Fitness Directors

Certification or Licensing

Certification in fitness or exercise science is highly recommended (if not required) to work in a management-level position at a fitness facility. Because there are many kinds of certification available, you should choose a certifying board that offers scientifically based exams and requires continuing education credits. The American Council on Exercise and American Fitness Professionals and Associates are just two of the many organizations with certification programs. Some employers also require that their fitness staff members be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).