Top 11 Fitness Manager Certifications

Certifications are extremely important for a fitness manager in the job market. They demonstrate that the individual has obtained a certain level of knowledge and skills related to their profession, as well as providing a baseline for employers to measure their competency. Certifications show that an individual is committed to their career and has taken the necessary steps to become certified in their field. This can be especially beneficial when competing for jobs with other candidates who may not have certification credentials. Additionally, certifications can lead to higher salaries, better job opportunities, and more respect among peers.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for Fitness Managers, and examines how they can help to further a fitness manager's career.

What are Fitness Manager Certifications?

Fitness Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help fitness professionals obtain the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to effectively manage a fitness facility. The program is designed to provide training on the fundamentals of business management, human resources, customer service and marketing and promotion. This certification program can help fitness professionals take their career to the next level by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage a fitness facility. With this certification, professionals will be better prepared to develop policies and procedures that ensure quality customer service, maintain safety standards, manage staff, create marketing plans and evaluate financials. This certification can also help these professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices as they progress in their careers.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a fitness manager certification, make sure to research the different certifications available to ensure you choose one that is relevant to your current role and will give you the best value for your money. Additionally, look into any prerequisites or continuing education requirements associated with the certification so that you can plan ahead and stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends.

Related: What does a Fitness Manager do?

Top 11 Fitness Manager Certifications

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

1. American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and ability to safely and effectively design and implement exercise programs for individuals or groups. It is the most widely recognized personal training certification in the world.

To become certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, and exercise science. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CPT exam, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, current CPR/AED certification, and at least 18 years of age. You also need to complete an ACSM approved CPT program or have a bachelor's degree in exercise science or related field.

The cost of the ACSM Certified Personal Trainer exam varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges from $300-$400 USD.

2. National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer

The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) is a professional certification program designed to provide personal trainers with the knowledge and skills needed to help their clients reach their health and fitness goals. The CPT credential is one of the most respected certifications in the industry, and it is widely recognized by employers and clients alike.

The NASM CPT certification requires a minimum of two years of study, including an online course, an in-person workshop, and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as anatomy, kinesiology, exercise physiology, nutrition, program design, and client assessment. The in-person workshop includes hands-on practice with equipment and techniques used for personal training.

To become certified as an NASM CPT, you must pass a written exam that covers all of the topics covered in the online course and workshop. You must also have current CPR/AED certification from a nationally recognized organization.

The cost for the NASM CPT certification program varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs $699 USD; the advanced package costs $999 USD; and the elite package costs $1,299 USD. All packages include access to the online course materials and workshop materials as well as discounts on additional resources such as books or DVDs.

3. American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer

The American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer (ACE CPT) is a nationally recognized certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of personal trainers. It is designed to ensure that personal trainers are well-prepared to help their clients safely reach their fitness goals.

To become an ACE CPT, you must successfully complete an accredited ACE Personal Trainer Certification Program. The program includes a comprehensive online course, an in-person practical exam, and a written exam. The entire certification process typically takes between six and nine months to complete.

In order to be eligible for the ACE CPT Certification Program, applicants must have at least 18 years of age and hold either a high school diploma or equivalent degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must also have current CPR/AED certification from an approved provider such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

The cost of the ACE CPT Certification Program varies depending on the type of program you choose (online or in-person). Generally, the cost ranges from $599-$799 USD for the online course and $1,099-$1,299 USD for the in-person program.

4. International Fitness Professionals Association Certified Fitness Manager

The International Fitness Professionals Association Certified Fitness Manager (IFPA CFM) is a certification program designed to provide fitness professionals with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to manage a successful fitness facility. The IFPA CFM program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam.

The online course covers topics such as business operations, customer service, marketing, financial management, legal issues, risk management and more. This course takes approximately 16 hours to complete. Upon completion of the online course, students must pass the in-person exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification.

To get the IFPA CFM certification, applicants must first register for the course through the IFPA website. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least one year of experience working in a fitness facility or related field and being 18 years or older.

The cost for the IFPA CFM certification program is $299 USD which includes both the online course and in-person exam fees.

5. National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

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

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CSCS certification. The process includes completing an application form, passing a written exam, completing a practical exam, submitting a professional portfolio, and paying the appropriate fees.

The application fee for the CSCS certification is $50 USD. The written exam fee is $60 USD. The practical exam fee is $100 USD. The total cost of the CSCS certification is approximately $210 USD.

In addition to these fees, applicants should also be prepared to spend money on study materials such as textbooks or online courses that can help them prepare for the exams.

6. American Council on Exercise Group Fitness Instructor Certification

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) Group Fitness Instructor Certification is a comprehensive program designed to help fitness professionals become certified group exercise instructors. The certification is evidence of an individual’s knowledge and ability to safely and effectively lead group exercise classes.

The ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification consists of a self-paced online course, followed by an in-person practical exam. The online course covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, exercise science, teaching techniques, safety guidelines, class design and more. The in-person practical exam consists of leading a 30-minute group exercise class that is observed by an ACE Certified Professional.

It typically takes 4–6 weeks to complete the entire certification process depending on how quickly you are able to complete the online coursework.

To get started with the ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification, you must first register for the program through the ACE website. Registration includes access to the online course materials as well as your practical exam fee. After completing the online coursework, you will be eligible to schedule your in-person practical exam at a location near you.

The cost of the ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification is $499 USD which includes access to all online course materials and your practical exam fee.

7. National Exercise Trainers Association Certified Health and Fitness Manager

The National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) Certified Health and Fitness Manager is a professional certification program designed to prepare individuals for the role of health and fitness manager. This certification is intended for individuals who want to pursue a career in managing health and fitness facilities, programs, or services. The program provides the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage health and fitness facilities, programs, or services.

The NETA Certified Health and Fitness Manager program consists of three courses: Principles of Management, Financial Management, and Human Resources Management. Each course requires a minimum of 15 hours of instruction time. Upon completion of all three courses, students must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

To become certified as a NETA Certified Health and Fitness Manager, you must first complete the three required courses. You can take these courses online or through an accredited institution such as a college or university. Once you have completed the courses, you will need to register with NETA in order to take the exam. The exam fee is $225 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be officially certified as a NETA Certified Health and Fitness Manager. Your certification will be valid for two years from the date of issuance. After two years, you will need to renew your certification by completing continuing education credits (CECs). CECs are available through various organizations such as NETA or other industry-related organizations.

Overall, it takes approximately 30 hours (15 hours per course) plus additional study time for each course before taking the exam in order to become certified as a NETA Certified Health and Fitness Manager. The total cost for this certification is $225 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking continuing education credits (CECs).

8. Aquatic Exercise Association Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification

The Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification is a comprehensive certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively teach aquatic fitness classes. The certification is based on the AEA’s Aquatic Fitness Professional Standards, which are developed in collaboration with leading experts in the field of aquatic exercise and health.

The AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification consists of two parts: an online course and a practical exam. The online course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete and covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, safety considerations, water exercise programming, teaching strategies, and more. The practical exam is a hands-on evaluation that requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to safely lead an aquatic fitness class.

To get certified as an AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional, you must first complete the online course and pass the practical exam. After successfully completing both components of the certification program, you will receive your official AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification card.

The cost for the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification is $299 USD for members of the AEA or $399 USD for non-members.

9. American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification

American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to cardiac and breathing emergencies. The program focuses on how to recognize the signs of a cardiac arrest, how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

The certification process typically takes about 4-6 hours, depending on the provider. It includes both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. During the course, participants will learn how to recognize a cardiac emergency, how to perform CPR, and how to use an AED.

To get certified in American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification, you must take a class from an authorized provider. You can find providers in your area by visiting the American Red Cross website or contacting your local chapter.

The cost of American Red Cross CPR/AED Certification varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $50-$100 per person for the course fee. This fee may include materials such as a workbook or DVD as well as certification upon successful completion of the course.

10. National Federation of Professional Trainers Advanced Personal Training Certification

The National Federation of Professional Trainers Advanced Personal Training Certification is a comprehensive certification program designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of personal trainers. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of personal training, from anatomy and physiology to nutrition, fitness assessment, exercise prescription, and client education.

The program consists of five modules: Anatomy & Physiology; Nutrition & Metabolism; Fitness Assessment; Exercise Prescription; and Client Education. Each module consists of an online course with corresponding quizzes and exams. The entire program takes approximately 40 hours to complete.

To get the Advanced Personal Training Certification, you must first be certified as a Personal Trainer by either the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) or American Council on Exercise (ACE). Once you have your certification, you can register for the NFPT Advanced Personal Training Certification Program through their website.

The cost for the NFPT Advanced Personal Training Certification Program is $499 USD. This includes access to all five modules, quizzes and exams, as well as a certificate upon successful completion of the program.

11. National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association Advanced Health and Fitness Management Certificate

The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) Advanced Health and Fitness Management Certificate is a professional certification program designed to provide fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage health and fitness programs. The program consists of five courses that cover topics such as anatomy, nutrition, exercise physiology, business management, and marketing. The program also includes hands-on training in the areas of client assessment, program design, and instruction techniques.

The Advanced Health and Fitness Management Certificate takes approximately six months to complete. It requires completion of all five courses plus a comprehensive final exam. The cost for the certificate is $795 USD. To get the certificate, you must first apply online at NESTA's website. Once accepted into the program, you will be provided with access to course materials which can be completed at your own pace. Upon successful completion of all five courses and passing the final exam, you will receive your Advanced Health and Fitness Management Certificate from NESTA.

Do You Really Need a Fitness Manager Certificate?

When it comes to fitness management, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. A fitness manager certificate can be an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and qualifications in the field, but it may not be necessary for everyone.

For those with a degree or years of experience in the field, a fitness manager certificate may not be necessary. If you are already working as a fitness manager and have a degree in exercise science or another related field, you may find that you don't need to get certified in order to do your job effectively.

However, if you are new to the industry or looking to break into management positions within the field, then getting certified can help demonstrate your qualifications and knowledge. A certification program will typically provide training on effective management techniques, business strategies and more. It can also give you access to networking opportunities and industry contacts which could help advance your career.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a fitness manager certificate depends on your individual goals and situation. If you have experience in the field and feel confident that you have the skills necessary to succeed as a fitness manager without additional training, then getting certified may not be necessary. However, if you are looking for ways to prove yourself as a qualified candidate for management positions within the industry then getting certified may be beneficial for advancing your career.

Related: Fitness Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Fitness Manager Certifications

1. What is a Fitness Manager Certification?

Answer: A Fitness Manager Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge and skills in managing a fitness facility or program. The certification validates an individual’s ability to successfully manage the operations, staff and customer relations of a fitness center.

2. What are the requirements for obtaining a Fitness Manager Certification?

Answer: The requirements for obtaining a Fitness Manager Certification vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include passing an exam, completing a certain number of hours of approved continuing education courses, and providing proof of experience as a fitness manager or other related health and fitness field.

3. What type of job opportunities can be obtained with a Fitness Manager Certification?

Answer: Those who obtain their Fitness Manager Certification are qualified to work in any type of health club, gym, or other fitness setting as well as corporate wellness centers and community recreation centers. With this certification, individuals can pursue roles such as gym manager, fitness director, personal trainer supervisor and more.

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time required to earn your Fitness Manager Certification depends on several factors such as which certifying organization you choose and how quickly you complete the necessary coursework or exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to receive your certification.

5. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: Costs associated with getting certified vary depending on the certifying organization chosen and whether any additional courses are required beyond those included in the certification package. Generally speaking you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 - $600 for your certification fee plus any additional costs associated with courses or materials needed for preparation.