Personal Training Beginner Questions

[UberGoose]

I realize this is n00b move, but I really need some guidance on this. I have been toying with the idea of getting certified. I am not looking to be in a clinical setting or research or anything. I was just considering being a PT. The issue is there is a lot of misinformation out there and I want to make certain I am thinking things through and I am on the right track.

This is why I am posting here. I was hoping since many of you are experienced that you could assist me in understanding this.

From what I understand, if you take the ACE, NASM, AFPA exams and pass then you are qualified to "train." (Anyone know if AFPA is recognized by the NCCA)

I know the exams and programs are not easy. What I am uncertain of is if the materials that come with the programs provide enough information to adequately prepare someone to be a decent trainer?

What other types of education in your expert opinions do you suggest that one should pursue?

I am fairly well educated and well-read, but I just feel I should be taking some nutrition and other classes as well so I can better explain the krebs cycle. (haha Not that I would need to do so, I hope you get what I mean there.)

Anyway, I would really, truly appreciate a point in the right direction.

Thanks

[testboi123]

In on this thread! currently 1 month from being certified. My class came with everything I need. I do 12-4 at a school. would like to hear from some vets on getting started and what not

[mheck06]

Hey there. I'm a Fitness manager for a large fitness company and I take interview everyday of 'certified trainers' who couldn't tell me their elbow from their ass. A cert is a great start but it wont get you ready to train. NASM is gonna be your best bet, will get you closest to being ready to train. But I strongly recommend getting hired onto a large fitness company because we all have programs for new hired trainers where your fitness manager or his assistants will 'teach' you how to sell/train/overcome objections/ building client relations. They will also give you your first few clients and help you out for your first two months. This will be the best way to go for a beginning trainer. DONT JUST GO INTO A GYM AS A PRIVATE TRAINER, the veterans will chew you up and spit you out and you will make no money. You won't be talented or experienced enough to compete with them just yet. Go the corporate route first, these companies invest tons of money and time to ensure quality of service. Take advantage of it. Just be certified and sound knowledgable and you'll be fine.

[Makethisworkout]

hi ubergoose

I would suggest read all you can from Google Scholar. No-one will ever know everything about Exercise Physiology. I've been at it 20 years and learn every day. It's all good though and part of the process.

Kind Regs,

Jon Robinson
BSc (Hons) Exercise Physiology
Makethisworkout

[Makethisworkout]

Dr Janda was/is a particularly good teacher. Hip position is one of the key elements to personal training.

[SpyWizard]

NFPT cert

and it's NCCA

and if you go to the workshop, yes you will get the hands on to know how to apply what you learned in the biochemical responses of muscle and the body..

:It will get you started and give you a chance in the industry to continue..

[semper03]

I got mine through the IFA. It also wouldn't hurt to go to college for kinesiology and nutrition. You'll know quite a bit more and will be able to help people more.


Hunter Of Gunmen

[roywrt]

To be sucessful in the field you need to get hands on training from an expert in the field. You can have all the certifications in the world and with no experience with working with clients, you will be at a loss.

Quote posted by UberGoose I realize this is n00b move, but I really need some guidance on this. I have been toying with the idea of getting certified. I am not looking to be in a clinical setting or research or anything. I was just considering being a PT. The issue is there is a lot of misinformation out there and I want to make certain I am thinking things through and I am on the right track. This is why I am posting here. I was hoping since many of you are experienced that you could assist me in understanding this. From what I understand, if you take the ACE, NASM, AFPA exams and pass then you are qualified to "train." (Anyone know if AFPA is recognized by the NCCA) I know the exams and programs are not easy. What I am uncertain of is if the materials that come with the programs provide enough information to adequately prepare someone to be a decent trainer? What other types of education in your expert opinions do you suggest that one should pursue? I am fairly well educated and well-read, but I just feel I should be taking some nutrition and other classes as well so I can better explain the krebs cycle. (haha Not that I would need to do so, I hope you get what I mean there.) Anyway, I would really, truly appreciate a point in the right direction. Thanks