National Academy of Sports Medicine Launches New Course: Introduction to Personal Fitness Training

New Program Provides Foundation for Successful Personal Training Career

The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM; www.nasm.org), a leader in fitness training certification, announced today the release of its new Introduction to Personal Fitness Training (IPFT) course. The new program serves as an entry point into exploring a career in personal training. The Introduction to Personal Fitness Training course also serves as a precursor to NASM's signature Certified Personal Training course, which is considered the gold standard in the health and fitness industry.

Previously known as Foundations for the Health and Fitness Professional, the new IPFT course provides expert instruction on the fundamentals of personal training and covers core concepts in flexibility, stabilization, resistance, cardiorespiratory and overall wellness -- all based on NASM's proprietary Optimum Performance Training methodology. The IPFT course also features new information including:

-- Introduction to the Fitness Industry

-- Getting Started as a Certified Personal Trainer

-- Becoming a Successful Health & Fitness Professional

-- Weight Control and Lifestyle Modification

Designed with convenience in mind, the IPFT course is delivered entirely online and includes in-depth flash presentations, video exercise demonstrations, anatomical and conditioning photos, training technique charts, safety illustrations and printable course materials. The course experience is further enhanced through the NASM eLearning Center which offers the ability to take quizzes and exams online.

The IPFT course is an ideal resource for new graduates looking to jumpstart a career in the personal training industry, or for established professionals passionate about fitness and considering a second career as a certified personal trainer.

"Because of the increased importance placed on physical fitness by both individuals and employers, there are incredible career opportunities in the personal training industry," said NASM President and CEO Dr. Micheal Clark. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the demand for personal trainers is expected to grow 27 percent by 2016.*

"With our new IPFT program, NASM provides those exploring a career as a personal fitness trainer with a solid foundation based on evidence-based research and proven results, all backed by the thousands of NASM certified trainers around the world helping their clients live healthier lives," said Dr. Clark.

For more information about NASM's new Introduction to Personal Fitness Training course or how to start an exciting career as an NASM certified personal fitness trainer, visit www.nasm.org or call 1-800-460-NASM, ext. 5501.

*U.S. Department of Labor (www.bls.gov/oco/ocos296.htm)

About NASM:

Since 1987, the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) has been a leader in personal trainer certification, continuing education, solutions and tools for health, fitness, sports performance and sports medicine professionals. Today, NASM serves more than 100,000 members in 80 countries. In addition to its evidence-based NCCA-accredited fitness Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certification, NASM also offers a progressive career track with access to Advanced Specializations, Continuing Education courses, and accredited Bachelor and Master Degree programs. The NASM educational continuum is designed to help today's health and fitness professional enhance their career while empowering their clients to live healthier lives. For more information, call (800) 460-NASM or visit www.nasm.org.