This course that is conducted at the Institute of Human Performance in Boca Raton, Florida, provides theoretical and practical training in health risk appraisal, physical fitness testing, performance evaluation, metabolic calculations and exercise prescription. Fitness testing techniques include analysis of blood pressure, body fat, lung function, physical work capacity (submaximal stress testing), flexibility, muscular endurance and muscular strength.

Upon successful course completion (written and practical exams to include submaximal stress testing), students are awarded a certificate as a ‘Fitness Testing Specialist’. Graduates are encouraged to establish and operate testing centers within fitness facilities – a practice which improves safety and effectiveness of fitness programming, enhances instructor credibility and provides an additional source of revenue. Personal trainers are instructed on how to administer such tests not only within the fitness facility but also within the environment of the client’s home.

Responsible fitness instructors and personal trainers recognize that fitness testing is essential, not only for safe and effective program design, but also to establish a baseline against which future progress of clients will be measured. This type of performance monitoring provides feedback that reinforces client behavior and maintains motivation.

This course helps prepare students for the prestigious certifications offered by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) as well as more than preparing students for a host of lesser certifications recognized by fitness facilities. Prerequisites for enrollment are either attendance of the ‘Foundations’ course or a degree in exercise science from an accredited university.