Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 9/17/2005

Question
Daphne:
I currently have a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
degree and am debating on whether or not to pursue my
Masters of Science in Exercise and Fitness Management. Can you
tell me what advantages you gained from furthering your
education?
I also am wanting to get certified as a Group Fitness Instructor.
However, I am temporarily living in Finland with my husband and
wanted to know what online certifications are recognized in the
industry?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. Any
advice that you have for me in pursuing a career in the fitness
industry would be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Cherisse Miller

Answer
Cherisse,
To answer your questions:
Can you
tell me what advantages you gained from furthering your
education?
I love helping others through fitness and exercise, so getting a Master's degree in Clinical Exercise Physiology gave me so much more credibility over other fitness instructors, although I also consider myself a medical professional.  Here in the States, however, there is no nationwide licensing of exercise physiologists  so we have moderate credibility in the medical field and it is often difficult to find a well-paying exercise job/position.

wanted to know what online certifications are recognized in the
industry
Certifications that I would recommend would be ones from Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and American Council on Exercise.  I know tht AFAA is recognized internationally.  ACE is also international and highly regarded in the states.  Both have websites.  I would stay away from any online certification, for practical purposes.  You should go with an organization who has been in business for at least a few years, and who can offer you at LEAST an day long in-person course that includes exam and hands=on practical course work and demonstrations/ www.afaa.com http://www.acefitness.org/

I don't know what the job outlook for people with Masters' degrees in exercise is in Finland.  If your goal is to be in fitness and exercise and to make a career, check with your area's employment bureau to see what jobs are in demand and the salary.  It's up to you to do what you love and make a decent living while doing it.  

http://www.goinglobal.com/countries/finland/finland_employment.asp

Good luck in your studies and I wish you the best in your career path, which ever way it goes!!!

Sincerely, Daphne