Levels of Certification

Certified Personal Trainer –
This certification qualifies you to enter the fitness industry with the confidence to provide basic fitness training services to the general population with the advanced knowledge of some rehab based considerations. With this certification, you can begin a career as a Certified Personal Trainer, either working for a health club or gym, or starting your own business.
Requirements:
1. 18 years of age
2. Valid and current CPR/AED is recommended.
3. Passing score of 85% on exam
ALL THOSE WHO WISH TO BECOME CERTIFIED AS A PERSONAL TRAINER MUST CONTACT AN INSTRUCTOR LISTED ON THIS WEBSITE TO ARRANGE COURSE INSTRUCTION.

Advanced Personal Trainer -
This certification level is for the trainer who wants to broaden their knowledge base and become more proficient in the areas of fitness assessments, alternative program design, sports-specific training, and advanced cardiovascular fitness training. The requirements for this course are:
1. 18 years of age.
2. Valid and current CPR/AED
3. Current ISFTA certification as Certified Personal Trainer
4. Successful completion of ISFTA Advanced Personal Trainer study materials and exam with a score of 90%.
5. Five hours of shadowing a Current ISFTA Course Instructor. Verification form will be provided.

Rehab Fitness Trainer –
This certification level is for the medical professional who is adding the components of fitness to their current medical training. This course is only open to those who are already licensed in the medical field as a physical therapist, PT assistant, occupational therapist, OT assistant, licensed athletic trainer, massage therapist, or other medical professional. The course is the same as the certified personal trainer course, but the medical professional is recognized for their current level of education. In some cases, this certification is awarded to others who have a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
Requirements:
1. 18 years of age.
2. Valid and current CPR/AED
3. Passing score of 90% on exam
4. Current licensure in any state or country as stated above.
5. EXEMPT from video submission, shadow hours, and workshop.

Master Level Trainer –
This certification is designed for the professional who wants to broaden his or her knowledge base to provide higher level services to clients. Included in this level is a more in depth workbooks that discusses medical conditions, contraindications, advanced training strategies, wellness concepts, competitive sports training, and complete program design from assessment to goal attainment. Completion of this level distinguishes the trainer as a dedicated professional in the healthcare and fitness industries.
Requirements:
1. 18 years of age.
2. Valid and current CPR/AED
3. Current ISFTA certification as Advanced Personal Trainer
4. Must hold at least 3 specialty certifications through ISFTA.

Master Trainer Instructor -
At this level, the trainer has mastered the skills necessary to instruct others to become certified personal trainers. A Master Level Trainer becomes an ISFTA Fitness Professional and is qualified to conduct the training workshops for those wanting to become a certified personal trainer. The Instructor is able to set up their own workshops and certify candidates through ISFTA. Since this training qualifies the instructor as a professional, the training curriculum for this level is largely business based and is conducted only at ISFTA facilities in Sarasota, FL unless ISFTA trainers are available to travel to other locations.
Requirements:
1. A.S. or higher in exercise related field.
2. At least 3 years verified as a personal trainer.
3. CURRENTLY WORKING AS A PERSONAL TRAINING MANAGER, HEALTH CLUB MANAGER, OR SIMILAR CAPACITY.
4. 1099 IRS form on file with ISFTA.
5. Signed confidentiality agreement and other legal documentation.
6. Successful completion of the Instructor Development Course.

Specialty Certifications –
1. Senior Fitness Specialist
2. Youth Athletic Performance Specialist
3. Aqua Fitness Specialist
4. Fitness Ball Training Specialist
5. Corporate Fitness Specialist
6. Pre/Post Natal Fitness Specialist