Getting an associate degree in personal training or exercise science could be one of many ways of becoming a personal trainer. Usually The organizations that offer an associate degree in fitness include personal trainer certification or even several certifications. For example, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) College of Exercise Science offers an Associate’s Degree in Exercise Science with an Emphasis in Personal Training (93.5 hours) offers a combination of 6 certifications-a certification per each quarter. Wh
ereas The NASM ( ) Associate Personal Trainer Experience with Job Guarantee package (80 hours) includes personal trainer certification. The cost of an associate’s degree courses vary from institution to institution. For instance, the above mentioned NASM associate degree costs $1.999, whereas ISSA charges $185 per credit.
Purpose of Acquiring an Associate’s Degree in Personal Training
An associate degree programs are designed for students who seek to become experts in personal training in order to work with the widest variety of clients. Generally, formal education in personal training should be considered by those putting their career in front of the job. The reason being, it typically takes 2 years of full-time studies before one can get a job. Having said that, there are part-time and online courses available for those who are eager to combine their studies with work. In addition, the purpose of an associate’s degree can be an entry-level position with the ability to pursue further formal education–a Bachelor’s or Advanced Degree in Exercise Science, Medical Exercise, Sports Medicine, Kinesiology, Physical Education, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, or Chiropractic, etc.
Benefits of Acquiring an Associate’s Degree in Personal Training
Usually beside exercise science an associate’s degree courses include a variety of related disciplines such as business, management, communication, and psychology. That can prove useful for working in any fitness and health related environment as well as reinforce entrepreneurial career. The benefits of acquiring an associate’s degree in personal training may include:
• Gained aptitude to apply sound, and current, scientific and communication principles to the functions of assessment, program design, motivation, and training.
• Developed analytic critical thinking and interpersonal skills applicable to real-life situations.
• Obtained foundation of exercise science knowledge and technical skills to reinforce lifelong professional development.
• Gained interpersonal skills and business knowledge to start and maintain entrepreneurial career.
• Acquired academic foundation to pursue a Bachelor’s or other Advanced Degree.
Should You Pursue an Associate’s Degree in Personal Training
Firstly, anyone considering an associate’s degree in personal training should think whether they want a career or a job. Having a basic personal trainer certification can be enough working as a personal trainer in most instances, however, managerial positions would require an associate’s or higher degree. Secondly, acquiring an associates degree can make a logical step for someone who is considering to diversify their career. For example, working as a personal trainer with specific groups of clients or alongside pursuing a career in sports medicine, etc.