What You'll Learn
- Master anatomy, physiology, and exercise science fundamentals
- Design customized, goal-based training programs
- Apply behavior change and client motivation strategies
- Learn injury prevention and corrective techniques
- Develop business and marketing skills for lasting success
What's Included
Our curriculum is designed to give you both scientific knowledge and practical skills to excel as a personal trainer. The program covers everything from anatomy and nutrition to business skills.
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100% online learning so you can learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.
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Watch and listen as professionals break down complex concepts into clear, actionable steps in both video and audio formats.
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Searchable and accessible anytime for quick reference.\n
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Reinforce your progress with low-pressure quizzes designed to check your understanding along the way.
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Guided exercises to reinforce key concepts and deepen understanding.
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Perfect your technique with guided demonstrations that ensure client safety.
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Explore a visual library of 250+ exercises to build your skills and confidence.
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Access professional assessment forms, client waivers, and progress tracking templates.
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Access a support team when you need it, from the time you enroll through certification
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Build your online presence and showcase your services to potential clients.
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Network with peers, explore job opportunities, and grow your professional network in our exclusive community.
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Choose the path that best aligns with your career goals: the open-book, untimed ISSA Certification Exam or the proctored NCCA Accredited Exam offered by the ISSA subsidiary the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT). Click here to learn more about the NCCPT and the accredited exam.
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Join weekly live Zoom classes with our experts or watch on-demand recordings.
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Get your questions answered directly by experienced instructors in dedicated sessions.
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Unlock our exclusive framework for creating individualized client programs (also available in select specializations).
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Gain peace of mind knowing your certification comes with the only 100% money-back job guarantee backed by 10,000+ gym partners.
Certification Process
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1Enroll in the Program
Sign up and get immediate access to all course materials and our learning platform.
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2Pass the ISSA Certification Exam
Successfully pass your ISSA certification exam.
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3Upload CPR Card
Included for free in most bundles or also available separately through ISSA!
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4Receive Your Certification
Your hard work pays off - receive your e-Certificate of course completion.
Certified Personal Trainer
4.8(7,003 Reviews) TrustpilotWhat our customers are saying
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Jun 4, 2026
The ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations
The ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations. The material is thorough yet easy to follow, covering everything from exercise science and program design to client communication and business skills. What sets it apart is how practical it is, you finish feeling genuinely ready to work with real clients, not just pass an exam. The flexible online format is perfect for fitness professionals already working in the field.Verified CustomerThe ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations. The material is thorough yet easy to follow, covering everything from exercise science and program de…
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May 22, 2026
Very informative, fair, and I love that I have lifelong access to view all th...
Very informative, fair, and I love that I have lifelong access to view all the materials later. Verified Customer -
Apr 22, 2026
Great product overall
Great product overall. The quality is excellent and it’s very easy to use. Definitely worth the money. Verified Customer -
Apr 8, 2026
I am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover
I am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover. The reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I had to purchase it separately, and it was hard to come up with the money. Would have been best to bill it with my monthly paymentVerified CustomerI am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover. The reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I had to purchase it separately, and it was hard to com…
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Mar 2, 2026
I think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs...
I think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs a CPT must have to be successful in their career. I am ready to take on the journey required to become the best CPT I can be just starting out in this field and I am confident and well equipped with the education that I have gotten from ISSA.Verified CustomerI think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs a CPT must have to be successful in their career. I am ready to take on the journe…
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Feb 26, 2026
I feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology ...
I feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology as a whole. I feel like this is a very safe and easy beginner program for someone looking to learn about wellness.Verified CustomerI feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology as a whole. I feel like this is a very safe and easy beginner program for someone l…
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Feb 26, 2026
Client focused, well informed and carefully created to be a positive manual t...
Client focused, well informed and carefully created to be a positive manual that created wellness and fitness in a accessible way. Verified Customer -
Feb 26, 2026
The tables and pictures would be nice to order as a separate book as referenc...
The tables and pictures would be nice to order as a separate book as references to me as a trainer. I would spend the money to have that on hand. Verified Customer -
Feb 26, 2026
Very easy and straightforward and so many helpful tools to use as well
Very easy and straightforward and so many helpful tools to use as well! Thank you! Verified Customer -
Feb 3, 2026
Nicely organized manual As a former teacher that has had lots of experience w...
Nicely organized manual As a former teacher that has had lots of experience with text books - this was played out well very user friendly. Verified Customer -
Jan 28, 2026
A great program to follow along when I can during my busy work week
A great program to follow along when I can during my busy work week. It is super flexible and the quizzes helped me learn along the way Verified Customer -
Jan 25, 2026
An abundance of information
An abundance of information. I do think the study guide should be in line more with what the final exam will look like. Maybe change the final to resemble the study guide more. I took notes on my own and did the study guide. I would have liked to have spent more time on the most important information I would be using on a daily basis with training.Verified CustomerAn abundance of information. I do think the study guide should be in line more with what the final exam will look like. Maybe change the final to resemble the…
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Jan 13, 2026
Excellent
Excellent. It's something you have to see for yourself. You get what you put into what you want to accomplish. They provide excellent material, but it's up to you to take it and flourish with it.Verified CustomerExcellent. It's something you have to see for yourself. You get what you put into what you want to accomplish. They provide excellent material, but it's up to y…
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Jan 8, 2026
Good
Good . Program a bit cumbersome to navigate at times. Like I wish the modules were labeled with subject instead of just a number. A text book would have been easier for meVerified CustomerGood . Program a bit cumbersome to navigate at times. Like I wish the modules were labeled with subject instead of just a number. A text book would have been e…
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Dec 8, 2025
Lots of good information to learn - enjoyed this as much as I did the ACE test
Lots of good information to learn - enjoyed this as much as I did the ACE test. Verified Customer -
Dec 2, 2025
I found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and ...
I found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and pleasure to go through them, and I wouldn’t regret it at all in my life now, I am working on getting a job in going on with my career and tradeVerified CustomerI found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and pleasure to go through them, and I wouldn’t regret it at all in my life now, I am w…
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Nov 23, 2025
A very helpful and well-organized program
A very helpful and well-organized program. The material is clear, the platform is easy to use, and the overall learning experience is smooth and motivating. Verified Customer -
Oct 26, 2025
The ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents w...
The ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents were thorough and well-organized. The guidelines provided clear structure and made it easy to understand each concept step-by-step. I truly appreciated how much valuable information was included to help build real knowledge and confidence. The only downside is the website itself — it’s not the easiest to navigate and requires a lot of click-throughs to access different sections or resources. A more streamlined platform would make the learning experience even better. Overall, I’d still highly recommend the ISSA course for anyone serious about advancing their fitness education.Verified CustomerThe ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents were thorough and well-organized. The guidelines provided clear structure and made i…
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Oct 25, 2025
The quizzes were great
The quizzes were great. Everything was broken down so well and the information was really well thought out so thank you guys. I had used the NASM course before and it was just way too much and things weren’t broken down in a way that I could understand and your program was just amazing. I used to be 279 pounds and I lost the weight due to exercise and I just absolutely fell in love with the gym and that is what I want to do is help women over 40 who think they can’t do itVerified CustomerThe quizzes were great. Everything was broken down so well and the information was really well thought out so thank you guys. I had used the NASM course before…
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Oct 23, 2025
Best personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and th...
Best personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and that’s being a personal trainer I am bless to come across a great organization that is willing and dedicated to help you fulfill your dreams.Verified CustomerBest personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and that’s being a personal trainer I am bless to come across a great organization that i…
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Oct 18, 2025
ISSA is a great program for anyone who’s interested in learning about better ...
ISSA is a great program for anyone who’s interested in learning about better health and wellbeing, and enjoys helping others witha better lifestyle. Verified Customer -
Oct 4, 2025
Have confidence in the knowledge and be able to apply it to practical situati...
Have confidence in the knowledge and be able to apply it to practical situations and one's own career. Verified Customer -
Sep 30, 2025
This course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, cl...
This course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, client assessments, and much more. As an individual eager to begin my journey in the world as a Certified Personal Trainer, I feel confident that I have the building blocks necessary to be successful.Verified CustomerThis course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, client assessments, and much more. As an individual eager to begin my journey in the…
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Sep 29, 2025
This is a great national company that allows you for become a certified perso...
This is a great national company that allows you for become a certified personal trainer. They offer great service and training. Their module trainings go more in depth of everything from human body to diet and exercising. Its alotnof reading and studying. Have to dedicate time for this. Treat it as a full time college course 1 to 2 modules a week. They have great professional staff, and help for customer service when needed. This is one of the best put of all the other companies that offer this type of study, and my manager from my gym said they were highly recommend.Verified CustomerThis is a great national company that allows you for become a certified personal trainer. They offer great service and training. Their module trainings go more…
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Sep 22, 2025
I am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal...
I am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal I never knew was apart of my purpose until I started my healing and fitness journey.Verified CustomerI am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal I never knew was apart of my purpose until I started my healing and fitness journe…
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Sep 21, 2025
Amazing staff, get to you so fast, the app itself is very easy to use and you...
Amazing staff, get to you so fast, the app itself is very easy to use and you can learn whenever you can/want . Definitely recommend Verified Customer -
Sep 20, 2025
I appreciate the exercise videos and the boot camps were a plus for preparing...
I appreciate the exercise videos and the boot camps were a plus for preparing for the final exam. Verified Customer -
Sep 19, 2025
I recommend this company
I recommend this company. It’s professional and you can learn a lot from the training. Verified Customer -
Sep 15, 2025
As a mom of four, I love that I can go at my own pace
As a mom of four, I love that I can go at my own pace! Verified Customer -
Sep 5, 2025
Customer interface was seamless and easy to use
Customer interface was seamless and easy to use. Information was relevant in testing topics and prepared me to pass exams. Verified Customer
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Jun 4, 2026
The ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations
The ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations. The material is thorough yet easy to follow, covering everything from exercise science and program design to client communication and business skills. What sets it apart is how practical it is, you finish feeling genuinely ready to work with real clients, not just pass an exam. The flexible online format is perfect for fitness professionals already working in the field.Verified CustomerThe ISSA Personal Trainer course exceeded my expectations. The material is thorough yet easy to follow, covering everything from exercise science and program de…
-
May 22, 2026
Very informative, fair, and I love that I have lifelong access to view all th...
Very informative, fair, and I love that I have lifelong access to view all the materials later. Verified Customer -
Apr 22, 2026
Great product overall
Great product overall. The quality is excellent and it’s very easy to use. Definitely worth the money. Verified Customer -
Apr 8, 2026
I am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover
I am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover. The reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I had to purchase it separately, and it was hard to come up with the money. Would have been best to bill it with my monthly paymentVerified CustomerI am thankful I got the book, and I read it cover to cover. The reason I didn't give 5 stars is because I had to purchase it separately, and it was hard to com…
-
Mar 2, 2026
I think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs...
I think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs a CPT must have to be successful in their career. I am ready to take on the journey required to become the best CPT I can be just starting out in this field and I am confident and well equipped with the education that I have gotten from ISSA.Verified CustomerI think that this course is challenging and relevant to the educational needs a CPT must have to be successful in their career. I am ready to take on the journe…
-
Feb 26, 2026
I feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology ...
I feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology as a whole. I feel like this is a very safe and easy beginner program for someone looking to learn about wellness.Verified CustomerI feel more educated about the personal training world and about kinesiology as a whole. I feel like this is a very safe and easy beginner program for someone l…
-
Feb 26, 2026
Client focused, well informed and carefully created to be a positive manual t...
Client focused, well informed and carefully created to be a positive manual that created wellness and fitness in a accessible way. Verified Customer -
Feb 26, 2026
The tables and pictures would be nice to order as a separate book as referenc...
The tables and pictures would be nice to order as a separate book as references to me as a trainer. I would spend the money to have that on hand. Verified Customer -
Feb 26, 2026
Very easy and straightforward and so many helpful tools to use as well
Very easy and straightforward and so many helpful tools to use as well! Thank you! Verified Customer -
Feb 3, 2026
Nicely organized manual As a former teacher that has had lots of experience w...
Nicely organized manual As a former teacher that has had lots of experience with text books - this was played out well very user friendly. Verified Customer -
Jan 28, 2026
A great program to follow along when I can during my busy work week
A great program to follow along when I can during my busy work week. It is super flexible and the quizzes helped me learn along the way Verified Customer -
Jan 25, 2026
An abundance of information
An abundance of information. I do think the study guide should be in line more with what the final exam will look like. Maybe change the final to resemble the study guide more. I took notes on my own and did the study guide. I would have liked to have spent more time on the most important information I would be using on a daily basis with training.Verified CustomerAn abundance of information. I do think the study guide should be in line more with what the final exam will look like. Maybe change the final to resemble the…
-
Jan 13, 2026
Excellent
Excellent. It's something you have to see for yourself. You get what you put into what you want to accomplish. They provide excellent material, but it's up to you to take it and flourish with it.Verified CustomerExcellent. It's something you have to see for yourself. You get what you put into what you want to accomplish. They provide excellent material, but it's up to y…
-
Jan 8, 2026
Good
Good . Program a bit cumbersome to navigate at times. Like I wish the modules were labeled with subject instead of just a number. A text book would have been easier for meVerified CustomerGood . Program a bit cumbersome to navigate at times. Like I wish the modules were labeled with subject instead of just a number. A text book would have been e…
-
Dec 8, 2025
Lots of good information to learn - enjoyed this as much as I did the ACE test
Lots of good information to learn - enjoyed this as much as I did the ACE test. Verified Customer -
Dec 2, 2025
I found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and ...
I found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and pleasure to go through them, and I wouldn’t regret it at all in my life now, I am working on getting a job in going on with my career and tradeVerified CustomerI found a issa on Instagram and it was a great feeling and a great honor and pleasure to go through them, and I wouldn’t regret it at all in my life now, I am w…
-
Nov 23, 2025
A very helpful and well-organized program
A very helpful and well-organized program. The material is clear, the platform is easy to use, and the overall learning experience is smooth and motivating. Verified Customer -
Oct 26, 2025
The ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents w...
The ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents were thorough and well-organized. The guidelines provided clear structure and made it easy to understand each concept step-by-step. I truly appreciated how much valuable information was included to help build real knowledge and confidence. The only downside is the website itself — it’s not the easiest to navigate and requires a lot of click-throughs to access different sections or resources. A more streamlined platform would make the learning experience even better. Overall, I’d still highly recommend the ISSA course for anyone serious about advancing their fitness education.Verified CustomerThe ISSA course was extremely helpful — the materials, notes, and documents were thorough and well-organized. The guidelines provided clear structure and made i…
-
Oct 25, 2025
The quizzes were great
The quizzes were great. Everything was broken down so well and the information was really well thought out so thank you guys. I had used the NASM course before and it was just way too much and things weren’t broken down in a way that I could understand and your program was just amazing. I used to be 279 pounds and I lost the weight due to exercise and I just absolutely fell in love with the gym and that is what I want to do is help women over 40 who think they can’t do itVerified CustomerThe quizzes were great. Everything was broken down so well and the information was really well thought out so thank you guys. I had used the NASM course before…
-
Oct 23, 2025
Best personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and th...
Best personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and that’s being a personal trainer I am bless to come across a great organization that is willing and dedicated to help you fulfill your dreams.Verified CustomerBest personal training course in the world help me to reach my dreams and that’s being a personal trainer I am bless to come across a great organization that i…
-
Oct 18, 2025
ISSA is a great program for anyone who’s interested in learning about better ...
ISSA is a great program for anyone who’s interested in learning about better health and wellbeing, and enjoys helping others witha better lifestyle. Verified Customer -
Oct 4, 2025
Have confidence in the knowledge and be able to apply it to practical situati...
Have confidence in the knowledge and be able to apply it to practical situations and one's own career. Verified Customer -
Sep 30, 2025
This course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, cl...
This course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, client assessments, and much more. As an individual eager to begin my journey in the world as a Certified Personal Trainer, I feel confident that I have the building blocks necessary to be successful.Verified CustomerThis course covers everything from A&P, kinesthetics, program development, client assessments, and much more. As an individual eager to begin my journey in the…
-
Sep 29, 2025
This is a great national company that allows you for become a certified perso...
This is a great national company that allows you for become a certified personal trainer. They offer great service and training. Their module trainings go more in depth of everything from human body to diet and exercising. Its alotnof reading and studying. Have to dedicate time for this. Treat it as a full time college course 1 to 2 modules a week. They have great professional staff, and help for customer service when needed. This is one of the best put of all the other companies that offer this type of study, and my manager from my gym said they were highly recommend.Verified CustomerThis is a great national company that allows you for become a certified personal trainer. They offer great service and training. Their module trainings go more…
-
Sep 22, 2025
I am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal...
I am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal I never knew was apart of my purpose until I started my healing and fitness journey.Verified CustomerI am just grateful its a course as such as this that helped me achieve a goal I never knew was apart of my purpose until I started my healing and fitness journe…
-
Sep 21, 2025
Amazing staff, get to you so fast, the app itself is very easy to use and you...
Amazing staff, get to you so fast, the app itself is very easy to use and you can learn whenever you can/want . Definitely recommend Verified Customer -
Sep 20, 2025
I appreciate the exercise videos and the boot camps were a plus for preparing...
I appreciate the exercise videos and the boot camps were a plus for preparing for the final exam. Verified Customer -
Sep 19, 2025
I recommend this company
I recommend this company. It’s professional and you can learn a lot from the training. Verified Customer -
Sep 15, 2025
As a mom of four, I love that I can go at my own pace
As a mom of four, I love that I can go at my own pace! Verified Customer -
Sep 5, 2025
Customer interface was seamless and easy to use
Customer interface was seamless and easy to use. Information was relevant in testing topics and prepared me to pass exams. Verified Customer
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Frequently Asked Questions
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With ISSA, you can become a certified personal trainer in as little as 3 months, although the timeline is flexible since our programs are self-paced. Many students complete their certification while maintaining their current jobs or other responsibilities.
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ISSA stands out with the #1 Job Guarantee in the industry and our flexible online learning platform. In our Certified Personal Training course, you also have the option to add live sessions to better support your learning. Most importantly - ISSA's certification is recognized worldwide by top fitness employers.
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With an ISSA certification, you can pursue a variety of career paths in personal training, group fitness, and nutrition coaching. Our certification is recognized by over 10,000 gyms nationwide, giving you access to a wide network of potential employers as you advance in your fitness career. Plus, our job guarantee provides extra confidence in your ability to succeed.
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ISSA’s Job Guarantee ensures graduates who successfully complete the CPT, NBHWC-approved Pathway and Yoga 200 programs will land a job within 6 months of certification—or they get their money back. The program includes career support and access to a network of over 10,000 gym partners actively hiring trainers.
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Absolutely! ISSA’s programs are designed with support systems in place to help you succeed. Our courses support a variety of learning styles through a mix of videos and readings. Plus, we include practice quizzes, and some courses include live study groups, so you can confidently prepare for the certification exam.
Not all courses offer live learning