Certified Personal Trainer is a Hot Career Choice
By P.S. Orr
The fitness industry is booming and there many job opportunities associated with the
field. One of the most popular and that has a wide open field is a certified personal
trainer. Many people are knowledgeable about fitness because they have played sports or
are interested in weight training or some other area and think that they could become a
personal trainer. That is true. But in order to make it a real career, it is important to
receive the professional training and certification that is recognized by wellness centers
and fitness clubs nationwide. This will not only ensure that you are highly qualified to
serve your clients but that you will have no problem in finding career openings.
There are several certification organizations that provide personal trainers with the
necessary credentials that are widely recognized around the country. Some are more
expensive than others, but that doesn't necessarily mean that a more expensive
certification is always better. The key is to get certified with an organization that is
as widely recognized as possible so that you are able to perform your profession in just
about any arena. While there are several organizations that offer credentials to personal
trainers, the top 4 will be mentioned here. It is not a good idea to cut corners when
getting your certification because that will almost surely mean that your career will be limited.
Top Four Credentialing Organizations for Personal Trainers
The National Strength Organization (NCSA) - Founded in 1978, the NCSA offers two
types of credentials. The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist or Certified
Personal Trainer are the only two credentials the NCSA offers but is highly recognized
across the country. It is a demanding credentialing process and also requires a 4 year
college degree. Professionals that have one of these certifications can pretty well write
their ticket for their chosen career if they are also very skilled as a personal trainer.
Health clubs, vacation cruise lines, wellness centers, and private businesses are all
viable options for interesting and fun careers.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) - ACSM was founded in 1954 and
has an impeccable reputation among employers as the oldest and one of the best
certification organizations around today. The ACSM approaches fitness more from a clinical
perspective rather than a practical one. Those who earn this certification may not only
work in general capacities as a personal trainer but may also be qualified to work in
areas such as cardio rehab and other clinical areas. Some of the SCSM certifications also
require a 4 year degree in order to take the exam to qualify as a credentialed trainer.
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) - Formed in 1987, the NASM is
fast becoming the leader in fitness certification organizations. Many of their
certification tracks do not require a college degree and some certifications can be
completed online for the convenience of a distance learner. Certifications from the NASM
are highly respected and will help anyone interested in a personal training career to earn
a certification that will further their profession.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) - The ACE is another well respected
organization that certifies personal trainers and was founded in 1985. Many aspiring
trainers choose this certification organization because it is known to be easier to
complete. It is also more in line with "old school" fitness concepts which is more
familiar to many who are interested in this field. The ACE offers several certifications
and is known for its group exercise instructor credentials.
If you're interested in a career as a personal trainer, it's never too late to get
started. This is one field that is open to just about any age. For example, the over 50
population is highly interested in personal trainers and are some of the prime clients for
those who are credentialed trainers. As you choose which certification to pursue, do your
homework as to requirements, pricing and how much time you have to spare pursuing your
credentials. Many of these organizations provide more information on how to build a career
and how to remain competent in the ever changing fitness field.
P.S. Orr has been writing articles for six years on a variety of topics of interest.
Come visit the latest website over at [the website www.cheapjewelryarmoire.net cannot be found].
More How to Choose a Career Information: • Entry-level Jobs in Government Security • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Job Description - What Does an EMT Do? • How to Become a Pharmacy Technician • Graphic Design Career Information • Massage Therapy and the Entrepreneur • Medical Records and Health Information Technicians - Career Opportunities • Occupational Outlook for Forklift Operators • How to Become an IT Security Professional • Becoming an Exterminator • A Day in the Life of a Flight Attendant
|