What is a NASM certification?

One of the best pathways to becoming a personal trainer is through a certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Founded in 1987, NASM provides certifications in a wide range of fitness-related fields, including personal training, bodybuilding, and nutrition. 

Here’s an in-depth look at what a NASM certification can do for you.

What does it mean to be NASM certified? 

Boasting more than 1.5 million certified fitness and wellness professionals, NASM assists personal trainers, coaches, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts in reaching their health goals. Becoming NASM certified means that you’re able to provide fitness advice and guidance to others.

“When you’re NASM certified, it signifies that you’ve put the time and effort into developing the necessary knowledge skills and abilities to help somebody change their life and improve themselves,” says Tony Ambler-Wright, a product manager and master instructor for the for-profit organization. “It also shows others that you have achieved that level of competency.”

NASM offers a variety of fitness certifications. One is the Personal Trainer Certification (CPT) that prepares you to design exercise and conditioning programs based on scientific and clinical evidence. The Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) program is the second and teaches you about the science of nutrition and how to promote better health choices through diet and behavioral change. Finally, there’s the Certified Wellness Coach (CWC) program that shows you how to pursue wellness through nutrition, movement, coaching, and mental and emotional wellbeing.

Additional specializations pertain to bodybuilding, corrective exercise,…