ACE or NSCA? - Personal Trainer Community - Forum

[kansasgirl]

Hey everyone!

I'm new here and I am trying to decide which to go with between these two programs. I have a bachelor degree but it is not in a field related to personal training. From what I have researched I really like the NSCA-CPT.

The reason I am considering ACE-CPT is because I hear it is a good starting point for those who have no relevant educational background. There seems to be a lot of study material and prep stuff for their exam. There is an ACE testing site here in the town that I live - so it is also convenient. The reason I am concerned is because I hear that ACE is considered by some to be "light-weight" and not looked upon as well as NSCA.

If I go with ACE first, I would like to get either ACE's AHFS cert or the NSCA-CPT later. Anyone know how the ACE AHFS cert compares with the NSCA-CPT as far as how well they each prepare you for working with clients with helath challenges?

Would you recommend I start out with ACE or go for NSCA?

Thanks,
Tina

[Christina]

Hi Tina and welcome. From what I understand ACE is easier than NSCA. Why not go for the ACE exam first and then the NSCA at a later date? You could start out with the NSCA exam but if you have to do a retake it can get expensive. If you are unsure, it might be best to get ACE certified, get some experience, and then go for your NSCA certification. Something to think about. Good luck!

Christina

[kansasgirl]

Christina,

Thanks for your advice. I am thinking that by going with ACE first it would give me more background knowledge, more confidence and more time to gain experience before going for NSCA.

Thanks again,
Tina

[Joe Cannon MS CSCS]

Hi Tina

I think both certs have merit. the NSCA has 2 different certs - the CSCS which deals with athletics and requires at least a BS in a health-related field. it also has the NSCA-CPT cert which is their personal training cert. both can be used for personal training but the NSCA-CPT exam has less in-depth-exercise science, when I took it. the CPT test also was more "rubber meets the road" as far as what personal trainers would encounter in the gym etc. the NSCA test is structured such that you study, then show up where the test is given; its a 2 hr test (CPT test is 2 hrs the CSCS is 4 hrs)

As I understand it, the ACE exam is a computer test where you study, then show up at a testing center and take the test on a computer. Im not sure if theire is a practical component but the NSCA doesnt have a practical part either (there is a video tape part where you answer questions based on the video)

the basic information in both ACE and NSCA will be the same and when they deal with health issues, they both adhere to the guidelines of the ACSM - yet another certifying organization

I say pick the one that is convenient for you not, study your butt off before the test and also AFTER you pass the test. that way you will know more than what they tested and will help you outshine other trainers. I saw you bought my personal training book last week thanks. Thats also going to help you in the real world and cover things that neither ACE or NSCA discuss. let me know if I can be of any other help and I also added you to my personal training email newsletter also
Joe

[Christina]

Joe, wanted to clarify/correct a few things...

the CSCS which deals with athletics and requires at least a BS in a health-related field.

A bachelors degree in ANY field is required.

the NSCA test is structured such that you study, then show up where the test is given

All major certs are offered at testing centers. My NSCA exam was computer based as well as my ACSM exam.

Didn't want anyone to be confused.

Christina

[Freightdawg747]

A BS in anything? Bet any clients I gained would be a bit worried......I got my BS in Mortuary Science back in the 80's at CAL U Pa.

[Christina]

Love it! At least if you killed a client you would know what to do!

[kenazari]

Ace I think it's a junk certification. NSCA CSCS would be best if you want to work with athletes. You need degree 4 years and health care to the test. I would add I am a bit part because they are NSCA CSCS . I also have the ACSM fitness instructor certificate..