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Want to become a personal trainer in Colorado?
Finding the right certification can make all the difference in your career. This article breaks down the top options for Personal Trainer Certification in Colorado, highlighting their unique features and benefits.
Get ready to kickstart your fitness career with the best certification for your needs.
Community College of Denver – Personal Trainer Program
The Community College of Denver (CCD) offers a dynamic Personal Trainer Program. This program allows you to earn college credit while preparing for a career in health, wellness, and fitness.
Program Highlights:
- Flexibility: The CCD program is available both online and in-class.
- Stackable Credits: Courses can be applied towards an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Health and Exercise Science.
- Transfer Opportunities: Credits can be transferred to Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver) for a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.
- Certification Preparation: Completion of the program makes you eligible for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam.
- Federal Aid: The Health and Exercise Science AAS degree is eligible for federal student aid, although the certificate alone is not.
- Hybrid Learning: Up to 75% of the curriculum is available online or hybrid.
Admission Requirements:
- You need to be at least 18 years old.
- A high school diploma or GED is required.
- Completion of a CPR course with AED training is mandatory.
Integrating academic rigors and practical skills, CCD’s Personal Trainer Program is an excellent pathway for those looking to advance in personal training.
Personal Trainer Certification US – Personal Trainer Career Diploma
Personal Trainer Certification US offers an entirely online Personal Trainer Career Diploma program. This program is ideal if you aim to establish a career in personal fitness and nutrition.
Program Features:
- Online Learning: Convenience and flexibility with 100% online study materials.
- Comprehensive Content: Topics include strength and conditioning, fitness theory, human anatomy, biomechanics, weight management, and sports nutrition.
- National Recognition: Certification from this program is nationally recognized and critical for job applications in the field.
- Certification Recognition: Recognizes ten certifications from organizations like the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
- Career Support: Job opportunities in prestigious fitness clubs across Colorado such as RockStar Fitness and Colorado Athletic Club.
- Financial Benefits: On average, corporate personal trainers in Colorado earn around $43,000 annually with benefits like gym memberships and equipment allowances.
Using a flexible learning pathway, this program prepares you thoroughly for a personal training career by ensuring you meet industry standards.
National Personal Training Institute – Personal Trainer Certification Program
The National Personal Training Institute (NationalPTI) offers a standout 500-hour certification program. Their hybrid and virtual learning options cater to different needs and schedules.
Program Structure:
- Theoretical Instruction: 300 hours covering Anatomy & Physiology, Posture/Movement Analysis, Nutrition, Business Practices, and Program Design.
- Practical Training: 200 hours at a local gym or fitness center.
- State-Licensed Diploma: Provides a certification that never expires, along with a Nutrition Certificate.
- NASM Partnership: Offers the NASM CPT course, exam, and Academic Hands-On Certificate of Distinction.
- Daily Interactive Sessions: Combines Zoom lectures with hands-on practical sessions to maximize learning.
Being the oldest and largest personal training school in North America ensures that NationalPTI offers a robust and reputable education for aspiring personal trainers.
University of Colorado Boulder – Fitness Leadership Program
The Fitness Leadership Program at the University of Colorado Boulder prepares you for the American Council on Exercise (ACE) Personal Training Certification Exam.
Program Details:
- Focused Curriculum: Offers both practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for certification.
- Course Content: Includes program design, human anatomy, and physiology.
- All-Inclusive Fee: The program fee covers essential textbooks and study materials.
- Upcoming Availability: The course is set to return in Fall 2024.
Stay updated on registration dates and attend informational meetings for additional details. This program ensures you receive a well-rounded education in both theoretical and practical aspects of personal training.
Colorado Mesa University – Personal Training Program
Colorado Mesa University (CMU) offers a minor and a professional certificate in Personal Training. Both options are designed to provide a thorough grounding in personal fitness training.
Program Offerings:
- Credit Requirements: The minor requires at least 33% of credits at the 300-course level or above.
- GPA Standards: The professional certificate mandates a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00.
- Essential Certifications: A CPR/First Aid Certification is required for graduation.
- Departmental Oversight: Offered through CMU’s Department of Kinesiology, which also provides programs in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Health Promotion.
With hands-on training and real-world internships, CMU’s program ensures you are well-prepared for a career in personal fitness.
University of Northern Colorado – Personal Training Prep Course
The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) delivers Personal Training and Group Fitness Instructor Prep Courses. These 8-week courses are grounded in American Council on Exercise (ACE) standards.
Personal Training Prep Course:
- Key Topics: Exercise science, nutrition, coaching techniques, rapport building, assessments, and exercise prescription.
- Certification Readiness: Prepares you for nationally accredited certification exams.
- Campus Opportunities: Provides pathways to apply for personal training positions at UNC Campus Recreation.
Group Fitness Instructor Prep Course:
- Comprehensive Content: Covers cuing, class design, and various fitness formats such as strength, cardio, dance, and cycling.
- Specialized Areas: Completion offers options for further certification and employment at UNC Campus Recreation.
For more information, you can reach out via [email protected].
In the next sections, you will find additional high-quality certification programs in Colorado.
UC Denver – Personal Trainer Certification Course
UC Denver’s Personal Trainer Certification Course is an intensive 8- to 10-week program that equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become an ACE-certified personal trainer.
Program Features:
- Lecture Sessions: Engage in classroom settings to learn the core principles of personal training.
- Practical Applications: Participate in hands-on activities to apply what you’ve learned.
- Certification Exam Prep: The course is specifically designed to prepare you for the American Council on Exercise (ACE) examination.
- Materials Included: Your registration fee covers essential study materials, including textbooks.
Career Opportunities:
- Post-Certification: Upon completing the course and passing the ACE certification exam, you may audition for personal trainer positions at the Student Wellness Center.
- Pay and Benefits: Starting pay is $20 per hour, offering a solid income base for new trainers.
Learn more about the specifics of UC Denver’s program and how to enroll on their official page.
Colorado State University – Personal Fitness Training (PFT)
Colorado State University’s Personal Fitness Training (PFT) course is a non-credit 10-week program aimed at preparing you for the ACE personal trainer exam.
Key Components:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers fitness assessment, exercise programming, and nutrition.
- Mock Client Coaching: Gain practical experience by guiding a mock client through a fitness plan.
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from seasoned professionals who provide ongoing support and mentorship.
Career Prospects:
- On-Campus Opportunities: Upon completion, you can apply for personal training positions within Campus Recreation.
- Skill Application: The hands-on experience ensures you can confidently apply your skills in real-world scenarios.
Explore more about Colorado State University’s PFT program and registration details on their official website.
University of Colorado – Personal Trainer Preparation Course
The University of Colorado’s Personal Trainer Preparation Course is meticulously designed to prepare you for the ACE certification exam.
Program Structure:
- 10-Week Duration: A well-paced program that aligns theoretical learning with practical exercises.
- Comprehensive Instruction: Addresses key areas such as fitness assessment, exercise programming, nutrition, and coaching techniques.
- Flexibility: The course schedule accommodates different commitments, making it easier to balance with other responsibilities.
Benefits:
- ACE Affiliation: Being associated with ACE, a leading certification body, enhances your certification’s prestige.
- Career Advancement: Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further specialties and certifications, increasing earning potential.
Gain more insights about the University of Colorado’s certification course here.
Pikes Peak State College – Certified Personal Trainer Prep Course
Pikes Peak State College offers a Certified Personal Trainer Prep Course that equips you for national certification and a career in personal training.
Course Attributes:
- Practical Skills Training: Focuses on developing exercise programs and leading group classes for diverse populations.
- CPR/AED Certification: Includes a two-year American Heart Association (AHA) certification.
- One-Semester Duration: Efficiently packed into one semester as part of the Health, Wellness, and Fitness AAS Degree.
Professional Pathways:
- Wellness Coaching: Prepares you for roles that combine fitness training and wellness coaching, broadening your career options.
- Job Readiness: The comprehensive curriculum ensures you are job-ready upon graduation.
To learn more about this program, visit Pikes Peak State College’s dedicated page.
Choosing the Right Personal Trainer Certification in Colorado
When deciding on the best personal trainer certification in Colorado, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is nationally recognized by organizations such as NASM or ACE.
- Cost vs. Benefits: Evaluate the total cost of the program, including materials and exam fees, against potential career gains.
- Curriculum: Look for a curriculum that covers essential topics such as anatomy, exercise science, program design, and nutrition.
- Duration: Choose a program length that fits your timeline and allows for adequate preparation.
- Career Support: Programs that offer job placement assistance or internships can provide valuable experience and job opportunities.
- Reviews and Testimonials: Reach out to alumni or current students to get a sense of the program’s strengths and weaknesses.
By thoroughly researching these aspects, you can choose the certification program that best aligns with your career goals and lifestyle.
Personal Trainer Certification By State
Final Thoughts on Personal Trainer Certification in Colorado
Selecting the right program for Personal Trainer Certification in Colorado is a crucial step toward a rewarding career in fitness. With numerous reputable options available, such as those offered by Community College of Denver, National Personal Training Institute, and University of Colorado, you are well on your way to becoming a certified personal trainer. Take the next step to explore your options and get started on your path today.