getting certified through school

[wilwn]

http://www.recreation.ucla.edu/recreate/fit_sub.aspx?main=7&sub=127&mymenu=6

thinking about doing this. it is a bit expensive just to get the NSCA-CPT, but participating in a program is probably easier. what do y'all think?

 

[P-funk]

As long as gym's accept it. I have never heard of it though. The NSCA-CPT is the most recognizable my gyms.

 

[CowPimp]

$450 isn't really that much more expensive than just buying the textbook and taking the exam. That would total like $400 right there (About 300-350 for the exam and 70 or so for the textbook). Unless they are saying $450 + 300 for the exam too. It's up to you if you feel like you need the classes to gain the knowledge.

 

[P-funk]

Still, I would do NASM and go to the workshop, or even one of the NSCA workshops.

 

[GoalGetter]

At the end of the program, FLP'ers take the nationally recognized NSCA exam ($300). In addition to this test, FLP'ers take an in-house practical exam and perform and audtion.

If i read that right, that program culminates in the participants taking the NSCA certification exam IN ADDITION TO whatever the UCLA people administer. So you get both. Am i understanding correctly? If that IS the case, then this is an excellent idea because you get a program, participate with others, learn hands-on and then take a nationally recognized certification exam. Not only that, you get to be considered for a position at UCLA. I don't see a problem with that. totally worth the $450 IF that is what i understood from the description page.

 

[P-funk]

yea, if that is the case it sounds like a great program!

 

[wilwn]

yeah, it's $750 total, CP.

and yeah, you end up taking the NSCA exam at the end, p.

EDIT: there's a group interview process. i hope they're not too selective, because i have a blank resume and terrible interview skills to boot.

 

[wilwn]

hey CP, did you take your exam yet?

 

[CowPimp]

hey CP, did you take your exam yet?

Yeah, I got certified a few months ago. Wasn't too terribly hard. I had learned a lot of stuff outside of the textbook already via a combination of my schooling and extracurricular reading though. Some people say it was pretty hard. Knowing some basic anatomy helps a lot (Joint articulations and muscle name), which a lot of people lack.

 

[Deeznuts]

Gyms really don't care about what certification you have. It's all about the quality of training you provide. You could have a degree in kineseology and biochem as well as an expensive certification, and someone certified from the local "Y" may be a better trainer.

I personally got certified through ISSA. I learned a lot and enjoy applying the knowledge.

 

[CowPimp]

Gyms really don't care about what certification you have. It's all about the quality of training you provide. You could have a degree in kineseology and biochem as well as an expensive certification, and someone certified from the local "Y" may be a better trainer.

I personally got certified through ISSA. I learned a lot and enjoy applying the knowledge.

Well said. Nonetheless, having a certification can certainly help if you are a good trainer AND more qualified regarding credentials.

 

[Deeznuts]

Oh yes, i'm not shying away from that point In order to be considered a legitimate personal trainer, a certification IS neeeded.

 

[wilwn]

Yeah, I got certified a few months ago. Wasn't too terribly hard. I had learned a lot of stuff outside of the textbook already via a combination of my schooling and extracurricular reading though. Some people say it was pretty hard. Knowing some basic anatomy helps a lot (Joint articulations and muscle name), which a lot of people lack.

good to hear. you deserve it.

 

[CowPimp]

good to hear. you deserve it.

Thanks for the kind words.