Top 10 Fitness Consultant Certifications

Certifications are essential for a fitness consultant to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field. Certifications show potential employers that they have taken the necessary steps to gain the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to be successful in the job market. They also provide a benchmark of quality assurance, as certified professionals must adhere to certain standards and requirements when it comes to providing services. Furthermore, certifications can help boost credibility among clients, as they serve as evidence that a fitness consultant is qualified and knowledgeable in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Fitness Consultants and discuss how they can help advance a fitness consultant's career.

What are Fitness Consultant Certifications?

Fitness consultant certification is a professional designation for individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the area of fitness and nutrition. This certification is offered through various organizations and provides those who hold it with an edge when it comes to seeking employment or advancing their career in the field.

The certification demonstrates to potential employers that the individual has a thorough understanding of exercise physiology, anatomy, nutrition, dietetics, weight management, and other related topics. It also shows that the individual has the ability to create safe and effective exercise programs for clients.

Holding fitness consultant certification can be beneficial to those looking to build a successful career in the fitness industry. By having this credential, individuals can demonstrate their expertise to employers and increase their chances of being hired or promoted. Those who hold this certification may also have access to higher-paying job opportunities than those without it. Additionally, having this credential can open up opportunities for consulting work or personal training services as well as provide credibility when giving advice on health-related matters.

Pro Tip: When looking for a fitness consultant certification program, make sure to research the accreditation and credentials of the program. Ensure that the program is accredited by a recognized professional body and that the instructors have the necessary qualifications to teach the courses.

Related: What does a Fitness Consultant do?

Top 10 Fitness Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Fitness Consultants today.

1. Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)

A Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) is a fitness professional who has been certified by a nationally accredited organization to provide individualized instruction and guidance in exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle modification. CPTs are qualified to design safe and effective exercise programs for individuals of all ages and abilities.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the requirements for certification. The process begins with completing an approved education program, which can be done online or through an accredited college or university. After completing the program, applicants must pass an exam administered by a nationally recognized certifying body such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), American Council on Exercise (ACE), or National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).

Once certified, CPTs must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every two years. These credits can be earned through attending workshops, seminars, conferences, webinars, or other approved activities.

The cost of becoming a CPT depends on the certifying body you choose to go through. Generally speaking, it can range from $300-$1000 depending on the program you choose.

2. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

A Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) is a professional certification awarded by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). The CSCS credential is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to design, implement, and supervise safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs for healthy populations.

In order to become a CSCS, an individual must meet certain educational requirements and pass the NSCA-administered Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field from an accredited college or university. In addition, applicants must have completed an internship of at least 600 hours under the direction of a certified strength coach or other qualified professional.

The CSCS exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, exercise technique, program design, testing/evaluation procedures, nutrition/supplementation principles, sport psychology/behavioral strategies, injury prevention/rehabilitation strategies, administration/organization principles. The practical portion consists of hands-on activities such as demonstrating proper exercise technique with free weights or machines; designing appropriate programs; administering tests; providing instruction on proper nutrition; developing injury prevention protocols; etc.

The cost to take the CSCS exam is $300 USD ($400 USD if taken outside of North America). It typically takes between four to six months to prepare for the exam depending on one’s background knowledge in strength training and conditioning.

3. American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Health Fitness Specialist (HFS)

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Health Fitness Specialist (HFS) is a certification program designed to help health and fitness professionals develop the skills necessary to provide safe, effective, and competent health and fitness services. This certification is endorsed by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

It takes approximately six months to complete the requirements for this certification. The program consists of two components: an online course that covers topics such as exercise physiology, nutrition, and risk factor management; and a hands-on practicum that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in a supervised setting.

To become certified as an ACSM HFS, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or related field; being at least 18 years old; having current CPR/AED certification; having liability insurance; and passing an exam. After meeting these requirements, applicants must register for the online course and take the exam.

The cost of becoming certified as an ACSM HFS varies depending on where you live. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 USD for all required components (including registration fees).

4. National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer

The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) is a comprehensive certification program designed to provide personal trainers with the skills and knowledge necessary to help clients achieve their fitness goals. The program involves a comprehensive study of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and exercise science. It also includes instruction in training techniques such as resistance training, cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility training, and sport-specific conditioning.

It typically takes between 8-12 weeks to complete the NASM CPT program. During this time, you will need to complete an online course that covers all of the topics mentioned above. You will also need to pass an exam at the end of the course in order to become certified.

To get started on your NASM CPT certification journey, you’ll first need to register for the online course on the NASM website. Once you’ve registered for the course, you’ll be able to access all of the materials needed for your studies and take practice exams as you go along.

The cost of becoming a NASM CPT varies depending on which package you choose when registering for the online course. The basic package starts at $699 USD and includes access to all of the materials needed for your studies as well as one attempt at passing the exam. Higher level packages are available that include additional attempts at passing the exam and other benefits such as mentoring sessions with experienced trainers or discounts on continuing education courses.

5. National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) Personal Fitness Trainer Certification

The National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) Personal Fitness Trainer Certification is a comprehensive program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a certified personal fitness trainer. The certification is designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in the health and fitness industry.

The program consists of three parts: an online course, an in-person workshop, and an exam. The online course covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, nutrition, exercise science, and professional development. The in-person workshop focuses on practical skills such as client assessment, program design, and safety protocols.

It typically takes about six months to complete the NESTA Personal Fitness Trainer Certification program. To get started, students must first register for the program online or by phone. Once registered, they will receive access to the online course materials and be able to schedule their in-person workshop. After completing both components of the program, students must pass an exam before becoming certified.

The cost of the NESTA Personal Fitness Trainer Certification varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs $499 USD and includes access to the online course and one in-person workshop session. Additional packages are available that include additional workshops or study materials for an additional fee.

6. Functional Movement Systems (FMS) Certification

Functional Movement Systems (FMS) Certification is a comprehensive training program designed to assess and improve the fundamental movement patterns of individuals. It was developed by Gray Cook, a physical therapist and strength coach, in order to help people move better and reduce their risk of injury. The certification consists of two components: an online course and an in-person workshop.

The online course provides a comprehensive overview of the FMS system, its principles, and how to use it to assess movement patterns. The course includes video lectures, quizzes, case studies, and hands-on practice with FMS assessments. This portion typically takes around 10 hours to complete.

The in-person workshop is a one-day event that provides additional instruction on the FMS system and gives participants the opportunity to practice their skills in a supervised setting. This portion typically takes around 8 hours to complete.

In order to obtain the FMS Certification, you must successfully complete both components of the program. The cost for the entire certification is usually around $500-$600 USD depending on where it is offered.

7. International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Certified Fitness Trainer

The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Certified Fitness Trainer is a certification program developed to provide fitness professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to help clients reach their health and fitness goals. The ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer program is designed to teach students the fundamentals of exercise science, nutrition, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, biomechanics, and other related topics. It also covers topics such as client assessment, exercise prescription and program design.

The ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer certification requires a minimum of 10 months of study and can take up to 18 months depending on your individual learning style. To become certified, you must complete the online coursework which includes quizzes and exams. You will also need to attend an in-person practical exam at an approved testing center.

To get the ISSA Certified Fitness Trainer certification you must first register for the course through the ISSA website. The cost of the course varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. After completing the coursework you will need to pass both the written and practical exams in order to receive your certification.

Once you have received your certification you will be able to use it as proof of your qualifications when applying for jobs or working with clients. You may also be eligible for discounts on certain products or services related to fitness training.

8. American Council on Exercise (ACE) Group Fitness Instructor Certification

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) Group Fitness Instructor Certification is a comprehensive program designed to prepare individuals to lead safe and effective group exercise classes. The certification program covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, exercise science, class design and instruction methods. It also provides information on how to create an enjoyable and motivating environment for participants.

The ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification requires completion of a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering the content areas listed above. The practical skills assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to lead a group exercise class in front of an ACE-certified assessor.

It typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete the ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification program depending on the individual's prior knowledge and experience in fitness instruction. Candidates must register online with ACE before they can begin the certification process.

The cost of the ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification is $499 USD for non-members or $399 USD for members. This fee includes access to all study materials, registration fees for both exams, and one year of membership with ACE which includes discounts on continuing education courses and other benefits.

9. National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT) Personal Training Certification

The National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT) Personal Training Certification is a nationally recognized certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful personal trainer. This certification is designed for those who are looking to become certified personal trainers, as well as those who want to advance their career in the fitness industry.

The NFPT Personal Training Certification requires applicants to complete an online course, which includes an exam and practical components. The course covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, nutrition, exercise programming, client assessment and motivation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 80%. After successfully completing the course and passing the exam, applicants will be awarded their NFPT Personal Training Certification.

The entire process typically takes about two months to complete. Applicants must register for the course at least one month before they plan to take it. Once registered, applicants can begin studying for the exam right away. The cost of the NFPT Personal Training Certification is $399 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

10. Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification

Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification is an online nutrition coaching program designed to help you become a successful nutrition coach. It is an evidence-based program that teaches the fundamentals of nutrition science, behavior change, and coaching. The program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete and consists of 10 modules. Each module includes video lectures, case studies, quizzes, and additional resources for further learning.

The cost of the program is $499 USD, which includes access to all course materials and resources for one year. In order to get certified in Precision Nutrition Level 1, you must complete all 10 modules and pass an exam at the end of the course with a score of 80% or higher. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate from Precision Nutrition verifying your certification status.

Do You Really Need a Fitness Consultant Certificate?

The short answer is no. A fitness consultant certificate is not required to become a fitness consultant. However, there are some advantages to having one.

For starters, a fitness consultant certificate can demonstrate your commitment to the profession and help establish credibility with potential clients. It can also provide valuable evidence of your knowledge and experience in the field. Additionally, it can be a great way to differentiate yourself from other consultants in the same industry.

Having a fitness consultant certificate may also give you access to certain resources that are otherwise unavailable or hard to come by. For example, some certifying organizations provide access to special software programs or online courses that may prove beneficial for your own personal growth and development as a professional.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a fitness consultant certificate depends on your individual goals and preferences. If you’re looking for an edge in the competitive world of health and wellness consulting, then getting certified could be worth considering. On the other hand, if you’re confident in your skills and have already built up a solid reputation among clients and peers, then it might not be necessary for you to pursue certification at this time.

Related: Fitness Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Fitness Consultant Certifications

1. What certification do I need to become a fitness consultant?

Answer: Depending on the jurisdiction, you may need to obtain a certification from an accredited organization such as the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), American Council on Exercise (ACE), or National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

2. How long does it take to get certified in fitness consulting?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the organization and type of certification you are pursuing. Generally, programs can range from 4-12 weeks for online certifications and 6-18 months for more comprehensive certifications.

3. How much does it cost to get certified in fitness consulting?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a certification in fitness consulting varies depending on the organization and type of certification you are pursuing, but typically ranges from $200-$600 USD.

4. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified in fitness consulting?

Answer: Most organizations require potential candidates to have some experience in exercise science, kinesiology, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, or another related field prior to applying for their certification program.

5. Is a fitness consultant certification recognized internationally?

Answer: Yes, most major organizations offering certifications are recognized internationally by employers and industry professionals alike.