NSCA Certification: Well Worth it!

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If you love fitness, or are a coach and crave learning all the new scientifically proven ways to take training and performance to the next level, then this is the certification for you.

What is the NSCA?

The NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association), headquartered in Colorado Springs, CO, is an international non-profit educational association founded in 1978 that serves virtually 30,000 members in 52 countries. By utilizing its vast network of members (including professionals from sports science, allied heath, athletic, and fitness industries), the organization develops and presents the most advanced information out there for strength and conditioning, prevention of injuries, and research findings. The goal of the NSCA is to improve athletic performance and fitness, through utilization of proper strength and conditioning. The core of their mission is to bridge the gap between the scientist in the laboratory and the practitioner in the field.

What NSCA Certifications Can I Obtain?

There are two certifications that can be obtained through the NSCA; Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and NSCA-CPT (Certified Personal Trainer).

Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS): A CSCS applies scientific knowledge to train athletes with the primary goal of improving athletic performance. Sport specific testing, program design, nutrition guidance, and injury prevention are all duties a CSCS will perform, including referring athletes to appropriate professionals when needed.

Prerequisites:

• BA/BS degree or Chiropractic medicine degree from accredited institution
• Be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited college or university
• CPR or AED certification
• Pass CSCS examination ( Approximate exam Cost for Members : Pencil/Paper,$260; Computer, $310)

NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer (CPT): These professionals personally train clients on an individual basis by assessing, motivating, educating, and training regarding their health and fitness needs. Duties may include program planning, guidance in obtaining goals, and proper response in emergency situations, as well as referring clients to appropriate professionals when necessary.

Prerequisites:

• 18 years old
• High School Diploma
• CPR or AED certified
• Pass NSCA-CPT examination (Approximate exam Cost for Members: Pencil/Paper, $235; Computer: $285)

Why Should I Join?

Upon becoming a member of the NSCA, you will have access to the most advanced techniques, the most current strength and conditioning practices and injury prevention methods, and the latest research on everything in the field. You will have access to publications, web-site, career resources, specialized conferences, networking, association involvement, education, scholarships and grants, certifications, professional recognition, insurance options, and the NSCA catalog.

There are three choices of possible membership options:

1. Professional: Eligible to certified CSCS and NSCA-CPT individuals.
Annual membership cost: $135.

2. Student: Eligible to full-time undergraduate and graduate students.
Annual membership cost: $95.

3. Associate: Eligible to all non-certified (CSCS and NSCA-CPT) individuals. Limited benefits and perks.
Annual membership cost: $19.95 (special!)

Click here to see full list of membership benefits.

What can the NSCA Certification Do for My Career?

Certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is internationally respected and widely accepted and recognized. CSCS and NSCA-CPT certifications are the first nationally accredited certifications in the fitness industry. As a member of the NSCA, you will be enveloped by the finest group of people in the profession which is great for networking and providing an avenue for advancement in the field. With the opportunity to participate in online message boards, inclusion in a membership directory, and the chance to become involved with special interest groups and local chapters, the NSCA will afford you indispensable information and contacts within your specialty. YOU will become an EXPERT in the field.

National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA): http://www.nsca-lift.org/

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"Any change requires an initial period of discomfort until the body adjusts to the new demand." - Author unknown