The four most well-known personal trainer certifications are shown below as well as some other specialist fitness certifications offered by the same companies. All are accredited with NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies) and are well respected in the fitness industry.
NASM
The National Academy of Sports Medicine offers these certifications:
- Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) – valid for 2 years
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (NASM-CES) – does not expire
- Performance Enhancement Specialist (NASM-PES) – does not expire
- Group Fitness Instructor (AFAA-GFI) – valid for 2 years
NCSA
The National Strength and Conditioning Association offers these certifications:
- Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) – valid for 3 years
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) – valid for 3 years
ACSM
The American Council on Exercise offers these certifications:
- Certified Personal Trainer (ACSM-CPT) – valid for 3 years
- Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP)
- Certified Group Exercise Instructor (ACSM-GEI)
ACE
The American Council on Exercise offers these certifications:
- Certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT) – valid for 2 years
- Certified Health Coach (ACE-CHC)
- Certified Medical Exercise Specialist (ACE-CMES)
- Certified Group Fitness Instructor (ACE-GFI)
Other certifications are provided by many other organizations as well, many also accredited by NCCA.