Helping people achieve their goals is rewarding, and the experience is even better when it comes with a paycheck. Exercise enthusiasts can do both by earning one of the best fitness certifications to jumpstart a career. Browsing the top options is the first step to landing an exciting, rewarding job.
1. AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification
Zumba provides the AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification to start a fitness career. The course includes information from one of the top fitness certification organizations in the country. Participants receive discounts, online resources and a Zumba Instructor Network group membership.
| Zumba AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification | ||
| Courses Courses | Program duration | Recertification requirements |
| Multiple training and exercise techniques Foundations of the human movement system and exercise science Basic principles of physiology, exercise and safety Diet and healthy eating And more | 15 hours | Five two-month courses per year Renewal fee paid |
2. National Council On Strength And Fitness Personal Trainer Certification
The National Council on Strength and Fitness is a leading organization with 8,000 testing centers nationwide. People who are passionate about exercise take the Personal Trainer Certification course to learn everything they need to coach people one-on-one. The credential is also valid worldwide, supporting a career in the world for those who want to travel.
| National Council on Strength and Conditioning Personal Trainer Certification | ||
| Courses Courses | Program duration | Recertification requirements |
| Sports nutrition Strength training Instructor techniques | Two to three weeks or up to six months | Earn seven continuing education units (CEUs) in qualifying subjects Maintain valid CPR certification Complete 1 CEU on Ethical Behavior in the Workplace Pay the renewal fee |
3. International Sports Science Association Weight Management Certification
People complete the International Sports Science Association (ISSA) Weight Management Certification to help clients achieve weight-related goals with fitness techniques. Science-backed classes debunk weight-loss myths while empowering trainers and clients with resources that jump-start sustainable calorie burning. Interested fitness professionals can complete the workout online.
| International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Weight Management Certification. | ||
| Courses Courses | Program duration | Recertification requirements |
| Myths and facts about weight loss Basic principles of nutrition Professional development tips And more | Eight to 10 weeks if participants study one to two hours per day | Complete the CEU renewal application and reference forms Complete 20 hours of continuing education (CD) every two years Pay the recertification fee, between $0-99 |
4. Fitness Mentors Online Personal Trainer Certification
The Fitness Mentors Online Personal Trainer certification provides students with training and a library of resources. Participants receive tracking spreadsheets and training templates to kick-start their careers. The course also accommodates many learning styles. Audiobooks, videos, textbooks, and support groups guide students through everything they need to become successful fitness professionals.
| Fitness Mentors Online Personal Trainer Certification | ||
| Courses Courses | Program duration | Recertification requirements |
| Habit tracking Exercise library options Diet monitoring Training standards | One to four months | No recertification required |
5. American Board of Practice Personal Trainer Certification
Graduates of the American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer certification course receive training certified by the NCCA. Participants study everything they need to join a gym or start a business. Lessons on responsibilities, ethics, evaluations, and other foundational topics prepare students for lifelong fitness careers. The guidelines also include advice for accommodation clients who need special considerations to achieve their physical health goals.
| American Board of Practice Personal Trainer Certification | ||
| Courses Courses | Program duration | Recertification requirements |
| Customer relationship building strategies ACE Integrated Fitness Model and ACE Mover Method Legal guidelines Program changes And more | Three to six months | Complete 20 hours of continuing education courses (CECs) every two years Update CPR/AED certifications as needed Pay the renewal fee |
Criteria for determining the best fitness certifications to start a career
People rely on fitness trainers in numerous exercise settings. Career options are varied, so training courses are plentiful. Anyone interested in helping others become their best selves can look for fitness certification courses that include critical factors such as:
- Extensive educational content: Certification courses are an upfront cost. They should include numerous classes that cover extensive career information to ensure career success.
- Simple re-certification steps: Many fitness certifications require annual or semiannual renewals. If the certification steps for a training program are too complicated or expensive, one may choose one career path over another.
- Manageable Certification Timeline: Completing training courses takes time. Curious fitness enthusiasts should compare class schedules to evaluate which best fits their schedule and study needs.
Choosing the best career path forward takes time. Comparing each option and evaluating the factors that make each course different will make the final decision easier. Those interested in obtaining a certification should also consider what they want their lifelong career to be so they choose an option with a continuing education program that matches that dream.
Start a fulfilling fitness career
Leading group exercise classes, working with personal training clients, and becoming more involved in the fitness world are great goals. Anyone interested in starting a fitness career should see what fitness certifications and courses are available. Matching personal interests with the best available certifications can result in the most fulfilling job.
