Certified Personal Trainer Workshop FAQs

Upon registration for a select workshop, each candidate is sent a course materials package consisting of the Certified Personal Trainer Course Textbook, Certified Personal Trainer Study Guide manual, Certified Personal Trainer Workshop Reference Guide, step-by-step lesson plan, NCSF Concepts of Training CD-ROM and the NCSF Personal Training Technique & Assessment DVD Video. These materials systematically teach the course participant the science behind sound fitness training and exercise programming.

The workshop is two days of high-energy instruction consisting of interactive lecture, and practical, hands-on training. Taught by master/doctoral-leveled, NCSF-certified instructors, the workshop is used to review and reinforce exam content areas and provide students the opportunity to put theory into practice. Under close supervision from experts in the field, students will: engage in screening and programming case studies, perform assessments, learn proper biomechanics and training instruction, and practice resistance training activities for multiple outcomes.

The course materials package consists of the Course Textbook, Study Guide, Workshop Reference Guide, Step-By-Step Lesson Plan, Concepts of Training CD-ROM, and the NCSF Technique and Assessment Video. All the notes for the class and activities performed in the workshop are provided for you so that you can fully engage the program and capture all the benefits of supervised instruction.

The NCSF recommends registering a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks before the start of a selected workshop. This will help ensure your spot is reserved in the course (workshops often fill up) but also allow also provides preparation time with the course materials prior to participating in your selected workshop.

Workshops are conducted on weekends and run from 9:00 am to approximately 5:00 pm.

The workshop consists of both interactive PowerPoint lectures and practical hands-on training exercises. NCSF instructors will lead the class through a review of the technical aspects of exercise science theory and combine the theory with practical training activities. This unique approach to teaching better assists the candidate with comprehension and retention of key exercise principles. The Course Overview lists all of the topics and practicals covered within the course.

Workshops are offered at select fitness facilities, as well as colleges and universities around the country. To view a complete workshop calendar, visit the Workshop Calendar section.

The workshop is used as an assistive educational tool for candidates looking to earn the NCSF Personal Trainer credential. Once a candidate completes the workshop course (preparation and workshop participation) they should be adequately prepared to take and pass the NCSF Personal Trainer Exam.

The examination is administered by appointment at over 400 state-of-the-art Prometric testing center locations throughout the United States and Canada. To take the exam, candidates must first register using either the online registration process or through the mail by completing a registration form. The exam is comprised of 150 questions and students need to earn a passing score to earn the NCSF Personal Trainer credential. For more information visit the Exam Policies and Procedures section of the website.

Upon successful completion of the NCSF Personal Trainer Exam you will receive a complete certification package. Included in your package will be a certificate suitable for framing, which indicates that you have met the certification standards set forth by The National Council on Strength and Fitness Board for Certification and have earned the title of NCSF Certified Personal Trainer. You will also receive an accompanying wallet sized professional membership card signifying your certified status, and CEU information. This package will be forwarded to you within two weeks of passing the Personal Trainer Exam.

The price for the NCSF Workshop Course is just $299.00. This price includes the two day workshop, one year membership (a $65.00 value), and all course materials: Course Textbook, Study Guide, Workshop Reference Guide, Step-By-Step Lesson Plan, Concepts of Training CD-ROM and Technique and Assessment Video.

Once you have decided which workshop you would like to participate in you can download an information brochure and send a check or money order to the NCSF, or contact the NCSF directly at 800-772-NCSF(6273) and register over the phone using a credit card.