Becoming a certified personal trainer is a great decision that can lead to a rewarding career in health and fitness. Among various certification programs, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) stands out as a respected and well-rounded option. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the ISSA Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) program, covering its curriculum, costs, exam details, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your career.
What Is ISSA?
Founded in 1988, the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) has been a leader in fitness education, offering certifications and courses that help individuals gain the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the fitness industry. ISSA aims to connect 100 million people to healthy living by 2030, with a focus on education and community to promote global health and wellness.
Overview of the ISSA Certified Personal Trainer Program
The ISSA CPT program provides aspiring personal trainers with a strong foundation in exercise science, client assessments, program design, and professional conduct. The curriculum covers a variety of essential topics, including:
- Exercise Technique and Demonstration: Learning the correct form and technique to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Exercise Science Foundations: Gaining knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology to guide training practices.
- Client Assessment and Program Design: Learning how to assess client needs and develop personalized fitness plans.
- Motivation and Client Relations: Building strategies to motivate clients and establish strong professional relationships.
- Business Skills for Trainers: Acquiring essential skills to manage and grow a personal training business.
Course Structure and Materials
ISSA offers several study packages to meet different learning preferences and career goals. Each package includes access to online textbooks, video lectures, workbooks, and practice quizzes. The available packages are:
- Fitness Coach Package: Includes the CPT course, one specialization course of your choice, and a HIIT training course.
- Elite Trainer Package: Includes everything in the Fitness Coach Package, plus a nutritionist certification.
- Master Trainer Package: Includes all features of the Elite Trainer Package, plus the “Certify for Life” option, which waives renewal fees and offers discounts on continuing education units (CEUs).
Costs and Financing Options
The cost of the ISSA CPT program varies based on the chosen package:
- Fitness Coach Package: Around $948, with financing options starting at $79 per month for 12 months.
- Elite Trainer Package: About $999, with monthly payments starting at $83.25.
- Master Trainer Package: Around $1,799, with financing starting at $149 per month.
ISSA offers interest-free financing for up to 12 months, making it easier to manage the cost over time. Prices may change, so it’s best to check the ISSA website for the latest details.
Exam Structure and Passing Criteria
The exam for ISSA’s certification is unique:
- Format: The final exam consists of 160 multiple-choice questions.
- Passing Score: A minimum score of 75% is needed to pass.
- Time Limit: The exam is open-book and untimed, allowing you to refer to your study materials as needed.
- Retake Policy: If you don’t pass on your first try, ISSA offers a free retake to support your success.
Accreditation and Recognition
ISSA’s CPT program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), ensuring it meets high standards of quality and is recognized by employers and fitness professionals globally. This accreditation boosts the value of the certification in the job market.
Reviews and Feedback from Certified Trainers
Many graduates of the ISSA CPT program have shared their experiences:
- Positive Feedback: Many appreciate the comprehensive curriculum and the flexibility of the open-book, untimed exam, which allows them to fully understand the material.
- Constructive Criticism: Some believe that while the program covers many important areas, certain topics could benefit from deeper coverage, especially when compared to specialized certifications.
- Job Placement: Many graduates report securing jobs in gyms and fitness centers soon after earning their certification, thanks to the solid preparation from ISSA’s training materials.
Who Should Consider the ISSA CPT Program?
The ISSA CPT program is ideal for:
- Aspiring Personal Trainers: Those looking for a flexible, thorough certification that fits various learning styles.
- Current Fitness Professionals: Trainers who want to expand their knowledge and earn a respected credential.
- Entrepreneurs: People interested in starting their own personal training business, with business skills included in the curriculum.
However, if you want to specialize in training athletes or focus on strength and conditioning, you might want to explore additional certifications tailored to those areas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of essential topics for a successful personal training career.
- Flexible Learning: The online format allows you to study at your own pace and on your schedule.
- Financial Accessibility: With different packages and financing options, the program is accessible to a wide range of individuals.
- High Pass Rate: The open-book, untimed exam contributes to a high pass rate, reflecting the program’s effectiveness.
Cons:
- Cost: The program can be more expensive compared to some other certifications, particularly if you choose advanced packages.
- Depth of Content: While the program covers many areas, some may find that it doesn’t go into as much depth as specialized certifications, requiring additional study for certain niches.
Conclusion
The ISSA Certified Personal Trainer program offers a strong foundation for those entering the fitness industry or looking to enhance their credentials. Its comprehensive curriculum, flexible learning options, and reputable accreditation make it a solid investment for many. Before enrolling, it’s important to consider how well the program aligns with your career goals and areas of interest. Talking to current ISSA-certified professionals and reading additional reviews can provide further clarity on how this certification will support your professional journey.
FAQ’s
How long does it take to complete the ISSA Personal Trainer Certification?
You can complete it at your own pace—most finish within 10–12 weeks.
Is the ISSA certification recognized internationally?
Yes, ISSA is globally recognized and accredited by the NCCA.
Do I need any prior experience to enroll in the ISSA CPT program?
No prior experience is needed—it’s designed for all fitness levels.
Is the ISSA exam open book and online?
Yes, the final exam is open-book, untimed, and taken online.
Does ISSA help with job placement after certification?
Yes, ISSA offers a job guarantee or your money back within 6 months.