will feel adequately prepared to call themselves a fitness nutrition specialist after taking this course.

The NASM CNC (National Academy Of Sports Medicine, Nutrition Coach Certification) course is a popular option for folks in the fitness industry who want the ability to help clients with food choices and overall wellness. The price range is similar to the ISSA Nutritionist course and both organizations offer payment plans.

Both courses are completely online and are self-paced. However, ISSA offers a weekly remote “bootcamp” class to cover nutrition topics relevant to the text. NASM allows students up to 12 months to study and prepare for the final exam while ISSA only allows eight months. 

With either option, you’ll have to adhere to a scope of practice that generalizes nutrition advice. Neither a nutritionist or a nutrition coach can provide specific meal plans, diets, and supplementation to clients. You can read our in-depth and personal experience with the NASM course in our NASM nutrition certification review. 

ISSA Nutrition Certification: Final Verdict

ISSA offers a legitimate option to earn a nutritionist certification and help offer general nutrition advice to clients in-person or online. It’s priced similarly to other certifications on the market and often goes on sale during major holidays. I also appreciate the fact the course is set up in a way that forces you to review each section and prepare for the final exam, which ensures you’ve covered the entire text and you’re not just ready for the exam but for working with clients. 

Honestly, this is one of the best nutrition certification options I’ve reviewed because it’s NBFE-accredited and you’ll be required to recertify every two years and keep up with your AED/CPR certification. 

Staying current with continuing education and extra credentials might sound like a ton of busywork, but it ensures you’re staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the health and fitness industry. It also ensures that you’re able to respond to emergency situations if anything were to happen while working with a client. 

ISSA Nutrition Certification Full Rating

ISSA Nutrition Certification

The ISSA Nutrition Certification provides everything you need to know to offer nutrition counseling and advice to your clients.

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 799

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.37

ISSA Nutrition Certification: FAQs

All you need is some time to study and prepare for a certified personal trainer exam. And there are many educational institutions you can do this through including the American Council on Exercise (ACE), International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), or the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) to name a few. 

However, in this NESTA certification review, I’ll walk you through the lesser known and relatively budget-friendly personal fitness trainer certification that prepares you to train clients in both one-on-one and group settings. 

During the review process for NESTA (National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association) myself and the editors at Garage Gym Reviews followed our testing methodology for certification courses to review and rate categories on a 1-to-5-star scale, including: 

• Course and exam price
• Course length
• Accreditation 
• Prerequisites 
• Continuing education requirements
• Study materials and learning options
• Final exam 

We’ve Reviewed the Most Popular Certs on the Market

Why trust me, though? Well, I’m a certified personal fitness trainer with the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) and I work with a team of expert product testers and fitness professionals here at Garage Gym Reviews. We’re a group of personal trainers, gym owners, Olympic-level athletes, and nutrition coaches. 

Our decades of collective fitness industry experience help us inform high-quality certifications just as much as fitness products like the best treadmills for a home gym or best personal training apps. 

NESTA PFT Certification

NESTA PFT Certification

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal fitness trainer (PFT)
• NCCA-accredited program 
• 4-year recertification cycle
• CPR certification required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Longer 4-year recertification cycle
• Internationally recognized
• 65,000 PFT professionals globally

Cons

• Exam pricing starts at $349
• Additional costs for study materials
• In-person final exam

Bottom Line

The Certified personal fitness trainer (PFT) program from NESTA (National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association) is an NCCA-accredited certification with a four-year recertification cycle. While you’ll study at your own pace, you’ll have to take the 125-question, multiple choice final exam in a proctored testing center within 90 days of requesting exam eligibility.

A Quick Look at NESTA Certification

Before we dive into the nitty gritty details of this cert, I’ll start by mentioning the fact that the NESTA Personal Fitness Trainer exam offers an affordable option to get certified. That’s one of the most appealing aspects to this organization. 

However, I think I need to explain something about this certification: While it’s NCCA-accredited, it doesn’t offer tons of brand recognition. I know that’s not the most important thing when it comes to your personal training career, but for comparison, there are about 1,520 people who are currently certified with the NESTA, whereas a popular organization like NASM has over one million certified personal trainers. 

RELATED: NASM Certification Review

Before You Buy:

• Accredited by the National Commission For Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
• The only personal training certification with a four-year recertification cycle 
• If you have prior experience, you can purchase the exam alone without a study package 

Is the NESTA Certification Worth It?

For the right person, the NESTA certification will be well worth it because all exam and study bundles are priced under $700, and you’ll only have to recertify every four years. Compared to other personal training certifications, it’s fairly low-cost and doubles the duration of the typical recertification process. For these reasons, the overall value of the NESTA cert earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating. 

I think it’s also important to note that the study packages only give you a 90-day window to prepare. Most other certs offer at least six months, so that may hinder the $700 value if you’re limited on time to study. 

NESTA Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

When you’re starting to research how to become a personal trainer, you’ll notice there are some pretty standard prerequisites. According to the NESTA website, the requirements to pass the personal trainer certification exam include the typical prerequisites like being at least 18 years of age, having a high school diploma (or equivalent), and obtaining a CPR certification (or Basic Life Support certificate). 

The website also explicitly states the following requirements for exam candidates, too: 

• Candidates must be paid in full prior to scheduling exam date
• Candidates need a valid government issued Driver’s License or Passport
• Candidates must complete the 120-question, multiple choice, facilitated proctored exam within 90 days of receiving exam eligibility
• PFT exam candidates must take the NESTA proctored exam at a PSI testing center

Course Options and Pricing

Below I break down the pricing options and what you get in each tier when certifying with NESTA. If you’re in a unique position where you’ve had previous experience or on-the-job training, the exam-only option for $349 could be a solid choice for you. Not many educational organizations offer exam-only pricing, most bundle everything up together. 

PFT exam only: $349

• NCCA Accredited PFT Exam
• Digital certificate upon passing the exam
• Paper certificate with official seal mailed within 2-3 weeks upon verification
• 4-year renewable accredited certification

PFT Plus package: $399

In addition to purchasing the exam and all the benefits listed above, the Plus package also offers a “digital manual” which is the NESTA version of a digital textbook called the Personal Fitness Trainer Manual. 

PFT Complete package: $697

The Complete package from NESTA provides a study manual and all the exam perks in addition to the following materials to improve studying: 

• 10+ hours of video and audio training
• Chapter review quizzes
• Unlimited practice exams
• Immediate access to training
• Lifetime access to training

It’s also worth noting the PFT Complete is the only package that offers six-month financing options through Affirm. 

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

You don’t need prior experience with exercise programming and coaching to start the NESTA PFT program. The Personal Fitness Trainer Manual is the NESTA textbook that you’ll use to learn and reference as you study for the exam. 

Here is an overview of what you can expect from the text: 

Course Design and Layout

According to the NESTA PFT Exam Candidate Handbook, there are four distinct areas of study: business applications, program design, exercise science, and program implementation. 

Below, I’ve outlined what percent of the 120-question exam will focus on each category and the study materials NESTA recommends for each category. If you purchase the PFT Complete study package, you’ll have unlimited access to practice exams, which have no time limit and aim to simulate much of what will actually be on the final exam.  

The one thing that bothers me is the fact that client assessments are wrapped up into program design for this examination. I think it should be a category all on its own. Meeting new clients and making health assessments during the first visit is more than just understanding sales and proper exercise selection for beginners. It’s also about screening for risk factors or symptoms of chronic cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and orthopedic diseases. 

Because this coursework doesn’t dive into these important factors, I give the course materials a 3-out-of-5-star rating. Here is a quick overview based on the exam handbook: 

Business Applications: 

• NESTA PFT Manual Chapters 1, 13, and 14
• NESTA Business Applications Audio mp3
• The Business of Fitness: Understanding the Financial Side of Owning a Fitness Business, Plummer, T. 2003
• The Psychology of Selling, Tracy, B. 2006
• American College of Sports Medicine’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, American College of Sports Medicine. 2017
• NESTA Sports Injury Specialist Program

Program Design:

• NESTA PFT Manual Chapter 7-9 and 12
• NESTA Program Design Audio mp3
• Periodization: Theory and Methodology of Training, Bompa, T. 2018
• American College of Sports Medicine’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, American College of Sports Medicine. 2021
• NESTA Sports Injury Specialist Program

Exercise Science: 

• NESTA PFT Manual Chapters 1-4, 6
• Kinesiology of the Musculoskeletal System, Neumann, D. 2016
• Diagnosing and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes, Sahrmann, S. 2016
• Nancy Clark Sports Nutrition Handbook, 2019

Program Implementation:

• NESTA PFT Manual Chapter 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, and 11
• NESTA Warm-Ups and Stretching Video
• NESTA Exercise Application Videos
• The Essentials of Resistance Training: The Basic Training Video Series, Purvis. T. 2017

Exam Options

The final examination is in-person and proctored at a PSI exam center, which you’ll have the ability to register for once you have a NESTA account. The website also notes that you can request an online proctored exam for at-home test taking, which is an additional $45 fee. 

The NESTA PFT final exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and exam candidates need a 71% score or higher to pass. You’ll have a two-hour window to complete the exam. 

Test takers will have paper and a pencil to jot down anything on the day of the test. Plus, an online calculator will be enabled for test takers during the exam, which you may need to calculate macronutrient requirements or target heart rate. 

While I don’t particularly appreciate the at-home option that will cost you an additional fee, I appreciate that NESTA offers it. I also appreciate the exam is only two hours and offers an online calculator (some exams will not). For these reasons, I give NESTA a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for exam options. 

According to a NESTA PFT exam analysis of 2022, the exam has a 62.5% passing rate. The report identifies 184 candidates sat for the exam, 115 passed, while 69 did not pass. The report also notes that 1,520 people are currently certified NESTA PFTs. 

If you take the practice exams (which are included in the PFT Complete package or can be purchased separately) you will be presented with 120 questions that are broken down into the same categories as the final exam: 

• 21% Business Application
• 26% Program Design
• 22% Exercise Science
• 31% Program Implementation

If you don’t pass the final examination, you’ll have to wait 30 days before your next attempt. Once the 30-day window has passed, you can purchase a retest by going to the NESTA Policies page and clicking on the fees tab at the top. 

NESTA Certification Recertification Requirements

The NESTA cert offers the longest recertification of the certified personal training programs we’ve reviewed. Most programs require a two-year recertification period where you have to maintain your CPR/AED credentials and participate in continuing education units, aka CEUs. 

This NESTA PFT offers a four-year cycle and requires at least 4.0 CEU credits, and for this reason NESTA earns a 5-out-of-5-star rating for recertification requirements. The organization provides a list of approved educational credits you can take advantage of, but NESTA also has an extensive list of continuing education and speciality certifications including: 

NESTA also partners with the Spencer Institute to offer Longevity Coaching, Holistic Nutrition, Corporate Wellness Coach, Brain Fitness Coach, and Sleep Science Coaching. 

NESTA vs NCSF

NCSF CPT

NCSF Certification

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal trainer (CPT) course
• NCCA-accredited certification
• Hands-on and self-study modules
• Final exam online or at testing center

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Qualifies CPTs to work 1:1 or small groups
• Accredited by National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
• Complete exam prep and materials
• Payment plans available

Cons

• 2-year recertification cycle
• Course does not require CPR/AED

Bottom Line

The Certified Personal Trainer certification through the National Council on Strength and Fitness is a NCCA-accredited program recognized by many top health clubs like 24 Fitness, OrangeTheory Fitness, Planet Fitness, and Gold’s Gym. This course will qualify you to work with clients one-on-one and in small groups. The exam covers general exercise science, program design, nutrition, training instruction, and special populations to name a few.

The fitness industry is not short on certification opportunities. Our expert product testers and fitness professionals have reviewed some of the best personal training certifications available from the NSCA to NASM. 

For this side-by-side comparison, I’m going to compare the NESTA PFT to the NCSF CPT certification. Both certifications are NCCA-accredited, but neither has “big brand” name recognition like NASM, NSCA, ACE, ISSA, or ACSM. 

Both the NCSF and NESTA offer test-only options, which is unique for certification courses. Most only offer package deals, but if you have prior hands-on experience and feel comfortable with taking an exam without the full study package, you’ll have that option. You will notice that the prices for NESTA start much lower than the NCSF certification, but you’ll get six months to study with NCSF and only three months with NESTA. 

RELATED: NCSF Certification Review

NESTA Certification Review Final Verdict

The NESTA PFT certification offers a valuable experience for aspiring personal trainers and folks who’ve received on-the-job training. It’s affordable, the recertification cycle is longer, and it provides much of the same coursework you’ll receive from other organizations. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind with NESTA: 

• The exam must be taken within 90 days of registering and purchasing your coursework.
• Final examination is in-person at a proctored testing center unless you apply for an at-home exam for an additional $45 fee. 
• If you have on-the-job training, you can purchase the exam alone for $349 without the study package fees. 

NESTA Certification Full Rating

NESTA Certification

Garage Gym Reviews experts research and analyze the personal fitness trainer cert for this NESTA certification review.

Product Brand: NESTA

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 349

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4

NESTA Certification Review: FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions on this lesser-known personal trainer certification:

Standing for Performance Enhancement Specialist certification, the PES course is designed to make you proficient in helping develop an athlete’s strength and performance in their respective sports. However, with so many certifications available—even in the world of strength and conditioning—is this course the right one for you?

In this review of the PES certification, I’ve looked at the course and its materials provided to see how it stacks up to other certifications, and who this course is best designed for. Read on to find out if this course is right for your personal fitness career.

Certified Experts Lead to Expert Reviews

When I say our reviews are “expert-tested and researched,” I’m not making it up. Our team of testers at Garage Gym Reviews is made up of fitness professionals who live and breathe fitness. Our team of trainers and coaches have certifications from NASM, NSCA, CrossFit—even USA Weightlifting certifications. Furthermore, we’re lifelong athletes who are always finding an excuse to be in the gym.

Although no one on our team has a PES certification, I did tons of research into the test to give you an overview of who the test is best for and the course material you’ll cover. Additionally, we’ve had three people on our team take the NASM-CPT certification, so we can speak on the quality of NASM courses and exams. We also looked at the following aspects of the course, as we do all fitness certifications:

• Price and value
• Accreditation
• Study options available
• Time commitment
• Exam format
• Continuing education requirements 

RELATED: NASM Review: The Gold Standard of Personal Training Certifications?

NASM-PES

NASM-PES Certification

GGR Score: 3.75

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Product Highlights

• Performance Enhancement Specialization (PES) certification 
• Can enhance a CPT certification 
• Suitable for athletic trainers or physical therapists  
• Some prerequisites required for PES 
• 1-year timeline to complete course

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Online final exam
• Does not require recertification
• Potential to earn CEUs

Cons

• 90-minute max for final exam
• Not NCCA-accredited

Bottom Line

The NAS-PES certification can help fitness industry professionals enhance their knowledge of strength and conditioning. The course features anatomy and physiology, plyometrics, speed, agility, resistance training, and olympic lifting to name a few. There is also a chapter on performance nutrition. The final exam can be taken online and is a 100 multiple choice question exam that has to be completed in 90 minutes.

A Quick Look at the NASM-PES Certification

The National Academy of Sports Medicine has been training fitness professionals for over 35 years, training and certifying over 1.5 million professionals—and counting. Another big factor is that its most popular course—the NASM-CPT—has been accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), which is huge for potential employers.

While it’s known mostly for its personal training certifications, NASM also hosts certifications for nutrition coaches, sports nutrition coaches, and wellness coaches; NASM also hosts quite a few specialization courses, like the CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist) or the NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist Course.

This course is a self-paced study course on training recreational and professional athletes, with an emphasis on strength and conditioning. The course claims to give you the tools and insight to improve athletic performance through programming and technique, as well as deliver results through their scientifically-backed Optimum Performance Training, or OPT model.

Once registered for the Performance Enhancement Specialist Certification, you’ll have a year to pace yourself through the study materials and take a timed, online final exam. Scoring 70% or higher on the exam rewards you with the credential of Performance Enhancement Specialist. 

Before You Buy:

• Unlike the CPT certification, the PES course is not NCCA-accredited. That might make some people overlook the certification, but NASM also doesn’t treat it as an accredited course, having less rigidity in the course than other NCCA-accredited courses may have. For example, the course is self-paced, and the online exam is open-book and allows a couple of retests.
• The NASM Performance Enhancement Specialization course doesn’t have any requirements, although NASM recommends having a prior certification to the PES—either another accredited certification through NASM or another health and fitness organization.
• There are two options for the course, a Self-Study program and a Premium Self-Study program. Both programs offer an online textbook, videos, practice exams, a study guide and syllabus, and module quizzes. The premium version adds a hardcopy textbook as well as added tools, including weight room management training, programming samples, and youth programming for high school students.
• At $699 for the normal course, the NASM is affordable for fitness courses, but also still costs a pretty penny. Fortunately, NASM gives you the option of monthly payments after an initial down payment. You can choose a one-time payment or split your payments between 4, 12, or 18 months.

Is the PES Certification Worth It?

At $699 for the Self-Study course and $849 for the premium course, the NASM-PES is certainly one of the more affordable options as a whole for fitness certifications. However, when compared to other strength and conditioning certifications, it can still be one of the more pricey options.

For example, the NSCA CSCS certification—the gold standard for strength and conditioning coaches—costs $475 for non-members to take (although textbooks and study materials are extra). The ISSA Strength and Conditioning Certification costs $639 and provides the same self-paced style of the PES certification. The NCSF Certified Strength Coach certification costs the least, starting at $399.

RELATED: ISSA Certification Review

Another big difference between the PES certification and other strength and conditioning certifications is that the PES isn’t an accredited certification. This can be a big hindrance to choosing this course, especially if it’s your first certification, as it won’t hold the same prestige as a certification accredited by the NCCA or similar organization.

I think where the PES shines and where people would see value in it is as a continuing education platform. NASM doesn’t have requirements for this certification but recommends it for NASM certified personal trainers and fitness trainers with prior certifications. One big reason is that it can be used for continuing education units, or CEUs. And because it’s not as stringent or rigid of a course as others, it can be much easier to pace yourself and prepare on your own time for the final exam.

NASM-PES Specs

Course Prerequisites 

The NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist certification doesn’t have any requirements, although NASM recommends you have prior certifications or education. The company heavily recommends that candidates have at least one of these credentials:

• NASM-CPT certification
• Certified Sports Nutrition Coach
• Certified Massage Therapist
• Any NCCA-, NBFE-, or DETC-accredited health or fitness certification
• A 4-year college degree
• REPs Level 3 or higher (for international candidates)

Typically in our rating, a lack of prerequisites can hurt the score we give a certification. Still, the guidance listed on who this course is best suited for leads me to give the score a modest 3 out of 5.

RELATED: NASM Nutrition Certification Review

Course Options and Pricing

There are two course options, called Self-Study and Premium Self-Study. Both courses include:

• Online and self-paced course
• Syllabus and study guide
• Digital learning platform
• Digital textbook with lecture and demo videos
• Exercise library
• Online practice exams and module quizzes

The premium version of the course also includes a hardcopy textbook, as well as more training tools and samples, including a youth programming booklet, sample training programs, nutrition tips, sport-specific lecture videos, and weight room maintenance and management training.

The Self-Study course costs $699 and the Premium course costs $849, leading me to score the pricing a 4.5 out of 5.

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

The goal of the NASM-PES is to train coaches and fitness trainers to better help clients and athletes reach peak performance in any sport. The textbook for the PES course is 16 chapters, split up into four sections.

Anatomy and Physiology for Sport

The first two chapters of the course deal with the science of human movement and how it pertains to athletic performance. Basically, you’ll learn key terms on biomechanics, how muscles work in tandem with the other major systems of the body. Going through this section will help users understand functional anatomy and how it relates to integrated sports performance training.

Sport Performance Testing, Integrated Training, and Programming

The next section is one of the larger portions of the course, covering the next nine chapters of the text. Largely this section will look into the process of testing athletes with initial assessments and how to program to help them reach their top performance levels.

In addition to resistance training concepts, the section will cover other broad training concepts and why they should be integrated into an athlete’s training program. Main concepts covered are:

• Flexibility training
• Core training
• Balance training
• Plyometric training concepts
• Speed, agility, and quickness training
• Resistance training
• Metabolic energy system training (aerobic vs anaerobic)

Additionally, the fitness training concepts covered will be discussed as how they pertain to the OPT model, or the Optimum Performance Training model.

RELATED: Best Core Exercise Equipment

Olympic Lifting and Injury Prevention

The next section first covers Olympic weightlifting and how it can be used in improving athletic performance. As a weightlifting athlete, I do see the value of a section like this, as the snatch exercise and clean and jerk develop more than just strength, but also power, balance, mobility, and coordination. The Olympic lifts, if taught correctly, can be excellent in any athlete’s training routine.

After the Olympic lifts, the course will go over common injuries from physical activity and some strategies and exercise techniques for helping prevent injuries and minimize an athlete’s risk of injury through smart training and a solid program design.

RELATED: Equipment for Olympic Weightlifting

Sport Nutrition and Psychology

The last section will dive into the lesser things taught in an exercise science degree—namely, sport nutrition and psychology. Firstly, it’ll talk about nutrition for athletic performance, while also explaining the limits of nutritional advice for a strength coach who’s not certified as a nutrition coach.

RELATED: Best Supplements for Muscle Growth

There’s also a chapter on ergogenic aids: supplements and foods used to improve performance as well as the ethical and legal issues for using ergogenic aids, ranging from supplements to performance-enhancing drugs. Lastly, the course will go over the psychology of athletic performance and how it can influence athletic excellence.

Course Design

The course is 100% online, unless you opt to get a hardcopy of the textbook. Otherwise, everything is online. The course is self-paced, and you have access to the materials for an entire year, so you can take as much or as little time as you need. You’re given a syllabus and study guide to help you with your pacing.

The digital textbook has 16 chapters with videos throughout the text. In addition, you’ll get an exercise library with another 64 videos, as well as module quizzes at the end of each section. You also have access to two practice exams. You begin with all of this at your fingertips from the start, and you can use whichever tools throughout your studying experience.

Exam Options

The PES exam is done within your year of access, whenever you feel ready for it. Once you pay for the course, you have access to the online final exam. If you worry about exams, you can rest assured on this one, as you’re allowed two free retests.

The exam is online and open-book. It’s only 100 multiple-choice questions, but be careful: The exam is also timed, with a maximum time of 90 minutes available for your test. To pass you must score at least 70% or higher.

Post-Certification Perks

Gaining a PES certification gets you a little more than just a certificate. Athletic trainers with a PES certification will be able to feel confident in creating performance programs for athletes to help maximize their potential on the field.

The main perks, though, come in the form of continuing education. Any NASM-certified professional can take this course and count it toward their continuing education. For a NASM certified personal trainer, for example, you need 2.0 NASM-approved continuing education units (CEUs) every two years to remain certified. The PES course is worth 1.9 CEUs, which when added to the 0.1 CEUs for recertifying your CPR/AED certification, covers you for one period of recertification.

This is the main reason why having a prior certification is highly recommended for this course; its biggest benefit to your professional career post-certification is that it’ll count toward your continuing education.

NASM-PES Recertification Requirements

For the NASM-PES, there are no requirements for recertification, as your certification never lapses. This can be very convenient, but it also never ensures that a trainer retains the knowledge from the course. 

For that reason, the PES gets only a 1 out of 5 here, although I should note that this course isn’t structured like a typical certification course, and is instead more of a continuing education course. Under the right circumstances, this course and the lack of recertification can be very beneficial to fitness trainers.

NASM-PES vs NSCA-CSCS

NSCA-CSCS

NSCA CSCS Certification

GGR Score: 4.31

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Product Highlights

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
• Prepares coaches to work with athletes and teams
• Bachelor’s degree required 
• CPR/AED certification required 
• 220-question exam 
• 38% overall pass rate

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Highly recognized certification
• Delivers in-depth knowledge of strength and conditioning
• Multiple-choice question exam

Cons

• Study materials are separate from exam costs
• Exam must be taken within 120 days of registering
• In-person exam only
• Exam pricing starts at $340

Bottom Line

The CSCS program has been the gold-standard in the strength and conditioning community since 1985. The certification qualifies candidates to work with athletes, teams, and other sport-specific scenarios. To sit for the CSCS exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher (or currently be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited institution). The CSCS is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Comparing the PES and the CSCS is like comparing apples to oranges; these two certifications are pretty different. While both cover the same ideas and concepts about strength and conditioning and sports performance, the people who should consider taking them are quite different.

RELATED: NASM vs NSCA

Simply put, the CSCS requires more upfront from candidates, with a CPR/AED certification and a bachelor’s degree required. The test is greater and more in-depth than the PES. Even more so, the CSCS also requires continuing education, unlike the PES certification. However, the CSCS is structured to be the certification needed for a strength and conditioning career.

While still a substantial course, the PES certification doesn’t have as many requirements, or as structured of an exam, because it’s designed mostly for continuing education. While the CSCS is made for career strength coaches, the PES is made more for fitness and personal trainers (or certified strength and conditioning coaches) who are looking to expand their knowledge of sports performance training.

Even though these courses cover a lot of the same material, their use in the fitness world is very different. You can look at our in-depth look at the gold standard of strength and conditioning certifications in our in-depth review of what the CSCS is.

PES Certification: Final Verdict

NASM is a highly regarded organization with a history of training fitness professionals over the years through in-depth courses and exams. The PES certification is another great course, full of information ideal to help individuals learn about sports performance and helping athletes reach their peak performance.

The biggest thing to deter some from the course is that it isn’t an accredited certification. With that said, it’s still an excellent course for certified personal trainers looking to gain some CEUs through an online course.

PES Certification: Full Rating

PES Certification: Researched and Reviewed | Garage Gym Reviews

Is this strength and conditioning certification right for you? Depending on your career goals, the PES Certification might be the next athletic performance cert for you.

Product Brand: NASM

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 699

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.75

PES Certification: FAQs

For this NCSF Certification review, I did a ton of research on the National Council on Strength and Fitness website and used the chat live function to ask questions about enrollment. 

I’m also an NSCA-CPT and will use my experience to inform and compare what it’s like to enroll and get certified through the NCSF. I also followed our in-depth testing methodology for certification courses to review and rate the eight different categories on a 1-to-5-star scale, including: 

• Course and exam price
• Course length
• Accreditation 
• Prerequisites 
• Continuing education requirements
• Study materials and learning options
• Final exam 

GGR Experts Hold Top Industry Credentials 

Your friends here at Garage Gym Reviews aren’t just a bunch of keyboard warriors. We’re a group of certified personal trainers, CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, and USAW L-1 Coaches. 

Needless to say, my team and I are fitness industry experts who’ve had their fair share of education, coursework, preparation, and exam taking to earn these credentials. Although neither myself or my colleagues are NCSF-certified, I’m going to lean into my team’s collective expertise on certifications to review the NCSF certification process. 

NCSF CPT

NCSF Certification

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal trainer (CPT) course
• NCCA-accredited certification
• Hands-on and self-study modules
• Final exam online or at testing center

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Qualifies CPTs to work 1:1 or small groups
• Accredited by National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
• Complete exam prep and materials
• Payment plans available

Cons

• 2-year recertification cycle
• Course does not require CPR/AED

Bottom Line

The Certified Personal Trainer certification through the National Council on Strength and Fitness is a NCCA-accredited program recognized by many top health clubs like 24 Fitness, OrangeTheory Fitness, Planet Fitness, and Gold’s Gym. This course will qualify you to work with clients one-on-one and in small groups. The exam covers general exercise science, program design, nutrition, training instruction, and special populations to name a few.

A Quick Look at the NCSF Personal Trainer Certification

The National Council on Strength and Fitness (NSCF) offers certifications for personal training in addition to a master trainer program, certified strength coach, sport nutrition specialist, and a handful of other specializations.

While the NSCF may not have as much brand recognition as other organizations like NASM, ACSM, ACE, or NSCA, the CPT program is NCCA-accredited, which means it’s been reviewed and recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies—a reputable accreditation board that helps ensure the health and safety of the public by evaluating certification programs. 

RELATED: Best Online Personal Trainer

Before You Buy:

• You are not required to have a current First Aid or CPR/AED certification to sit for the NCSF exam. 
• If you have on-the-job fitness training or a background in exercise science, you can take the exam without buying a study package.  
• The NCSF-CPT exam can be taken online or in person; both options are proctored and NCCA-accredited. 

Is the NCSF Certification Worth It?

Becoming a certified personal trainer is certainly an investment. Pricing with the NCSF starts at $799 and goes up to $1,399 for the all-inclusive study package (which includes an additional strength coach certification). 

While the NSCF is not cheap, it’s on par with some of the best personal training options on the market. I also appreciate the fact you can purchase the exam alone for $349 without the study materials if you’re confident in your on-the-job training and previous experience. 

When it comes to the overall value, the NCSF certification earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating. The base package is competitively priced and you can take advantage of payment plans through Affirm for 3-, 6-, or 12-month periods. 

It’s also worth noting at the time of writing this review in November 2023, the NSCF was promoting a seasonal sale for up to 50% off certification courses.  

NCSF Personal Trainer Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

The NCSF is similar to other CPT certification programs in that you are required to be at least 18 years or older and have a high school diploma or equivalent. However, the NCSF does not require certified personal trainers to be First Aid-certified or CPR- and AED-certified. 

While it’s not a requirement to earn your certification to help clients reach their fitness goals, I highly recommend taking the NCSF CPR and AED course online at the very least. It will provide basic training for emergency situations (and you can count it toward your continuing education). 

Course Options and Pricing

The NCSF offers four study packages to choose from to help you prepare for and pass the certification exam. The base package, which is called Home Study, provides a digital textbook, practice questions and quizzes, lesson notes, and instructional videos. Additionally, the entry-level package covers the cost of the final exam, offers instructor support, and a one-year NCSF membership. 

The Home Study package starts at $799 and you’ll be expected to enroll, study, and take the final exam within six months. The next package is called Home Study Plus, it’s priced at $899, and offers all the same materials and benefits, but also includes a hard copy of the textbook: Advanced Concepts of Personal Training Textbook, 2nd Edition. 

The Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutrition Specialist Package (CPT + SNS) includes the core materials and benefits of the Home Study program with the addition of all the materials you need for the Sport Nutrition Specialist program. The SNS program is priced at $699 alone, so you’ll be saving $200 to bundle the two together at $1,299. 

The last offering is the Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Strength Coach Package (CPT+CSC), which is priced at $1,399 and provides all the Home Study base package offerings in addition to the online learning materials for the Certified Strength Coach credential. 

It’s worth noting that the two packages that provide you with additional certifications have separate six months’ of exam eligibility. Plus, I think it’s also important to say that the hard copy copy materials do not come with either of those courses, but can be purchased at a reduced rate during the checkout process. 

Additional exam preparation study materials available on the NCSF website include:

• Online CPT exam prep flashcards: $29.99
• Online CPT practice exam (two separate practice tests): $39.95 each

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

If you’re not a fitness professional with tons of experience, have no fear. The NCSF provides a solid foundation of anatomy and physiology, health and safety, and the personal trainer’s scope of practice. 

RELATED: Athletic Trainer vs Personal Trainer

The CPT course follows the text from the Advanced Concepts of Personal Training Textbook, 2nd Edition. All study packages offer the digital version of the textbook where you’ll be able to read and navigate through all 18 chapters. I couldn’t find a clear study guide online, but I did find a breakdown of what percent of the exam will cover which categories. The top five categories include: 

• Exercise prescription and programming considerations: 19%
• Training instruction: 15%
• Health screening and evaluation 13%
• Functional anatomy: 12%
• Physical activity and health promotion: 11%

When it comes to navigating the course materials and getting started with the study materials, I rate the NCSF a 4-out-of-5 in both of these categories. I docked a point because there is no study guide to reference, making the studying process a bit more strenuous for some students.  I also don’t particularly like the fact the hard-copy materials are not included in the base package. 

If you’re still curious about the what you’ll learn, check out the outline to the Advanced Concepts of Personal Training textbook: 

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

When you purchase a NCSF study program, the exam registration fees are included in the package price. This includes both testing options: In-person at a testing center or an online proctored exam. Because there are two options, I’m giving the NSCF a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for the final exam. 

During the initial registration process, you will receive an email about scheduling your test. While you don’t need to plan a date right away, it’s not a bad idea to tuck that email into a folder to reference again. However, you will be able to view exam scheduling instructions within your NCSF account online. 

You will also have the option to forgo any exam preparation materials and register for the exam without buying a study bundle. If that’s the case, you’ll navigate to the exam registration web page on the NCSF website for detailed instructions on how to register for the certification exam.  

Exam Format

The NCSF final exam is 150 multiple-choice questions with a three-hour maximum duration. You will not have to prepare for a written exam or essay writing. 

According to the NCSF, here are what type of question categories you can expect, in addition to their ratios:

• Functional anatomy: 12%
• Exercise physiology: 8%
• Physical activity and health promotion: 11%
• Health screening and evaluation 13%
• Nutrition: 7%
• Weight management: 9%
• Exercise prescription and programming considerations: 19%
• Training instruction: 15%
• Considerations for special populations: 3%
• Professionalism and risk management: 3%

Online Exam Procedures 

The NCSF offers an online proctor option, which is also a 150 multiple-choice question test. The website outlines the requirements if you want to take your certification exam remotely, including: 

• Operating System: Windows 8.1 (or higher), Mac OS 10.13 (or higher)
• Web Browser: Current version of chrome
• Internet Connection Speed: 1.5 mbs or greater
• Screen Resolution: 1024 x 768 is the minimum resolution required

NCSF Membership Benefits

A one-year membership to the NCSF is included with your enrollment fees for the NCSF personal trainer certification program, which is valued at $65 annually (or $130 biannually). 

Membership allows you access to a career center, the NCSF Journal of Personal Training, discounted business software, liability insurance programs, and other personal training tools. The membership also grants you access to discounted rates on continuing education units, which are required to recertify. 

Overall, I give the NCSF-CPT certification earns a 3.5-out-of-5-star rating because the organization offers some perks and benefits to membership, but it’s not essential to your success as a personal trainer. 

RELATED: The Best Gifts for Personal Trainers

NCSF Recertification Requirements

Much like other personal trainer certifications, the NCSF also has a two-year recertifying period. If you want to stay current with your certifications, you will need to participate in continuing education units (CEUs). 

The NCSF requires 10 CEUs every two years. You can do this through educational courses or quizzes on the NCSF website or participate in a specialization course. The NCSF currently offers three specializations: 

• Suspension training specialist
• Low back specialist
• Kettlebell coach

You can also take advanced certification courses on top of your CPT to earn CEUs (and advance your career) including: 

• Master Trainer Program
• Certified Strength Coach (CSC)
• Sport Nutrition Specialist (SNS)

RELATED: What is the CSCS?

NCSF vs NASM

NASM-CPT

NASM Personal Training Certification Course

GGR Score: 4.14

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Product Highlights

• Various study packages offered
• New digital learning platform
• The foundation of the course is based on NASM’s Optimum Performance Training Model (OPT) which is a systematic approach to personal training for every type of clien
• Prerequisites  – CPR and high school diploma or GED
• Covers behavioral change to assist clients with personal hurdles
• Focus on client assessments to develop plans best suited for each person

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lots of study materials available: textbook, app, videos, and podcasts
• Built-in opportunities for post-certification internships
• NASM is NCCA-certified
• Discounts often available
• Financing available
• Options for remote or in-person exam
• Other courses available for advanced learning
• Bundle CPT with nutrition and other courses for a discount

Cons

• Higher cost than some other certification programs
• Textbook not included in two most basic packages
• Textbook/online training modules alone may not prepare you well for exam
• Short time frame to take the exam, especially if you work full-time

Bottom Line

NASM’s digital CPT program is a highly reputable and in-depth certification program for anyone looking to become a personal trainer.

Both the NCSF and NASM certified personal trainer programs are NCCA-accredited, cover similar categories and topics, and offer you a six-month period to complete the course and take the final exam. Both exams are multiple choice and range from 100 to 150 questions. 

Neither program’s base package offers hard copy materials—but some of the more expensive packages do. The base prices are similar and start at $799 for NCSF and $899 for NASM. While the starting prices are similar, NASM offers an Elite Trainer Bundle comprising three certifications, which costs $3,499. We cover all package options in our in-depth NASM certification review. 

Two of the main differences between NASM and NCSF are the fact that the NCSF allows you to buy the exam alone (without a complete study package) while NASM does not have that option. The second difference is that NCSF does not require personal trainers to be CPR/AED certified, while NASM will require it. I think it’s also important to state that NASM has more brand awareness than NCSF, but both are NCCA-accredited, which may be important for potential employers and organizations. 

NCSF Certification Review Final Verdict

If you’ve been thinking about switching careers to pursue personal training, the NCSF certification is a legitimate option. It’s reasonably priced and offers a ton of different ways to study a digital textbook, videos, lesson notes, quizzes, and practice tests. 

RELATED: How to Become a Personal Trainer

You’ll even have the ability to set up a payment plan with Affirm to break up your payments over 3, 6, or 12 months. I also appreciate the fact you can purchase the exam as a stand-alone purchase instead of buying a course bundle, which is a unique offering compared to the other certifications our team has researched. 

NCSF Certification Review Full Rating

NCSF Certification

GGR experts research prerequisites and benefits in this NCSF certification review.

Product Brand: NCSF

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 799

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.1

NCSF Certification Review: FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions about the NCSF certification:

However, as you may know if you are already invested in the CrossFit community, CrossFit trainers tend to catch a lot of flack from non-CrossFit fitness professionals. 

In this CrossFit certification review, I’ll explain why that is, cover the good and the bad of the certification course, and help you decide if it’s the right path for you. 

RELATED: Best Personal Training Certifications

CF-L1 Certified

I earned my CrossFit Level 1 certification in 2019 and worked as a coach in a CrossFit gym for about two years. I’ve been invested in the CrossFit community since 2014, when I first started as a way to keep active when I finished my last year of school sports. I’m also a certified personal trainer, and learning the CrossFit training methodology was a great addition to my skill set. 

CrossFit L-1 Certification

CrossFit Level 1 Certification

GGR Score: 3.43

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Product Highlights

• 2-day live seminar
• Temporary online version
• No prerequisites
• Requirement for coaching at a CrossFit affiliate
• Focused on CrossFit methodology
• Foundational movement sessions

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Qualifies you to coach at a CrossFit Gym
• Allows you to open your own CrossFit gym
• Good teachings of CrossFit methodology
• Practical movement sessions
• Mix of lectures and hands-on learning
• Exam is only 50 questions

Cons

• Only 2 days of education
• No physiology or anatomy teachings
• Expensive for 2 days of learning
• Not NCCA-accredited

Bottom Line

The CrossFit Level 1 (CF-L1) course is a requirement to be eligible to coach at a CrossFit-affiliated gym or open your own affiliate. It consists of two days of education focused on the CrossFit fitness methodology and principles, and includes a mixture of lectures and hands-on learning.

A Quick Look at the CrossFit Certification Process

Becoming a CrossFit coach starts with the Level 1, or L1, course. It is the bare minimum required to legally coach at a CrossFit affiliate and/or open your own CrossFit affiliate. 

Traditionally, it takes just two days to earn your CrossFit Level 1 certificate (assuming you pass the exam on the first go-around), although there’s now an online option that is self-paced with the exception of an attendance-mandatory live webinar. 

From there, you can pursue additional education, going on to earn your CrossFit Level 2 (CF-L2) certificate and, if you want to be among the highest-credentialed CrossFit trainers, your CrossFit Level 3 (CF-L3) certification. At the CF-L3 level, you can apply to earn the official Certified CrossFit Trainer (CCFT) credential. Technically, only CF-L3 holders can call themselves “certified CrossFit trainers.” 

The current highest level of certification for CrossFit coaches is the CrossFit Level 4 (CF-L4), which you earn by participating in (and passing) a “one-day evaluation of a trainer’s ability to effectively coach CrossFit movements and run a successful class,” according to the CrossFit website.

The rest of this review focuses on the CF-L1 course. 

Before You Sign Up:

• Attending and passing the CrossFit L-1 certificate course qualifies you to coach at a CrossFit-affiliated gym, but is highly unlikely to qualify you to work at a “regular” gym, such as an LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, or similar. 
• The course requires attendance to a live session whether you choose the in-person or online option. If you register for the online option, you’ll attend a live webinar. 
• Passing the Level 1 Certificate Course does not necessarily teach you how to be a stellar coach. There is only so much you can learn in three days. Many people consider the CrossFit L1  a very minimal first step in becoming a CrossFit coach. 

Is the CrossFit Certification Worth It?

The Level 1 course costs $1,150 if you opt for the in-person version and $1,000 if you opt for the online version. That’s a lot of money to pay for two days of education, especially when you compare it to the cost of the best personal trainer certification courses, which ranges from a few hundos to more than $1,000, but provides a much more in-depth and broad education.

The CF-L1 certainly isn’t right for everyone, but it is a requirement to coach at a CrossFit gym. 

RELATED: Best Health Coaching Certification Programs

CrossFit Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

There are no prerequisites to take the CrossFit L-1 course, other than the minimum age requirement. You must be at least 17 years old to sit for the exam. 

You can participate in the course if you’re under the age of 17, but you will not be eligible for the exam and you will receive a certificate of attendance. You can return to another seminar after your 17th birthday to take the exam and earn your credential.

I feel that the prerequisite is appropriate for an entry-level course, so CrossFit scored 5 out of 5 points in this category. 

RELATED: The 5 Best Strength and Conditioning Certifications

Course Options and Pricing

You have two options: in-person and online. The in-person course costs $1,150, and you’ll go to a CrossFit gym for two full days of learning. The online option costs $1,000, and you’ll complete a self-paced portion of the course before attending a live Q&A webinar with CrossFit HQ trainers via Zoom. 

CrossFit does offer pay-over-time options with Klarna for those who qualify. You can find out if you qualify after you add the course to your cart and check out. 

The L1 course earned 3.25 out of 5 points for this category, since it fell into the average price range of about $800 to $1,000 and has payment plan options. 

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

Unfortunately, the reality is that the CF-L1 course does not adequately address critical components of fitness training required to safely and effectively progress individuals through a periodized training program (and, as “random” as CrossFit can feel, periodization and progressive overload still constitute a large portion of the methodology). 

The CF-L1 addresses Crossfit-specific points of performance and very basic biomechanics of foundational movements. You’ll learn the functional movements and the 10 skills of general physical preparedness (GPP), as defined by CrossFit, and some movement modifications to make for beginners. 

During the course, instructors cover proper form for the following exercises: 

• Air squat, front squat, overhead squat 
• Strict press, push press, push jerk 
• Deadlift, sumo deadlift high pull 
• Medicine ball clean
• Thruster
• Snatch 
• Kipping pull-ups and muscle-ups (and modifications) 

RELATED: A Beginner‘s Guide to CrossFit Exercises

Most of the methodology lectures are an extension of Glassman’s 2002 CrossFit Journal article describing the 10 skills that make up GPP: 

• Cardiovascular/respiratory endurance
• Stamina
• Strength
• Flexibility
• Power
• Speed
• Coordination
• Agility
• Balance
• Accuracy

The caveat is that the lectures mostly cover the importance of possessing these skills (which I agree with), but not so much how to help the average person start working toward these skills—and maintain and progress upon them.

My hot take? Chances are, if you don’t have additional education in fitness, you may not be able to pinpoint why, exactly, someone’s overhead squat form sucks, or what, exactly, they need to do in order to fix it. Or, for instance, you may not know what accessory exercises or programming (or even general advice) to provide to an intermediate member whose squat progress has stalled.

RELATED: CrossFit Events Calendar

Truthfully, the only reason I felt comfortable stepping out onto the gym floor as a coach after earning my L1 was because I had already been a certified personal trainer for two years, and felt confident explaining to people how the progression of fitness works. 

This is not at all to say that every CrossFit L-1 coach is a dimwit; rather, I’m saying, this course is not adequate on its own to take someone from zero fitness education to successful trainer—not even in a CrossFit-specific setting. 

You’ll also learn about Greg Glassman’s nutrition philosophy, which is essentially the paleo diet: eat fruit, vegetables, meats, nuts, and seeds. To be perhaps too honest, I don’t think this information has a place in this course and I believe the time would be better spent educating participants on exercise science. If you want to learn about nutrition and become a nutrition coach who can offer multifaceted guidance to your clients, you should pursue, at a minimum, a nutrition coaching certification.

Finally, I was somewhat disappointed in the Level 1 course because I did not feel that it adequately taught me how to manage a class. Luckily, most L1 participants have likely been attending CrossFit classes for some time, and hopefully understand how to bring a small group of people through a warm-up and a WOD and a cool-down or quick stretch routine. 

To be fair, there’s only so much that can be taught in two days. 

Course Design and Layout

As mentioned, the Level 1 course takes place over two days (or at your own pace if you opt for the online version). The program is separated into four main components: 

• Methodology lectures
• Movement lectures
• Movement practicals 
• Workouts

The methodology lectures in the Level 1 course essentially answer the question, “What is CrossFit and why is it set up the way that it is?” 

The movement lectures involve a CrossFit HQ trainer explaining how to do a functional movement, and the movement practicals are breakout sessions wherein you divide up into small groups and practice said movement with a PVC pipe. 

The breakout sessions are honestly the best part of the entire course, in my opinion, because the HQ trainer will not relent until you perform satisfactorily. It’s actually quite humbling. Exceptions and modifications are made, of course, for injuries, pregnancy, and other circumstances. 

At the end of each day, you’ll participate in a workout as a group. Participation is required in order to take the exam, and it’s a good time to apply what you learned that day. 

References and Data

This is one area where CrossFit falls tremendously short. In the Training Guide handbook, there is not one single peer-reviewed reference, not even in the section on nutritional supplementation, which really irks me as a certified sports nutrition coach. 

Again, I am not saying that CrossFit is providing bad or wrong information, but any reputable educational institution should 100% provide clear references to peer-reviewed, scientific data to support their teachings. 

RELATED: Is CrossFit Bad For You? The Untold Truth

Studying Experience

The only study material for the Level 1 course is the CrossFit Level 1 Training Guide, which you can download for free as a PDF or order as a soft-cover, spiral-bound book. 

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

Depending on the course format (online or in-person), you’ll take the exam online or in person. 

Registering for the Exam 

You’re automatically registered for the exam when you sign up for the course. If you opt for the in-person course, you’ll take the exam on a scantron at the end of the second day. For online students, you’ll take the test at the end of the self-paced portion. 

Exam Format

The exam consists of 55 multiple-choice questions, 50 of which are scored and 5 of which are for research purposes (for CrossFit to potentially include on future exams). 

Because the CrossFit Level 1 exam is now accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), it earned 3 out of 5 points for this category. Fitness certification programs accredited by the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA) earn 5 out of 5 points. 

Post-Certification Perks

After becoming a Crossfit Level 1 coach, you are qualified to coach at a CrossFit box or open your own CrossFit box. There are no professional post-certification perks that I am aware of.  

RELATED: NASM vs NSCA: Which Is the Best CPT Cert?

CrossFit Recertification Requirements

There are no continuing education requirements for the CrossFit L-1 credential. All you have to do is take the revalidation course and retest every five years, which means the course only earned 1.5 out of 5 points in this category (the need for a retest bumping the score up by 0.5). 

Honestly, this is a lot of people’s problem with CrossFit coaching. 

Because an L-1 is all that’s required to coach at a CrossFit gym—and there are no continuing education requirements—not all coaches at a CrossFit affiliate are good coaches, or even qualified to be teaching people how to snatch and clean-and-jerk (or even squat). 

Frankly, I think CrossFit coaches should be required, at a minimum, to hold some combination of additional training in order to run classes. That could look like: 

• CrossFit L-1 credential plus certified personal training credential 
• CrossFit Level 2, Level 3, or Level 4
• CrossFit Level 1 plus a certified Olympic weightlifting coach credential (minimum USAW Level 1) 

And from there—after earning a CF-L1 and another relevant credential—I’d love to see CrossFit institute a continuing education requirement similar to what’s required for other fitness certifications. This is most commonly presented as 20 hours of continuing education every two years, achieved through earning a specialized credential; attending workshops, conferences, or lectures; taking college-level courses; or taking additional courses provided by the certifying agency. 

(Note: If you go on to earn the Level 3 credential and apply for the Certified CrossFit Trainer (CCFT) certification, you will have to complete continuing education to maintain your L3.)

CrossFit Certification vs Personal Training Certification

Point blank: A personal training certification course is a much more in-depth, science-heavy educational endeavor than a CrossFit L-1 certification. Personal training certifications typically begin with a deep dive into human anatomy, physiology, and exercise science. 

The ACE certification, for example, dedicates multiple chapters to training individuals with contraindications to exercise such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other chronic conditions. 

The NASM-CPT (see our NASM review) focuses heavily on principles of progressive overload and designing individualized training programs based on data you gather from assessments that look at your clients’ balance, coordination, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. 

I believe the CrossFit Level 1 training program is a wonderful layer on top of a certified personal trainer course, but if I were going to tell you to pick one, I’d say go for a CPT credential. It will set you up with the knowledge you need to safely and successfully train people from a wide range of backgrounds, and you can always specialize in CrossFit later. 

Read our full guide on how to become a personal trainer.

CrossFit Certification Review: Final Verdict

The Level 1 certification won’t put you in a position where you can coach CrossFitters to the CrossFit Games. But it is a necessary first step if you want to work as a CrossFit coach or open your own box. 

It’s best paired with an additional fitness credential, ideally something that covers human movement science and principles of fitness training like progressive overload, specificity, and adaptation. 

And for anyone who just loves CrossFit and has a spare $1,000 lying around, it’s not a bad way to spend a weekend. 

CrossFit Certification Full Rating

CrossFit Level 1 Certification

The CrossFit Level 1 (CF-L1) course is a requirement to be eligible to coach at a CrossFit-affiliated gym or open your own affiliate. It consists of two days of education focused on the CrossFit fitness methodology and principles, and includes a mixture of lectures and hands-on learning.

Product Brand: CrossFit

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 1150

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.43

CrossFit Certification: FAQs

The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) is one of the many certified personal training certifications you can earn to land you a job at a commercial gym. While ISSA offers several certification programs (including corrective exercise specialist and nutritionist certifications) this ISSA certification review will focus on the certified personal trainer (CPT) certificate. 

As a CPT myself (with the NSCA), I did my best to examine the ISSA CPT certification from an unbiased perspective. I followed our Garage Gym Reviews testing methodology for certification courses to review and rate the following categories on a 1-to-5-star scale: 

• Course and exam price
• Course length
• Accreditation 
• Prerequisites 
• Continuing education requirements
• Study materials and learning options
• Final exam 

A CPT Reviews the ISSA Personal Training Certification 

For this ISSA certification review, I did a ton of sleuthing on the ISSA website, used the live chat function to speak with an enrollment advisor, read forums, and mulled over review sites like Trustpilot. 

I also called on a handful of my peers in the fitness industry for a first-hand ISSA certification perspective. I spoke with three former coworkers of mine (Alex Souza, Lizz Walsh, and Catie Herman) from Iron Legion Strength Co. who are all ISSA certified personal trainers. 

Plus, I also spoke with D’Annette Stephens, ISSA CPT, and fitness contributor to websites like BarBend, Sports Illustrated, Livestrong, and PopSugar. 

ISSA CPT Certification

ISSA CPT Certification

GGR Score: 4.18

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Product Highlights

• Personal training certification
• NCCPT-accredited CPT exam
• Online coursework and exams
• Monthly payment plan available 
• CPR/AED certification required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Access to a student forum
• Open book or proctored exam options
• Template for a free professional website
• Professional support even after you pass your exam

Cons

• Unclear if open book exam is not accredited
• Expensive price point

Bottom Line

The ISSA certified personal trainer (CPT) program offers an online self-paced certificate. When you’re ready to test you’ll have the option to take an open-book exam online or a closed-book, proctored NCCA-accredited exam. The program gives you access to a five-week course with live classes and a guide to studying.

A Quick Look at ISSA Personal Trainer Certification 

The ISSA is a well-known certification in the fitness industry and has been around since 1988. ISSA is not just popular, it’s accessible, too. Neither the personal training or nutritionist certifications require a formal education or a bachelor’s degree in exercise science to pursue a career in fitness. 

ISSA partners with popular commercial gyms like Anytime Fitness, Lifetime Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Equinox, Crunch, and F45 to help ISSA test-takers have job prospects upon receiving a passing score. 

Before You Buy:

• Take advantage of ISSA’s financing options, which are interest-free for up to 12 months
• If you miss a payment, you will get locked out of your ISSA account
• You’ll need to complete your coursework in a six-month period from the time you enroll
• ISSA offers two exam options: at-home (NBFE-accredited) or an in-person, proctored exam (NCCA-accredited) 
• ISSA now offers the CPT course in Spanish 

Is the ISSA Certification Worth It?

The ISSA CPT course is worth it for folks with busy schedules, who need accountability, and seek a variety of learning materials. The basic package earns you access to an online textbook, workbook, practice quizzes, video lectures, and a student forum. 

Depending on what package you choose, you can expect to pay anywhere from $950 for the base package to $1,800 for extensive bundles. The more expensive packages bundle in a nutrition certification and a select number of specialization courses. 

Even though you’ll be ballparking around $1,000 to get certified—which doesn’t guarantee you a job—you’ll be able to use the financing options for monthly payments ranging from $79 to $149 per month for 12 interest-free months. 

It’s also worth noting there is a 95% pass rate for at-home test takers and 90% for in-person, proctored exams. If you want to take an exam that has all the study materials bundled into one price and a high likelihood of passing the final exam, ISSA is worth the nearly $1,000 investment. Overall, ISSA earns a 4-out-of-5-star rating for overall value. I docked one point because it’s a bit more expensive than other CPT courses on the market. 

RELATED: Best Personal Training Certifications 

ISSA CPT Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

Like many CPT certification programs, the ISSA requires you to have a high school diploma and a CPR/AED certification to complete your exam. From your date of enrollment with ISSA, you’ll have six months to complete your CPR/AED certification. 

ISSA offers a fully online CPR/AED certification program that you can enroll in for $50, which is a similar price (if not slightly less expensive) to in-person certifications through organizations like the Red Cross. 

ISSA Certification Costs

ISSA has three different bundles you can choose from to get certified. All packages have an online textbook, online training models, workbook, study guide, and an online CPT “bootcamp” for guided study options.  

What makes each bundle different is the fact that ISSA rolls in other specialty certifications like nutritionist, glute specialist, or online coaching certification. 

The base package includes the CPT course materials, an online textbook, one speciality course of your choosing, and a HIIT training course. The Elite package includes all of the same things with a nutritionist certification added in. The Master Trainer package includes everything from the Elite Trainer package and adds in the Certify for Life option. This feature doesn’t eliminate the need to recertify and participate in continuing education, but it does waive the $99 renewal fee, provides discounts for CEUs, and free CPR/AED training every two years. 

Because there are many options to choose from, and all offer pretty much everything you need to prepare for the final exam (and to help clients achieve their fitness goals), ISSA earns a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for study package options. What I don’t like is the fact you can’t customize what’s in your package and the fact none of the bundles have a hardcopy textbook included. 

It’s also worth noting that I found in the FAQ section of the ISSA website that if you miss a payment your account gets locked and you will not be able to access your course or materials. Additionally, while you may be able to pay for your course over a 12-month period, you’ll be expected to complete the course in six months. If you don’t, you can request a 1-month extension, for a non-refundable fee (that price was not disclosed online). 

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect with each bundle: 

Fitness Coach

The Fitness Coach package costs $79 per month for 12 months, totaling $948, and includes: 

• Personal Trainer (CPT) Course
• Specialization Course [Your Choice] 
• T3 HIIT Training Course
• Online textbook

Elite Trainer 

The Elite Trainer package costs $83.25 per month for 12 months, totaling $999, and includes: 

• Personal Trainer (CPT) Course
• Nutritionist Course 
• Specialization Course [Your Choice] 
• T3 HIIT Training Course 
• Online textbook 

Master Trainer

The Master Trainer package costs $149 per month for 12 months, totaling $1,799, and includes: 

• Personal Trainer (CPT) Course
• Nutritionist Course
• Specialization Course [Your Choice] 
• Certify For Life
• T3 HIIT Training Course
• Online textbook 

Specialization Courses

As I mentioned above, each bundle will allow you to hand select a specialization course that suits you. Below is an abridged version of your options: 

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

The ISSA certification for personal trainers offers an ideal place to start for people who want to switch careers to personal training. The course materials guide you through each chapter of the textbook: Foundations and Applications for a Certified Personal Trainer (The Tenth Edition). 

At the end of each chapter you’ll be quizzed on the highlights and get a sneak peak of what’s to come in the final CPT exam. 

My former colleague Lizz Walsh, ISSA-CPT, says, “The practice quizzes let me know where I needed to spend most of my time studying for the exam.”

Overall, the ISSA experience is different from my experience with the NSCA-CPT exam, because the NSCA offers an in-depth study guide. I didn’t end up reading the textbook from front to back. I used the study guide to fast track me through the materials and figure out where to spend my efforts studying. 

According to another former coworker, Alex Souza, ISSA-CPT, “The ISSA course has elements that are important to understand to be a personal trainer. If someone was just starting out as a fitness professional they would be able to get a good concept of the fundamentals of creating a program for a client.”

That said, Alex mentions that she had been apprenticing and working as a personal trainer for several years before she became certified. “I personally did not think the course was useful, but I went into it with years of research and experience,” she says. 

As far as basic courses go, ISSA will get you started on the right foot. For this reason, ISSA earns a 4-out-of-5-star rating for the quality course materials.

If you’re curious if the ISSA will provide you with enough information to break into a career as a fitness trainer, take a look below at the table of contents from the ISSA Foundations and Applications for a Certified Personal Trainer textbook . 

ISSA Course Design and Layout

The ISSA final exam features multiple-choice questions that will test your knowledge of exercise science, training programs, and the personal training business. The website outlines the core domains on the exam as follows: 

Much like my experience with the NSCA exam, the ISSA certification exam features questions on trainer programs, exercise technique, and exercise selection. You’ll find a selection of true and false questions in addition to math-based questions like calculating a one-rep max, target heart rate, or macronutrient requirements. 

RELATED: NSCA Certifications

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

From the time you enroll in the ISSA CPT course, you’ll have a six-month timeline to study, take practice quizzes, and complete your final exam. And when it comes time for you to take your exam, you’ll have two options: 

1. In-person exam at a proctored exam center: NCCPT-accredited exam 
2. Open-book exam at home, not proctored: NBFE-accredited exam

The main difference between these two exam options is that one can be taken in the comfort of your own home and one is taken at a proctored exam center. There is also a difference between the accreditations you’ll receive with each exam. The in-person, proctored exam is an NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies) accredited exam, which is similar to proctored exams through educational organizations like ACE, NASM, NSCA, and ACSM. 

RELATED: ACE vs NASM

The open-book exam is accredited through NBFE (National Board of Fitness Examiners), which is a recognized accreditation organization. I did not find this detail on the website, I found out using the live chat function to speak with an enrollment advisor. 

The enrollment advisor went on to explain the difference: “You would choose the proctored exam if you want to work with professional sports teams or colleges, D1 sports, or a specific facility that requires a proctor,” they said. “If you just want to be a personal trainer, start a business, or work at a gym, then you can take the at-home exam. Both exam types allow you to work and train in the USA and Canada.”

RELATED: Best Strength and Conditioning Certifications 

While the accreditation is not exactly the same, there are a few more perks of the at-home test including the fact it’s not timed and can be paused as much as you need. You’ll also be able to retest if you fail any portion of the final exam. According to the FAQ section on the ISSA website, you will be offered the opportunity to resubmit that portion of the examination, free of charge (aka the second attempt). Each retest after your second attempt will require a fee.

ISSA Study Experience 

Studying for the ISSA CPT certification is different for everyone. While some folks prefer the CPT bootcamp or online learning modules offered, others just want to sit and read the textbook materials. 

You’ll get online access to a textbook, but the hardcopy comes with additional fees. My former coworkers I spoke with about their experience with ISSA all think the practice quizzes are the most beneficial way to study and check to make sure you’re retaining the material from each chapter. 

D’Annette Stephens, ISSA-CPT, says when reading the text, “You are prompted to take a quiz at the end of each chapter. You’ll have to pass quizzes with 100% in order to unlock the final exam.”  

Catie Herman, ISSA-CPT, says she read the textbook from front to back and took the quiz at the end of each chapter as a practice exam. She was able to go at her own pace and read through each section with as much time as she needed—within the six-month timeline, of course. 

ISSA Recertification Requirements

Much like other popular certifications for personal training, once you’re certified you’ll also need to stay current with your certification through continuing education units—also known as CEUs. This recertification process for ISSA happens every two years, which is similar to most other certs. 

You’ll have to stay current with your CPR/AED certification and complete 20 CEUs either through ISSA or from one of the ISSA’s approved partners for continuing education. Buying and studying for one of ISSA’s specialization courses can count toward your CEUs in addition to other educational courses or workshops.
RELATED: The Best Gifts for Personal Trainers

ISSA CPT vs ACE CPT

ACE Certification

ACE CPT Certification

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Personal trainer certification 
• 6-month timeline to complete program
• CPR/AED certification required 
• 90,000 ACE CPT professionals globally

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Live, remote proctored exams available
• Straightforward program guidelines
• Ability to sign up for a free preview
• NCCA-accredited program

Cons

• Hard copy textbook costs extra
• 2-year recertification cycle

Bottom Line

ACE certified personal trainers will learn the fundamentals and scope of practice for CPTs. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma, and a CPR/AED certification. From there, you can study and sit for the ACE CPT exam. The certification is NCCA-accredited and over 90,000 fitness professionals also have their ACE certification.

The ISSA and ACE certified personal training programs are similar in what you learn, how long you have to study, and qualifications to stay certified. 

Exam options with ACE are proctored, but you will have the option to take your test at home with an online proctor. In comparison, the ISSA offers in-person proctored exams that are NCCA-accredited and an open-book, at-home exam that is not NCCA accredited. This at-home option allows you to open and close the exam as many times as needed and will even allow you to retake the exam. While it won’t earn you an NCCA-accredited CPT credential (NCCPT) it is accredited through the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE). 

If you’re looking for an at-home option that will gain you NCCA-accredited credentials, ACE might be a better choice for you over ISSA. 

RELATED: What is the ACE Certification?

ISSA Personal Trainer Certification Review: Final Verdict

The ISSA offers an ideal introduction if you’re looking to break into the fitness industry. You’ll have two test-taking options, which is ideal for anyone who is limited on time or intimidated by the logistics of a proctored exam. It’s important to remember that each exam provides a different accreditation, though. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you enroll: 

• ISSA is ideal for beginners, but is not the best option if you’d like to coach athletes, teams, or special populations. 
• ISSA offers 12-month payment plans, but if you miss a payment, you will be locked out of your account and coursework. 
• You have a six-month timeline to complete your coursework and final exam. 
• To unlock the CPT final exam, you must complete the practice quiz at the end of each chapter. 

ISSA Certification Full Rating

ISSA CPT Certification

Find out what our CPTs think of the International Sport Sciences Association in this ISSA Certification review.

Product Brand: ISSA

Product Currency: $

Product Price: 950

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.18

ISSA Certification: FAQs

Below are some commonly asked questions regarding the ISSA personal trainer certification.

RELATED: What Is Functional Fitness?

If they’re so good, why don’t we see them more often in strength training programs? Well, being an Olympic weightlifter myself, I’d argue that a lot of coaches don’t know how to coach them, so instead of teaching them wrong, they avoid them entirely. Although these are beneficial lifts, they’re highly demanding and technical, too.

A great place to start if you’re looking to coach these lifts better is the course offered by the organization recognized by our country’s Olympic committee—the USA Weightlifting Certification. The Level 1 Coaching Course is a pivotal point to begin to learn how to coach weightlifting. But is this the course for you? Let’s look into that.

Years of Weightlifting Experience

Our team of certified personal trainers, coaches, and athletes are all passionate about continuing our education in the fitness industry. So we’ve tried all sorts of personal training certifications and other courses.

For the USA Weightlifting Level 1 Course, I’ve actually taken this course and can speak from my experience. Along with that, my background is in Olympic weightlifting. I’ve been lifting for over 20 years now, with one of my more recent achievements being the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. I’ll bring that experience as an athlete and coach to my honest review of this certification.

USAW Level 1 Certification

USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Course

GGR Score: 3.5

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Product Highlights

• 2-day course
• In-person or online courses available
• Covers how to coach Olympic lifts
• Covers technique and program design
• Teaches weightlifting progressions
• Helps beginners learn highly technical exercises
• Written exam at the end of the course
• Recertified through an annual online exam

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Course specific to Olympic weightlifting
• In-person or online courses available
• Inexpensive for a certification
• Recognized by the USOPC

Cons

• Exclusive to USA Weightlifting members
• Recertification is only an online exam

Bottom Line

If you’re interested in becoming a weightlifting coach, the most specific course you can take for Olympic weightlifting is the USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Course. The course is 2 days long and blends hands-on learning with lectures to go over the technical aspects of the Olympic lifts, as well as lifting safety and program design. A participant must pass a written exam at the end of the course to earn their certification.

A Quick Look at the USA Weightlifting Certification

The USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Course is a two-day course that covers aspects of the Olympic sport of weightlifting: technical errors, how to test mobility, coaching cues, basic programming, and athlete development. The Level 2 course is similar, but takes a deeper dive into programming and coaching individual athletes.

These are the only weightlifting certifications recognized by the sport of weightlifting in the United States, led by the national governing body of USA Weightlifting, making this a valuable certification if you’re interested in coaching competitive weightlifting.

In the more than two decades that I’ve been involved in the sport of weightlifting, the course and certification of USA Weightlifting coaches has changed drastically. It used to be the Wild West, where USA Weightlifting coaches were allowed to coach their weekend-long course however they wanted. Because of this, participants got wildly different experiences that taught the lifts and coaching cues differently.

In the last decade however, great strides were taken to make the course more uniform and cover the same information no matter who was the instructor or where the course took place.

Now, you can expect the course to be led by two certified coaches using a mix of hands-on learning and lectures that will primarily focus on the correct technique of the Olympic lifts—the snatch and the clean and jerk—and coaching cues and progressions to help athletes learn the proper technique.

RELATED: How To Do the Snatch Exercise

At the end of each course is an exam, typically done in-person; a passing score will certify you as a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach.

Before You Buy:

• The Level 1 and Level 2 courses can count for continuing education. One course counts as 1.3 CEUs (continuing education units) for organizations such as NASM and NSCA. For the SCCC credential from the CSCCa, this counts as 6.5 CEUs. You can also petition ACE to receive CECs (continuing education credits) for attending the course.
• Since 2020, the course and exam have now been offered online as well as in-person. If you can’t find a course near you in the coming months, there is an online course available once a month.

Is the USA Weightlifting Certification Worth It?

At $549 plus a $99 USA Weightlifting annual membership fee, the USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Course costs quite a bit, but is one of the less expensive courses we’ve covered on Garage Gym Reviews. With its low price it provides good value, so I rated it a 5 out of 5 in this category.

The course is given by USA Weightlifting, the only recognized governing body in the United States for the sport of weightlifting. So if you’re wanting a bit of recognition as a weightlifting coach, this is the certification to get.

The Level 1 is an introductory course, so if you’ve had lifting experience, the course will probably cover a lot of things you may already know. But for people new to the sport, this is a great crash course into the world of weightlifting. Plus, if you’re looking to actually coach competitive weightlifters, this certification will be a great starting point, too.

USA Weightlifting Level 1 Certification Specs

Course Prerequisites 

The USA Weightlifting Level 1 course has very few prerequisites. The course is open to anyone 16 years of age or older who is also a current USA Weightlifting member. The current membership fee for coaches is $99 per year.

The Level 2 course has the same prerequisites, but is only available to coaches who successfully passed the Level 1 course.

USA Weightlifting coaches will have to pass a background screening, as well as take a SafeSport course, used to teach coaches how to properly coach ethically and professionally around athletes of all ages. Additionally, coaches are strongly encouraged to take a course from USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency).

Course Options and Pricing

Both Level 1 and Level 2 courses cost $549, plus a USA Weightlifting membership of $99 per year. In-person courses are offered across the nation year-round, so you’ll have to sign up for one nearby your location whenever it’s available.

However, since 2020, USA Weightlifting has also offered online versions of the coaching certification course, typically once a month. If you’re having trouble finding a course near you, the online course can be a viable option, although it’ll be less hands-on as the in-person course.

Course Material: What You’ll Learn

Basically, the Level 1 weightlifting coaching certification is a crash course into the world of weightlifting, through the perspective of a weightlifting coach. Over the two days of instruction, you’ll cover the following topics:

• Weightlifting safety: This section busts the common myth that weightlifting is dangerous, when in fact it has a lower injury risk than many major sports. This will cover an effective way to help your athletes warm up, as well as barbell safety.
• Effective coaching: This section will cover being effective at communicating with and coaching beginner athletes, particularly in making them feel welcome to the gym and sport.
• Physical readiness assessments: The snatch and clean and jerk demand not only strength, but speed, balance, flexibility, and coordination. This part of the course will go over testing an athlete’s mobility as it pertains to the Olympic lifts.
• Weightlifting technique: The bulk of the course begins with teaching the proper technique of the Olympic lifts, including proper positioning throughout each lift.
• Teaching progressions: USA Weightlifting teaches coaching the lifts with a top-down approach, meaning aspects of the pull of each lift are taught from the hips—the power position—and as athletes learn the position, the coach adds a lower position and lower position until the athlete is lifting from the floor comfortably.
• Error correction: The lifts are very technical, and newer athletes will make common mistakes. This section will go over common errors and coaching techniques to correct these flaws.
• Program design: The course will go over basic programming concepts like periodization and progressive overload, and how they can pertain to an Olympic weightlifting program.

RELATED: What Is Progressive Overload?

Along with these major sections, the course will also cover coaching weightlifting for sports performance coaches, and how the Olympic lifts can carry over into many sports athletes’ training routines.

Course Design

Being the first step to learning about coaching Olympic weightlifting, this course is designed for beginners and experienced coaches alike. The course schedule runs for two days, typically 9 hours on the first day and 6 hours on the next, including a 1-hour lunch break. You must be present for the entirety of the course.

In my experience, the course was a mix of hands-on learning with lectures. After lectures discussing technique, we broke into small groups with PVC pipes or empty Olympic barbells to practice the snatch and clean and jerk progressions. While one person practiced the lifts, another acted as a coach and helped correct the lifter’s errors using a mix of verbal and tactile cues.

On the in-person course, there isn’t a set practical test, but participation is encouraged during the practical portions of the course. While someone may be injured and unable to perform the lifts during the course, the instructor will have you take a more active role in coaching course participants performing the lifts.

Even on the online course, participation is highly encouraged. While access to a bar and bumper plates or PVC pipe isn’t required, the course description does recommend it.

Studying Experience

When I took the USA Weightlifting Level 1 course in 2018, I had been weightlifting and strength training for nearly two decades and coaching weightlifting movements for one decade. So the two-day course was a slight refresher for me and the certification exam was fairly easy. 

Obviously, that won’t be the case for everyone. In my course alone, there were a couple of participants who had never done the Olympic lifts before. Even if you’re new to the world of weightlifting, the two-day course covers everything you’ll need during the course. There won’t be any surprises on the exam; pay attention and participate in the course, and study the course materials, and you should be fine.

The course study materials are online to keep up with any rule changes that happen with the sport of weightlifting. They are a healthy mix of texts, slides, diagrams, and modules to help with studying.

Exam Options and Test-Taking Experience

At the end of the second day of the Level 1 course, the certified coach will administer a certification exam to you. This is a relatively short written exam. The questions are multiple choice, and you need a passing score of 70% to pass the exam and earn your certification.

The online exam is similar, just done online at home instead of in person.

You have two attempts to score a passing grade and earn your title of Level 1 Coach. If you don’t pass in two attempts, the website encourages you to email them to find out next steps.

Post-Certification

Earning your Level 1 certification makes you a USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach and shows your knowledge of coaching the Olympic lifts effectively, which will earn you a bit of industry recognition amongst personal trainers and strength and conditioning coaches.

A Level 1 Coach also qualifies to create their own barbell club, which can then qualify and compete at national-level competitions.

Additionally, USA Weightlifting coaches also have access to purchase USA Weightlifting’s General Liability Insurance, which will help protect coaches from third-party claims of injury or property damage. It’s $65 and provides a million dollars of coverage for 1 year.

Advancement As a USA Weightlifting Coach

For those wanting to continue pursuing coaching weightlifting, there is the Level 2 course which is designed similarly to the Level 1, but takes a deeper dive into methodologies in training and programming, as well as competition coaching.

Once you earn your Level 2 certification, there are no more courses, but you can still advance to a National Coach, International Coach, and Senior International Coach. To progress to these higher coaching levels, you have to produce athletes at national- and international-level events.

It’s a little convoluted, but you’ll receive points for each athlete you take to a national or international competition, with the number of points depending on the scope and level of the meet. To become a National Coach, you’ll need 12 points from national competitions, and an International and Senior International Coach will each need four points earned from international competitions—Pan American Championships, Worlds, or the Olympics.

RELATED: What Are the Top Olympic Weightlifting Records?

USA Weightlifting Level 1 Recertification Requirements

The recertification requirement is fairly low for a USA Weightlifting coach, leading me to rate the process a 2 out of 5. Typically, certifications will ask for some sort of continuing education. In the case of USA Weightlifting, however, the main requirement is to keep your membership current, and to successfully complete a short online test each year.

It’s hard to compare it to other certifications because of the goals of the course, but I’d like to see a little bit more to show you’re maintaining and improving on your knowledge as a weightlifting coach.

USA Weightlifting Level 1 Certification vs Other Weightlifting Certifications

It’s hard to compare the Level 1 Course to any of the best strength and conditioning certifications, mainly because the goals are different. For one, the USA Weightlifting course doesn’t have any NCCA accreditation like the CSCS has.

RELATED: What Is the CSCS?

However, compared to other weightlifting certifications, the USA Weightlifting Level 1 Course stands out, as it is the only one recognized by the sport of weightlifting in the United States, meaning the USOPC (United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee). 

While there are other courses and certifications offered by prestigious weightlifting coaches, the Level 1 course is the only one recognized by the USOPC, adding to the course’s prestige. If you’re serious about coaching weightlifters, this is really the only weightlifting course to consider.

USA Weightlifting Certification: Final Verdict

Will the USA Weightlifting Level 1 Course make you an experienced, adept weightlifting coach? No, it won’t; most of that will come through experience, just like any other certification. However, the information covered in this course will help you break down the lifts for any beginner athlete, making this a great starting point for coaches wanting to learn more about the Olympic lifts.

If you’re wanting to learn more about the snatch and clean and jerk to teach your athletes, or you’re looking to begin coaching weightlifting athletes, the Level 1 Course is a fantastic place to start.

USA Weightlifting Certification Full Rating

USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coaching Course

Looking to get into coaching lifters? See if a USA Weightlifting Certification is right for you in our review.

Product Brand: USA Weightlifting

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 549

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.5

Overall score: 3.5

USA Weightlifting Certification: FAQs

So, if you want to become a health coach, you’re in good company. I’m an integrative nutrition health coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, and the education I received during that program has influenced a lot of my work as a certified personal trainer and fitness/wellness writer.  

Ahead, I cover eight of the best health coaching programs based on criteria such as accreditation, learning flexibility and format, prerequisites and continuing education requirements, and final exam format.

RELATED: How to Become a Personal Trainer

Best Health Coaching Programs

• Best Health Coaching Program Overall: American Council on Exercise Health Coach Certification 
• Best Health Coaching Program With No Prerequisites: ISSA Certified Health Coach 
• Best Health Coaching Program for Personal Trainers: NASM Wellness Coach Certification
• Best Health and Life Coaching Program: Health Coach Institute Health and Wellness Coach
• Best Short Health Coaching Program: Cornell Wellness Counseling Certificate
• Best University Health Coaching Program: Duke Health & Well-Being Coach Training
• Best Holistic Health Coaching Program: Institute for Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Certification
• Best Health Coaching Program for Healthcare Providers: The National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) Health Coach Certification
• Best Post-Graduate Health Coaching Program: Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach Training Program

What Does a Health Coach Do? 

A health coach is someone who helps other people make positive lifestyle changes in order to become healthier physically and mentally. Typically, health coaches assist with behavior change and habit formation. 

It’s important to note that a health coach is not a nutrition coach or a personal trainer, although health coaching skills can certainly help a nutrition coach or personal trainer in their career. Just as health coaching skills go along great with fitness and nutrition coaching, those skills play well with health and medical professions, too. 

RELATED: NASM Nutrition Coach Certification Review

In fact, there are some health coaching programs designed specifically for licensed healthcare practitioners in a variety of fields. These courses intend to help healthcare workers provide better care to their patients from a lifestyle perspective. 

Health coaches work in a variety of settings. Many health coaches own their own businesses, but it’s also common for health coaches to work in gyms, clinical settings, schools, universities, and even workplaces for corporate wellness.  

Best Health Coaching Program Overall: American Council on Exercise Health Coach Certification

Good for: Earning a respected NCCA-accredited credential and keeping education costs low

Best Overall

American Council on Exercise (ACE) Health Coach Certification

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Fully online health coaching program
• 3 study packages available 
• Self-paced, but live classes also available
• Must meet prerequisites

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Several ways to satisfy prerequisites
• Multiple study packages to choose from
• Live lectures available
• Exam retakes are allowed

Cons

• Anyone can take the course, but you must meet prerequisites to sit for the exam
• Must pay to retake exam if you don’t pass

Bottom Line

The American Council on Exercise is a reputable and well-respected organization in the fitness and wellness industry. The ACE-CHC program prepares students to help others make positive changes in their lives related to healthy habits, nutrition, and exercise.

The American Council on Exercise scored the highest according to our testing methodology for health coaching programs, which includes criteria such as price, course length, accreditation, prerequisites, continuing education requirements, and final assessment. 

RELATED: What Is ACE Certification? A Review of the Personal Trainer Course

The ACE health coach certification is easily the best you can buy for the price. Though this program isn’t a track to become a national board certified health and wellness coach (NBC-HWC), the program is accredited by the National Council on Certifying Agencies (NCCA). The NCCA accreditation is the gold standard in online study programs that result in a wellness or fitness certification. 

The curriculum consists of five sections: 

• Foundation for Health and Wellness Coaching
• The Coaching Experience
• Lifestyle Medicine
• Chronic Diseases and Comorbid Conditions 
• Professional Conduct and Establishing Your Coaching Practice

ACE offers three study packages with prices starting at $850, making this a budget-friendly pick compared to the average cost of health coaching education. In fact, ACE scored 5 out of 5 points for pricing for its low financial barrier to entry. ACE also offers interest-free payment plans, making it even more financially accessible. 

In addition to self-study programs, ACE offers a 16-week program featuring live, real-time, virtual classroom experience. The live program includes Q&A webinars and peer learning experiences. 

To sit for the ACE health coach certification exam, you must be at least 18 years old at the time of your exam, hold a current CPR/AED certification with proof of a live skills check, and submit proof of one of the following: 

• Current NCCA-accredited certification in fitness, nutrition, healthcare, wellness, human resources or a related field
• An associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university in fitness, exercise science, nutrition, healthcare, wellness or a related field
• Completed health coach training and education program approved by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC); or
• A minimum of two years of documented work experience in coaching, leading, designing, implementing or facilitating one or more of the following: behavior or lifestyle change, exercise, wellness, nutrition or physical activity”

ACE offers a proctored exam you can take at home or in a testing center; both are NCCA-accredited. It consists of 125 multiple-choice questions. Upon passing the exam, your credential is valid for two years, and you have to complete 20 hours of continuing education and pay the renewal fee to recertify. 

RELATED: ACE vs NASM: A Personal Trainer Breaks Down Both

Best Health Coaching Program With No Prerequisites: ISSA Certified Health Coach 

Good for: Prospective students looking for a comprehensive course with low barriers to entry

Best With No Prerequisites

ISSA Certified Health Coach (CHC)

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Product Highlights

• Online, self-paced health coach certification program 
• Pay-in-full option to save money 
• Monthly payment plans available 
• Covers basics of nutrition, exercise, and behavior change
• Deep dive into habit formation and lifestyle changes

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 100% online, self-paced course
• Hard copy book available
• Video lectures included
• Study support team available via text, email, and phone
• One free retake for the exam

Cons

• Not a good fit for individuals who struggle with self-learning
• Not approved course through the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches

Bottom Line

With the ISSA Certified Health Coach training program, you will learn everything you need to know in order to guide clients to healthier habits and make positive lifestyle changes. This course is not a deep dive into nutrition science or exercise physiology, rather a comprehensive course designed to teach you strategies for behavior change and habit formation.

Looking for a career change? Thanks to ISSA, aspiring health coaches who don’t have an educational background in fitness, health, or wellness can still earn a respected health coach credential. As long as you are 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent, you can enroll in the ISSA certified health coach training program.

The ISSA program scored highly for studying and learning options, earning 5 out of 5 points in this category because it’s completely self-paced if you want it to be, but there are also options for more structured learning. For instance, in the ISSA portal, there’s an option for a guided study program that allows you to complete the course in just 10 weeks. You have a maximum of one year from the day you purchase the course to complete it and take the exam.

After completing the ISSA health coaching course, you should be able to: 

• Promote behavior change by implementing behavior change theories 
• Understand the impacts of diet and exercise on physical and mental health 
• Use motivational interviewing techniques to encourage change
• Understand the principles of habit formation and help clients form positive new habits
• Select and implement lifestyle modifications based on your clients’ needs
• Know the basics of building a health coaching business

To help you get there, this course features quizzes at the end of each chapter, as well as unlimited virtual access to study mentors. ISSA also provides worksheets, templates, and activities to help you thoroughly understand the client intake and assessment process.

The main downside to the ISSA health coach program is that it doesn’t sport any accreditations. It’s not NCCA-accredited nor is it approved by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC), so it earned the minimal score of 1 out of 5 points in this category. However, since there are currently no formal regulations in place for the licensing or certification of health coaches, this won’t affect your ability to practice. 

Still, it would be worth using the ISSA course as a foundational educational opportunity and pursuing advanced education at a later time if you want to be the best health coach you can be. At less than $1,000, this course is one of the least expensive available. It earned 5 out of 5 points for price.

Best Health Coaching Program for Personal Trainers: NASM Wellness Coach 

Good for: Certified personal trainers who want to learn more about behavior change

Best for Personal Trainers

NASM Certified Wellness Coach (NASM-CWC)

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Product Highlights

• Certifies you to be a wellness coach 
• No prerequisites to take this course
• Fully online and self-paced course
• Maximum of 1-year to take the exam

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Payment plans available
• Fully online and self-paced
• Counts for 1.9 NASM CECs (19 hours)
• No prerequisites

Cons

• Expensive
• No hard copy textbook available
• Not an approved course by the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches

Bottom Line

The NASM Certified Wellness Coach course allows you to practice as a general wellness coach who can help clients establish healthier habits and change their lifestyle for the better. This is not an intensive science-based course, so it won’t be the right fit for individuals looking to deep dive into anatomy, physiology, or nutrition science. However, it’s a great option for those interested in lifestyle intervention strategies and behavior change.

The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is a leading certifying agency in the personal training industry, and they offer a wellness coaching certification program as well. This particular course is not NCCA-accredited or NBHWC-approved, but we think it’s a great layer of education for exercise professionals who already hold an NCCA-accredited certification in related areas. 

RELATED: NASM Review (2024): The Gold Standard Of Personal Training Certifications?

For personal trainers specifically, becoming a NASM Certified Wellness Coach could improve your clients’ adherence to programs, since you’ll be better equipped to select and implement lifestyle modifications other than just exercise. 

Additionally, while personal trainers are experts in exercise programming and fitness, personal training certification programs only briefly cover techniques like motivational interviewing and behavior change. Those skills are integral to health coach certification programs and give trainers an edge over trainers who may not be as developed in those skills. 

To take this course, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. There are no other prerequisites, but NASM strongly encourages a prior certification in fitness or nutrition. The course is self-paced and fully online, without any real opportunity for structured learning—so it’s best for disciplined self-learners. You have one year to complete the course and take the exam from the day you purchase the course.

The exam is an at-home, open-book exam that you can take on any web browser. It’s not proctored, which is why it’s not NCCA-accredited, but it is timed. You have 120 minutes to answer 100 questions. While it’s open-note, you’ll still need to know your stuff in order to complete the exam within the time frame. 

Plus, NASM does require graduates of this program to earn continuing education in the field. Every two years, you must earn 1.9 CECs (about 19 hours) to renew your certification, earning NASM 5 out 5 points in this category. This is really important, because allied health professionals need to stay up-to-date on best practices and new research to continue providing the best service. 

I think the price is high for what it is. At $3,999—often on sale for $2,999—I gave NASM 3 out of 5 points for pricing because it’s still within the average range for health coach training.  

RELATED: NASM vs NSCA: Which Is the Best CPT Cert?

Best Health and Life Coaching Program: Health Coach Institute Health and Wellness Coach 

Good for: Those who want to earn a health coach and life coach certification

Best Health and Life Coaching Program

Health Coach Institute Health and Wellness Coach

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Product Highlights

• 6-month program 
• Multiple industry accreditations 
• Organized into 4 sections or pillars of learning 

Pros & Cons

Pros

• HCI is a respected industry leader
• Covers nutrition, habit change, personal growth, and marketing and business
• Accredited by multiple organizations
• Earn two credentials at once: HCI Certified Health Coach (HCI-CHC) and HCI Certified Life Coach (HCI-CLC)

Cons

• Not entirely self-paced
• Expensive
• Separate course and additional cost for national board-certifying pathway

Bottom Line

Health Coach Institute is one of the most well-known educational organizations in the wellness coaching industry. With their flagship program, you’ll earn two credentials at once: HCI Certified Health Coach (HCI-CHC) and HCI Certified Life Coach (HCI-CLC).

The Health Coach Institute is an accredited online program that awards two certifications upon completion: an HCI Certified Health Coach certification (HCI-CHC) and an HCI Certified Life Coach certification (HCI-CLC).

While there is no final exam at the end of this six-month online course, there is a program option for those looking to become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach that includes a final exam.

The Health and Life Coach program focuses on five key areas of life: health, money, love and relationships, career, and “that which is greater.” The course takes a holistic approach, teaching students to help others through behavioral psychology, neuroscience, habit change, lifestyle change, and intuitive listening.

Students also learn about best coaching practices, how to run a business, and how to launch your coaching career, whether you’re looking to start a new side hustle or begin an entirely new career.

I would love to see a final exam for all students, regardless of whether or not they’re looking to become National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coaches. This is a great way to ensure that all education is retained, especially after such a long at-home course.

When you start the certification, you’ll be part of a cohort, and the community is a big part of the journey. The course provides weekly engagement opportunities, practice sessions with members of your cohort, and more.

We’ve awarded this certification a 5 out of 5 for accreditation, as it’s accredited by multiple organizations, including the International Coaching Federation, Health Coach Alliance, Federation of Holistic Therapists, and the International Institute for Complimentary Therapists.

The standard pricing is $7,950, though payment plans may be available, and the program periodically offers discounted pricing.

Best Short Health Coaching Program: Cornell Wellness Counseling Certificate

Good for: Allied health professionals who want a quick course covering lifestyle coaching

Best Quick Option

Cornell Wellness Counseling Certificate

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Product Highlights

• Fully online wellness counseling certification course
• Instructor-led course with small class sizes
• 3-5 hours per week required
• 2-month program duration (4 courses, each 2 weeks long)

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Short program duration of just 2 months
• All online
• Access to industry expert instruction
• Deep dive into behavior change and habit formation

Cons

• Experience or licensure in medical or allied health fields highly recommended

Bottom Line

For medical professionals and allied health professionals, the eCornell Wellness Counseling Certification can provide up to 40 continuing education credits and equip them with new skills to better serve their clients and patients. It is a two-month-long, instructor-led program.

If you already work in the health, wellness, or fitness industry and are looking for a quick course to advance your knowledge and learn new skills, the Cornell Wellness Counseling Certificate could be the right fit for you. 

This course consists of four distinct classes, each spanning two weeks. The course takes just two months to complete in total. The classes are: 

• Understanding the Person
• Understanding the Deeper Need
• Eliciting New Behaviors
• Promoting Organizational Wellness

The classes build upon each other and must be taken in that order. While there are no formal prerequisites to enroll in the course other than being at least 18 years old, Cornell highly encourages healthcare providers and allied health professionals, such as registered dietitians, nutritionists, and personal trainers, to apply.

You’ll learn from a highly qualified Cornell lecturer, Beth McKinney, who has worked in the coaching industry for more than 20 years and holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Master’s in Health Education. 

The program format is a virtual classroom experience that requires attendance to instructor-led sessions, although the expected time commitment is just three to five hours per week. Because this format is a bit more rigid than a self-paced course, I gave it 4 out of 5 points for study options.  

When you complete the course, you’ll earn a Wellness Counseling Certificate from Cornell College of Human Ecology. While this course isn’t NBHWC-approved, it is part of the distance learning arm of an accredited university, earning 3 out of 5 points for credibility. 

RELATED: What is CSCS? Strength and Conditioning Coach Exam Review

Best University Health Coaching Program: Duke Health & Well-Being Coach Training

Good for: College graduates who want to break into the wellness coaching field 

Best University Option

Duke Health & Well-Being Coach Training

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Product Highlights

• Designed as a post-graduate certification program
• Ideal for those who already have experience in fitness, health, and nutrition
• Online or hybrid
• Attendance required
• Not self-paced

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Prepares you to sit for National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) exam
• The Duke name carries weight and respect
• 3-month program
• Online and hybrid options available

Cons

• Start date transfers not allowed
• 10% admin fee if you cancel
• Must have bachelor’s degree or minimum of 3 years experience in the medical or allied health field

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a health coaching certification course from a major U.S. university, the Duke Health & Well-Being Coach Training is definitely worth looking into. It’s approved by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) and allows you to sit for the national board-certified credential.

If you are looking for a university-affiliated health coaching program, check out Duke’s Health & Well-Being Coach Training, an approved course through the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching. This means that if you pass the course, you can sit for the NBHWC exam for board certification.

To take this course, you’ll need to submit an application; if you’re approved, your approval is valid for 18 months, and you can sign up for any of the cohorts that begin within that time frame. You must hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (in any field of study) to qualify to enroll. 

Prospective students can choose from a fully online format or a hybrid format, which requires in-person attendance, although Duke’s website indicates that the hybrid option is still on hold after the COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, you can only sign up for the online option. 

Even in the online format, there is an attendance policy, and full attendance is required to scheduled live online learning sessions. You’ll need to attend a three-hour session once a week in the first portion of the course, which covers the core competencies of coaching. In the second portion of the course, which covers advanced coaching skills, all coursework is self-directed but includes individualized mentoring from a faculty member. For students who are working full-time or have other daytime commitments, this program might not be the right fit. 

This program covers everything you need to know to serve as an impactful health coach, from the neuroscience behind habit change to empathetic communication techniques. 

The exam has two parts: written and oral. You must score an 80% or higher on the written portion and pass the oral exam; you can take the written portion as many times as needed during the exam period. 

Upon passing the exam, you will earn a Duke Health & Well-Being Coach Training Certificate of Completion and certification as an Integrative Health Coach by Duke Integrative Medicine. If applicable, you’ll also earn continuing education credits from Joint Accreditation or the International Coaching Federation. 

Best Holistic Health Coaching Program: Institute for Integrative Nutrition Certified Health Coach

Good for: Prospective students interested in the intersections between nutrition, mental health, and fitness

Best Holistic Program

Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN) Certified Health Coach (CHC)

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Product Highlights

• Health coaching certification that focuses on holistic health 
• Emphasizes “bio-individuality” and that no nutrition plan should be the same
• Covers nutrition, fitness, social wellness, and emotional wellness
• Big emphasis on behavior change and habit formation
• Can be done in 6 months to 1 year  

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Available in english and spanish
• Earn up to 29 college credits by completing the program
• Approved course by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching
• Thorough curriculum that covers more than just nutrition
• Fully online
• Recognized by many national and international health coaching organizations

Cons

• Very expensive
• Must occasionally attend scheduled live sessions
• 6-month and 12-month track available, modules open weekly so you can’t work ahead

Bottom Line

The Institute for Integrative Nutrition is one of the largest and most respected health coaching schools in the U.S. and beyond. The school partners with several colleges and universities for course credit, and the IIN is backed by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching, the International Coaching Federation, The Health Coach Alliance, the International Association of Health Coaches, and more.

The Institute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN) is a widely recognized name in the health coaching industry, and the school has graduated more than 150,000 students. IIN’s foundational health coach training program is accredited by the International Coaching Federation and is a stepping stone to IIN’s Coaching Intensive Practicum, which allows students to sit for the national board certification exam. 

Additionally, IIN holds partnerships with multiple universities in the U.S. and is a member of The National College Credit Recommendation Service, which helps students receive college credits for nontraditional programs. 

All of the above led to a 5-out-of-5-star rating for IIN in the accreditation category. 

The standard program can be completed in 12 months, or you can choose the accelerated program, which takes six months. Either way, you’ll complete the same 40 modules, but you’ll complete one per week on the 12-month track and two per week on the six-month track. 

The entirety of the course is conducted online, but it’s not entirely self-paced. As you approach the end of the course, you’ll need to attend live coaching calls with peers in your cohort as well as a mentor. Attendance is mandatory and required to graduate. 

You’ll learn about a variety of topics that impact overall health, with an emphasis on holistic health—meaning, more than just nutrition, fitness, and disease management. 

The IIN course teaches students about the importance of mental health, including topics like spirituality, gratitude, and individuality based on the concept that such things are our “primary food.” The foundational lesson of the program is that people will always find it difficult to make healthy decisions about their physical health if their mental health isn’t taken care of first. 

Upon completing the program, you will have met the prerequisite to enroll in the Coaching Intensive Practicum, which prepares you to sit for the national board certification exam. 

Best Health Coaching Program for Healthcare Providers: The National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) Health Coach Certification

Good for: Licensed healthcare professionals looking to provide better care to patients

Best for Clinicians

The National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) Health Coach Certification

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Product Highlights

• Developed specifically for nurses, clinicians, and allied health professionals 
• The first first Clinical Model of Evidence-based Health Coaching (EBHC)® in the U.S. 
• 100% self-paced program
• Designed to help clinicians better serve patients

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Self-paced
• All online
• Developed by licensed healthcare practitioners
• Credential is valid for 5 years

Cons

• Only licensed healthcare professionals can earn the CHC credential from this program
• Non-licensed professionals earn a “certificate of completion” but do not get to use the CHC title

Bottom Line

The National Society of Health Coaches (NSHC) Health Coach Certification was designed for currently licensed healthcare practitioners to learn new skills and better serve their patients. You must be a licensed healthcare professional (a full list of eligible professions is available on the NSHC website) to earn the CHC credential from this program. Anyone can take it, but those not licensed will earn a “certificate of completion” and are not eligible to use the CHC credential.

This course was designed specifically for medical providers and allied healthcare professionals, so the enrollment requirements are more stringent. You must be a licensed health or medical practitioner to take this course and earn the title of certified health coach. Unlicensed individuals may apply and enroll, but they will earn a certificate of completion, not a health coach certification. 

Because this course was designed to support professionals in a clinical setting, it doesn’t meet the educational requirements for students to sit for the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching certification exam. 

While that’s understandable, I couldn’t find any indication of a different accreditation, such as from the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA), Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC), or International Coaching Federation (ICF). Therefore, this program only earned 1 out of 5 points for accreditation, which was surprising to find since it’s such a popular and well-established program. 

The course outline reflects its intended outcome, covering communication techniques and learning styles as they apply to clinical settings, tobacco cessation, weight loss and management, stress management, and evidence-based practice for managing chronic conditions. 

Since the course is all online and self-paced with no time limit, it earned 5 out of 5 points for studying and learning options. 

The final exam consists of a timed, 50-question multiple-choice test, as well as an oral exam performed over video conferencing software. Students must pass both parts to earn their certification and the continuing education credits that come with it. To earn a certificate of completion (if you are not a licensed healthcare professional), you must pass a 125-question multiple-choice exam. 

Your certification is valid for five years, and there are no continuing education requirements, but you have to retest every five years to renew your certification. 

Best Post-Graduate Health Coaching Program: Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach Training Program

Good for: College graduates who want an intensive program from a respected institution 

Best for College Grads

Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach Training Program

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Product Highlights

• Designed for college graduates and licensed healthcare professionals
• 12 online training sessions
• 4-day virtual immersive workshop experience
• Weekly peer coaching practice
• Must satisfy prerequisites

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Accredited course of the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC)
• Allows you to sit for board-certification exam
• Extremely in-depth course with live skills requirements
• Adequately prepares students for a career in coaching

Cons

• Not self-paced, must sign up for a specific enrollment period
• Weekly attendance-mandatory sessions
• Must have a minimum of an associate’s degree to complete

Bottom Line

The Mayo Clinic Wellness Coach Training Program is a very intensive, in-depth health coaching certification program that prepares you to sit for the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) board-certification exam. It includes online lectures, peer-to-peer coaching, faculty-mentored skills sessions, and an attendance-mandatory, four-day live online intensive.

This intensive, three-month program from Mayo Clinic’s School of Continual Professional Development includes online learning as well as hands-on practice coaching sessions. To enroll, you must hold an associate’s degree and a current license in the health or medical field or hold a bachelor’s degree in any field of study. 

Unfortunately, this program isn’t super flexible, requiring attendance to live online sessions and requiring students to learn in cohorts with specific start dates. For busy professionals who don’t have much control over their schedule, this may not be the best fit unless their employers allow work time to be used for education. 

The course consists of three pillars: 12 weekly online training sessions, a four-day intensive workshop, and peer-to-peer coaching conversations. Attendance is required for all 12 sessions, the entirety of the four-day workshop, and weekly peer coaching sessions. Asynchronous coursework is also required, meaning coursework you do on your own. 

Over the course of 12 weeks, you’ll learn about topics such as neurobiology, goal-setting and action-planning, healthy lifestyle basics and health literacy, communication and listening skills, and more. 

At the end of the course, you’ll take a written and oral exam. Passing both sections of the exam qualifies you to sit for the national board certification exam from the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching. 

Other Health Coaching Programs I Researched

The nine health coaching programs above represent what I think are the best options for a variety of types of students. However, there are other programs available. A few that I researched include: 

• Precision Nutrition Level 1 (PN-L1): This is a nutrition coaching course more so than a health or wellness coaching course. GGR senior editor Nicole Davis is PN-1 certified and says it dives deep into nutrition science, so it’s a better fit for those specifically interested in that. 
• Dr. Sears Wellness Institute: Dr. Sears Wellness Institute offers NBHWC-approved health coach training and the option to earn specialist credentials. It’s a good option for people looking to coach a niche clientele, such as pregnant people or seniors. 
• Wellcoaches: Anyone with an associate’s degree or 4,000 hours (about two years) of relevant work experience can enroll in the Wellcoaches program, and students may choose from the regular track or national board certified track. This program requires real-time, live online classes.

How I Picked and Tested the Best Health Coach Certification Programs

I am an integrative nutrition health coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, and I spent a lot of time researching all of the available options before I chose one. At the time, I was particularly interested in holistic wellness and how nutrition impacts our mental health and mindset, physical health, and life in general. I also chose IIN because I wanted a program that emphasized behavior change and permanent habit formation so I could learn how to help people establish a healthy lifestyle rather than chase diet after diet or crazy workout plans for weight loss. 

As my interests in fitness, nutrition, and coaching grew, I pursued other fitness and nutrition training certifications. I’ve been working in the fitness and wellness industry since 2017, and I’m deeply familiar with the various certification courses and agencies out there. 

I chose the health coach training courses on this list based on my own experiences and research, as well as on a variety of criteria, including:

• Price
• Course length 
• Continuing education requirements
• Studying and learning options 
• Course prerequisites 
• Hours per week required 
• Course accreditation 
• Whether the program is approved by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC)

Who Should Become a Certified Health Coach?

Anyone interested in the coaching industry, specifically health and wellness coaching, can become a health coach. However, there are a few groups of professionals who can greatly benefit from a health coaching certification. 

Certified Personal Trainers and Certified Nutrition Coaches

While personal training and nutrition coaching courses typically dive deep into the science of exercise and nutrition, these courses often leave a lot to be desired in terms of actual coaching and communication skills. I was a certified personal trainer before I studied with IIN to become an integrative health coach, and I truly believe earning the health coach credential helped me to become a better trainer. 

Medical Professionals

An online health coaching course can help doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals provide better care to their patients. Health coaching courses are often considered continuing education for medical professionals and count toward the yearly CEU requirement. 

Allied Healthcare Professionals

Registered dietitians, licensed nutritionists, athletic trainers, pharmacists, physicians’ assistants, dental hygienists, respiratory therapists, psychologists and licensed therapists, midwives and doulas—anyone on the allied healthcare continuum—can further their career and develop professionally by becoming a certified health coach. 

The coaching techniques learned in a certification course can help these professionals connect more deeply with their clients and patients, and provide improved mentorship and care.  

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Health Coaching Program

Investing in your education is a big deal. This guide to health coach programs can help you make a confident enrollment decision.

Cost

Health coaching programs range from less than $1,000 on the low end to more than $5,000 on the high end. It may be worth paying more for a course that offers structured learning, access to real instructors, facilitated study groups, or a wide variety of resources. If you’re a disciplined self-learner, online courses with self-paced studying typically cost less and are more than adequate. 

Prerequisites 

Depending on your educational background, you may qualify for a more advanced health coaching course, such as one that is intended as continuing education for licensed healthcare clinicians. However, there are a lot of entry-level courses, too, which are open to anyone regardless of secondary education. Almost all courses required students to be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. 

Course Length

Health coach coursework can range from as little as two months up to a year or more. Longer courses cover more information, naturally, than shorter courses. The best course length for you depends on your educational background and what you’re hoping to learn. 

Course Material 

Health coach programs vary in their core competencies. Some are more science-based and heavily cover nutrition and exercise science, while others are more focused on actual coaching practice and communication. Some courses emphasize things like stress management and sleep hygiene, while others emphasize meal planning and fitness. It’s imperative that you look at the curriculum before enrolling in a course so you know what you’ll learn. 

Learning Format

Most certifications are online nowadays, but there are still some in-person options. If you struggle with self-learning, an in-person or hybrid course might be a good idea. Alternatively, there are online courses with access to instructors or study groups for more structure. 

Exam Format

Some courses don’t have an exam at all; some have online, open-book exams; some have online proctored exams; others have multi-part exams with multiple-choice questions and a written or oral section. An intensive exam usually indicates an intensive program, but no exam doesn’t necessarily indicate a bad program. For instance the IIN course requires attendance to live mentored coaching sessions and some written assignments in place of an exam. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses related to testing can help you choose a program.

Accreditation and National Board Approval

There is no standard for health coaching education like there is for personal training education, i.e., an accreditation from the National Commission on Certifying Agencies (NCCA). However, the best educational organizations take it upon themselves to pursue accreditation. 

In addition to the NCCA seal, look for schools and programs accredited or approved by these organizations: 

• National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching 
• International Coaching Federation
• The Health Coach Alliance
• International Association of Health Coaches (IAHC)

Partnerships with universities and colleges also indicate a quality program. The National College Credit Recommendation Service (NCCRS) is an agency that helps students get college credits for non-traditional coursework, such as a health coaching program, 

Recertification Requirements

Many health coach certifications require continuing education in order for your credential to remain valid. This requirement is considered a good thing because it means the certifying agency is committed to graduating competent coaches. 

Most programs require an average of 10 hours of continuing education every year and the recertification cycle is typically two or three years. Anything over 10 hours per year could be considered superfluous. Look for education institutions that help their students and graduates with continuing education, such as by providing discounts on CEU courses.

Best Health Coaching Programs: FAQs

If you’re ready to become a personal trainer, researching your options for training courses is a good place to start. In this guide to the best personal training certifications, I cover nine of the top personal trainer certification programs and rank them according to several factors, including: 

• Accreditation 
• Study programs and options available 
• Time commitment 
• Exam format 
• Continuing education requirements 
• Student support 

RELATED: Best Health Coaching Certifications

Best Personal Training Certifications

• Best Personal Training Certification Overall: NASM
• Best Personal Training Certification for Student Support: ISSA
• Best Hands-On Personal Training Program: NPTI
• Best Personal Training Certification for Future Specialization: ACE
• Best Personal Training and Nutrition Certification: Fitness Mentors
• Best Value Personal Training Certification: NCSF
• Best Personal Training Certification to Work with Athletes: NSCA
• Best Affordable Personal Training Certification: NFPT
• Best for Working with Special Populations or in Clinical Settings: ACSM
• Best with Long Recertification Term: NESTA

What Does a Personal Trainer Do? 

A personal trainer is an exercise professional who, in simplest terms, helps people train for fitness. Personal trainers can specialize in dozens of different disciplines, from endurance training to Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit to bodybuilding. They can also choose to train individuals from specific populations, such as people who are battling cancer, people who are pre- or post-partum, people who are managing a chronic disease, or something else. 

Or, a personal trainer can choose to work with the general public and train clients from all types of backgrounds. It’s really up to the trainer and what type of clientele they feel called to train. 

Certified personal trainers (CPTs) are fitness experts, specifically in the realms of exercise programming and exercise techniques. A good personal trainer knows how to assess clients for movement patterns and limitations, implement behavior change strategies, program fitness training for different fitness goals and capabilities, and apply the principles of exercise physiology in an everyday setting. 

Many CPTs own their own training businesses, but many prefer to work in settings such as a health club or fitness center. CPTs can also work in schools, for community programs, and in clinical settings depending on their other qualifications. 

Best Personal Training Certification Overall: NASM

Good for: Anyone who wants a well-rounded education and an industry-respected credential

Best Overall

NASM Personal Training Certification Course

GGR Score: 4.14

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Product Highlights

• Various study packages offered
• New digital learning platform
• The foundation of the course is based on NASM’s Optimum Performance Training Model (OPT) which is a systematic approach to personal training for every type of clien
• Prerequisites  – CPR and high school diploma or GED
• Covers behavioral change to assist clients with personal hurdles
• Focus on client assessments to develop plans best suited for each person

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lots of study materials available: textbook, app, videos, and podcasts
• Built-in opportunities for post-certification internships
• NASM is NCCA-certified
• Discounts often available
• Financing available
• Options for remote or in-person exam
• Other courses available for advanced learning
• Bundle CPT with nutrition and other courses for a discount

Cons

• Higher cost than some other certification programs
• Textbook not included in two most basic packages
• Textbook/online training modules alone may not prepare you well for exam
• Short time frame to take the exam, especially if you work full-time

Bottom Line

NASM’s digital CPT program is a highly reputable and in-depth certification program for anyone looking to become a personal trainer.

Even if you’re just starting to research how to become a personal trainer, you’ve likely already come across NASM, the National Academy of Sports Medicine. That’s because NASM is a highly respected leader in fitness certification and provides a well-designed, thorough online personal trainer certification program that results in an accredited credential accepted by most major employers in the industry. 

Two members of our team—Kate Meier, GGR head of content, and Anthony O’Reilly, performance editor—are NASM-certified personal trainers. 

RELATED: NASM Review: A NASM–Certified Trainer Explains the CPT Course 

The NASM personal trainer course involves a self-paced, online course with well-structured chapters and access to practice exams to ensure you’re ready to take the exam. There are three options you can purchase: 

• Self-Study, for $899, which includes full access to the online course materials and your exam fee
• Premium Self-Study, for $1,399, which also gives you access to NASM mentors, plus a job guarantee and a retest option if you don’t pass the exam on your first try
• All-Inclusive, for $1,999, which includes all of the above and also gives you a hardcopy textbook, a CPR/AED course (which you need to take anyway), and a “Gymternship”

The job guarantee promises that NASM will help you find employment within 90 days of becoming certified, or you get a full refund. I really love the Gymternship, which is a unique component of NASM CPT programs. This option gets you 80 contact hours—actual hands-on personal training—at a NASM partner facility. It’s a really fantastic way to get your career started. 

This pricing makes it one of the more expensive personal trainer certification options, but we think the level of industry respect that a NASM certification brings—and the detailed course material—sets you up for success. 

The course consists of six sections: 

• Professional Development And Responsibility
• Client Relations And Behavioral Coaching
• Basic And Applied Sciences And Nutritional Concepts
• Assessment
• Exercise Technique And Training Instruction
• Program Design

NASM uses the Optimum Performance Training (OPT) Model as the basis for their curriculum. You’ll learn about this in sections five and six. This is where you will get into the nitty gritty of fitness programming, with an emphasis on performance for the everyday person and people with contraindications to exercise. 

To sit for the NASM exam, you must meet the general requirements of any personal training certification course: Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification. 

NASM does offer an at-home exam, but it is not proctored, therefore it does not result in the CPT credential. You will earn a “certificate of completion” if you choose this option and you may be ineligible for employment at the employer’s discretion. To ensure you get the NCCA-accredited certification, take the proctored exam in a testing center.

RELATED: NASM Nutrition Coach Certification Review

Price	$899, $1,399, $1,999
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	Up to 6 months
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at home, not proctored
Recertification requirements	1.9 CEUs plus CPR/AED renewal every two years

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Best Personal Training Certification for Student Support: ISSA

Good for: Individuals who would like more engagement and structured learning

Best for Student Support

ISSA CPT Certification

GGR Score: 4.18

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Product Highlights

• Personal training certification
• NCCPT-accredited CPT exam
• Online coursework and exams
• Monthly payment plan available 
• CPR/AED certification required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Access to a student forum
• Open book or proctored exam options
• Template for a free professional website
• Professional support even after you pass your exam

Cons

• Unclear if open book exam is not accredited
• Expensive price point

Bottom Line

The ISSA certified personal trainer (CPT) program offers an online self-paced certificate. When you’re ready to test you’ll have the option to take an open-book exam online or a closed-book, proctored NCCA-accredited exam. The program gives you access to a five-week course with live classes and a guide to studying.

Individuals who tend to struggle with self-learning should check out the CPT course from ISSA, the International Sports Sciences Association. There is only one study package you can buy, costing about $1,000, and it includes full access to the online course materials, which include: 

• Online textbook
• Online practice quizzes
• Audio and video lectures
• Online workbook
• Online student forum
• Exam 
• Access to a website builder to start your business
• Unlimited student support 
• CPT Education Bootcamp
• Purpose Driven Training Model

The course is self-paced, but you have the option to follow ISSA’s guided 10-week program, which you can set up in the trainer education portal. This, combined with unlimited access to ISSA mentors and customer support, plus the online student forum, makes ISSA the best option for students who want more structure. 

The ISSA CPT course covers all the fundamentals of personal training across six sections:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Kinesiology and Biomechanics
• Health and Physical Fitness
• Program Development
• Nutrition
• Fitness For All

I appreciate that there are two sections dedicated to human movement—this is stuff that personal trainers really should know. Otherwise, it’s difficult or impossible to program modifications for injury, chronic disease, and other considerations. 

Where ISSA could improve is in the assessment arena. According to the course outline, assessments are given just one chapter in section four, Program Development. Although I have not seen the course material in full, I think adequate teachings on client assessment and intake need more space than this. 

Like NASM, ISSA also offers two exam options. You can take the NCCA-accredited exam in a testing center, or you can take the exam at home; the at-home option is accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commision (DEAC). Opting for the latter option means you will not receive an NCCA-accredited credential and you may be denied employment at an employer’s discretion. 

Price	$999
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	Up to 6 months
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online with options for guidance and hard copy materials
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at home, not proctored
Recertification requirements	20 hours every 2 years, plus CPR/AED renewal

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Best Hands-On Personal Training Certification: NPTI

Good for: Those who want hands-on training in a classroom setting

Best for Hands-On Learning

National Personal Training Institute

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Product Highlights

• Hands-on education with teachers

• Flexible live training schedule

• 60 hours of mentorship after graduation

• Includes nutrition training

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Hands-on training
• 200 hours of in-person experience
• Flexible schedule
• Learn with other students

Cons

• Some may not have time for 200 hours of classroom training
• Pricing not disclosed

Bottom Line

The National Personal Training Institute provides hands-on training in a group setting for those wishing to become personal trainers. The program includes 200 hours of hands-on training, job placement assistance, and continued mentorship after graduation.

Best Personal Training Certification for Future Specialization: ACE

Good for: Aspiring fitness trainers who want to specialize in a specific niche

Best for Future Specialization

ACE CPT Certification

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Personal trainer certification 
• 6-month timeline to complete program
• CPR/AED certification required 
• 90,000 ACE CPT professionals globally

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Live, remote proctored exams available
• Straightforward program guidelines
• Ability to sign up for a free preview
• NCCA-accredited program

Cons

• Hard copy textbook costs extra
• 2-year recertification cycle

Bottom Line

ACE certified personal trainers will learn the fundamentals and scope of practice for CPTs. You’ll need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma, and a CPR/AED certification. From there, you can study and sit for the ACE CPT exam. The certification is NCCA-accredited and over 90,000 fitness professionals also have their ACE certification.

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is the way to go if you intend to continue your education as a personal trainer and become a certified specialist in a specific niche. I say this because I believe that the ACE certification is the best when it comes to training special populations. 

RELATED: What Is ACE Certification? A Full Review

The term “special populations” in fitness refers to essentially anyone who has any contraindication to exercise. A contraindication is something, such as a health condition, that prevents a person from doing all or some types of exercise. For instance, high blood pressure is considered a contraindication to heavy lifting, and a person with high blood pressure would need exercise modifications to ensure their blood pressure doesn’t skyrocket to a dangerous level. 

I am an ACE-certified personal trainer, and I can confirm that ACE does a wonderful job of preparing personal trainers to work with clients from all backgrounds with varying contraindications to exercise. There is an entire section dedicated to this, and it covers: 

• Cardiovascular disorders: coronary artery disease, hypertension, stroke, peripheral vascular disease, dyslipidemia 
• Diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational 
• Metabolic syndrome 
• Cancer
• Asthma
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Low back pain
• Weight management
• Seniors
• Youth
• Pre- and post-partum 

Additionally, ACE offers several specialist certifications should you want to continue your education to become more adept at training a certain population. ACE specialist certs include: 

• Medical Exercise Specialist
• Fitness Nutrition
• Senior Fitness
• Corrective Exercise
• Functional Training
• Weight Management
• Behavior Change
• Sport Performance
• Youth Fitness
• Pilates Unlimited
• Function First Pain-Free Movement
• Cancer Exercise Training Institute 
• Size Inclusive Fitness
• The BioMechanics Method Corrective Exercise

The ACE CPT course is thorough, with 17 chapters covering everything you need to know as a new personal trainer. In addition to program design, anatomy, physiology, contraindications, assessment, and progression, you will also learn about the principles of behavior modification to drive adherence among your clients. ACE also includes information on building a personal trainer business, including legal and insurance considerations. 

There are three study packages to choose from, ranging from a basic self-paced course to live webinars and study groups. You have six months to schedule your exam from the day you purchase a study package. In most cases, you can schedule your exam up to 60 days out, so this gives you a total of about eight months to study. ACE offers an at-home exam option through live remote proctoring, and it is NCCA-accredited, so you can test from home without sacrificing your credential.

RELATED: ACE vs NASM

Price	$675, $745,  $975
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	Up to 8 months
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online + hard copy materials available
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at-home with a live remote proctor
Recertification requirements	2.0 CEUs plus CPR/AED renewal every two years

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Best Personal Training and Nutrition Certification: Fitness Mentors

Good for: Those who want nutrition expertise to complement their training knowledge

Best Personal Training and Nutrition Certification

Fitness Mentors

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal trainer course

• All online

• NCAA accreditation option

• 20 CEUs required to recertify

• 2-hour exam

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable
• NCAA-accredited option
• Online learning provides flexibility

Cons

• Some learner prefer hard copies of study materials
• Self-study may be hard for some

Bottom Line

Fitness Mentors is an affordable, NCAA-accredited, all-online CPT course. It will take three to four months to complete with just five hours of studying per week. You’ll also have the option to bundle a nutrition specialist course with the CPT course, which is a great option for those who want to also give nutritional advice to clients.

Best Value Personal Training Certification: NCSF

Good for: Earning an accredited credential and getting a thorough education without spending thousands of dollars

Best Value

NCSF Certification

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal trainer (CPT) course
• NCCA-accredited certification
• Hands-on and self-study modules
• Final exam online or at testing center

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Qualifies CPTs to work 1:1 or small groups
• Accredited by National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)
• Complete exam prep and materials
• Payment plans available

Cons

• 2-year recertification cycle
• Course does not require CPR/AED

Bottom Line

The Certified Personal Trainer certification through the National Council on Strength and Fitness is a NCCA-accredited program recognized by many top health clubs like 24 Fitness, OrangeTheory Fitness, Planet Fitness, and Gold’s Gym. This course will qualify you to work with clients one-on-one and in small groups. The exam covers general exercise science, program design, nutrition, training instruction, and special populations to name a few.

For a solid education on a budget, look to the National Council on Strength and Fitness, or NCSF. The NCSF offers NCCA-accredited study packages for $399 or $449, as well as course bundles for $649 (CPT plus sport nutrition specialist) and $699 (CPT plus certified strength coach). 

Not only are these programs affordable, but you can take as long as you need to study for the exam, unlike with other courses that have a set timeline. According to the NCSF, “The only time restriction within the entire process is that the exam must be taken within six months of the initial test registration date.” 

So, this means you could theoretically study for six months or more, then register for your exam, and study for another six months. However, it’s unclear if this is the case when you purchase a study package, since the package includes an exam voucher. There might be an expiration date to the exam voucher, but that information isn’t disclosed as far as I can tell on the website. So if you want to study with no deadline, you should buy the study materials individually and then purchase the exam when you are ready. 

The NCSF CPT curriculum is split into six sections, covering: 

• Today’s Society and the Healthy Lifestyle
• Applied Exercise Science and Biomechanics
• Health, Fitness and Performance Assessment
• Foundational and Applied Nutritional Science
• Foundations of Advanced Program Design

Within each section, there are several chapters covering various aspects of human movement, but there is little material dedicated to aspects of training such as behavior change, adherence, habit formation, and client communication.  

The NCSF offers two NCCA-accredited exam options: at home or in a testing center near you. You can choose your option when you register for the test. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to earn 2.0 CEUs every two years (about 20 hours), including your CPR/AED renewal. For NCSF, CPR/AED renewal counts as 2 hours or 0.2 CEUs, which is nice. Not every agency includes CPR as CEUs. 

Price	$399 to $699
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	As long as you need (but 6 months from registering for your exam)
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online + hard copy materials available
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at-home with a live remote proctor
Recertification requirements	2.0 CEUs plus CPR/AED renewal every two years (CPR/AED counts as 0.2)

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Best Personal Training Certification to Work with Athletes: NSCA

Good for: People who want to eventually earn an advanced credential related to sport performance

Best for Working with Athletes

NSCA-CPT Certification

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal trainer exam
• NCCA-accredited program
• 155-question exam
• Study materials sold separately

Pros & Cons

Pros

• NCCA-accredited program
• Provides accurate scope of practice
• In-depth approach to 1:1 coaching
• Multiple-choice question exam

Cons

• Study materials are separate from exam fees
• Exam fees are higher for non-NSCA members
• In-person exam only

Bottom Line

The certified personal trainer program from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA-CPT) offers an in-depth approach to coaching clients for safe and effective fitness programs. You’ll need to be CPR/AED certified to sit for the exam, be 18 years of age or older, and have a high school diploma. The NSCA-CPT exam is taken in-person at a proctored Pearson VUE testing center.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association, perhaps best known for its Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCS) credential, also offers a personal training credential. True to NSCA nature, this CPT course is very science-heavy, so we recommend it to prospective trainers who are interested and invested in kinesiology, anatomy, and physiology. 

RELATED: NASM vs NSCA 

For instance, you will need to be able to understand and explain training adaptations that occur via exercise, and not just to the muscles, but also tendons, ligaments, fascia, bones, cartilage, and adipose tissue (fat). You will also need to thoroughly understand how exercise impacts body systems, including the neuromuscular, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, metabolic, endocrine, and psychological systems. 

You’ll then need to know how to apply those learnings to exercise programming and develop effective training protocols based on the client’s or athlete’s contraindications, goals, and needs. As such, we believe that the NSCA CPT certification prepares you to understand the training needs of athletes and high-performance individuals. 

As for study materials, they’re all a la carte. You can purchase the NSCA-CPT study guide, NSCA-CPT quizzes and practice test, Exercise Technique Manual, and Essentials of Personal Training textbook individually. Or, you can purchase the online study course, which includes Essentials of Personal Training and a guided study plan with year-long access from the date of purchase. 

If you buy materials individually, you have lifelong access and as long as you want to study before registering for the exam. Once you register for the exam, you have a maximum of 120 days to take it. NSCA does not currently offer an at-home proctored testing option, so plan to go to a local testing center. 

One thing you should know about the NSCA CPT is that the recertification process is different from other agencies. The NSCA runs three-year recertification cycles, and every NSCA-certified CPT must earn 6.0 CEUs (about 60 hours) by the end of the three-year cycle. Every cycle ends on December 31.

This averages out to about 2.0 CEUs or 20 hours per year, which is more than average. Upon earning your initial certification, the amount of CEUs you need is prorated for that cycle. 

Price	$800 or less
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	As long as you need (but 120 days from registering for your exam)
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Mostly books and quizzes
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center
Recertification requirements	6.0 CEUs every 3 years, plus CPR/AED renewal

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Best Affordable Personal Training Certification: NFPT

Good for: Aspiring personal trainers on a budget

Most Affordable

NFPT Certified Personal Trainer Course

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Product Highlights

• Affordable CPT exam
• Inexpensive study options
• Free CEU options
• Up to 1 year to prepare for exam
• NCCA-accredited credential

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable exam fee and study packages
• Instant test results
• NCCA-accredited
• Free CEU options
• No CEU petition fees
• Printed textbook available
• At-home proctored test option available

Cons

• Not much opportunity for student engagement during exam prep period

Bottom Line

The NFPT personal trainer course is one of the most affordable ways to earn your CPT credential. And don't think that you're missing out on anything by choosing an inexpensive option: The NFPT exam covers all of the need-to-know essentials so you can start your training career off right and successfully guide clients toward their goals.

Education isn’t cheap, and it’s part of what makes starting a new career so difficult. Luckily, the NFPT offers affordable personal training certification courses. If you’re already well-versed in the essentials of personal training and human movement, you can purchase the exam alone for $249, which is less expensive than most other agencies’ exam fees (and some agencies don’t offer this option at all). 

If you do need study materials, you can choose from two affordable packages: Standard, for $379 or Premier, for $499. These price points make the NFPT certification the most affordable on our list—and you’re not sacrificing anything for these prices. It’s still an NCCA-accredited program and you have up to one year to take the exam (which is actually longer than average). 

The Standard package includes: 

• Exam content outline
• One exam attempt
• Digital trainer manual
• Digital workbook
• Online chapter quizzes
• Learn to be a virtual trainer course
• Essential forms for your business (assessments, screenings, waivers, consent forms)

The Premier package includes everything in the Standard package, plus a hard-copy book, two practice tests, exercise animations, client assessment videos, and NFPT expert trainers who are available for student support. 

You may also purchase study materials individually if you don’t think you need a full online course. 

To pass the NFPT exam, you’ll need to be well-versed in the following topical areas: 

• Principles of Human Anatomy
• Principles of Human Physiology
• Fitness Components
• Training Program Development, Implementation & Modification
• Professionalism and Communication Skills

Each section of the personal trainer manual corresponds with a section of the exam. There are multiple chapters within each section that dive into various aspects of human movement and fitness programming. 

To recertify with NFPT, you’ll need to earn 2.0 CEUs every two years, and your CPR/AED renewal counts toward your total. Additionally, NFPT offers a whole range of unique CEU opportunities for NFPT-certified trainers, including credits for securing liability insurance coverage and attending trade shows. There are also free CEU options, which is a nice bonus, because continuing education can get expensive. 

Price	$249 to $499
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	Up to 1 year
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online with hard copy materials available
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at-home with a live remote proctor
Recertification requirements	2.0 CEUs every 2 years

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Best for Working with Special Populations or in Clinical Settings: ACSM

Good for: People looking for in-depth education in physiology and anatomy

Best for Working in Clinical Settings

ACSM Certified Personal Trainer Course

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Product Highlights

• NCCA-accredited personal trainer certification
• No time limit for studying
• Online and physical study materials available
• No guided course options
• Extensively covers anatomy, physiology, and exercise science

Pros & Cons

Pros

• NCCA-accredited credential
• Can buy study materials individually
• Affordable exam fee and materials
• Strong focus on lifestyle medicine
• At-home remote proctored exam option

Cons

• CEU requirement is higher than average (about 15 hours per year)
• No guided study options

Bottom Line

The American College of Sport Medicine is a respected name in the fitness industry and offers an NCCA-accredited personal training course and exam, Study materials can be purchased individually, and you can take as long as you need to prepare for the exam. The ACSM CPT program is a good option for anyone who wants to work with clientele who have contraindications to exercise and those who want to advance their career into exercise physiology.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is another highly respected and well-known educational institution in the fitness industry. With ACSM, you will learn the finer details of the body’s structures, including bones, joints, muscles, and other connective tissue, as well as the body’s various organs and systems. 

Like the ACE certification course, the ACSM course expansively covers anatomy, physiology, exercise science, and special populations. This makes it a good option for people who hope to eventually specialize or pursue additional education in order to be qualified to work in clinical settings. 

Typically, you will need additional credentials to work in any clinical setting, but the ACSM certification is a good starting point. For instance, if you’re pursuing a degree in an exercise-related field, you would also qualify (upon graduating) for ACSM’s certified exercise physiologist program (CEP) which would allow you to work in many more settings than a personal trainer. 

The ACSM also has a heavy focus on exercise as a treatment protocol or as “lifestyle medicine” and the course reflects that in its emphasis on disease prevention and risk factor reduction. 

For studying, ACSM offers a course bundle, but I don’t recommend that option because there are restrictions around exam timing. If you buy the bundle, your exam voucher comes with it and expires at the end of the calendar year. So if you purchase the bundle later in the year, you may not have ample time to study. This option could work if you purchase the bundle early in the year. 

Still, I recommend buying study materials individually, because then you can study for as long as you want to and schedule the exam when you’re ready. Both exam options—in-person and at-home—are proctored and NCCA-accredited. 

ACSM’s continuing education requirements are slightly above average. You must acquire 45 hours of continuing education every three years, which works out to about 15 hours per year. 

Price	$299 to $649
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	As long as you need (unless you buy an exam voucher, which expires at end of year)
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online and hard copy study materials
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center or at-home with a live remote proctor
Recertification requirements	45 hours of CE every three years

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Best with Long Recertification Term: NESTA

Good for: Individuals who would like more time to recertify than the standard two years

Long Recert Term

NESTA PFT Certification

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Certified personal fitness trainer (PFT)
• NCCA-accredited program 
• 4-year recertification cycle
• CPR certification required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Longer 4-year recertification cycle
• Internationally recognized
• 65,000 PFT professionals globally

Cons

• Exam pricing starts at $349
• Additional costs for study materials
• In-person final exam

Bottom Line

The Certified personal fitness trainer (PFT) program from NESTA (National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association) is an NCCA-accredited certification with a four-year recertification cycle. While you’ll study at your own pace, you’ll have to take the 125-question, multiple choice final exam in a proctored testing center within 90 days of requesting exam eligibility.

NESTA, the National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association, offers the only NCCA-accredited personal training certification that is valid for more than two years. The NESTA CPT is valid for a whopping 4 years! So if you want to extend your time for recertification, this is the best option for you. 

Don’t get too excited, though: You still have to earn an average of 1.0 CEUs, or about 10 hours of education, every year. It’s just presented differently, the requirement being 4.0 CEUs every four years. Though it’s the same amount of education, it does end up saving you money in the long term, since you only have to pay your recertification fee every four years, not every two years. 

NESTA training is affordable, too, with pricing starting at $349 for just the exam. You can choose from two study packages: Plus, for $399 and Complete, for $697. Plus includes your exam fee and a digital textbook. Complete includes the exam fee, digital textbook, unlimited practice exams, digital and audio training, and chapter review quizzes.

You can take as long as you need to study, but once you request your exam eligibility (you must apply and show you meet the basic prerequisites), you have 90 days to take the exam. NESTA doesn’t offer an at-home exam yet, so you’ll have to go to a testing center. 

The NESTA personal trainer manual includes 14 chapters of information, including: 

1. Introduction to Personal Training
2. Exercise Physiology
3. Kinesiology and Functional Anatomy
4. Applied Biomechanics
5. Flexibility
6. Nutrition
7. Special Populations
8. Assessments
9. Program Design
10. Exercise Application
11. Safety, Injury Prevention, and Treatment
12. Exercise Psychology 
13. Business Strategies and Applications for the Certified Personal Trainer

Price	$349 to $697
Prerequisites	Be at least 18 years old, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification
Course length	As long as you need (but within 90 days of requesting exam eligibility)
Expected hours per week	As many as you need
Learning platform	Online
Exam format	Proctored, on a computer in a testing center
Recertification requirements	4.0 CEUs every 4 years

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Other Personal Training Certifications We Researched

The options above represent the best, most well-known, and most respected personal training certification programs. If you want to become a fitness professional with a wide range of knowledge that qualifies you to train clients from a variety of backgrounds and train in multiple settings, we recommend one of the above. There are a few other options available that may also be worth considering. 

National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA): NETA offers an NCCA-accredited certification and low prices compared to some popular options. It’s definitely worth looking into if you’re on a tight budget. 

Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA): This agency is owned by NASM and offers a “personal fitness instructor” credential, not a personal trainer certification. It is similar, but not NCCA-accredited. The AFAA is geared more toward group fitness instructor certification programs. 

American Sport and Fitness Association (ASFA): ASFA offers an interesting model: You only pay if you pass the exam. This sounds appealing, but the certification is not NCCA- or DEAC-accredited, so it may not be accepted by all employers. The certification is also only good for one year and there are no CEU opportunities; you have to retest each year.

National Personal Training Institute (NPTI):  The NPTI offers a more structured way to become a personal trainer. It features a mix of self-directed and supervised learning, as well as hands-on practical experience. It requires a more flexible schedule as there are attendance-mandatory virtual hours and in-person practicum hours. With the NPTI, you earn a “diploma in personal training” and it is state-licensed and valid forever; you don’t need to engage in any continuing education to maintain it. You simultaneously earn the NASM-CPT credential, which does require continuing education. 

National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT): This is an option for anyone who wants to take the NCCA-accredited personal trainer exam. It is not affiliated with an actual study program; aspiring personal trainers who have completed a degree program in exercise science, kinesiology, or similar would be a good candidate for this exam-only option. 

How We Picked and Tested the Best Personal Trainer Certifications

Several members of our GGR editorial team are certified personal trainers. We’re certified through different agencies, so we collectively have hands-on experience with multiple certification organizations. 

Additionally, I conducted thorough research for this guide, combing through the websites of each certifying agency featured here to find details about the certification process, recertification requirements, study materials and options, learning format, accreditation, job guarantees, professional resources, exam pass rates, and more. 

I rated each personal training certification against seven criteria: 

• Price/value 
• Course length
• Accreditation
• Continuing education
• Prerequisites
• Studying and learning options
• Final assessment format and options 

Each course earned a score of 1 to 5 for each of the above categories, and an average score based on those seven scores. The courses were given superlatives based on a standout feature or multiple standout features. For instance, the ISSA-CPT earned the title of “best for student support” due to its robust job placement guarantee, guided study options, and access to mentors and customer support. 

Who Should Become a Certified Personal Trainer?

You should earn your personal training certification if you want to train individuals in any capacity, whether at a gym, virtually, or in a different setting. 

Anyone who is interested in working in the fitness industry can become a personal trainer, even if your ultimate goal doesn’t involve directly training clients. While that’s a great place to start, many trainers end up doing something else after some time training “on the floor”—an expression that refers to the job of training an individual at a gym or in a similar setting.

People who can benefit from earning this fitness certification include those who want to: 

• Train individuals in any way, shape, or form in any setting, online or in-person
• Eventually take a specialist certification course, such as in corrective exercise or biomechanics 
• Later become a certified strength and conditioning coach (CSCS) to work with athletes 
• Become a fitness blogger or influencer 
• Work in any fitness-related communications capacity, such as being a fitness journalist or working for a PR firm that focuses on fitness and wellness brands 
• Become a health coach or nutrition coach, as the areas of expertise are very related and it helps to, at a minimum, understand the fundamentals of exercise physiology as a nutrition or health coach 

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Personal Training Program

This buyer’s guide can help you decide which cert to register for. 

Cost

We rate cost according to the following methodology, which we developed based off of the average cost of CPT education: 

• 1 point = More than $3,000
• 2 points = $2,000 to $3,000 
• 3 points = $1,000 to $2,000 
• 4 points = $800 to $1,000 
• 5 points = Less than $800 

In addition to the overall price, look for payment plan opportunities. Most of the major agencies offer interest-free plans. 

Prerequisites 

In most cases, you need to be 18 years old; hold a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent; and hold a current and valid CPR/AED certification to sit for a CPT exam. Anything more than this is excessive for a basic personal trainer certification. For advanced certifications, such as the CSCS, you will need to meet additional prerequisites. 

Course Length

Most CPT courses require you to take the exam within 6 months of enrolling in the program or purchasing the study package. Some timelines are longer, allowing for up to one year; others are completely self-paced in that you just purchase the study materials and then sign up for the exam when you’re ready. The best option for you depends on your schedule and learning style. 

Course Material 

Make sure the course material covers, at a minimum, the following topics: 

• Personal trainer scope of practice
• Personal training ethics
• Human anatomy
• Exercise physiology 
• Assessments for mobility, cardiovascular fitness, strength, and balance 
• Cardiovascular training
• Strength training
• Mobility and flexibility training
• Balance and stability training 
• Program design, including progressive overload and exercise modification 
• Basics of behavior change 
• Working with special populations
• Motivational interviewing, empathetic communication, and listening skills
• Business skills and marketing 

If you learn about all of the above, you’ll be well on your way to a successful personal training career. 

Learning Format

Is it a fully online course, or is it hybrid? Entirely self-paced or guided? Is there only a digital textbook or can you get a hard-copy version? Are there online quizzes, practice tests, interactive activities, or lectures? Opportunities for peer interaction? It’s important to know your learning style and sign up for a CPT certification course that matches your needs. 

Exam Format

Check to see whether the exam is open-book or proctored. This is typically a dead giveaway regarding accreditation: At-home, unproctored exams are easier, obviously, but they don’t usually result in an accredited CPT credential. That said, some agencies offer live remote proctoring now, so you can take the exam at home and still get an accredited credential. 

Accreditation 

The gold standard in accreditation for CPT credentials is the NCCA accreditation from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Other honorable accreditations include those from the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC) and the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE), but an NCCA accreditation is considered the gold star. 

Recertification Requirements

Most programs require you to earn an average of 10 continuing education units (CEUs) or continuing education credits (CECs) every year or to retake the exam before your certification expires in order to maintain your credential without a lapse. This is usually presented as 2.0 units or 20 hours every two years, although there are varying time tables. No CEU requirement is not seen as a good thing—personal trainers should stay up-to-date with best practices and research in the industry. 

Best Personal Training Certifications: FAQs