This course is designed for the fitness instructor whose principle leadership role is in the area of strength training and aerobic conditioning, either within the fitness facility or personal trainer setting. Course content extends the knowledge base (kinesiology, biomechanics & program design) established during the ‘Foundations’ course, with concentration on responsibilities of the instructor/trainer who supervises the use of both resistive exercise and cardiovascular equipment.

The first half of the course consists of didactic training conducted at the Institute of Human Performance, and then the second half consists of practical training conducted at numerous facilities throughout the Broward and Palm Beach county areas, exposing students to the majority of strength training and aerobic equipment available today. Students are not only instructed how to use the exercise equipment themselves, but more importantly, how to train their clients in the safe and effective operation of such equipment.

Students are graded on their knowledge base with a written exam as well as their instructional and supervisory skills through a practical exam. During practical one-on-one testing, students (acting as instructors) are directed to different resistive exercise equipment and then must explain and demonstrate to their examiners (acting as clients) correct set-up procedures (adjustments & alignments), appropriate ranges of motion (effective movement patterns) and any safety considerations (potential dangers). Subsequently, examiners will exercise with the equipment making intentional mistakes to determine whether students can identify and remedy such errors in a timely manner.

Upon successful course completion, students are awarded a certificate as a ‘Strength & Conditioning Specialist’. The course will help prepare qualifying students for not only the accredited certifications available through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) but also accredited certifications through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Prerequisites for enrollment are either attendance of the ‘Foundations’ course or a degree in exercise science from an accredited university.