How Much Does NASM Certification Cost?

Today, we’ll show you a comprehensive review of the NASM certification to give you insight into the certification along with the cost. By the end of the review, you will be able to decide whether NASM certification is worth it or not for you.

 This detailed review of NASM certification cost will be based on

  •         Pros and Cons of NASM certification
  •         Academic Partner School of NASM
  •         Recertification by NASM

 NASM certification- General overview

NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) certification is one of the most widely accepted certifications right now. Apart from the general course, NASM also offers several study packages on specializations like CES, PES, FNS, etc.

The certification focuses on corrective exercise training that helps clients who live a sedentary lifestyle or suffer from post-rehab problems.

Going by the present situation where most clients seek help from trainers for obesity and health issues resulting from a sedentary lifestyle, this certification can help trainers go a long way.

 Pros of NASM certification

  •         NASM certification is well recognized in the fitness industry.
  •         NASM offers a wide range of study packages
  •         Exclusive study materials
  •         NASM focuses on the OPT model of training that is beneficial to help clients with common issues.
  •         Apart from the fitness training course, NASM also guides you on developing your business as a trainer.
  •         Certification includes in-depth knowledge of corrective and functional training.

 Cons of NASM certification

  •         NASM certification costs are the highest in the industry. Almost all of the packages they offer are on the higher end.
  •         Exam can be difficult to qualify when compared with other certifications. 

NASM OPT Model

NASM follows the Optimum Performance Training or OPT model program. This program is categorized into 5 phases.

The first phase is the stabilization phase where the study is focused on correcting muscle imbalances. This is crucial because most clients that come for help are suffering from weight issues.

Correcting the muscular imbalance before strength training can save clients from injuries. Here NASM hits the bull's eye with their training module. The training involves jogging, walking, biking, and swimming.

The second phase is about strength training. This mainly includes weight-lifting workouts.

The third phase involves hypertrophy. This includes workouts that help in muscle-building.

The fourth phase is maximal strength training. Workouts involve squats and similar exercises to assess the strength of the client.

The final phase involves power training. This is a combination of both powerlifting and body-building exercises.

The 5-phase OPT model of NASM certification helps trainers to systematically improve the health and lifestyle of their clients.

This OPT model by NASM is effective in reducing obesity, building muscle strength, and muscle mass.  

NASM certification cost  

NASM offers certification in 4 CPT programs. These programs range from basic to specific specializations. We will discuss the cost of each program along with the benefits. Take a look at the details given below.

Self-study package

This is a basic and the most budget-friendly package that costs $699. You can get a discounted rate of $524.

Benefits:

  •         Qualified trainers will receive NCCA accreditation
  •         Video lectures
  •         Textbook
  •         Practice exams
  •         Workout library
  •         Practice questions and quizzes
  •         Study guide

 

Self-study premium package

This is the second NASM CPT package that costs $1099. You can find it at a discounted rate of $824. The program includes everything from the self-study package along with some extras.

 Benefits

  •         Videos on Correcting form
  •         Activities on Anatomy Memorization
  •         Flashcard bundles
  •         Learning activities

 

Guided study program

This is the third CPT program by NASM that allows direct access to the team of mentors. This means every candidate will be allotted a personal mentor throughout the course. The cost of the program is usually $1,499 but drops to as low as $1,024.

 Benefits

  •         Educational webinars and study materials
  •         9 discussion question
  •         Direct access to a mentor
  •         Exam prep question
  •         Live workshop
  •         Hard Copy of NASM CPT textbook

 

All-inclusive program

This is the most exclusive package that guarantees a job offer from NASM. It also has a money-back guarantee in case the qualified candidate fails to land a job within 90-days of passing the exam. The cost of this program is $2199. The discounted rate drops to $1649.

 Benefits

  •         As the name suggests it has everything that is included in other packages
  •         NASM job offer after completing "Gymternship"
  •         Hands-on training by experts

Academic Partner School of NASM

If any candidate feels the NASM curriculum is a bit overwhelming, here is another great solution. NASM has devised a way to get the certification covered with academic partner schools.

These schools offer top-rated fitness training in a live setting. Here candidates receive hands-on training from experts or gyms that are approved by NASM. 

This procedure helps to prepare the candidates in all the core areas that the NASM curriculum focuses on. Candidates receive training on program designs, body movement, and functional assessment.

This practical training experience is worth it because it prepares candidates as personal trainers even before qualifying for the NASM test.

Recertification by NASM

NASM personal trainer certification is valid for 2 years from the date of qualifying for the test. This means NASM CPTs need to continue to get recertified every 2 years.

NASM recertification cost is $99 which also includes education continuation proof. 

NASM allows the CPTs to pay a lifetime recertification cost at once so you don’t have to pay $99 every 2 years. The cost for this is $329.

This is a profitable deal if you are planning to grow in your career as a personal trainer for years to come.

Also, a college degree in exercise science can be used as credit for continuing Education Units. You just need to submit the transcript along with your application for recertification, that's all.

If you want to renew your certification through a course from another organization that is not approved by NASM, then you have to pay $25 to NASM to get those CEUs verified.

Additionally, if you want to stay grounded in your profession as a personal trainer, it is a good idea to go for specialized courses. You can choose your area of specialization according to your style of training. These courses can be on strength training and conditioning, nutrition, and health. These courses will quickly give you credits on CEUs.

Final thoughts

NASM was named to our top 5 list for best personal training certification. On top of the NASM certification, keep in mind you will also need professional liability insurance and customer management software if you plan on going out on your own and being successful. 

NASM certification cost comes in a range of packages with different areas of learning. Pick the option that works best for you and your career.