- Best Overall: National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- Best for Basic Certification: American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- Best Low-Cost Certification: Action Personal Trainer Certification.
- Best Online: International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
What is the best certification for a fitness instructor?
Gyms tend to accept personal trainer certifications that are NCCA Accredited (like NASM or ACE), those that are accredited by the National Board of Fitness Examiners (like Fitness Mentors or NESTA), or those with a DEAC Accreditation (like ISSA).
What certifications do most gyms accept?
While NASM focuses on program design, the ACSM has a distinct focus on the scientific process and improving movement through kinesiology. The best way to choose a certification program is to take into consideration your long-term career goals.
Is NASM or ACSM better?
The easiest personal training certification to get is the American Council on Exercise certification known as the ACE Certification. In most states, this type of certification can be obtained in 3 to 6 months depending on how fast you work. Then, you must study for an exam and pass the exam.