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As a fitness professional, you’re constantly being asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. There are so many different certifications available today, though, it can be hard to know which ones are worth your time and effort.
With that said, if you’re looking for ways to build your fitness portfolio and improve your chances of getting hired by gyms or health clubs, here are some of the most valuable certifications you can earn:
American Sports & Fitness Association Certifications
ASFA offers a variety of certifications for anyone who wants to advance their professional fitness career. From personal training to advanced fitness certifications and everything in between, ASFA is an online resource providing valuable information that allows individuals like you to learn new skills while enhancing your career.
With ASFA, you can search for new professional development courses and certifications, keep track of your CEU/CPE requirements, renew your certification dues through the website, and get discounts from third party vendors.
ASFA offers many certifications programs including:
Master Personal Trainer
This is one of the most sought-after certifications in the industry. It requires extensive training and a lot of experience working with clients. It can lead to a higher salary and more opportunities for advancement within a gym or health club setting.
Group Fitness Instructor
If you want to teach group exercise classes like Zumba at an indoor facility like a gym or health club, having this kind of certification will give you an advantage over other candidates because it shows that you have been properly trained in how to use equipment safely before handling large groups at once.
Health & Wellness Coach
This certification is designed to help fitness professionals work with clients who have chronic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension. The certification also helps prepare you to work with people who want to manage their weight or improve their health through regular exercise and nutrition. This field is growing quickly, and you can find job opportunities in corporate America, hospitals, schools and more.
Self Defense Instructor
The ASFA offers a self defense instructor certification program. To earn this certification, you must complete at least 20 hours of training and pass a final exam. The program includes instructor training in risk reduction techniques and basic martial arts techniques, as well as the legal issues surrounding self defense.
Water Aerobics Instructor
Water aerobics is a great way to stay fit and have fun in the pool. It’s also a great way to add variety to your fitness classes. This certification will teach you how to plan classes, teach techniques, and monitor safety. You’ll learn about proper water temperature, pool management, and how to avoid injuries.
Many people think that water aerobics is just a slower version of land-based exercise classes, but it’s actually quite different. The buoyancy of the water makes it easier for people who have mobility issues to participate in a wide range of exercises. This means this type of certification is ideal for trainers working with seniors and those with arthritis or other physical limitations.
The Final Word
When you’re looking for a new job or want to stand out as a freelancer in the fitness space, it’s important to have a portfolio that highlights your skills and experience.
Certifications can make you more marketable because they demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to an industry. And if you’re looking for a new job, having certifications can give you an edge over other applicants who don’t have them.
