NASM Certification: Everything You Need to Know as a Fitness Professional
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is one of the most recognized and respected organizations in the fitness industry. NASM offers a variety of certifications that cover topics ranging from personal training to corrective exercise to sports performance. In this video, we will focus on explaining everything about the NASM certification process, including the different certifications available, the exam format, and the requirements for becoming certified.
Types of NASM Certifications
NASM offers several different certifications, each with its own focus and requirements. Here are some of the most popular NASM certifications:
Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
This certification is the most popular and well-known of all NASM certifications. It is designed for individuals who want to become personal trainers and work with clients on a one-on-one basis. The CPT certification covers topics such as exercise science, anatomy, physiology, and nutrition.
Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
This certification is designed for fitness professionals who want to help clients overcome movement dysfunctions and imbalances. The CES certification covers topics such as functional anatomy, movement assessments, and corrective exercise techniques.
Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
This certification is designed for fitness professionals who want to work with athletes to improve their performance. The PES certification covers topics such as biomechanics, sports nutrition, and strength and conditioning.
Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS)
This certification is designed for fitness professionals who want to provide nutrition coaching to their clients. The FNS certification covers topics such as macronutrients, micronutrients, and supplementation.
Exam Format
The NASM certification exam is a computer-based exam that consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. You will have two hours to complete the exam, and you must achieve a score of 70% or higher to pass. The exam covers a wide range of topics related to your chosen certification, including exercise science, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and program design.
The exam is divided into six sections, each with its own focus:
Assessment
This section covers topics such as client consultation, health history, and fitness assessments.
Exercise Technique
This section covers topics such as exercise selection, proper form and technique, and program progression.
Program Design
This section covers topics such as goal setting, program design principles, and periodization.
Nutrition
This section covers topics such as macronutrients, micronutrients, and supplementation.
Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching
This section covers topics such as communication skills, behavior change techniques, and motivational interviewing.
Professional Practice and Responsibility
This section covers topics such as legal and ethical issues, business practices, and professional development.
Requirements for Becoming Certified
To become certified by NASM, you must meet certain requirements, including:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old to become certified.
Education: You must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
CPR/AED Certification: You must hold a current CPR/AED certification from an accredited organization.
Continuing Education: To maintain your certification, you must complete a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) every two years.
Exam Fee: You must pay a fee to take the NASM certification exam. The fee varies depending on the certification you are seeking.
Becoming certified by NASM is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the fitness industry. With several different certifications to choose from, you can find one that aligns with your interests and career goals. By passing the NASM certification exam and maintaining your certification through continuing education, you can continue to grow and develop as a fitness professional.
