• Personal training can be a thriving and rewarding career, as it motivates and helps individuals with physical fitness. Whether working for yourself or at gym/fitness facility, personal training certification is a requirement to be reputable. A variety of organizations offer certification classes, workshops and exams. When selecting the organization, make sure to choose one that is nationally recognized and accredited.
  
  

National Academy of Sports Medicine

• The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) offers certification using the optimum performance training method preferred by top health clubs, including 24 Hour Fitness and Gold's Gym. Professionals who acquire certification with NASM learn human movement science, functional anatomy and physiology. Students also learn teaching tools, nutrition and behavior modification. NASM provides a variety of packages to obtain certification based on learning styles and preferences, including online courses, study guides, DVDs and live workshops.
  
  nasm.org
  
  

American Council on Exercise

• The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a nonprofit organization providing certification and dedicated to safe and effective exercise. The ACE certification program is constantly evaluated to ensure that it offers the most up-to-date training program to allow personal trainers to be competitive. Students of ACE certification learn instructional and spotting techniques, nutrition, lifestyle modification, risk and fitness assessment. The self-study program is offered in three options based on cost and includes online course work.
  
  acefitness.org
  
  

National Federation of Professional Trainers

• Since 1988, the National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT) has provided certification to personal trainers. The NFPT certification educates trainers to effectively teach and inspire individuals to live a physical and healthy lifestyle. The NFPT certification has been approved for college credit. The certification program teaches fundamental exercise science and fitness principles to allow clients to achieve personal goals. NFPT certification offers home study or distance learning options.