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question

What qualifications should a personal trainer have?

Dr. Michael Roizen, MD
Dr. Michael Roizen, MD
Internal Medicine
answer
There are several certifying organizations for personal trainers. I would insist that your trainer has a degree such as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) with a specialty in exercise physiology or sports medicine, or is certified by one or more of the following organizations: ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), ACE (American Council on Exercise), NSCA, (National Strength and Conditioning Association), NASM National Academy of Sports Medicine), or AFAA (Aerobics and Fitness Association of America). Each organization has specific and different requirements for certification, but such certification is a minimum to insist on.
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Jonathan Penney
Jonathan Penney on behalf of National Academy of Sports Medicine
Fitness
answer

The credentials from a personal trainer should include:

  • Are they certified from recognizable organizations?  Some organizations include:  NASM, ACSM, NSCA, and ACE. 
  • Do they have a degree in the field?  These degrees include exercise sport science, physical education, sport management, etc.
  • Years of service in the field.  If they do not possess any of the above and have only been in the field for a short period of time then find out what their background is prior to starting any training.

The above are some of the many items to look for in a trainer.  Next, find someone you are comfortable with and be vocal with your trainer.  Do not do something just because they say it will work, if you are uncomfortable with the exercise, let them know and if they are truly qualified then they will be able to find another exercise that will benefit you just as much.

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
For best results you should look for an NASM Certified Personal Trainer or NASM-CPT. They complete a thorough education curriculum and must pass an NCCA Accredited Examination to earn their credential. They also must maintain a current CPR/AED Certification.  
Each NASM-CPT is required every two years to recertify in order to keep their certification valid by completing continuing education to ensure that they are staying current with the latest evidence to support new training principles and techniques.
NASM Certified Personal Trainers are also the only trainers in the industry who have been trained to deliver an evidence-based and systematic training system, the OPT Model or Optimum Performance Training.
OPT provides a progressive training system for any goal that incorporates various modalities of training and can be specifically customized for any user.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.