ACSM/NCHPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer

UPDATE: In August, 2012, the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD) announced the organization's new official name, the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD).

Empower those who are challenged by physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) in collaboration with the The National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD) has developed a specialty certification for fitness professionals. Become an ACSM/NCHPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer, and give clients the knowledge and support to lead a healthy and comfortable lifestyle.

What will I be able to do as an ACSM/NCHPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer?

Utilize safe, effective and adapted methods of exercise training.
Provide adapted exercise recommendations with an understanding of exercise precautions for people with disabilities.
Provide services with an understanding of current ADA policy specific to recreation facilities (U.S. Access Board Guidelines) and standards for accessible facility design.
Utilize motivational techniques and provide instruction to individuals with disabilities to begin and continue healthy lifestyles.

What qualifications are necessary?

All of the following requirements must be met:

Current ACSM Certification or a current NCCA-accredited, health/fitness-related certification (e.g., ACE, NCSF, NASM, NFPT, NSCA, Cooper Institute, etc.)
OR
Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Recreation Therapy,OR Adapted Physical Education
AND
Current Adult CPR/AED (with hands-on practical skills component)

What study materials are available to help me prepare?

CIFT Optional Resources CIFT FAQs CIFT Knowledge, Skills and Abilities CIFT Competency Areas/Exam Blueprint

Are webinars available?

To meet your busy lifestyle, we now offer exam preparation webinars; a virtual classroom from your personal computer.

Six-session webinar series fee: $240

Individual webinar session fee: $45

Click here for more information about the ACSM/NCHPAD CIFT webinar.

How much does the exam cost?

Non-ACSM Certified Candidates...................	$195
ACSM Certified Candidates..........................	$150
Re-test.......................................................	$125

How do I register to take the exam?

All ACSM certification examinations are administered by our testing partner, Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE provides over 5,000 computer-based testing centers throughout the world.

Click here to register for any ACSM exam with Pearson VUE

ACSM Certified Professionals - be sure to get your certified pro discount voucher before registering for the exam by emailing the ACSM Certification Department at certification@acsm.org.

What other information do I need to be aware of?

The ACSM Candidate Handbook has information about, but not limited to, the following:

Exam administration
Code of Ethics
Non-discrimination policy
Disability policy
Complaint policy
Appeals policy

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions

What is required to maintain my certification?

To maintain your CIFT certification, you will need to accumulate at least 15 CECs/CEUs within a 3-year cycle, maintain CPR certification, and pay the $25 recertification fee.

Click here for more information about recertification

ACSM Certification Resource Guide

Sign-up here!