Earn Your Online Personal Trainer Certification – Become Client-Ready in 6 Months or Less
Affordable & Accredited Personal Trainer Certification – Study Online, Anytime
Launch a fulfilling career in fitness with AFPA’s Online Personal Trainer Certification. Our expert-led program offers a flexible, self-paced journey that’s affordable and accessible.
Learn to train clients confidently from day one with practical tools, real-world strategies, and an emphasis on coaching skills that set you apart.
Whether you’re a career changer, fitness enthusiast, or aspiring gym owner, our program provides the blueprint for success.
Why Choose AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification?
Dynamic & Interactive Learning
Say goodbye to static textbooks. Our course features engaging video lessons led by experienced industry professionals.
Client-Centered Coaching Skills
Go beyond the basics and master communication and cueing, critical for successful client relationships.
Practical Tools & Business Training
Gain immediate access to our exercise library, sample programs, and business strategies to kick-start your career.
Unlimited Student Support
Email or chat with our educational advisors as you progress through your learning journey.
Flexible, Self-Paced Program
Study online at your own pace with a 6-month timeline or take it faster to fit your schedule.
Affordable Payment Plans
Choose 0% interest payment plans to make your investment manageable and stress-free.
More Than a Fitness Certification. A Blueprint for Success.
AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification goes beyond theory. Our curriculum is designed to ensure you’re client-ready, with a unique focus on the skills that matter most for a successful training career. Imagine the impact you’ll have as you help clients transform their lives, reach their goals, and rediscover their confidence. AFPA makes that fulfillment and influence more accessible than ever.
Here’s what you can expect from your online Personal Trainer Certification:
- Immediate Access to Your Digital Learning Experience: Hit the ground running with a video exercise library, study guide, and video presentations from leaders in the fitness space.
- Ready-to-Use Exercise Programs: View templates and programs that can be immediately applied to your clients.
- Business Strategies for Success: From marketing tips to client retention, we provide the tools to grow your business.
- Accredited & Respected: Join 130,000+ AFPA graduates who have launched successful careers.
- Online, Open-Note Final Exam: 93% of AFPA graduates pass their final exam on the first try. We’ll prepare you for success.
- Personal Trainer Certificate and Digital Badge: Easily share your credentials with prospective employers and clients.
See What Sets AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification Apart
This Program is for You if…
You work in the health, fitness, or wellness industry and want new income opportunities
You are passionate about healthy living and considering a career change
You have a strong desire to become an expert in fitness, anatomy, nutrition, and exercise
You are entrepreneurially spirited and want the freedom to start a business
A Look Inside AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification Curriculum
Section 1: Introduction to the Personal Training Profession and Fitness Industry Answer
Chapter 1: Today’s Health, Wellness, and Fitness Industries
- Overview of the Health and Fitness Industry
- Health and Avoidance of Disease
- Physical Activity Guidelines and Recommendations
Chapter 2: The Business of Personal Training
- The Profession of Personal Training
- Training Experience: You and Your Client
Section 2: Foundations of Exercise Science Answer
Chapter 3: Structure and Function of the Nervous, Skeletal, and Muscular Systems
- Nervous System Structure and Function
- Skeletal System Structure and Function
- The Muscular System
Chapter 4: The Cardiorespiratory System
- The Cardiovascular System
- The Respiratory System
Chapter 5: Bioenergetics and Exercise Metabolism
- Nutrients as Fuel
- Energy Systems
- Exercise Influence on Substrate Utilization
- Energy Expenditure and NEAT
Chapter 6: Moving the Body
- Human Movement Science
- Introduction to Biomechanics
- Functional Anatomy
- Mobility, Motor Control, and Stability
- Movement Patterns and Sequences
Chapter 7: Resistance Training Adaptations
- Principles of Adaptation
- Acute vs. Chronic Training Adaptations
- Physiological Factors Influencing Adaptation
- Overtraining and Detraining
Chapter 8: Aerobic Endurance Training Adaptations
- Principles of Adaptation
- Acute vs. Chronic Responses to Aerobic Exercise
- Key Factors Influencing Adaptation
- Overtraining and Detraining
Section 3: Initial Consultation, Movement Screenings, and Nutritional Factors Answer
Chapter 9: Initial Consultation, Movement Screenings, and Fitness Testing
- Considerations for Initial Consultation
- Movement Screening and Observation
- Fitness Testing
- Wearable Technology and Recommendations
Chapter 10: Nutrition in Personal Training
- Nutrition and the Personal Trainer’s Scope of Practice
- Nutrition and Hydration Basics
- Energy Intake and Expenditure
- Nutrition and Well-Being
- Nutrition for Performance
Section 4: Exercise Technique and Training Instructions Answer
Chapter 11: Integrated Training Principles and the AFPA Training Model
- Functional Movement Training Principles
- Introduction to Integrated Training and the AFPA Training Model
Chapter 12: Flexibility Training
- The Role of Flexibility in the Human Movement System
- The Science Behind Flexibility Training
- Flexibility Training Techniques
Chapter 13: Body Weight and Balance Training
- Body Weight Training
- Body Weight Training Exercises
- Balance and Locomotion Training
- Balance and Locomotion Training Exercises
Chapter 14: Core Training
- Core Anatomy and Function
- Core Training Guidelines
- Core Training Exercises
- Integrating Core Training Exercises
Chapter 15: Cardiorespiratory Training
- Introduction to Cardiorespiratory Training
- Cardiorespiratory Training Guidelines and Coaching Considerations
Chapter 16: Resistance Training
- Introduction to Resistance Training
- Resistance Training Guidelines
- Spotting Resistance Training Exercises
- Resistance Training Tools
- Resistance Training Exercises
Chapter 17: Plyometric Training
- Principles of Plyometric Training
- Plyometric Training Guidelines and Coaching Considerations
- Plyometric Training Exercises
- Integrated Plyometric Training
Chapter 18: Training for Speed, Agility, and Quickness
- Concepts in Speed, Agility, and Quickness Training
- Speed, Agility, and Quickness Training Guidelines
- Speed, Agility, and Quickness Training Exercises
- Integrating Speed, Agility, and Quickness Training
Chapter 19: Coaching Exercise and the Art of Cueing
- Observation and Feedback Strategy
- Recommended Cues for Body Position and Movement
Section 5: Program Design Answer
Chapter 20: Program Design for Resistance Training
- Introduction to Program Design for Resistance Training
- Sample Programs for Targeted Outcomes
Chapter 21: Program Design for Cardiorespiratory Training
- Specificity of Training
- Components of Endurance Training
- Progression and Regression Considerations
- Types of Cardiorespiratory Training
- Sample Training Plans
Chapter 22: Clients With Unique Needs
- Lifecycle Ages and Stages
- Obesity and Metabolic Conditions
- Cardiovascular and Respiratory Conditions
- Orthopedic, Injury, and Rehabilitation Concerns
- Athletes and Program Design Considerations
Chapter 23: Safety, Risk Management, and Legal Issues
- Safety and Injury Prevention
- Risk Management and Legal Issues
How to Get Certified as a Personal Trainer with AFPA
Enroll Today
Flexible payment plans with 0% interest and no credit checks are available. Once enrolled, get immediate access to your online classroom.
Complete Your Online Program
Complete your self-paced, 100% online course in your own time from anywhere, and separately fulfill your CPR/AED training requirement through an in-person certification.
Pass Your Exam
Your final exam is an online, open-note exam. 93% of AFPA graduates pass their final exam on the first try.
130000+ students certified
30+ years of excellence in education
98.9% student satisfaction
What Other Students Are Saying
FAQs
How is AFPA different from other certifications? Answer
Most certifications stop at theory. At AFPA, we give you the tools, resources, and business strategies to help you launch and run a thriving personal training career from day one.
With expert-led content and ready-to-use resources like exercise libraries, sample programs, and hands-on business strategies, we make sure you’re ready to train clients and build your business from the moment you’re certified.
We’ve also ditched the textbook in favor of video content and engaging online learning activities to help you retain our leading curriculum better.
What qualifications are needed to enroll and get certified? Answer
Personal Trainer Enrollment Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Have a solid understanding of the English language.
- Have a high school diploma.
Certification Requirements:
- Before you take your final exam, you will need to submit proof of CPR/AED certification (training not included with enrollment).
- You need a minimum final exam grade of 85% to pass.
You will be able to retest with a $75 fee.
After successful completion, you will earn your Personal Trainer Certification.
Are textbooks included in my enrollment fee? Answer
This course is 100% online with no textbooks required.
What support is available during the program? Answer
AFPA is committed to your success. Throughout the Personal Trainer Certification program, you’ll have unlimited student support. Email or chat with our responsive, experienced educational advisors as you progress through your learning journey. Our dedicated team is also available to help you with any technical questions, account questions, or administrative needs.
Once you graduate, you will gain access to AFPA’s Insider Community where you can connect with fellow graduates to share tips, ask questions, and build your professional network.
What is the AFPA personal trainer certification exam like? Answer
The AFPA final exam is open-note and includes 100 multiple-choice questions.
You must earn 85% or higher to pass your final exam. However, if you don’t pass the certification exam on your first try, you may retake it for a retest fee of $75.00.
Pass rates for the final exam are 93%.
How fast can I get my personal trainer certification? Answer
The speed at which you can obtain your AFPA Certified Personal Trainer certification depends on several factors, including your individual circumstances, educational background, study habits, and commitment. However, most individuals can achieve certification competence in less than six months when dedicating 7-10 hours of study per week.
Do you offer payment plans? Answer
AFPA offers flexible, interest-free payment plans without credit checks or added fees. Simply select your payment plan options upon enrollment. Learn more about payment plans.
Will gyms hire me if I’m certified through AFPA? Answer
Yes! AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification is widely recognized and respected in the fitness industry. Our graduates have successfully secured positions at major gyms, boutique fitness studios, and even launched their own businesses.
In addition to being qualified, our program equips you with practical skills, in-depth knowledge, and a strong foundation in exercise science, which gyms and fitness centers value. Many of our students report that the comprehensive education they received gives them a competitive edge in the job market.
Still unsure? We encourage you to check with specific gyms in your area to confirm they accept AFPA certification.
Do I need CPR/AED training to work as a personal trainer? Answer
CPR/AED training ensures you’re prepared to handle emergency situations, which is an essential skill for working with clients in any fitness environment.
If you’re pursuing AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification, you’ll need to obtain your CPR/AED certification before taking the final exam. This is a standard requirement to ensure all graduates are fully equipped to provide a safe and professional training experience.
Will I need to re-certify my personal trainer certification? Answer
Yes, AFPA’s Personal Trainer Certification must be renewed every two years to ensure you stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and practices. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to complete 16.0 AFPA Continuing Education Credits (CECs) within the two-year period.
Once you’ve met the CEC requirement, simply fill out the renewal form and submit it along with the renewal fee. This process ensures your certification remains active and demonstrates your commitment to ongoing professional development.
AFPA offers a variety of CEC courses to help you expand your knowledge and meet the renewal requirements, so you can continue to grow as a fitness professional.
Have More Questions?
Talk to an AFPA Enrollment Specialist.
Our knowledgeable team is here to provide you with the answers and details you need, helping you feel confident in your decision every step of the way.
Flexible Payment Plans with 0% Interest — No Credit Check Required!
With AFPA’s in-house payment plans, you can pay as you go with no interest and no credit check. Spread the cost of your certification over time with the flexibility to choose a plan that works best for your budget.
