|
2003/10/13, 02:31 PM
Hello,
I've been on FT for about a year, but haven't thought to use the boards until now.
I've dabbled in weight training for about five years, and have a pretty solid knowledge base, and I'm seriously considering becoming a certified trainer. My question for you Pros and seasoned lifters is: which associations/societies provide the best training and have the best reputation?
Thanks for reading,
Juliaann108
|
|
|
|
2003/10/13, 02:36 PM
ACSM is the gold standard, then NASM, ACE, ISSA. There are so many certifying organizations out there, it really depends on how specific you want to get.
Do some looking online - each organization has it's own website and they will give you an idea of what is involved in getting certified and what they offer you.
There is a lot of debate about whether certification or experience in the trenches makes a better trainer, I believe you need both.
Being a trainer is very rewarding (and sometimes very frustrating) but if you enjoy seeing other people grow and get healthier, it is worth it.
Good Luck!
--------------
Challenge + Consistency = Results
"You do or you do not. There is no try." - Yoda
|
|
2003/10/14, 12:04 AM
As I am certified through the ISSA my opinion is a little biased, but I would definately go with one of the three that asimmer mentioned- NASM, ACE, or ISSA. ACSM is an outstanding organization but requires a college degree so most opt to pursue it after achieving certification from the others, that way they can work while going to college. I can however share some pros & cons about each organization.
ACE- probably the most recognized by clubs, very good instruction on general fitness, weight management, & issues regarding dealing with clients. Only drawback from what I hear is a lack of strength, bodybuilding instruction as it caters more to the general public. Seminar tested only.
NASM- organization created by physical therapists with a strong emphasis on core conditioning & the kenitic chain. Very good cert with a slightly different approach to training. Widely accepted by most clubs (especially 24 hour Fitness as they have an exclusive contract through Apex). Not incredibly focused on strength/bodybuilding athletes. seminar tested.
ISSA- very result orientated, founders are Dr. Fred Hatfield who holds a world record in the squat, & Dr Sal Arria DC. a chiropractor & long time strength athelete. Other senior members & instructors include profesional bodybuilders such as Bill Pearl & Tom Platz. This organization caters to the trainer looking to be at the more "extreme" ends of the industry. Unfortunately it is this extremity along with the flexibility of testing methods(seminar, home study, & on line testing) that limits it's acceptance by some of the major clubs. Although steps are being made to achieve 3rd party accreditation to rectify this at the time ISSA trainers sometimes have to face adversity for club employment. very good cert for those you are persuing a career as self employed as the result driven focus is very appealing to clients. Hopefully the acceptance issue with certain clubs will be resolved shortly, we are all working very hard towards this & making excellent progress, WE SHALL NOT FAIL!
Well there you have it, hopefully trainers from the other certs will add due to my limited knowlege of them ( I researched them all before going with ISSA) good luck!
--------------
\\\\\"Education is the progressive discovery of our own ignorance\\\\"
Patrick L.
ISSA-CFT
|
|
2003/10/14, 01:54 AM
Anyone ever heard of NESTA (National Endurance Sports Training Association) What about their cert. program
|
|
2003/10/22, 08:36 AM
Thanks everyone - I really appreciate your input. Now it's time for some serious research...
Julia
|
