Helping people achieve their goals is fulfilling, and the experience is even better when it comes with a paycheck. Exercise enthusiasts can accomplish both by earning one of the best fitness certifications for starting a career. Browsing the leading options is the first step toward getting an exciting, rewarding job.
1. AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification
Zumba provides the AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification to jump-start fitness careers. The course includes information from one of the top fitness certifying organizations in the country. Participants get discounts, online resources and a bundled Zumba Instructor Network membership.
| Zumba AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification | ||
| Course Lessons | Program Length | Recertification Requirements |
| Multi-training and exercise techniques
Foundations of the human movement system and exercise science Physiology, exercise and safety fundamentals Nutrition and healthy eating And more |
15 hours | Five bimonthly courses annually
Paid-for renewal fee |
2. National Council On Strength And Fitness Personal Trainer Certification
The National Council on Strength and Fitness is a premier organization with 8,000 exam centers nationwide. People 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 globetrotting career for those who want to travel.
| National Council on Strength and Fitness Personal Trainer Certification | ||
| Course Lessons | Program Length | Recertification Requirements |
| Sport nutrition
Strength coaching Trainer techniques |
Two to three weeks or up to six months | Earn seven continuing education units (CEUs) on qualifying subject matters
Maintain a valid CPR certification Complete 1 CEU on ethical workplace behavior Pay the renewal fee |
3. International Sports Sciences Association Weight Management Certification
People complete the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Weight Management Certification to help clients achieve weight-related goals with fitness techniques. The science-backed courses dismantle weight loss myths while empowering trainers and clients with resources that start sustainable calorie burning. Interested fitness professionals can complete the training online.
| International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Weight Management Certification | ||
| Course Lessons | Program Length | Recertification Requirements |
| Weight loss myths and facts
Basic nutrition principles Career growth tips And more |
Eight to 10 weeks if participants study one to two hours daily | Fill out Renewal Application and CEU Report Forms
Complete 20 continuing education (CD) hours every two years Pay the recertification fee, between $0-$99 |
4. Fitness Mentors Online Personal Trainer Certification
A Fitness Mentors Online Personal Trainer Certification gives students an education and a resource library. Participants get tracking spreadsheets and workout templates to launch their careers. The course also accommodates numerous 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 | ||
| Course Lessons | Program Length | Recertification Requirements |
| Habit tracking
Exercise library options Nutrition tracking Workout templates |
One to four months | No recertification necessary |
5. American Council On Exercise Personal Trainer Certification
Graduates of the American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer Certification course gain an NCCA-accredited education. Participants study everything they need to join a gym or start a business. Courses on responsibilities, ethics, assessments and other foundational topics prepare students for lifelong fitness careers. Instructions also include advice for accommodation clients who need special considerations to reach their physical health goals.
| American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer Certification | ||
| Course Lessons | Program Length | Recertification Requirements |
| Client relationship building strategies
ACE Integrated Fitness Model and ACE Mover Method Legal guidelines Program modifications And more |
Three to six months | Complete 20 hours of continuing education courses (CECs) every two years
Update CPR/AED certifications as required Pay the renewal fee |
Criteria To Determine The Best Fitness Certifications For Starting A Career
People rely on their fitness instructors in numerous exercise settings. The career options are diverse, so training courses are abundant. Anyone interested in helping others become their best selves can look for fitness certification classes that include crucial factors, such as:
- Extensive educational content: Certification courses are an upfront cost. They should include numerous classes covering extensive career information to ensure professional success.
- Straightforward recertification steps: Many fitness certifications require annual or bi-annual renewals. If the certification steps for one training course are too complicated or expensive, someone might choose one professional path over another.
- Manageable certification timeline: Completing educational courses takes time. Curious fitness enthusiasts should compare course timelines to evaluate which best meet their schedule and study needs.
Selecting the best professional path forward takes time. Comparing every option and evaluating the factors that make each course different will make any final decision easier. Those interested in earning a certification should also consider what they want their lifelong career to look like, so they choose an option with an ongoing education program that matches that dream.
Start A Fulfilling Fitness Career
Leading group exercise classes, working with personal training clients and getting more involved in the fitness world are excellent goals. Anyone interested in starting a fitness career should see which fitness certifications and courses are available. Matching personal interests to the best available certifications can result in the most rewarding job.
