Which is the best-priced personal trainer certification for you?
We created this essential quiz to help you choose the perfect certification for YOU based on your goals, learning style, price, and more.
Welcome to our Trainer Academy comparison of the best NCCA-accredited personal trainer certifications.
I’ve used 7 essential criteria to rank these certifications so you can find the best accredited certification one for your goals.
After you read this, youโll know which CPT makes the most sense for you.
Letโs do this!
Be sure to take our helpful quiz to quickly find out the best personal trainer certification for you.
| Best NCCA-Accredited Certifications | Overall Score |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA CPT - Check IPTA Pricing | 10 |
| 2. ISSA CPTย - Check ISSA Pricing | 9 |
| 3. NCSF CPTย - Check NCSF Pricing | 9 |
| 4. NASM CPTย - Check NASM Pricing | 8 |
| 5. NCCPT CPT | 8 |
| 6. ACE CPT | 7 |
| 7. NFPT CPT | 7 |
| 8. NSCA CPT | 6 |
| 9. ACSM CPT | 6 |
| 10. NESTA CPT | 5 |
Our Criteria for Scoring the Best NCCA-Accredited Training Certifications
I’ve ranked each of these NCCA-accredited certifications based on 7 key aspects you need from a qualified personal training certification.
Why are we qualified to recommend the top NCCA personal trainer certifications?
Hi, Iโm Dominic Angelino. With more than ten years in the fitness industry and a strong foundation in exercise science, Iโve dedicated my career to mastering and teaching the intricacies of personal training.
This article has been thoroughly reviewed by Tyler Read, a leading expert in personal training certifications. As the owner of PTPioneer.com and a holder of over 10 certifications, Tyler brings invaluable insights to ensure the accuracy and depth of our analysis.
Our rankings are the product of a collaborative effort by the Trainer Academy team, which boasts a combined 100+ years of experience in personal training and holds 15 certifications. With backgrounds in leadership, education, and hands-on coaching, our experts provide a well-rounded and reliable assessment of the top personal trainer certifications.
Best NCCA CPT Certification Reviews
Best overall: ISSA
PROS
CONS
Summary: Weโve weighed factors such as accreditation, price, curriculum, CEU requirements and more to provide this review of ISSA. With all of these factors considered (and more weight placed on certain factors such as cost and curriculum), ISSA is our current top pick for the best personal training certification for 2024.
Enrollment in their certification course comes with a job placement guarantee, sets you up to train in-person and in online environments, and is the most highly rated certification as indicated by third-party reviews on this list. Itโs generally the best fit for the average personal trainer looking to work at the average gym.
Starting at $1,199.64
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) is a globally recognized personal trainer certification organization.
Before discussing ISSA, you should know that there are two versions of the ISSA personal trainer certification, one of which is NCCA accredited. Note that there is no difference in the materials used to prepare for the exam; however, the NCCA version is significantly more difficult, with a pass rate as low as 70%. This contrasts to the pass rate of the easier open book version, which 93% of candidates pass. Although it is easier to earn a personal training certification through their non-accredited exam, it may disadvantage you in your job search.
You will have the choice of which exam you want to take when you sign up for the ISSA CPT.
The content you will cover in the ISSA-CPT program is as follows:
- Rich, in-depth scientific and practical principles of health and fitness
- Program development (main area of focus)
- Corrective exercise
- Coaching techniques and methods
ISSA provides students with top-of-the-line study materials, which include the following
- Current Edition Textbook
- Online Practice Exams and Quizzes
- Audio and Video Lecture Options
- Online Study Guide and Workbook
- Online Student Forum
- Online Exam
Unlike many other personal trainer study packages which come with many different tiers, priced according to what resources are included, ISSA takes a different approach. Each of its study packages come in the form of a bundle that includes one or more bonus certifications. So, each bundle includes additional study support materials that are tailored to the content of whichever bonus certifications are included. Because bonus certifications expand on the information covered in a basic personal training certification, any studying you do using those materials will carry over to your performance on the personal trainer exam. Although, it wonโt be as effective as studying material specifically designed for the CPT exam itself.
Want to get more for your money?
You can get your ISSA-CPT certification as well as a second one of your choice through the ISSA Fitness Coach CPT bundle, which is offered at discounted bundle price.
For an even bigger discount, we recommend the ISSA Elite Trainer Bundle, which includes 5 bonus courses beyond that of just the standard personal trainer certification course.
The bundles will each require you to pay more money overall, but allow you to save money on a per certification basis.
Every two years, you must maintain your CEUs and pay a recertification fee of $75.00 to recertify.
The CEU requirements for ISSA are 2.0 or 20 hours of any continuing education coursework, be it online, from webinars or seminars, live workshops, or other certifications.
Investing more in yourself by acquiring bonus certifications will further your education and skill set as a trainer, which allows you to better serve each of your clients.
We’re here to help you succeed.
By using the International Personal Trainer Academy ISSA MVP Study Package from International Personal Trainer Academy, you are sure of a 99% pass rate in your first attempt.
Best online certification: IPTA
PROS
CONS
Summary:
IPTA’s Personal Training Certification is the newest NCCA-accredited certification, but it may be one of the best.
With a textbook backed by the latest exercise science, an AI-powered study system, and several extras thrown in for free (like free recertification, textbook, free job assurance) the IPTA CPT stands out among the other certification options.
Starting at $399
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The International Personal Trainer Academy (IPTA) was founded with a mission to offer high-quality third-party study resources for leading accredited fitness certifications.
IPTAโs certification is accredited by the NCCA, ensuring its credibility alongside well-established organizations such as NASM, ACE, ISSA, and NSCA. While relatively new, it has received praise for its affordability and user-friendly learning experience, making it an excellent option for those looking to become certified personal trainers without breaking the bank.
IPTA streamlines the whole process, allowing you to complete the whole course online from the textbook, to the study program, and the exam.
Most well known: NASM
PROS
CONS
Summary:
NASMโs personal training course has the highest certification course enrollment rate out of any of the certifications featured in our breakdown.
NASM offers very comprehensive study materials that focus more on movement mechanics and correctional exercise than most other certifications.
Starting at $899
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
NASM stands for The National Academy of Sports Medicine, which offers a large number of fitness certifications in addition to their personal trainer certification.
NASM provides those enrolled in their personal trainer course with a variety of study materials including a textbook, practice exams, and a variety of online resources. NASM covers the nuances of personal training in an in-depth manner.
The information covered in the NASM CPT exam is similar to that of other personal trainer certifications, with the exception that NASM uses a unique model for exercise programming and prescription: the NASM Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model. Some content you learn in this fitness training program includes:
- Exercise Science
- Biomechanics
- Nutrition
- Exercise form
- The NASM Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model
In terms of test prep materials directly from NASM, you have four course enrollment options, each coming with different study materials and benefits:
- Self-Study
- Premium Self-Study
- CPT Essentials Bundle
- Go For The Gold Exclusive Bundle
Please note that the NASM-CPT certification lasts for only two years, which means that recertification will be required. This is industry standard.
This is done by maintaining your continuing education credits (CECs), which can be done in any fashion, such as attending seminars and webinars, taking online courses, or going for specializations. Each personal trainer certification comes with different continuing education requirements and accepts different types of activities as being redeemable for a continuing education credit. Some organizations also refer to continuing education credits as continuing education units (CEUs).
If you’re interested in how to become a group exercise instructor, we also recommend the AFAA group exercise instructor course, which was recently purchased by NASM.
NASM is currently offering an Elite Trainer Bundle which allows you to earn 4 certifications and specializations at once. You can become a certified personal trainer (CPT), certified nutrition coach (CNC), corrective exercise specialist (CES), and performance enhancement specialist (PES) all at once. This package can help you become a much more skilled trainer by furthering your education in ways that are highly relevant to working with the average client.
Having multiple certifications also enables you to more easily find work in the fitness industry. This can be especially helpful if youโre new to working in fitness and donโt have previous employment experience. Furthermore, the education this provides allows you to better improve the health and fitness of clients you work with. This means that your work as a trainer will have a more positive impact on the lives of clients you seek to help.
The discount is very steep as well so we recommend you scan the NASM website to see if it’s still available.
To help pass your NASM CPT exam, be sure to review our NASM CPT exam info.
You can also opt for the NASM premium MVP study package which will reduce your study time by 50 percent and give you an iron-clad exam pass guarantee.
For a deeper look at the NASM certification, check out our full NASM CPT review. If you are deciding between NASM or ACE or ISSA vs NASM we have breakdowns for you as well.
If you are already convinced NASM is the right choice, kick start your studying ASAP.
Best balance of price and quality: NCSF
PROS
CONS
Summary:
NCSFโs Personal Training Certification is less well known than most other major personal trainer certifications, but it often offers discounts that result in its study packages being on the more affordable side.
Starting at $799
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The National Council on Strength and Fitness offers several fitness certifications, including a personal trainer certification, strength coach certification, sports nutrition certification, and master trainer certification.
Their personal training certification came on to the scene more recently than big names like NASM, ISSA, and ACE, and is known to a lesser degree, however itโs still NCCA-accredited.
The NCSF-CPT often offers their starting package at a discounted rate, that is about 40% off the base price. This makes their certification one of the more affordable options.
Overall, their curriculum is similar to others youโd find in the industry in that the topics covered and their emphasis are similar to industry norms. That being said, the depth of the information they cover isnโt as great as organizations like the NSCA or ACSM.
The NCSF focuses on presenting information in a simple and accessible way, which can make it easier for an aspiring trainer to pick up on the fundamentals of personal training practice.
Best for behavioral coaching: ACE
PROS
CONS
Summary:
ACE leverages its excellent study platform to effectively educate aspiring personal trainers about the most effective ways to support health behavior change. Exercise physiology is considered within the greater context of exercise psychology, which supports more meaningful and lasting health improvements.
ACEโs emphasis on human behavior makes it a very practical certification for the average personal trainer aspiring to work with the average adult. Most people struggle with sticking to exercise, and this certification is geared towards preparing you to help clients overcome that challenge.
Starting at $850
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is another top-tier NCCA accredited personal training certification.
Founded in 1985, ACE focuses on supporting and promoting public health initiatives that improve improving the health, fitness, and overall well being of the general public. This philosophy influences the structure and design of their personal trainer certification course, which emphasizes skills that can support sustainable health behavior change in a meaningful way.
Please note that the ACE-CPT is available in 3 study options: Basic, Plus, and Advantage.
ACE provides you with a personal trainer manual and study companion, which can help you prepare for your exam. Their study packages also provide a variety of different online resources that streamline and simplify the process of preparing for their personal trainer certification exam.
As an ACE-CPT, you must fulfill 2.0 CEUs every two years, which equals 20 active hours worth of continuing education. You must also pay a fee of $129.00 each time that you recertify.
The following is a brief list of some of our favorite ACE CEU courses:
If you are interested in becoming a group exercise instructor, a certified health coach or you want a nutrition coach job, then the ACE CPT is a great certification to start with.
But, that only matters once you pass your exam. For now, focus on doing what you can to increase your odds of passing.
Be sure to review all of the ACE CPT exam info before taking the test.
For a comprehensive premium study guide that includes flashcards, mnemonics, and audio materials, we recommend the International Personal Trainer Academy
If you want a deeper look at the ACE CPT specifically, we’ve written a comprehensive ACE CPT review.
If youโre set on getting your ACE CPT, do your best to take advantage of whatever resources you can in order to increase your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt.
Top for sports science: NSCA
PROS
CONS
Summary:
We consider the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) a top choice for anyone looking to improve physical performance, work with athletes, or optimize physiological adaptations to exercise.
The NSCA CPT gives you the most detailed coverage of exercise prescription, biomechanics, sports performance, and physiologic adaptations to exercise of any personal training program. Its starting price may seem low at first, but that is because the NSCA does not offer a starting study package. $435 is the price of the exam itself. Once the cost of study materials that you have to buy separately is factored in, the price of this certification is around the industry standard.
Starting at $435
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The National Strength and Conditioning Association is a non-profit organization that specializes in optimizing human performance.
The most well-known NSCA certifications are the NSCA Certified Personal Trainer certification and the NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach certification.
The NSCA CPT is designed in a similar manner to other personal training certifications like the ISSA CPT and NASM CPT, but presents information at a higher level. This can make the material a bit more difficult to grasp, but allows for more nuanced decision making as a coach, which is necessary if you plan to work with athletes or clients who care most about optimizing their adaptations to exercise.
The CSCS is a more rigorous certification that requires a bachelorโs degree and focuses on maximizing athletic performance in addition to a tough exercise science section. It is our top pick when it comes to the best strength and conditioning certifications.
The CSCS is very difficult to obtain, and has an extremely low exam pass rate despite it requiring exam candidates to hold a minimum of a Bachelorโs degree before sitting for the exam. Despite its difficulty, it is required by most strength and conditioning jobs that involve working at the college or professional level. Strength and conditioning roles at the professional level most often also require a Masterโs degree.
If you’re wondering how to become a strength and conditioning coach, you need to look at getting CSCS certified. This is especially true if you want to earn a high strength and conditioning coach salary.
Before taking the CSCS exam, we recommend checking out our free CSCS study material, taking our CSCS practice exam, and reviewing the NSCA CSCS exam info.
If you want additional premium study materials, you can purchase our International Personal Trainer Academy CSCS MVP Study Guide, which includes flashcards, audio guides, full vocab lists, practice tests, and a comprehensive downloadable study guide.
For more in-depth information on the CSCS certification, we’ve done a comprehensive NSCA CSCS review to give you the full details.
In terms of its CPT certification, NSCA has several preparatory materials to help you pass your CPT exam. Note that these are optional and taking the NSCA CPT exam is not contingent on you purchasing study materials from the NSCA.
The main textbook costs $119 for non-members ($105 for members).
NSCA produces a study guide priced at $27 ($18 for members)
In addition, you will want to buy the NSCA-CPT Quizzes & Practice Test pack at $200 ($150 for members) and the Exercise Technique Manual, which costs $89 ($72 for members).
Additional textbook resources include:
- Dynamic Human Anatomy 2nd Ed. By William Whiting
- Physiology of Sport and Exercise 7th Ed. By W. Larry Kenney, Jack Wilmore, David Costill
You can check out our free NSCA CPT study guide, take our NSCA CPT practice test and review the NSCA exam information to start preparing for your NSCA CPT exam immediately.
For those of you who want to take your studying to the next level, we suggest our International Personal Trainer Academy NSCA CPT MVP Study Guide which has a 99% pass rate and a money-back exam pass guarantee.
For a more in-depth look at the NSCA CPT, we’ve done a focused NSCA CPT review to look at the content covered in this certification.
Best online training option: NESTA
PROS
CONS
Summary:
NESTAโs personal training certification lacks some of the depth of most of the other programs on this list, but is more affordable than the average certification.
Starting at $399
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA) is another, NCCA accredited certification. Although, it is not very popular in the fitness industry.
NESTA focuses on applied aspects of personal training. This works well for aspiring personal trainers who want to focus their career towards working at a commercial gym like Anytime Fitness or LA Fitness.
NESTAโs personal fitness trainer course focuses on teaching personal trainer candidates the following:
- How to accurately assess health, fitness, and skill levels of clients
- How to design safe and effective, science-based exercise programs based on the individual clientโs needs and goals
- How to correctly demonstrate and instruct exercise techniques in proper form
- Coaching and motivational skills
- Knowing and staying within your professional scope of practice, as well as the NESTA code of ethics
- How to market your personal training services in order to acquire new clients
- How to deliver proper service and maintain your client base
Upon enrollment in the NESTA-PFT, you will be provided with support resources that can help you with the business aspects of personal training. This will be most helpful if you plan to work as an independent personal trainer, rather than for a well known gym.
Additionally, all coursework is 100% online and you may immediately access all training materials as soon as you register.
You’ll have access to the NESTA-PFT 14-chapter interactive PDF digital manual, and over 10 hours of online training videos with interactive review questions to check your progress.
You will also have access to a NESTA-PFT practice exam, which can help you further prepare for the exam.
NESTA provides three study options to choose from:
- PFT Basic
- PFT Plus
- PFT Complete.
One of the biggest pros to earning a NESTA personal training certification is that you only need to recertify once every 4 years. You can do this by acquiring 4.0 CEUs, and paying the companyโs recertification fee.
0.1 CEUs is equivalent to one hour of continuing education and can be earned through a variety of different NESTA approved methods.
NESTA also offers a Fitness Nutrition Coach certification, which earned itself a spot on our best sports nutrition certifications list. Becoming a nutrition coach can allow you to work in the broader health industry in a capacity outside of personal training. Your scope of practice will still be limited compared to that of a registered and licensed dietitian. The average nutrition coach salary is somewhat similar to that of a personal trainer.
Best quick certification option: NFPT
PROS
CONS
Summary:
NFPT gives you another inexpensive option and could be the best quick online training option.
Starting at $299
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT) is another well known NCCA accredited program that offers both personal training and group fitness certifications.
The NFPT offers three study packages: Exam only, Standard, and Premier.
The Premier Package includes plenty of bonus study materials that can help you more easily pass your exam. It includes 3 practice tests, exercise animations, assessment videos, an intro to personal training video, and expert support.
Once you enroll, youโll be assigned an NFPT ID# and account login details, so that you may access all of your study materials and schedule your exam. Since all study materials are accessible online, you can access them immediately upon enrollment in a program.
Best exam-only option: NCCPT
PROS
CONS
Summary:
NCCPT collaborates with ISSA to offer an NCCA-accredited training exam, but does not provide its own study materials. Instead, its exams are based on study materials created by ISSA directly. Candidates interested in this certification should purchase study materials for ISSAโs CPT exam in order to prepare for the NCCPT personal trainer exam.
Starting at $599
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
The National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT) certified personal trainer program is similar to ISSAโs personal trainer exam. The certification is based on the same content as ISSAโs certification. The primary difference is in which information is prioritized and how it is prioritized.
This is the case because the NCCPT was recently purchased by ISSA and is now offered as an accredited exam you can take after studying with the ISSA materials. Since the study materials donโt differ, the education each candidate receives when preparing for either exam will be similar. The only difference is in how the candidate is evaluated in order to become certified, and which exam that candidate personally finds easier to pass.
Between the two personal trainer certifications, it is generally a better idea to go with ISSAโs CPT because it is more well known. This will make it easier for you to find work as a personal trainer since employers are more likely to recognize ISSAโs personal trainer certification than NCCPTโs.
The total cost of the NCCPT personal trainer certification is also greater than the cost of ISSAโs. This is because the base exam cost is $599.00. When study materials are factored in, the total cost of purchasing all study materials and the exam is greater than that of just purchasing a study package or bundle through ISSA directly.
In terms of recertification, you must earn 2.0 CEUs every 2 years in order to maintain your certification.
Similar to most other personal trainer certifications, Youโll also need to maintain current AED and CPR certifications during the entirety of your time acting as an NCCPT certified personal trainer.
We recommend looking at the International Personal trainer Academy ISSA CPT MVP Study Course even if you plan to take the NCCPT version.
Where Does Each Certification Score on our Key Criteria?
The below criteria should give you an overview of some of the aspects you’ll want to consider when choosing your certification.
Personal Trainer Program Study Materials
| Certification | Features |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA CPT | Exam Simulator, Flashcard System, SurePass AI, and Audio Study Guide, Performance reporting, Streaks, Study gamification, Weak point training, Tailored study plans, Magic mnemonics, Exam date tracker |
| 2. NASM CPT | Digital learning platform, Learning videos, Audio chapter summaries, Exercise demonstration library, Biodigital 3D models, Handouts and resources library, Practice exam, Quizzes and knowledge checks, Test prep with NASM's Edge Mobile App |
| 3. ISSA CPT | 4-Week accelerated guided study program, Online textbook, Practice quizzes, Audio and video lectures, Online workbook, Online student forum, CPT Education bootcamp |
| 4. ACE CPT | ACE University (ACE study program), Practice test, Textbook, Study companion book, ACE answers study support (live Q and A Webinar, Facilitated Study Groups) |
| 5. NCSF CPT | Digital textbook, instructional videos, Lesson notes, Q and A, Review quizzes, Instructor support |
| 6. NESTA CPT | Digital Study Manual, 10+ hours of video and audio training, Chapter Review Quizzes |
| 7. NFPT CPT | Exam content outline, NFPT study guide, online learning quizzes, client assessment videos |
| 8. ACSM CPT | Free Facebook Study Group, Online practice questions/exam, Full online study course |
| 9. NSCA CPT | Study guide, 1 Practice exam, Practice quizzes |
| 10. NCCPT CPT | No native study materials, but you can get the ISSA study materials which prep you for the exam |
It can also be helpful to consider the study materials that come with each certification course.
Some people prefer studying independently. Others prefer to follow a more structured study plan.
We feel that of all these certifications, IPTA and NASM offer the most complete study packages, with ISSA coming a close third.
NASM gives you three different study package options, and they have the best online study videos of any of these certifications.
IPTA also gives you the option of three study packages, and we find their web portal the easiest to navigate. You can use gamification and you get points as you move through the study system, so it actually makes the whole process a lot more fun than with the other certifications.
ISSA makes the process simple with one study package that gives you everything, and their online support rates the highest of all the certifications.
Personal Trainer Certification Cost
| Certification | Cost |
|---|---|
| 1. NFPT CPT | $299 |
| 2. IPTA CPT | $399 |
| 3. NESTA CPT | $399 |
| 4. ACSM CPT | $410 ($310 if you are a ACSM member) |
| 5. NSCA CPT | $435 ($300 if you are a NSCA Member) |
| 6. NCSF CPT | $479 |
| 7. ACE CPT | $587 |
| 8. NCCPT CPT | $599 |
| 9. ISSA CPT | $868 |
| 10. NASM CPT | $948 |
Each of the certifications on this list differs in terms of price.
The above certifications cost anywhere from $299-$1,199.64 when purchasing the most basic plan that organization offers.
IPTA and NCSF are the cheapest options we would recommend here.
Many of these programs have payment plans, which can help you afford programs you would otherwise be unable to pay for.
Certification Exam
| Certification | Rating | # of Questions | % Needed to Pass |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. ISSA CPT | 10/10 | 120 questions | 70% |
| 2. NCCPT CPT | 10/10 | 120 questions | 70% |
| 3. IPTA CPT | 9/10 | 180 questions | 72% |
| 4. NCSF CPT | 8/10 | 150 questions | 62% |
| 5. NASM CPT | 8/10 | 120 questions | 70% |
| 6. NFPT CPT | 7/10 | 120 questions | 75% |
| 7. NESTA CPT | 7/10 | 125 questions | 71% |
| 8. ACE CPT | 6/10 | 150 questions | 62.5% |
| 9. ACSM CPT | 6/10 | 120 questions | 68.75% |
| 10. NSCA CPT | 5/10 | 155 questions | 70% |
Before you choose your certification you may want to understand how long you’ll have to complete the exam, how many questions you have to answer and the passing grade you need to complete.
ISSA scores the highest here, as you only have to get 70% correct and answer 120 questions.
Exam Difficulty and Pass Rate
| Certification | Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA CPT | 75% |
| 2. ISSA CPT | 75% |
| 3. NCCPT CPT | 75% |
| 4. NFPT CPT | 72% |
| 5. NCSF CPT | 69% |
| 6. ACE CPT | 69% |
| 7. NASM CPT | 66% |
| 8. NSCA CPT | 66% |
| 9. NESTA CPT | 62.5% |
| 10. ACSM CPT | 61% |
Each of these exams differs in difficulty. If you struggle with taking tests, you may want to choose an easier exam. You can always spend more time furthering your education after you pass your exam. It is okay if your initial certification isnโt very high quality because you can take action to improve your understanding of exercise science independently afterwards.
ISSA, IPTA NCSF, and NFPT offer exams on the easier side, while NASM and the NSCA offer harder exams.
Certification Popularity
| Certification | Most Popular (1-10) |
|---|---|
| NASM | 1 |
| ISSA | 2 |
| ACE | 3 |
| NCSF | 4 |
| IPTA | 5 |
| NSCA | 6 |
| ACSM | 7 |
| NCCPT | 8 |
| NESTA | 9 |
| NFPT | 10 |
As mentioned above, an accredited certification gives you peace of mind, knowing that the program you pick has been vetted by a third party. This means the quality of information covered meets a certain standard, and that most employers will consider your certification as being valid.
Popularity is independent of quality. However, brand recognition can be helpful, since most employers will be familiar with the most popular certifications. However, this doesnโt mean that the most popular certifications are the most preferred. For example, an employer who specializes in working with athletes will likely prefer an NSCA CPT over a NASM CPT or ISSA CPT, based solely on the content of the NSCA CPT independent of its popularity.
NASM is the most popular certification on our list, with ISSA and ACE being 2nd and 3rd most popular.
Certification Renewal
| Certification | Renewal Fee | Frequency | CEU Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. IPTA | $99 (1st is Free) | 2 years | 24 hours |
| 2. NCSF | $75 | 2 years | 10 hours |
| 3. NESTA | $145 | 4 years | 40 hours |
| 4. ACSM CPT | $45 | 3 years | 45 hours |
| 5. ISSA | $99 | 2 years | 20 hours |
| 6. NCCPT | $99 | 2 years | 20 hours |
| 7. NASM | $99 | 2 years | 20 hours |
| 8. NFPT | $85 | 2 years | 20 hours |
| 9. NSCA | $70 | 3 years | 60 hours |
| 10. ACE | $129 | 2 years | 20 hours |
Each of the above certifications requires that you complete continuing education units in order to stay certified. These range from online quizzes to in-person seminars or you can even get additional certifications to help you recertify.
IPTA offers your first renewal for free, making this the least expensive renewal for the first few years of training.
Exam Retake Fee
| Certification | Exam Retake Fee |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA | Free |
| 2. ISSA | $99 |
| 3. NCSF | $99 |
| 4. NCCPT | $99 |
| 5. NFPT | $119 |
| 6. ACSM | $175 |
| 7. NASM | $199 |
| 8. ACE | $199 |
| 9. NESTA | $199 |
| 10. NSCA | $340 |
You want to know how much you’ll need to pay to retake your CPT exam should you fail the first time.
Some organizations like ISSA and IPTA give you a free retake, while others, like ACE, will cost you $249 to retake.
Also, when you pick your study packages some of the more premium packages often give you a free retake, like NASM’s Premium Self-Study program or the packages provided by ISSA and IPTA.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the NCCA?
NCCA is the accrediting body of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE). Since 1977, the NCCA has been accrediting certifying programs based on the highest quality gold standards in professional certification. NCCA accreditation ensures the programs adhere to modern standards of practice in the certification industry.
How important is NCCA accreditation?
Very. The NCCA accreditation is the gold standard for certification programs and enhances trust in the certification to ensure the trainer is current and competent in the fitness field and demonstrates the ability to work with general as well as special populations.
What is the difference between certification and accreditation?
While certification ensures that a person, product, or process conforms to specified requirements and standards, accreditation ensures a higher level of recognition than certification.ย However, both are attestations made by a third party.
What does it mean to be NCCA accredited?
The NCCA is a nationally recognized third-party agency that accredits certification programs that can meet and comply with its standards. Its mission is to reinforce the public’s health, welfare, and safety through the accreditation of certification programs that assess professional competence.
What certifications are NCCA accredited?
Here are some of the best certifications which are NCCA accredited: NASM, ISSA, NSCA, NESTA, NFPT, NCCPT, NETA, and ACE. Before choosing a certified personal trainer program, be sure to check if it is NCCA accredited.
How do I get certified by NCCA?
The National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT) currently offers five certifications that are NCCA accredited. To get certified, students must pass an NCCA-accredited NCCPT certification exam. Certifications are valid for two years.
What are the benefits of NCCA accredited certification?
NCCA accredited personal trainer certifications ensure employers that you have the highest level of credibility for training clients. Also, employers will increase your pay to acknowledge this additional credential.
Conclusion
So we covered what NCCA accreditation is and why it’s important.
NCCA accreditation, is the gold standard in accreditation for fitness professionals and ensures the professionals meet a minimum standard of competency.
Most employers prefer or only accept NCCA accredited certifications.
But what if your personal trainer exam is not NCCA-accredited?
ISSA, for example, provides both NCCA accredited and non-accredited certification options. The non-accredited version of the exam is much easier, but isnโt always accepted by all employers. However, candidates who already have a personal training job lined up for them can sometimes meet employment requirements with their job by receiving a non-NCCA accredited certification if the employer agrees to this condition.
This sometimes happens and it is often the case that trainers who are hired to a position without a certification are granted a grace period that usually falls around 90 to 120 days to earn a personal trainer certification of some sort. If you already have a job lined up, then you donโt need to convince your employer to hire you based off of the quality of your certification, youโd just need to meet the standards they set for employment, whatever they may be.
However, if you take this approach, itโs important to consider that your future career will likely benefit from having an NCCA accredited certification. This makes it easier for you to switch employers in the future. It also, on average, can help you become a more skilled trainer that is better able to help your clients.
Conclusion
Based on our key criteria, ISSA and IPTA are our top choices for the cheapest training certifications.
The value you get with both these organizations, including the free extras, the lack of hidden costs, and financing, and the quality of the textbook and study resources make these the best options.
NASM is our third pick. Then we’d go NCSF next.
Of course, this is a personal choice you have to make.
One of these organizations is the right one for you, but you have to make that decision. When you consider the prices of each CPT certification and the type of information you want to learn to start off your fitness career, pick the best option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What do I need to provide to take certified personal trainer exams?
All CPT exams require CPR/AED certification along with a High School diploma or the equivalent.
What is the cheapest personal training certification?
The IPTA is technically the cheapest CPT since you can purchase the exam and a study package for around $399. NCSF is a close second.
Why pick a CPT (Certified Personal Training) certification?
If you want to work as a personal trainer, you donโt legally need a certification because it is not a license, but itโs recommended and if you want to work at a gym, most places will require some sort of trainer certification. Even if they donโt, hiring managers will almost never pick you for a personal training job if anyone else with a certification applies.
What is the easiest personal trainer cert to get?
The NCCA accreditation is the gold standard in the fitness industry and most NCCA accredited fitness certifications will be of similar difficulty. NASM, IPTA, ACE, ISSA, NCSF, and NSCA all have roughly the same pass rate.
What is the hardest personal trainer certification?
Many consider NASM and NSCA to be the hardest mainstream certifications. However, most NCCA accredited certifications require similar levels of preparation, so it really just depends on your ability to study the material as far as how easy you will find the exam.
References
- Melton D, Dail TK, Katula JA, Mustian KM. Womenโs Perspectives of Personal Trainers: A Qualitative Study. The sport journal. 2011;14(1):0104. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4439248/
- โDias MRC, Simรฃo RF, Saavedra FJF, Ratamess NA. Influence of a Personal Trainer on Self-selected Loading During Resistance Exercise. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 2017;31(7):1925-1930. doi: https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000001663
- โInnes AQ, Thomson G, Cotter M, King JA, Vollaard NBJ, Kelly BM. Evaluating differences in the clinical impact of a free online weight loss programme, a resource-intensive commercial weight loss programme and an active control condition: a parallel randomised controlled trial. BMC Public Health. 2019;19(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-8061-x
- Akerson, M. (2014). Investigating Personal Fitness Trainers’ Qualifications.
- Akerson, M. (2014). Investigating Personal Fitness Trainers’ Qualifications.
- Preston, J. H. (2018). An Investigation of the Relationship between Education, Credentials and Knowledge of Personal Trainers and Client Retention. Arizona State University.
- MIKESKA, D. (2014). A SWOT ANALYSIS OF THE SCOPE OF PRACTICE FOR PERSONAL TRAINERS. NSCA Personal Training Quarterly, 2(1), 22-27.
- Foster, L. M. (2012). Professionalization of personal trainers in the fitness industry. West Virginia University.
- Archer, S. (2004). Navigating PFT certifications: how does the industry” certify the certifiers” for a consistent standard of education and experience?. IDEA Fitness Journal, 1(3), 50-58.
- Cieslinski, Q. (2016). Comparing Personal Training and Strength and Conditioning Certifications Across Multiple Organizations.
- Craig, A. C., & Eickhoff-Shemek, J. M. (2009). Educating and training the personal fitness trainer: A pedagogical approach. ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal, 13(2), 8-15.
