Timeline for studying and taking exam? - Personal Trainer Community - Forum

[Muscles00GT]

Hi everyone. I'm new to the site. A little background first...I'm an undergrad student at Penn State majoring in kinesiology/pre-med with a minor in HPA (health policy administration). I just completed my 3rd year and want to get certified for two reasons..one, it's a great thing to throw on a resume for graduate school and medical school..two, I'd love to do personal training on the side. WIth that said, I have a pretty decent fitness/training background and have helped train children, adults, and senior citizens, as well as collegiate athletes and athletic teams. The only thing missing is the certification. I know ACSM recommends the following books..

1) ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, 2nd ed
2) ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 7ed
3) ACSM's Certification Review, 2nd edition

I plan on purchasing all 3, since they are all recommend, but from experience, are all 3 REALLY necessary? Also, how long does one usually study prior to taking the exam? Since I'm not in school, I have a good 3 months of free time to study and ideally, i'd like to receive my cert. within that time. Is this possible? Thanks for the help!! 8)

[muscletrainerdh-NSCA CPT]

If you are Majoring in Kinesiology and Pre-Med, then 3 months study time is all you should need. especially since you say you have trained people before!

I haven't taken the ACSM so can't speak on what study materials are necessary or recommended.

I think you'll pass with flying colors though.


GOOD LUCK!

Dave

[Muscles00GT]

Thanks Dave! I appreciate the helpful advice

[BrianB]

If you haven't already checked it out, read my post on the topic. I think it answers all of your questions.

[Muscles00GT]

Thanks BrianB. Very informative post. I'm sure it'll certainly help me out.