What Is The BEST Personal Training Certification? | NASM vs ISSA vs ACE vs ACSM vs NSCA vs NCSF

Summary

In this video, Jeff from Sort of Healthy reviews several major personal training certifications, including NASM, ACE, NSCA, and ISSA. He discusses their strengths and weaknesses, ranking them based on criteria such as quality of information, practicality, and region-specific demand. Jeff also offers his recommendations for the best certification options in North America, India, Europe, and South America, and shares insights into affordable study methods. His goal is to help aspiring personal trainers choose the certification that best suits their needs while debunking myths about what makes a great training course.

Takeaways

• 💪 Jeff has completed all major personal training certifications and shares his insights.
• ❌ Personal training certifications often lack practicality, especially in teaching proper exercise techniques.
• 🏋️ The NSCA CPT certification is respected but lacks sufficient practical content; it's mostly a textbook-based course.
• 📚 The ACE certification is well-structured and respected, but it overemphasizes certain less relevant topics like respiratory training.
• 🏆 NASM's personal training certification is considered the best in North America, though it also has flaws, such as an overemphasis on balance training.
• 🌍 ACE is the best certification for trainers in India, parts of Europe, and South America due to its demand and recognition.
• 📖 The NSCA CPT course is the best for bookworms who prefer textbook-based learning and in-depth information.
• 🔓 NASM now offers an open book, non-proctored exam option, making it more accessible for those who struggle with standardized tests.
• 🎓 Certifications are necessary to start as a personal trainer, but hands-on experience is crucial to becoming a good trainer.
• 📝 Jeff advises prospective trainers to research which certification is preferred by local gyms before making a purchase decision.

Q & A

What is the main issue Jeff identifies with personal training certifications?

Jeff highlights that many personal training certifications lack practicality, focusing too much on theoretical models rather than teaching trainers how to properly coach movements like squats or provide basic nutrition advice.

What are Jeff’s top three certifications for personal trainers in North America?

Jeff’s top three certifications for personal trainers in North America are: 1) NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), 2) ACE (American Council on Exercise), and 3) NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association).

Why does Jeff rate NASM as the best certification in North America?

Jeff rates NASM as the best certification because it provides a well-structured course, offers a great online learning experience, and has improved over the years. Despite its focus on balance training and other elements Jeff critiques, the overall quality and respectability of NASM make it his top choice.

What does Jeff think about the NSCA certification course?

Jeff acknowledges that the NSCA certification is highly respected, especially in the U.S., but criticizes it for being more of a textbook-based course without practical coaching resources. He feels the course content is not as robust or interactive as other certifications.

Which certification does Jeff recommend for trainers outside North America, particularly in India, parts of Europe, and South America?

For trainers outside North America, particularly in India, parts of Europe, and South America, Jeff recommends ACE as the best certification due to its demand by employers in these regions. ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) and NASM are also solid options.

What makes ACE a popular choice globally, according to Jeff?

ACE is popular globally because it is well respected by employers in countries like India and offers a solid, affordable certification. While Jeff prefers NASM’s curriculum, ACE is often more in demand internationally, which is crucial for job opportunities.

What certification does Jeff suggest for 'bookworms' who prefer textbook learning?

Jeff suggests the NSCA CPT course for bookworms, as it offers the best quality textbook for those who prefer reading and taking notes. NASM and NCSF (National Council on Strength and Fitness) also provide good textbook-based learning options.

What is Jeff’s opinion on certifications with open-book or non-proctored exams?

Jeff believes that open-book or non-proctored exam certifications, like NASM and ISSA, are a good option for knowledgeable people who struggle with standardized tests. However, he notes that these certifications are not NCCA accredited, which can be a disadvantage in some regions.

What is the biggest downside of ISSA certification in the U.S. and Canada?

The biggest downside of ISSA certification in the U.S. and Canada is that it is not NCCA accredited, which some employers require for insurance reasons. This limits the certification's value in those regions, although it's more accepted internationally.

What advice does Jeff give for selecting a certification course based on location?

Jeff advises aspiring trainers to ask local gyms which certifications they prefer before choosing a course. Certification requirements can vary by region, so understanding local employer preferences is essential for landing a job after completing the course.