Ly Kieu Le started this discussion ·
So I've looked into the personal trainer certification at some schools such as ACE, SCW, NCSF, AFAA. I wonder what is the difference among their programs if any of you guys experienced or heard of them before? Please advise me.
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I think ace is just ok, but NCSM or ACSM are probably the most recognized as far as personal training certs go. I hold AFPA and AFAA certs, and they both refer to ACSM guidelines. As far as the differences in programing, there wasnt alot. AFAA is more well known for their group fitness certs, if i remember correctly they were the first to offer certificates specifically for group fitness. They are pretty hands on so you learn a lot. I dont recognze SCW or NCSF but that doesnt mean much, there are a lot of associations out there. if you are looking to train at a specific gym, then i would call and ask what certs they will acknowledge. If you are doing it on your own, i would look to one of the better known and better recognized names.
For personal training certification the most recognized and respected are NASM..... ACSM.... and NSCA These tend to be tougher tests that actually require studying and have tougher continueing education requirements After those I would say ACE.... ISSA... and AFAA It kind of depends on what you are looking to do with it and what kind of populations you would like to work with No matter what the certification you have to commit yourself to constant learning.... if you don't do that it doesn't matter what cert u have because u won't be very good
@jkpolegirl & abcollins1: Based on what you two advised, I'll probably go for ACSM. Apparently the costs can be paid separately (materials, workshops, exams) if I'm not mistaken. However, CPR cert (with hands-on practical skills component) is requested to complete the training course. Do you know where I can get it?
American Red cross.... American heart association.... or national safety counsil I've never personal had AHA but I've heard good things and they have a first aid cpr aed course all rolled together
