A certificate program for personal trainers can be as quick as five weeks or as long as two semesters, which is almost an entire year. Students will learn the basics of exercise science, plus anatomy and physiology. Upon graduation, students will know which exercises utilize particular muscle groups and how to assess a client's body fat percentage. The trainer can then create a personalized workout plan for each client. The American Fitness and Nutrition Academy in California offers career counseling so students can map out their future early. This course can be completed in 14 weeks, six months or one year, and student learning includes how to design and instruct a fitness class.
Students can get either a personal training degree or an exercise science degree. Most programs require an internship as well. Ashford University in Iowa offers a bachelor's degree in Health Care Studies, and a possible concentration is Exercise Science. Ideally, graduates will be able to provide high-quality service once they're in the health care industry. The program covers several issues, including medical ethics and law. The Athletic Training degree program at Grand Canyon University focuses a large part of education on athletics-related injury and requires students to complete 750 clinical hours. Argosy University's Master degree program provides students with a master's in Sports and Exercise Psychology. Graduates will be prepared to train and help athletes. A prerequisite for this program is undergraduate courses in psychology or sports medicine and a bachelor's degree in a related field. Students learn psychological techniques to enhance performance, plus rehabilitation and team dynamics.
Bryan College offers an online personal training diploma. Students learn communication and business skills, plus how to design an exercise program and diets for safe weight loss or weight gain. Graduates will be prepared to work in a gym, either as a trainer or even in a management position. Grads will also be able to freelance and be self-employed, if they choose. Ashworth College's 18-month online program provides a career diploma in fitness and exercise. Weight loss menus, fitness evaluations, health risk testing and injury prevention are all part of the curriculum. Students will also learn tactics for managing stress and addiction, plus information about physical disorders, time management and nutrition for athletes. Classes include Combating Threats to Your Health and Measuring and Controlling Body Fat.
Some personal trainers choose to be certified in CPR and first aid as well, which could aid them in the event of an emergency while they're training a client. This may make the trainer more marketable to clients as well, who will feel safer in the presence of somebody with emergency training.