Expert: Kim Farmer - 7/22/2009

Question
I am hoping you might be able to give me some advice on a question I have.

I have been told that I should get a Personal Trainer certification or Group Fitness certification. However, I have little knowledge of the organizations that do this and as I have looked to see what is available there does not seem to be an industry standard.

My own experience is as a Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Chi Kung (Qigong) instructor for 29 years.  As I have taught people with respect to health, my primary focus seems to have been Tai Chi and Chi Kung. I have continued to learn what I can about health, nutrition and physiology during that time and I have beneficially helped people with stress reduction, breathing exercises, back, leg, hand and other physical problems as well as strengthening, toning and increasing endurance. I am looking at getting the certification as others have told me that I will be 1) more marketable and 2) more profitable.

Can you advise on any of this or what certifications you think might be best given my background?

Thank you,

Richard


Answer
Hi Richard-
Thank you for the question and there are many certifying organizations out there.  From my knowledge, the gold standard organization is ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine).  There is also ISSA at www.issaonline.com.  I personally have a couple of my certifications through ACE (American Council on Exercise) and AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America).  I agree that you will be more credible in the industry with a certification and probably make more money that way.  There is also IFPA which is also well recognized.  There are other organizations I'm sure, but I don't know much about them.  I have no problem getting jobs and contracts with my ACE certification, the test is EXTREMELY challenging and ACE is very credible in the industry.

I hope this helps, thanks for the question!

Kim Farmer
ACE-Certified Personal Trainer
ACE-Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist
www.MileHighFitness.com