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Who We Are

The NAFC is proud of our certified instructors. We congratulate the 95% of students who pass our certification process and move forward in achieving their goals as successful fitness professionals! Together we enjoy this high success rate because the NAFC provides you with thorough, in-depth training to prepare you for success before testing. NAFC certification prepares and supports you to thrive, both in your education and professional career.

NAFC Background Information

The National Association for Fitness Certification was established in 1992 to provide scientifically-based, standards-focused education and training for Group Fitness Instructors, Personal Trainers, and Wellness Consultants. The NAFC's combination of demanding standards, practical application of scientific principles, and affordable program pricing have defined it as the most rapidly-expanding certifying organization in the industry today.

The NAFC was established by a forward-thinking group of fitness professionals, representing expertise in fields including Exercise Physiology, Adaptive Physical Education, Medicine and Nursing, and Professional Coaching. Their desire was to enhance current fitness certification standards by providing access to convenient and comprehensive - yet practical and affordable - education and skills.

To this end, the NAFC offers a hands-on practical experience along with a thorough theoretical program, covering the scientific bases of training (anatomy, biomechanics, physiology); motivation (behavior modification techniques, fitness testing); and diet and nutrition (weight management, the energy-balance equation, body composition). Group Fitness Instructors also receive instruction in working with music and leading effective group exercise sessions.

While many trainers and instructors are "certified," often they are not required to demonstrate practical application of the knowledge they received. NAFC certifications surpass the norm, in requiring that all NAFC students pass a practical examination to demonstrate the ability to apply their education not just on paper, but in practice as well.

NAFC Doctrines

The NAFC emphasizes safety, effectiveness and a comprehensive understanding of total fitness:

  • The NAFC evaluates each certification program - from textbooks through exams - on an annual basis, updating the materials as needed. Selected texts are thus ensured to include the most accurate and current information in the industry.
  • The NAFC follows guidelines established by the American College of Sports Medicine, emphasizing practical information with respect to a comprehensive knowledge base.
  • The theoretical components of NAFC Certifications are comprehensive. Students must complete a mandatory workbook, practical (performance) exams, as well as comprehensive written exams with a minimum of 80% accuracy to earn NAFC Certification.
  • NAFC practical exams emphasize skills necessary for effective leadership in specific areas of instruction. Examples include body alignment, exercise technique, safety awareness, exercise testing, muscle groups and actions, execution of proper form and techniques of alignment during muscle isolation exercises.