Buyer beware! Choose a reputable personal trainer certification.

Do your research before choosing a personal trainer certification. With such an array of certifications to choose from it can be confusing to decide which one is right for you. Generally speaking, there are four certifying organizations that are widely recognized at gyms and health clubs across the United States: ACSM, NSCA, ACE, and NASM. In order to minimize confusion and to weed out unreputable certifying organizations we only promote certifications from these four on the Fitness Think Tank Forum. There are many certifying organizations outside of the four listed so if you choose to go with a different one be sure to talk with potential employers as well as other fitness professionals before making a decision. Due to the lack of regulation in the personal training industry there are many so called organizations that do not promote high standards for their certified trainers. Not only are certifications from these types of organizations completely worthless to potential employers, they do not adequately prepare you to become a personal trainer. It is not very realistic to believe you can become a competent trainer by completing a brief, online course (or weekend seminar) when there are trainers in the industry with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in health related fields who have spent two to three months studying for a rigorous certification. If you are thinking about becoming a personal trainer choose a certification that prepares you to train others safely and effectively. An effective trainer is someone who is knowledgeable in areas such as anatomy, exercise physiology, program design, nutrition, safety, and special populations.

Bottom line: If you want to become a fitness professional don't choose the easiest or cheapest personal trainer certification.