ACSM stands for the American College of Sports Medicine. It bills itself as “The largest sports medicine, and exercise science organization in the world.” Founded in 1954, it has over 20,000 members. Since 1984 ACSM has been headquartered in Indianapolis, IN. The mission statement of ACSM is as follows:
“The American College of Sports Medicine promotes and integrates scientific research, education, and practical applications of sports medicine and exercise science to maintain and enhance physical performance, fitness, health, and quality of life.”
ACSM offers a Personal Trainer Certification designed for fitness professionals who work with clients individually, as well as a Health/Fitness Instructor Certification which is for leaders of health programs in a variety of different setting. The organization also offers clinical certifications. The Exercise Specialist certification is for people who possess a Bachelor’s degree in an allied health field. The Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist certification requires a Master’s degree in exercise science, movement science, exercise physiology, or kinesiology.
ACE stands for the American Council on Exercise. It was founded in 1985, and has more than 40,000 certified professionals across the world. ACE is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA) for each of its certification programs, Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant, and Clinical Exercise Specialist. ACE is “dedicated to improving the professional standards of the fitness industry and encourages all segments of society to enjoy the benefits of exercise.”
NSCA stands for the National Strength and Conditioning Association. It’s mission statement is as follows:
“As the worldwide authority on strength and conditioning, we support and disseminate research-based knowledge and its practical application to improve athletic performance and fitness.”
The NSCA offers two certifications, the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification and the Certified-Personal Trainer certification. The NSCA allows people who are not certified through the NSCA to join for a fee, this will give you access to information and resources, including job listings and networking opportunities.
NASM stands for the National Academy of Sports Medicine – “The Global Authority in Health and Fitness.” Founded in 1987, NASM has more than 100,000 members across the globe. They offer an NCAA accredited Certified Personal Trainer certification, as well as progressive education including advanced specializations, continuing education courses, and accredited Bachelor and Master degree programs. The mission of NASM is “To empower individuals to live healthy.”
AFAA stands for the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. It bills itself as the world’s largest fitness and Telefitness educator. Founded in 1983, they provide training and workshops across the globe, and have issued over 200,000 certifications. AFAA is an affiliate of the National Board of Fitness Examiners (NBFE). AFAA’s mission statement is as follows:
“As the world’s largest fitness educator, AFAA delivers comprehensive cognitive and practical education for fitness professionals, grounded in industry research, using both traditional and innovative modalities. AFAA upholds Basic Exercise Standards and Guidelines for safe fitness practice.”
AFAA provides four different certifications, Personal Trainer certification, Primary Group Exercise certification, Kickboxing certification, and Step certification. The organization also provides continuing education work shops and credits, as well as networking and job search tools.
stands for the International Sports Sciences Association. ISSA describes itself as the world leader in fitness education based on its on staff experts who have designed and built the organization and its programs. It offers certifications in Fitness Trainer, Specialist in Performance Nutrition, Specialist in Sports Conditioning, Fitness Therapy, Youth Fitness Trainer, Endurance Fitness Trainer, Specialist in Martial Arts Conditioning, Specialist in Fitness for Older Adults, and Water Fitness Trainer. Founded in 1988, they claim to be the first organization to offer a personal training certification, and currently have over 80,000 members across the globe.
