Search for organizations that offer personal trainer certifications. Seek organizations with an accreditation from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or NCCA. Begin search with The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association or the American Council of Exercise, both of which are NCCA-accredited. Visit the NCCA website for a list of other accredited personal training certification programs.
Learn about certification requirements of the organization. Most certifying organizations require candidates to hold a high school diploma, have certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and undergo an exam to obtain certification. All certification exams are in written format but some programs require candidates to go through practical exams, too. Exams generally test candidates' understanding of human physiology, good exercise methods and clients' fitness levels as well as their ability to develop proper fitness programs according to client needs. Obtain contact information from the organization's website. Contact them by phone or through mail regarding certification requirements.
Register for the certification exam. Contact the organization and ask them about exam registration procedure, fee structure and testing centers and prepare for the exam. Candidates don't need to purchase any study material for the exam and certifying organizations provide books, CDs and other audio and visual study aids as well as workshops and seminars for exam preparation. Check with your organization regarding the type of study assistance they provide and take the exam to obtain certification.
Re-certify whenever it is required. You may have to obtain certification renewal every two years. NESTA requires certified personal trainers to re-certify after four years to accommodate for both changes in scientific research as well as their applications in the fitness field so that candidates are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills that allow them to design safe and effective exercise programs for their clients. Certifying organizations generally require candidates to undergo continuing education or attend conferences, publish articles or give presentations, for re-certification.