Overview

About the program

NSCA-Certified Personal Trainers (NSCA-CPT^®) are health/fitness professionals who, using an individualized approach, assess, motivate, educate and train clients regarding their personal health and fitness needs. Certified personal trainers design safe and effective exercise programs, provide the guidance to help clients achieve their personal health/fitness goals, and respond appropriately in emergency situations. Recognizing their own area of expertise, a personal trainer will refer clients to other health care professionals when appropriate.

Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicate a job outlook growth of 10% through 2026. Hospitals, businesses, insurance organizations, health clubs and other locations will need these individuals to perform fitness work. The 2017 median pay is $18.85/hour or $39,210/year (BLS January 2018).

Program format(s)

Students enrolled in this program will take traditional, 16-week classes each semester.  

Career Pathways: 

Career Pathway: NSCA-CPT Personal Trainer Certification, Multi-Competency Health ATS Degree, Nursing AAS Degree, PTA AAS Degree, Associate Arts/Science Degree.

Certificate option

This certificate can serve as an entry point into related careers such as athletic training, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. The program builds on the college’s one-year certificate program in exercise science and includes coursework in exercise assessment and prescription, wellness and disease prevention, nutrition, personal and athletic training, athletic management and biomechanics.

External Certification

Students will be eligible to sit for the NSCA-CPT certification exam. This is a personal training certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Passing the exam results in the credential of NSCA-CPT enabling one to practice as a personal trainer in a variety of settings.

Occupational Certification Opportunities

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Learning Outcomes

• Practice effective communication skills with patients, families, and medical staff.
• Apply critical thinking and basic problem-solving skills.
• Practice good customer service techniques.
• Demonstrate positive attitude and excellent work ethics.
• Follow code of conduct by respecting patient’s rights and confidentiality.
• Demonstrate accountability, responsibility and understanding of job description and expectations.
• Perform fitness and wellness skills which may include:
• Obtaining and recording vital signs, height, and weight.
• Observe participants and inform them of corrective measures necessary for skill improvement.
• Instruct participants in maintaining exertion levels to maximize benefits from exercise routines.
• Offer alternatives to accommodate different levels of fitness.
• Plan routines and choose different movements for each set of muscles, depending on participants' capabilities and limitations.
• Teach proper breathing techniques used during physical exertion.
• Evaluate individuals' abilities, needs, and physical conditions, and develop suitable training programs to meet any special requirements.
• Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations governing sports, recreational activities, and the use of exercise equipment.
• Monitor participants' progress and adapt programs as needed.
• Provide students with information and resources regarding nutrition, weight control, and lifestyle issues

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Career Opportunities

• NSCA Certified Personal Trainer
• NSCA Certified Functional Trainer

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Application Requirements - Open Enrollment

• Completed MTC Application for Admission.
• Final high school transcript (or GED results) and college transcripts (if applicable). Your high school/college courses should include successful completion of algebra and biology/chemistry.

• Demonstrate college-readiness by achieving the required minimum score on a placement test, successfully completing any required college foundation courses, or satisfying other measures including but not limited to high school coursework, previous college coursework, samples of work, etc.