By Neeraj Mehta (Ph.D.), Fitness Therapist
Historically, the fitness industry and, more specifically, the practice of personal training have been self-regulated, which translates into a lack of regulations.
This is due to the absence of clear, consistent, and rigorous standards for fitness professionals’ education, training, certification, and recertification in INDIA.
There are NO NORMS FOR ANY KIND OF CERTIFICATION TO TEACH FITNESS OR TRAIN CLIENTS IN INDIAN LAW…
If we want fitness and exercise to be a natural part of the healthcare continuum and personal training to be viewed as a legitimate profession, we must make changes.
Quality and safety are mandatory.
There is a wealth of evidence demonstrating the fitness industry’s rapid growth.
Exercise and fitness are now widely recognized as an effective strategy for preventing many of the most deadly diseases.
Regular exercise and activity are well-documented and undisputed.
Despite the critical nature of exercise and its beneficial effects on our physical and emotional health, as well as the aging process.
It is now time to focus on the education and training required of exercise and fitness professionals in order for them to provide a safe and effective fitness program.
A quick Internet search reveals dozens of personal training certifications with no apparent consistency in terms of content, requirements, or standards.
While one certification requires more than 200-300 hours of classroom education and training, another can be earned in the time it takes to read this document.
How will the consumer distinguish between the two certifications if the industry does not?
Neither industry nor government has established standards in any of these areas as of yet.
This reflects poorly on the industry and profession, and, unfortunately, may result in client injury.
Dirty Little Secret
ANYONE may self-identify as a Fitness Trainer.
WHAT WE MAY BE SHOCKED TO LEARN ABOUT FITNESS CERTIFICATIONS
1. There is no legal requirement for a trainer or group fitness instructor to be certified.
2. Not all fitness certifications are the same.
3. While most health club chains require certification of trainers and instructors, not all do.
4. The term “certification workshop” is frequently used in a misleading manner.
5. It is possible to obtain “certification” without receiving any in-person training.
6. Certifications have an expiration date.
7. A trainer or group fitness instructor is not required to meet any physical requirements.
8. No fitness certification, regardless of the type, qualifies a trainer to provide nutrition advice.
9. The majority of internationally recognized fitness certifications recommend AGAINST supplement sales.
