Written By

Tyler Read

Updated: 

Jan. 21, 2025

S Tier Certifications

A Tier Certifications

B Tier Certifications

C Tier Certifications

D Tier Certifications

NCCA Accredited Certifications

Base Price Of The Certifications

Financing provides a solution for those people who can’t afford to pay the full certification fee outright. Let’s look at which certifications offer zero interest financing and how many months you can spread the payments over.

Personal Training Financing

Customer Service

Which Textbooks Have The Most Up-to-Date Content?

Also, a few of these textbooks would be a bit dense to go through for anyone without a degree in exercise science. I was able to understand all of them, but if you’re just starting out, I’ve rated each textbook on a scaled of 1-10 to make life easier for you.

Which Textbooks Are Easiest To Read?

Free Professional Resources

NASM: The Job guarantee program and CPR/AED do not come as bonuses on the basic package.

ACE: The free CPR/AED does not come with all packages.

Certification Pass Rate

I also added in the details for each certification final exam, so you know how long you have to complete the test and how many questions you’ll need to answer.

Final Exam Details

Exam Prep Time

Popular certifications often have established reputations for quality education, comprehensive resources, and ongoing support, which can be beneficial as you start your career. When I first started, having access to a large network of professionals made a significant difference in finding mentorship and learning opportunities. Additionally, popular certifications typically offer larger networks of certified professionals, access to more career opportunities, and more widely recognized continuing education programs.

Certification Popularity

CEUs Required to Renew

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All content published on PTPioneer is checked and reviewed extensively by our staff of experienced personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and other Fitness Experts. This is to make sure that the content you are reading is fact-checked for accuracy, contains up-to-date information, and is relevant. We only add trustworthy citations that you can find at the bottom of each article. You can read more about our editorial integrity here.

Find the best Cert for you:

My Experience with ISSA (Cost/Exam/Curriculum) 

The ISSA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification is a top-tier choice for those looking to break into the fitness industry. It’s designed to equip aspiring trainers with the knowledge and confidence needed for their first gig. If you’re considering a personal training certification, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) is hard to beat.

In fact, it’s my go-to recommendation for a solid CPT certification. I personally found ISSA to be a comprehensive and well-rounded certification when I went through it myself. ISSA-certified personal trainers are well-prepared to start working with clients right away. It’s a great option for those who want a package that includes personal training, nutrition, and a third certification like strength and conditioning or corrective exercise. You can check out the current ISSA prices to see what combinations are available.

About ISSA

What really sets ISSA apart in the fitness world is its strong brand reputation and the quality of its education. Since 1988, ISSA has certified over 200,000 trainers. When I first started looking at certifications, I was impressed by how well-known ISSA was in the industry and how many trainers vouched for its quality.

It’s important to note, though, that ISSA offers two versions of its exam: one is NCCA-accredited, and the other is not. The non-NCCA exam is open-book, but it’s not as respected in the industry.

When I was preparing for my certification, I opted for the NCCA-accredited version because I knew it would hold more weight in the fitness world. If you’re serious about your career, I’d recommend the same—taking the NCCA-accredited version, which is administered through ISSA’s partner, the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT).

Both exams share the same curriculum, but if you opt for the NCCA exam, be prepared to take it without the help of your notes, as it’s in a closed-book format. This was a challenge for me, even with my background, but it was definitely worth it for the credibility it added to my certification.

ISSA Price

The most affordable package, which includes study materials, will set you back $828 before tax. However, ISSA offers a 12-month, interest-free payment plan for as little as $69 a month.

From my experience, ISSA’s curriculum offers excellent value, especially given its focus on resistance training, programming, technique, and periodization. I’ve found it to be one of the best all-around certifications, especially when it comes to mastering the basics of exercise science. When I went through the program, I appreciated how clear and practical the materials were, and the payment plan made it much easier to manage the cost. 

ISSA Curriculum

The curriculum kicks off with foundational exercise science and transitions into more hands-on topics like resistance training. I remember diving into muscle physiology and learning how to design effective workout programs, which was both challenging and exciting. Additionally, ISSA emphasizes proper form and coaching to help reduce the risk of injury—a crucial skill I’ve used repeatedly in my personal training career.

For those new to personal training, this curriculum provides a thorough introduction. While it’s pretty basic if you already have a degree in exercise science like I did, it’s an excellent start for beginners. I found myself breezing through some sections, but I also appreciated how it reinforced the fundamentals I needed to know for the exam.

ISSA doesn’t dive as deep into corrective exercise or movement screening as other certifications I’ve taken, but it does touch on these topics during the client screening portion. On the aerobic side, I found the tools for designing programs based on intensity and goals to be quite effective, and I still use some of the programming techniques I learned in my own training sessions today.

When it comes to working with special populations, ISSA does an impressive job of covering what you need to know. This was particularly useful for me as I started working in health clubs where I encountered clients from various special populations. Having that knowledge from ISSA helped me feel more confident in those sessions.

The one area where ISSA falls a little short, in my experience, is behavioral change. While I’ve learned to work around this through additional training, it’s something I had to explore outside of the program, especially when working with clients who were hesitant to start an exercise program. 

ISSA Exam

I personally took the NCCA-accredited version of the ISSA exam, and I found it relatively easy compared to other CPT exams. That said, I had a degree in kinesiology and prepared for about two months, so your experience may vary depending on your background. For me, the hardest part was adjusting to the closed-book format after going through the open-book quizzes during the course.

If you choose the non-NCCA exam, it’s open-book and boasts about a 90% pass rate. I’ve heard from colleagues that this option can feel much easier, but if you’re serious about your career, I highly recommend the NCCA-accredited route. On the other hand, the NCCA version is more demanding, with a pass rate between 65% and 70%, which is comparable to other respected fitness certifications I’ve taken. 

ISSA Recertification

To maintain your ISSA certification, you’ll need to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years, plus pay a $75 recertification fee—standard practice for most top fitness certifications. I’ve gone through the recertification process a couple of times now, and staying on top of my continuing education credits has been key to keeping my knowledge fresh and up to date.

Overall Experience

Ongoing development is essential to staying on top of your game as a personal trainer, and ISSA offers plenty of opportunities to earn these credits, whether through third-party courses or their own fitness specializations. In my case, I’ve used both ISSA’s CEU offerings and other industry resources to keep my certification current and my skills sharp.

My Experience with IPTA (Cost/Exam/Curriculum) 

The International Personal Trainer Academy (IPTA) is the newest certification on the block, but don’t let that fool you—it’s backed by years of experience. The organization has spent a decade developing study materials for other leading fitness certifications. Their expertise in fitness education has allowed them to analyze and improve upon existing programs, creating what they claim to be the most efficient and effective certification on the market.

IPTA’s tech-forward approach makes it a standout option. The program integrates AI-driven learning tools, an adaptive study system, and fully online exam options, making it one of the most convenient, cost-effective, NCCA accreditations CPT certifications available today.

My top choice for CPT-only certification—affordable, fast, super straightforward, and fully online with NCCA accreditation. Sometimes they offer the full textbook for free before you even purchase, which is great because you can start studying early. I recommend you check the current prices and textbook availability. 

About IPTA

What sets IPTA apart is its modern, technology-driven education system. Unlike some of the more established certifications that rely on traditional textbooks and outdated study methods, IPTA has built a streamlined, AI-powered learning experience utilizing science-backed study techniques. This translates in quickly learning the information (cuts study time by as much as 50%) so you can pass your exam and start training client within a matter of weeks.

The NCCA accreditation ensures that it meets industry standards, making it as legitimate as NASM, ACE, ISSA, or NSCA. While newer, IPTA has been well-received for its affordability and user-friendly approach, making it an excellent choice for those looking to become a certified personal trainer without breaking the bank. 

IPTA Price

IPTA offers one of the most affordable personal trainer certifications without sacrificing quality.

What makes the price even better are the unlimited free exam retakes (usually $200 per attempt from other certifications), free CPR/AED certification, free recertification after 2 years, and currently offering a free personal trainer business development course. 

IPTA Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to be efficient and effective, allowing students to complete the certification in 4-6 weeks. The AI-driven study system utilizes science-backed study techniques, making studying more efficient, personalized and interactive.

• Fundamentals of exercise science (muscle physiology, biomechanics, movement screening).
• Practical training techniques (resistance training, cardio programming, flexibility).
• Client assessment and programming for different fitness levels.
• Behavioral coaching principles (though not as in-depth as some other certifications).
• Business development skills to help trainers launch their own fitness careers. 

One standout feature is the results-based training model, ensuring trainers have the latest knowledge and training techniques that are proven to optimize results for their future clients.

IPTA Exam

The IPTA exam is fully online and proctored, but for those who prefer an in-person option, there are testing centers across the U.S. provided by one of the top certification exam administrators, Prometric.

The pass rate is high, and free retakes remove any financial pressure if you don’t pass the first time—unlike the other certifications, which charges hefty retake fees. 

IPTA Recertification

IPTA waives the first recertification fee when you need to recertify in 2 years—meaning no additional costs for 4 years after you’ve obtained the certification.

Overall Experience

IPTA is an amazing option for those looking for a fast, affordable, and NCCA-accredited certification. It’s perfect for:

• Beginners who want a simple, structured study plan.
  
• Budget-conscious trainers looking for a cost-effective alternative to NASM and ISSA. 
• Tech-savvy learners who prefer an AI-driven independent study approach. 

The biggest downside? Lack of specialty certifications—but if you’re just starting out, this likely won’t be an issue. Or you can always stack additional certifications from other organizations and build the resume to have certifications from multiple organizations.

With its affordability, flexibility, accreditation, and lots of free perks, IPTA is one of the best value certifications on the market today.

My Experience with NASM (Cost/Exam/Curriculum)  

The NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification is one of the most respected NCCA-accredited fitness certifications out there, and for good reason. When I went through the NASM CPT program myself, I found its impressive exercise programming system to be a game-changer. It really sets you up to train clients effectively, no matter their fitness level. The NASM OPT (Optimum Performance Training) Model, which I became very familiar with during my studies, provides the tools to design well-rounded workout plans for just about any fitness goal, whether your clients are beginners or seasoned athletes. NASM sometimes runs a great BOGO deal where you get the CPT and CNC nutrition cert together. Worth checking out their current prices and deals to see what’s available.

About NASM

NASM-certified trainers are highly sought after, and I can personally vouch for how much easier it was to land my first job with NASM on my resume. Employers in the fitness industry seem to love hiring NASM-certified trainers. Whether you’re working one-on-one or in small groups, this certification opens a lot of doors.

NASM has been a big player in the personal training world since 1987, certifying over 200,000 trainers along the way. The OPT Model was something I found particularly valuable during my training—it’s one of the first fully comprehensive training systems that uses science-based principles to guide programming. I noticed that gyms actively recruit NASM-certified professionals, and having this certification definitely gave me an edge.

In my experience, getting certified through NASM makes you stand out, especially when combined with additional qualifications like AFAA for group exercise, which NASM also partners with.

NASM Price

When it comes to pricing, NASM’s CPT certification starts at around $894 for the Self-Study package. I personally opted for this package and took advantage of their interest-free payment plan, which made the investment easier to manage. There are other tiers, like the Premium Self-Study at $1,115, and the CPT Essentials Bundle at $1,444, which includes an additional nutrition certification (NASM CNC). Based on my experience, I’d say you’ll need at least three months of study time, especially if you’re new to fitness. I dedicated about that much time, balancing study sessions with work, to really get a solid grasp on the material before taking the exam.

NASM Curriculum

NASM shines when it comes to teaching the fundamentals of exercise science. I found the OPT Model incredibly useful for breaking down everything from basic stabilization exercises to more advanced power and performance training. I remember learning in-depth about muscle groups—arms, legs, chest, and shoulders—and how to safely assign reps and sets to prevent injuries, especially with beginners. The system made it much easier to structure client programs and build confidence in my own abilities as a trainer.

The curriculum also covers areas like behavioral change, training for special populations, and even a bit of business, including sales skills. While NASM doesn’t conduct many of its own studies, I appreciated how the teachings are based on widely accepted research in the field. From my own experience, the OPT Model works well for most clients, though I found myself making tweaks when training more advanced athletes, which is something you’ll learn to do over time.

NASM’s focus on wellness and general fitness made it an excellent choice for me since I planned to work with clients who needed help with both fitness and overall health. I still apply many of the concepts from the NASM curriculum in my everyday training sessions. 

NASM Exam

The pass rate for NASM’s NCCA-accredited exam is around 79%, and I was glad I took the time to really prepare for it. I found the exam straightforward but challenging, especially since the OPT Model is unique to NASM and heavily covered in the test. The section on program design, in particular, required a deep understanding of the Model, so proper preparation was key. I gave myself about three months of focused study time, balancing the material with real-life applications, which helped me pass the exam on my first attempt.

If you prefer something less rigorous, you can opt for a non-proctored version with a 90% pass rate, but I went for the NCCA-accredited exam to ensure my certification would be recognized in any gym I wanted to work at. 

NASM Recertification

Once you pass, your certification is valid for two years, and I’ve already gone through the recertification process many times. You’ll need to complete 2.0 continuing education credits (about 20 hours) and pay a $99 recertification fee to keep it active. I found NASM offers plenty of opportunities for earning CEUs through their specialized courses, so it wasn’t difficult to stay on top of my credits.

As for salary, NASM-certified trainers can earn anywhere from $35,000 to $55,000 a year, depending on location and job type, according to ZipRecruiter. In my case, I found that my income aligned with NASM’s claim that most trainers make around $42,000 in their first year. Depending on where you live—like in New York or other high-demand areas—you can definitely see higher pay rates. From my experience, NASM trainers tend to earn more than others with less recognized certifications, making it a smart investment for your career. 

Overall Experience

Overall, NASM is a fantastic choice if you’re looking to kick off a fitness career, especially if you plan on working with everyday clients who need help with general fitness and wellness. As I gained more experience, I found it easy to adjust the OPT Model to better fit advanced clients, which has been a valuable skill as my client base grew. Based on my personal journey, I can confidently say that NASM remains one of the top certifications in the personal training world.

My Experience with NCSF (Cost/Exam/Curriculum) 

The National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) CPT certification may not be as well-known as some of the bigger names like NASM or ISSA, but don’t let that fool you—it’s an NCCA-accredited certification that’s definitely worth considering. From my experience, going through the NCSF certification helped me build a solid foundation in training, even if it doesn’t have the same brand recognition as other certifications I’ve pursued. NCSF often has a solid bundle deal that includes their CPT, Sports Nutrition, and Strength & Conditioning certifications—all for under $1,000. Definitely worth checking to see if that offer’s currently available.

About NCSF

Aimed at producing top-tier fitness professionals, the NCSF CPT is packed with solid content and value, even if it doesn’t have the same brand recognition as some of the giants in the industry. When I first looked into NCSF, I was curious about how it stacked up against more popular certifications like NASM and ISSA, but after completing it, I found it holds its own in terms of the quality of education and preparation it offers.

While the NCSF isn’t as popular, especially when you compare it to heavyweights like ISSA or NASM, it holds its own in terms of the quality of education and preparation it offers. In fact, since it’s NCCA-accredited, it carries the same weight as those certifications when it comes to expert-reviewed content, which is great if you’re looking to be a well-rounded trainer. I personally found the course content to be very thorough, especially in anatomy and biomechanics.

As an internationally recognized organization, the NCSF CPT will still set you up for success in your fitness career. Though it’s a bit under the radar, the program is packed with value, and depending on your goals or where you want to work, it’s definitely an option worth considering. I felt that having this certification on my resume, alongside other well-known ones, added diversity to my skill set and training credentials.

NCSF Price

When it comes to pricing, NCSF is fairly affordable compared to other certifications. If you’re just looking to take the exam without any additional study materials, it’ll cost you $299. However, if you want the full package, prices range from $399 for the basic Home Study option to $699 for combo certifications that include sports nutrition or strength coaching. When I was preparing for the exam, I opted for the Home Study Plus package because it offered the flexibility I needed with my schedule and gave me access to a physical textbook, which I found helpful.

All of the NCSF study packages include self-paced learning, video instruction, digital self-tests, and hundreds of practice questions to help you prepare. I particularly appreciated the digital self-tests, which helped me gauge my progress and focus on areas where I needed more review. There’s also full instructor support via chat or phone, which I found useful when I had specific questions about the material. One cool feature of the NCSF is their pre-recorded webinars, which can be a real asset for visual learners like me. 

NCSF Curriculum

In terms of curriculum, NCSF covers all the important stuff you need to know to start your career as a personal trainer. The first sections dive into anatomy and biomechanics, which are key to understanding how the body works during exercise. As I went through the material, I found the depth of the anatomy sections to be especially strong—it really reinforced what I had learned from my previous certifications.

From there, you’ll learn about behavior change, client assessments, nutrition basics, and then move into resistance training programming and technique, which are the core skills for any trainer. I appreciated how the program emphasized the practical application of resistance training, which is crucial when working with clients. They also touch on flexibility training and special populations, though not as in-depth as some other programs I’ve taken.

One drawback of the NCSF program is that it doesn’t include a business skills section, which can be a downside if you’re looking to run your own training business. When I was first starting out, I found myself having to seek out additional resources to learn about sales, liability, and insurance. However, if you’re focusing primarily on training knowledge, NCSF does a great job of delivering that. 

NCSF Exam

I found the NCSF exam easier than NASM, and you can take it either online or at an in-person testing center. Personally, I opted for the online option, which made the process much more convenient. The pass rate for the exam is around 78%, which reflects the more approachable difficulty level. Just make sure you prep well if you want to pass the first time! I found that the practice questions and self-tests provided in the study materials were really helpful in preparing me for the actual exam.

NCSF Recertification

Once you’ve earned your NCSF CPT certification, you’ll need to complete 10 CEUs (20 contact hours) every two years to keep it current, which is pretty standard compared to other certifications like NASM and ACE. I’m currently in the process of earning my CEUs, and NCSF gives you flexibility in how you earn those credits—you can take courses through them or from third-party providers, which is convenient.

As for salary, NCSF-certified trainers typically earn between $21.31 and $24.54 per hour as employees, according to NCSF’s own data. I’ve found that in bigger markets like New York, you can definitely command higher hourly rates, especially if you build up a solid client base. If you go the self-employed route, though, you could make much more—up to $60 per hour or more, depending on where you’re located. Trainers in bigger markets like New York tend to rake in even higher hourly rates. Personally, I’ve found that my rate increased as I gained more experience and certifications, which made the investment in NCSF worthwhile.

Overall Experience

Overall, the NCSF CPT is a solid choice if you’re looking to become a self-employed trainer or work for a gym with a focus on solid training fundamentals. It gives you all the tools you need to be successful with clients, and with the right business skills, you can make a great living as a personal trainer. Based on my experience, I’d recommend NCSF to anyone looking for a thorough certification without the high price tag of some of the more popular options.

My Experience with NSCA (Cost/Exam/Curriculum)  

The NSCA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification takes a unique approach by putting extra emphasis on performance assessments and strength and conditioning, making it a great fit for trainers who want to focus on these areas with their clients. When I went through the certification process, I was drawn to NSCA for its strong reputation in the strength and conditioning world, especially since I was looking to sharpen my skills in athletic performance training.

Among the big-name certifications, the NSCA stands out when it comes to training for athletic performance. This makes sense given that the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) specializes in strength and conditioning across all of its programs. From my personal experience, the focus on performance assessments was particularly valuable when working with athletes or clients who wanted more than just general fitness training.

About NSCA

Founded in 1977, the NSCA is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing athletic performance research and training. With over 60,000 certified trainers in the U.S., the NSCA has built a strong reputation as a global leader in strength and conditioning research, practical applications, and education. It’s especially respected among coaches in the strength and conditioning world, so if that’s your career path, the NSCA CPT is a solid choice. When I first got certified, I was excited to tap into NSCA’s wealth of resources, particularly their emphasis on cutting-edge research and practical applications.

One big perk of being an NSCA member is the access to discounts on all their products, including their CPT certification. Membership also includes access to the NSCA’s Journal of Strength and Conditioning, which is packed with peer-reviewed research on all things performance and strength training. This journal was a huge resource for me to stay updated on the latest trends and research, and I found myself constantly referring back to it for inspiration and to refine my training approach.

One downside to NSCA’s study options is the lack of multimedia resources. Unlike NASM or ACE, which offer video modules and interactive study portals, NSCA’s study materials are mostly PDFs. This was something I struggled with during my preparation, as I tend to learn better with a mix of formats. While they do offer the textbook, quizzes, and practice exams separately, I would have preferred more digital and video-based learning options. For people like me—and many of my students—having different learning formats really makes a difference, so I supplemented my studies with outside resources to get that well-rounded understanding. 

NSCA Price

As for pricing, NSCA’s costs depend on whether you’re a member. The exam alone costs $435 for non-members and $300 for members. I remember taking advantage of the membership discount because it not only reduced the cost of the exam but also gave me access to resources that helped during my study process. Since the membership fee is less than the discount you’d get on study materials, it’s smart to sign up for an NSCA membership if you’re planning on going this route.

NSCA Curriculum

The CPT textbook covers over 25 chapters, diving deep into everything from stabilization and weight training to plyometrics and performance. I found this material to be more technical compared to some of the other certifications I’ve done, especially the chapters on biomechanics and performance training. Be prepared, though—the NSCA CPT takes more effort to prepare for than some other certifications because they don’t have a comprehensive, all-in-one course. I had to dedicate extra time to self-study, especially on the more advanced strength and conditioning concepts. But, looking back, the in-depth knowledge I gained was definitely worth the effort, especially when working with performance-oriented clients.

NSCA Exam

With a pass rate of about 72% (as of 2019), it’s not the hardest certification out there, but it does require solid preparation. I took my time studying for this exam—around three months—and focused a lot on the chapters covering performance assessments and programming. When I finally took the test, I felt well-prepared, though the in-depth nature of some questions still made me think critically. I recommend giving yourself plenty of time to study before you take the test, especially if you’re not already well-versed in strength and conditioning principles.

NSCA Recertification

In terms of continuing education, NSCA is a little different from other certifying bodies. You’ll need to complete 6.0 CEUs (60 contact hours) every three years to maintain your certification, which averages out to about 10 hours of continuing education each year. I found that NSCA offers a variety of ways to earn CEUs, including attending conferences, conducting research, or taking college courses. I’ve attended a couple of NSCA conferences, and they were great for networking and learning about the latest trends in athletic performance. The flexibility in how you can earn CEUs is something I really appreciated.

As for pay, NSCA-certified personal trainers can expect to earn between $50,000 and $60,000 per year, with the average being around $52,000, according to PayScale. My earnings as a trainer went up once I had the NSCA CPT on my resume, particularly because it opened doors to working with more performance-focused clients. If you’re interested in working at colleges or universities, this certification is a great option. And as always, salaries can vary by location—trainers in higher-cost-of-living areas like New York tend to make more. 

Overall Experience

Overall, if you’re aiming to become a strength and conditioning coach or want to specialize in performance-based training, the NSCA CPT is a fantastic starting point. While it may require more self-study than other programs, it equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field, especially if you’re working with athletes or clients looking to enhance their performance. Based on my experience, I’d recommend this certification to anyone looking to specialize in athletic performance or strength and conditioning. The effort you put into studying will pay off in how confident and prepared you feel when working with clients.

My Experience with ACE (Cost/Exam/Curriculum)  

The ACE Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification is a solid option if you’re looking to get into personal training and want a practical approach to working with clients. When I went through the ACE program, I found that their system made it easy to assess clients and create customized programs. This gave me the tools to mix things up and keep workouts engaging, which was especially useful when I was just starting out as a trainer.

About ACE

Since 1985, ACE has certified over 80,000 trainers, and it’s well-respected in the fitness world. When I was looking into certifications, ACE stood out for its reputation and the range of resources it offered. They provide workshops and certification programs to help fitness professionals grow, and I personally found their materials to be comprehensive and well-organized.

Most gyms and fitness facilities recognize ACE CPT, and although it has a reputation for being a bit easier than more rigorous certifications like NASM or ISSA, I still felt that the practical knowledge it provided was invaluable. I went through the course materials quickly, but I still made sure to review thoroughly before taking the exam. It’s true that ACE used to be seen as a more budget-friendly option, but prices have risen recently, making NCSF a more appealing choice for those looking to save. 

ACE Price

ACE is still one of the more affordable options for personal trainer certifications that are widely accepted. When I took the certification, the exam alone cost $499, but I decided to go for the Basic package, priced at $587, which included access to the ACE study portal and a digital textbook. For me, bundling the materials together was the most cost-effective approach, and it gave me everything I needed to study efficiently. Even at $675, ACE offers great value, and I appreciated that financing options started at $49 per month, making it more accessible for me at the time. I know some colleagues who went for the ACE Plus package or the ACE Advantage for more comprehensive study options, but I found the Basic package sufficient for my needs.

ACE Curriculum

ACE does a great job of covering the essential concepts you need to be a personal trainer. I remember finding their Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) Model especially useful for programming workouts for clients of all fitness levels. It provided a clear framework that I could apply immediately with my clients, and it helped me build my confidence in designing customized programs.

One standout feature that really helped me was the ACE exercise library. It offers hundreds of exercises with descriptions and videos, categorized by the IFT stages. This was a lifesaver when I needed to quickly find exercises that fit a client’s specific needs, and I still refer to it from time to time. The variety of exercises using machines, free weights, and even floor-based movements gave me plenty of options to create varied, effective workouts.

You’ll also learn about behavior change coaching, which I found incredibly useful when working with clients who needed that extra motivation to stick with their programs. Between the IFT model and behavior change principles, ACE sets you up with everything you need to start training clients right out of the gate, which was exactly what I needed when I was starting out.

One area where ACE falls short is its lack of focus on sales skills. I noticed this pretty early on when I was trying to build my client base. While ACE equips you well for the training side of things, they don’t dive into essential business concepts like sales funnels, lead generation, or closing techniques. I had to seek out additional resources to learn these skills, especially when I decided to go the self-employed route. 

ACE Exam

As for the exam, ACE is known for being easier than some other certifications, but don’t let that fool you—you still need to study. I prepared for about two months and made sure to review all the key concepts. The exam has a 65% pass rate, which might surprise people who assume it’s a breeze. I found the questions to be well-balanced, but you definitely need to give yourself 2-3 months of preparation to ensure you pass.

The testing platform was user-friendly, and I didn’t have any issues during the exam process. I appreciated how smoothly the whole process went, from scheduling the exam to actually taking it.

In terms of salary, ACE-certified trainers can expect to earn anywhere from $15,905 to $124,493, depending on location and experience, with the average salary around $53,693 per year, according to ZipRecruiter. Personally, I found that once I gained some experience, I was able to increase my rates and grow my client base more effectively. 

ACE Recertification

Continuing education is also a requirement, with ACE asking for 2.0 CECs (20 course hours) every two years, which is in line with certifications like NASM. I’ve already gone through the recertification process once, and I found it pretty straightforward. ACE offers a broad range of CEU options, including their own courses and third-party certifications, which gave me plenty of flexibility to continue my education.

Overall Experience

Overall, the ACE CPT is a great starting point for anyone looking to enter the fitness industry. It gave me the skills to screen clients, program workouts, and coach them effectively. Whether you want to work in a gym or go into business for yourself, ACE provides a solid foundation for a successful career in personal training. In my personal experience, ACE was the perfect certification to get me started, and it’s helped me grow as a trainer over the years.

My Experience with AFAA (Cost/Exam/Curriculum)  

The AFAA Personal Training Certification is a well-regarded program that equips trainers with the skills necessary to guide clients toward their fitness goals. When I went through the AFAA certification, I found that the textbook covers a comprehensive range of techniques essential for personal trainers, although some of the material did feel a bit outdated compared to more modern programs I’ve studied.

About AFAA

AFAA, which stands for the Athletics and Fitness Association of America, has been certifying fitness professionals since 1983. With over 40 years of experience, they’ve built a solid reputation as one of the top certification providers, particularly recognized for their standout group exercise instructor program. I was initially drawn to AFAA because of this reputation, and while I wasn’t pursuing group fitness, their personal training certification seemed like a good, budget-friendly option.

While AFAA partners with NASM for their Group Fitness Certification, the AFAA Personal Training Certification is different from the NASM CPT. I noticed that the focus is more on general fitness training rather than the performance-oriented approach that NASM takes, which made it appealing when I was looking to train a broad range of clients.

AFAA Curriculum

The AFAA Personal Training Certification is designed to equip you with the skills needed to train clients in a gym, studio, or other fitness settings. I found it to be a solid choice for training general fitness clients, although the textbook can feel a bit outdated compared to some of the more current programs out there, like NASM or ISSA. I had to supplement the course material with additional resources to make sure I was up-to-date on the latest fitness trends.

One thing AFAA has going for it is that it’s NCCA-accredited, meaning it meets the high standards set by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, which is a mark of quality in the fitness world. That gave me confidence that I was getting a solid foundation, even though some parts of the curriculum felt a bit dated. 

AFAA Price

While AFAA doesn’t particularly excel in any one area, it’s a great budget-friendly option at just $499, which is less than certifications from bigger names like NASM or ISSA. I chose it primarily because of the affordability, and it turned out to be a great value for the price.

AFAA offers a single package that includes a downloadable study guide, video lectures, practice tests, and the exam itself. When I was preparing for the exam, I found the video lectures to be a useful supplement, but I would have liked more interactive study options, like what NASM provides.However, the textbook, Personal Fitness Training: Theory and Practice, is not included in the initial cost, so I had to buy that separately for an additional $79. Altogether, the certification cost me just under $600, which still made it one of the most affordable personal trainer certifications available. I found a used copy of the textbook online for around $30, which was a nice way to save a little extra cash. 

AFAA Exam

One unique aspect of the AFAA certification is that the exam includes a practical experience section, unlike many other certifications that only feature multiple-choice questions. This hands-on component really set AFAA apart for me and made the certification feel more practical. I enjoyed the practical section because it allowed me to demonstrate what I had learned in a real-world scenario, which isn’t something you get with other certifications.

The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions, with 20 of those being unscored research questions that won’t count toward your final grade, though you won’t know which ones they are. You’ll have 120 minutes to complete the test, and you’ll need to score at least 70% to pass. I found the multiple-choice portion to be straightforward, but it still required solid preparation.

The pass rate for the AFAA PFT course is around 62%, so it’s manageable but not a walk in the park. I studied consistently for about two months before taking the exam and found that was enough time to feel confident going into the test. 

AFAA Recertification

Once you’ve earned your certification, it’s valid for two years. Like most other programs, you’ll need to complete continuing education units (CEUs) and pay a small recertification fee when the time comes to renew. I haven’t gone through the recertification process yet, but AFAA offers plenty of CEU options to help you stay on top of your continuing education.

Overall Experience

All in all, while AFAA may not have the same brand recognition as some of the top-tier programs, it’s a strong, cost-effective option for those looking to break into the personal training industry without breaking the bank. In my experience, the practical exam component and the budget-friendly price made it a great choice, especially when you’re just starting out and want a solid certification without the higher price tag of some other programs.

My Experience with ACSM (Cost/Exam/Curriculum)   

The ACSM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) program is a great fit for anyone who wants a more science-heavy approach to personal training, especially if you’re eyeing a career in exercise physiology or working in clinical settings. When I went through the ACSM CPT program, I quickly realized that it wasn’t as focused on regular fitness programming like NASM or ISSA, but it was a solid starting point for anyone wanting to dive deep into the science behind fitness. I found this aspect particularly valuable as I was looking to enhance my understanding of exercise physiology.

About ACSM

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is one of the oldest names in the industry, having certified over 100,000 trainers since 1990. I chose ACSM partly because of its reputation, especially among universities and colleges that hold ACSM certifications in high regard. As a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing fitness research and exercise science, I knew that their certification would provide a solid scientific foundation. A lot of the big-name certifications even draw on ACSM research to shape their own programs, so I felt like I was getting an education straight from the source.

ACSM Price

If you’re ready to take the ACSM exam without any additional study materials, it’ll cost you $399. When I signed up, I opted for the extra study tools, like the online practice questions through PrepU, which cost $64.99 for three months. I also considered their CPT prep course, but I decided to go with the textbook and flashcards. In hindsight, the textbook layout felt a bit outdated, but the content was solid. While it was a bit more expensive than I anticipated, I knew that investing in quality resources would pay off in the long run.

I did find that third-party study options sometimes had better deals and even came with exam pass guarantees, which I seriously considered to save on the hefty $199 retake fee ACSM charges if you fail the exam. This pushed me to really focus on being well-prepared before I took the test. 

ACSM Curriculum

When it comes to content, ACSM truly excels in exercise science and anatomy. I was impressed by how deep they went into the science, much deeper than what’s typically needed for general personal training. This was a huge advantage for me because I wanted to understand the underlying mechanisms of fitness. Their coverage of client safety, health screenings, and behavior change coaching was some of the most detailed I’d seen in any CPT program, which I found particularly useful when working with clinical populations.

That said, ACSM falls short in areas like exercise programming and technique, particularly in resistance training. I noticed this gap as I went through the material—there wasn’t a clear framework for designing long-term workout plans or selecting exercises for different training phases. This made me supplement my learning with other resources to ensure I had the practical knowledge needed for resistance training. While the aerobic training section was better, it still didn’t match the structured systems found in NASM’s OPT or ACE’s IFT models. However, ACSM’s strong focus on training special populations and its attention to business skills made up for some of these shortcomings. 

ACSM Exam

The ACSM exam is known to be fairly tough, requiring a solid understanding of scientific and anatomical concepts. The pass rate is around 69%, and I can confirm that the difficulty level was comparable to NASM and ACE. I took three months to study for the exam, focusing heavily on practice exams and reviewing the more challenging scientific concepts.

When I passed on my first attempt, it was a relief because I didn’t want to deal with the $199 retake fee! I found that the combination of thorough preparation and the practice exams made a big difference in helping me feel confident on exam day.

In terms of pay, ACSM-certified trainers can earn anywhere from $18,500 to $95,500 a year, with the average sitting around $50,738 according to ZipRecruiter. Personally, I found that having ACSM on my resume helped open doors, especially in clinical settings where this certification is highly respected. 

ACSM Recertification

One thing to note is that ACSM’s continuing education requirements are more demanding than other certifications. You’ll need to recertify every three years, which is longer than the usual two-year period for most other certs, but ACSM requires 45 contact hours—1.5 times the standard 20 hours for other programs. When I looked into the recertification process, I appreciated that the longer certification period gave me more flexibility, but the 45 contact hours definitely required more planning to stay on top of continuing education.

Overall Experience

All in all, the ACSM CPT is a fantastic option if you’re looking to pursue a career in a clinical setting or exercise science. In my experience, it provided a thorough understanding of exercise physiology and client safety, making it a great fit for those interested in working with special populations or in more science-focused roles. But if you’re focused on general personal training, I did find that you might need to supplement your learning, especially in the areas of resistance training and program design. Overall, it was a challenging but rewarding certification that helped broaden my knowledge in fitness science.