Written By

Tyler Read

Updated: 

Jan. 21, 2025

S Tier Certifications

A Tier Certifications

B Tier Certifications

C Tier Certifications

D Tier Certifications

Which Textbooks are Easiest to Read?

Exam Prep Time:

You must learn all the required skills needed to be an effective and successful fitness professional like program design, coaching skills, training technique, legal guidelines, and more.

As you can see, IPTA wins out here, followed closely by AFAA, ACE, and ACSM.

Certification Pass Rate

CEUs Required To Renew

Employment Bonuses

PTPioneer Editorial Integrity

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 (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

Number two on my list of the easiest certification programs is the ISSA Certified Personal Trainer (ISSA-CPT).

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. 

Study Materials

ISSA provides a variety of resources to support candidates in their certification journey.

Curriculum

ISSA’s curriculum is well-structured and designed to provide a thorough education in personal training.

Exam

ISSA offers two exam options with different levels of difficulty and credibility.

Price

ISSA’s pricing and payment options provide flexibility for candidates.

• Comprehensive Study Materials: The curriculum covers essential topics such as functional anatomy, biomechanics, physiology, and proper exercise techniques.
• Flexible Learning Approach: ISSA’s online format allows candidates to study at their own pace. 
• Free ISSA Study Guide & Practice Test: Additional resources are available to help candidates prepare effectively.
• Group Fitness Certification Option: For those interested in group training, ISSA offers the Group Exercise Instructor (ISSA-GEI) certification.
• Marketing & Sales Training: ISSA prepares trainers with business and sales strategies to help them start their careers successfully.
  

• Strong Foundation in Exercise Science: The course starts with foundational concepts before transitioning into hands-on applications.
  
• Focus on Resistance Training & Periodization: ISSA emphasizes program design and resistance training techniques.
  
• Coaching & Injury Prevention: The curriculum includes proper form and injury prevention to enhance trainer effectiveness.
• Special Populations Training: ISSA provides knowledge on working with various client demographics, making it valuable for trainers in health clubs and gyms.  
  
• Limited Focus on Behavioral Change: While ISSA covers client motivation strategies, its behavioral change section is not as in-depth as some other certifications.
  

• DEAC-Approved Open-Book Exam: This version has an easier format and a high pass rate of approximately 90%.
  
• NCCA-Accredited Exam: The more challenging option, with a pass rate of 65-70%, requires candidates to take a proctored, closed-book test.
  
• Exam Structure: Both exams follow the same curriculum, but the NCCA-accredited version carries more industry recognition.
  
• Recertification Requirements: Trainers must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years and pay a $75 recertification fee.
  

• Good Value for the Price: Given its strong curriculum and certification credibility, ISSA offers competitive pricing compared to other top certifications.
  
• Base Certification Cost: The most affordable package, which includes study materials, is priced at $828 before tax.
  
• 12-Month Payment Plan: Candidates can opt for an interest-free plan, starting at $69 per month.
  

My Experience with IPTA (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

Number one on my list of the easiest certification programs is the IPTA Certified Personal Trainer (IPTA-CPT). IPTA stands out as one of the easiest certifications to obtain due to its highly accessible and supportive training resources. Here’s why IPTA tops the list for ease of certification.
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. 

Study Materials

IPTA provides a wealth of study resources to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the certification exam.

Curriculum

The IPTA certification program is designed for accessibility and ease of learning while ensuring a strong foundation in personal training.

Exam

IPTA’s certification exam is structured for convenience and accessibility.

• High Pass Rate: With a 75% pass rate, IPTA’s exam preparation methods are effective and supportive.
• Online Exam Convenience: The certification exam can be taken entirely online with a live remote proctor, allowing candidates to schedule the test at their convenience.
• Unlimited Exam Retakes: Higher-tier packages include unlimited exam retakes, reducing pressure and offering additional chances to pass if needed.

Price

IPTA offers cost-effective certification options with flexible payment plans.

• Affordable Certification Packages: The base package is priced at $399, making it one of the most budget-friendly certifications in the industry.
• MVP Package ($999): Offers additional benefits, including free CPR/AED certification, first recertification, unlimited exam retakes, and advanced study tools.
• 12-Month Payment Plan: Available for the MVP package at $99 per month with no interest, making certification more financially accessible. 

• Free Textbook Access: Anyone who signs up for a trial gains access to a free online textbook, allowing them to start studying without an upfront investment.
• Advanced Online Learning Platform: The platform includes spaced repetition flashcards and highly realistic exam-like questions to improve knowledge retention.
• Interactive Study Tools: IPTA’s SurePass AI analyzes a candidate’s readiness for the exam and provides personalized study recommendations.
  
• Helpful Study Guides and Mnemonics: Clear, comprehensive study guides and mnemonic devices help simplify complex concepts for easier memorization.
  

• Flexible Study Plans: Various study plans accommodate different learning styles and schedules, making preparation more manageable.
  
• Comprehensive Preparation Resources: IPTA’s structured curriculum and learning technologies make studying more efficient and effective.
  
• Exam Pass Guarantee: Candidates receive additional support with an exam pass guarantee, reinforcing confidence in their success.
  
• IPTA also offers their textbook for free if you sign up the free trial to their study system.
  

My Experience with NASM (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

Next up, we have the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) personal trainer certification. The NASM-CPT is one of the most reputable certifications you can get behind your name. Its online training course has high industry recognition and is globally regarded as one of, if not the best, fitness certifications.

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.

Study Materials

NASM provides a range of study resources to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the certification exam.

Curriculum

The NASM-CPT curriculum is built on the OPT Model, which is a structured, science-backed system for training clients.

Exam

NASM offers two versions of the certification exam, allowing candidates to choose based on their preference and career goals.

Price

NASM offers multiple certification packages to suit different budgets and learning preferences.

• Comprehensive Study Materials: The NASM-CPT course covers fundamental exercise concepts and corrective exercise techniques.
• Free Study Guide & Practice Test: Additional resources, including a study guide and practice test, are available for better preparation.
  
• Behavioral Change & Special Populations Training: NASM includes behavioral coaching and training for special populations as part of the curriculum.
  
• Business & Sales Skills: The course offers guidance on business and sales strategies to help trainers succeed in the industry.
  

• Focus on Corrective Exercise: NASM emphasizes injury prevention and corrective exercise through its specialization programs, such as the NASM-CES.
• Exercise Science Fundamentals: The curriculum covers stabilization, strength, and power training, ensuring trainers understand proper movement patterns.
• Client Program Design: The OPT Model breaks down training into different phases, making it easier to develop structured client programs.
• General Wellness & Fitness: The NASM approach suits those working with everyday clients who want to improve overall health.
• Training for Special Populations: The course provides insights into working with various demographics, from seniors to individuals with medical conditions.
  

• NCCA-Accredited Exam: The proctored version has a pass rate of approximately 79% and is widely accepted at gyms.
• Non-Proctored Online Exam: A fully online, open-book option with a 90% pass rate for those seeking an easier certification process.
• Preparation Time: Candidates typically need at least three months to study effectively, especially if new to the fitness industry.
• Recertification Requirements: Trainers must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years and pay a $99 recertification fee.
  

• Self-Study Package: Starts at $894 for those who prefer a self-paced learning approach.
• Premium Self-Study Package: Priced at $1,115, offering additional resources.
• CPT Essentials Bundle: Costs $1,444 and includes an additional nutrition certification (NASM-CNC).
• Interest-Free Payment Plan: NASM provides flexible payment options, making certification more accessible.
  

My Experience with NCSF (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

The National Council of Strength and Fitness (NCSF) isn’t the easiest exam, but it isn’t the hardest on this list. The 150 multiple-choice NCSF-CPT exam focuses mainly on program design material, exercise form, and corrective exercise prescription, which give you the skills to help anyone achieve their fitness goals.

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.

Study Materials

NCSF provides a range of study resources to help candidates prepare effectively for the certification exam.

Curriculum

The NCSF-CPT curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in fitness training principles.

Exam

The NCSF-CPT exam is moderately challenging and offers flexibility in test-taking.

Price

NCSF offers budget-friendly pricing compared to other major certifications.

• Comprehensive Study Packages: Study materials include self-paced learning, video instruction, digital self-tests, and practice questions.
  
• Pre-Recorded Webinars: A great feature for visual learners, allowing candidates to review key concepts in a structured format.
• Instructor Support: Full instructor support via chat or phone for personalized assistance.
• Physical & Digital Study Options: Candidates can choose packages that include physical textbooks for a more traditional study experience.
  

• Deep Focus on Anatomy & Biomechanics: Covers the fundamentals of movement and exercise mechanics. 
• Behavior Change & Client Assessments: Helps trainers understand how to motivate clients and perform initial assessments. 
• Resistance Training & Program Design: The core focus is on practical application, ensuring trainers can design effective programs.
  
• Flexibility & Special Populations Training: Covers the basics, though not as in-depth as some other certifications.
  
• Limited Business Training: Lacks a business skills section, requiring trainers to seek external resources for sales, liability, and insurance knowledge.
  

• 150 Multiple-Choice Questions: Focuses on program design, exercise form, and corrective exercise prescription.
• Pass Rate: Approximately 69%, making it neither the easiest nor the hardest certification.
  
• Exam Options: Can be taken online or at an in-person testing center.
  
• Recertification Requirements: Trainers must complete 10 CEUs (20 contact hours) every two years to maintain certification.
  

• Exam-Only Option: Costs $299 for those who don’t need study materials.
  
• Home Study Package: Priced at $399, offering self-paced learning resources.
• Combo Packages: Range up to $699, including additional certifications like sports nutrition or strength coaching.
• Earnings Potential: NCSF-certified trainers earn between $21.31 and $24.54 per hour on average, with self-employed trainers earning up to $60 per hour. 

My Experience with NSCA (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is a notorious certifying agency when it comes to exam difficulty.

By now, I’ve mentioned how difficult the NSCA-CSCS is, probably one of the hardest tests out there with a 55% pass rate.

But that’s because the CSCS certification is geared toward exercise science and athletic performance optimization.

Specialized types of fitness certifications are often more difficult than general personal trainer certifications due to the specificity of the content and the certification’s more narrow focus.

The NSCA-CPT, however, is a general personal trainer certification, so you’d assume it’s easy, yes?

Unfortunately, that’s not the case, which lands the NSCA CPT pretty high up on this list, and with a 66% pass rate, it’s clear to see why.

Study Materials

NSCA provides in-depth but text-heavy study resources for candidates preparing for the CPT certification.

Curriculum

NSCA-CPT is structured for trainers who want to specialize in strength and conditioning, with an emphasis on athletic performance.

Exam

The NSCA-CPT exam is more challenging than many general CPT certifications, requiring thorough preparation.

Price

NSCA’s pricing structure varies based on membership status, with discounts available for members.

• NSCA-CPT Textbook: Covers 25+ chapters on stabilization, weight training, plyometrics, and performance training.
• Limited Multimedia Resources: Unlike NASM or ACE, NSCA primarily offers PDFs and textbooks rather than video-based learning options.
• Practice Exams & Quizzes: Available separately but not bundled into an all-in-one study package.
• NSCA Journal of Strength & Conditioning: Membership includes access to peer-reviewed research and cutting-edge performance training insights.
• Supplementing with Outside Resources: Many candidates find it beneficial to use additional study materials due to the self-study nature of the program.
  

• Focus on Performance Assessments: A key differentiator, making it an ideal certification for those working with athletes.
  
• Deep Dive into Strength & Conditioning: Provides an advanced approach to resistance training and exercise programming.
  
• Technical Content: More detailed than some other CPT programs, particularly in biomechanics and performance training.
  
• No Business Training: Unlike some other certifications, NSCA does not provide a strong focus on sales, marketing, or client acquisition.
  
• Membership Benefits: NSCA-certified trainers get access to discounts, conferences, and networking opportunities.
  

• Pass Rate: Approximately 66%, making it tougher than some other certifications.
  
• Exam Format: Includes performance assessments, strength training programming, and biomechanics-based questions.
• Preparation Time: Candidates typically need at least three months of study due to the in-depth nature of the material.
• Recertification Requirements: Trainers must complete 6.0 CEUs (60 contact hours) every three years, which is higher than most other certifications.
• Flexible CEU Options: CEUs can be earned through research, conferences, or college courses, providing diverse opportunities for ongoing learning.
  

• Exam Cost: 
  1. $435 for non-members
  2. $300 for non-members

• Membership Discount: Joining NSCA reduces certification costs and provides access to valuable resources.
  
• Earnings Potential: NSCA-certified trainers typically earn between $50,000 and $60,000 per year, with higher salaries in strength and conditioning roles.
  
• Best for Performance-Focused Trainers: NSCA certification helps trainers break into higher-paying athletic performance coaching positions.
  

My Experience with ACE (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is another big, expert rating personal training certification that still is very popular.

ACE has a more general approach to fitness training and offers good core principles to carry you into a lucrative personal trainer career.

Curriculum

The ACE-CPT program is built around a general, well-rounded fitness approach, making it accessible for trainers of all levels.

Exam

The ACE-CPT exam is moderately challenging but requires preparation to pass.

Price

ACE offers multiple pricing tiers to accommodate different study needs and budgets.

• Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) Model: A structured system for assessing and programming workouts for clients of all fitness levels.
  
• Behavior Change Coaching: Teaches motivation and coaching strategies to help clients stay consistent.
  
• Core Exercise Science Principles: Covers biomechanics, anatomy, and program design.
  
• Limited Business Training: While great for training fundamentals, ACE does not emphasize business or sales skills, requiring additional learning for those wanting to grow a client base.
  

• Exam Format: The test includes a mix of applied knowledge questions related to program design, client assessment, and exercise principles.
  
• Pass Rate: 65%, which is lower than some expect, meaning preparation is essential.
  
• Preparation Time: Most candidates need 2-3 months of study to pass the first time.
  
• User-Friendly Testing Experience: The online platform is easy to navigate, and scheduling is straightforward.
  
• Recertification Requirements: Trainers must complete 2.0 CECs (20 hours) every two years to stay certified.
  

• Exam-Only Option: Costs $499 for those who prefer self-study.
  
• Basic Package: Priced at $587, includes the ACE study portal and digital textbook.
  
• ACE Plus & Advantage Packages: Available for those who want additional learning resources, with prices up to $675.
  
• Flexible Payment Plan: Financing starts at $49 per month, making certification more accessible.
  
• Trainer Earnings Potential: ACE-certified trainers earn an average of $53,693 per year, with rates varying based on experience and location.
  

My Experience with AFAA (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

The Athletics and Fitness Association of America is a professional fitness certification provider founded in 1983.

The AFAA Personal Training Certification is a respected personal training program.

A few years ago, NASM bought the AFAA to get their group fitness certification; however, the two CPTs are still different.

Study Materials

AFAA provides a solid but somewhat outdated set of study resources to help candidates prepare for the exam.

Curriculum

AFAA offers a well-rounded but slightly outdated personal training curriculum designed for general fitness training.

Exam

The AFAA exam includes a mix of theoretical and practical components, making it unique among CPT certifications.

• Downloadable Study Guide & Video Lectures: Includes key learning materials, though lacking in interactivity compared to NASM.
• Practice Tests: Helps candidates assess their understanding of course content before the final exam.
• Personal Fitness Training: Theory and Practice Textbook: Not included in the base package; must be purchased separately for $79 (or less if bought used).
• Affordable Study Options: While less interactive than other programs, AFAA provides budget-friendly resources that cover fundamental training concepts.
  

• General Fitness Focus: Less performance-oriented than NASM, making it ideal for training a broad range of clients.
• Practical Experience Component: AFAA includes a hands-on section, setting it apart from purely multiple-choice-based exams.
• NCCA Accreditation: Ensures the certification meets high industry standards.
• Limited Modernization: Some of the curriculum materials feel outdated compared to newer programs like ISSA and NASM.
  

• Exam Structure:
  
  1. 120 multiple-choice questions (20 unscored research questions).
     
  2. 120-minute time limit.
  3. 70% required to pass.  
     

• Pass Rate: Approximately 62%, meaning preparation is necessary.
• Practical Experience Section: Unlike many certifications, AFAA includes a hands-on component to test real-world application.
• Recertification: Required every two years, with CEU requirements and a renewal fee.
  

Price

AFAA is a budget-friendly certification option compared to NASM and ISSA.

• Certification Cost: $499, making it one of the most affordable NCCA-accredited CPT certifications.
  
• Additional Costs: The textbook costs $79, though it can sometimes be found for less.
  
• Total Investment: Just under $600, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious trainers.
  
• Great Value for New Trainers: AFAA provides a solid certification without the high price tag of premium programs.
  

My Experience with ACSM (Study Materials/Curriculum/Exam/Price)

The ACSM-CPT exam is notorious for being in the same league of difficulty as other more advanced qualifications, such as the NSCA-CSCS.

The ACSM CPT has a global pass rate of 61%, making it one of the hardest certifications of all time.

ACSM is by no means an easy personal training certification.

It is robust regarding what you’ll walk away with, and its deep medical heritage and research culture place it in league with other gold standard fitness certification types.

Study Materials

ACSM offers in-depth, science-heavy study materials that focus on exercise physiology and client safety.

Curriculum

The ACSM CPT program is ideal for those who want a strong foundation in exercise science and clinical applications.

Exam

The ACSM CPT exam is one of the most challenging personal trainer certifications.

Price

ACSM certification is moderately priced but requires additional study resources for full preparation.

• ACSM Textbook & Flashcards: Covers detailed exercise science and health screening protocols, though some materials feel outdated. 
• PrepU Online Practice Questions: Available for $64.99 for three months, providing additional test prep.
  
• Limited Exercise Programming Resources: Lacks structured programming frameworks found in NASM and ACE, requiring supplemental study.
  
• Third-Party Study Options: Some external resources provide better deals and even exam pass guarantees, helping candidates avoid the $199 retake fee.
  

• Deep Focus on Exercise Science & Anatomy: Offers more scientific depth than general CPT programs, making it useful for clinical settings.
• Comprehensive Client Safety & Health Screening Training: Includes thorough coverage of working with special populations.
• Behavior Change Coaching & Business Skills: Provides strong education in client behavior change and business fundamentals.
• Weak in Resistance Training & Exercise Programming: Lacks structured systems for long-term programming, making self-study necessary for personal trainers.

• Pass Rate: 61%, making it one of the most difficult CPT exams.
  
• Exam Difficulty: Comparable to NSCA-CSCS, requiring a strong grasp of scientific concepts.
• Preparation Time: Most candidates study for three months to fully prepare.
• Retake Fee: $199, which makes passing on the first attempt important.
• Recertification: Required every three years, with 45 contact hours of continuing education—1.5 times more than most other certifications.  
  

• Base Exam Cost: $399 for candidates taking the test without extra study materials.
  
• Additional Study Costs: Prep tools and materials can add $64.99 or more to total expenses.
  
• Earnings Potential: ACSM-certified trainers earn an average of $50,738 per year, with salaries ranging from $18,500 to $95,500.
• Best for Clinical & Science-Based Careers: Ideal for those interested in working with special populations or in clinical settings rather than general fitness training.