- Last Updated:
- 11/22/2024
- Chelsea Ramsey, ACE CPT
When it comes to finding an affordable, quality fitness instructor program, the Athletics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) is a top choice.
Take a deeper look at what AFAA’s personal trainer or group fitness certification program entails and how they may benefit you.
What Is the Athletics & Fitness Association Of America (AFAA)?
The AFAA is an NCCA-accredited educational provider whose mission is to provide an outstanding learning experience for fitness professionals at an unbeatable cost.
The AFAA believes that by giving trainers a strong educational foundation, they help trainers better connect with and understand their clients. Since 1983, AFAA’s goal has been to help advance the lives and careers of fitness professionals — and allow that to help them improve the lives of their clients.
About AFAA Fitness Certifications
In 2015 the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) acquired AFAA. While they still operate as separate business entities, there is some overlap in course offerings and continuing education.
Being the first to release nationally standardized guidelines for fitness professionals, the AFAA prides itself on having trustworthy curriculums for both group fitness instructors and personal trainers. Though the AFAA offers both programs, since NASM’s acquisition they are primarily recognized for their Group Fitness Instructor, Indoor Cycling Instructor, and Sunrise Yoga certifications.
Pros and Cons of AFAA Certification
Pros
- The AFAA is National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accredited.
- It’s a subsidiary of and hosts some of its certification programs through NASM.
- Offers one of the lowest costs of certification, with the option for interest-free payment plans.
- A “Recertify for life” option is available to save you more money in the long run throughout your career.
Cons
- AFAA curriculum focuses on general fitness, with less in-depth coverage of many topics than some of the bigger-name organizations.
- Not as widely recognized as other associations.
- Limited test-prep materials are available.
Want to compare AFAA to other options? Check out Insurance Canopy’s reviews of the best personal trainer certification programs, so you can choose with confidence.
What to Know About the AFAA Personal Training and Group Fitness Certification
Requirements
To take the group instructor final exam you must:
- Complete your program within 180 days (approx. 6 months) of enrolling
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Hold a current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification
You do not need a CPR/AED certification to register for the course, but you will need to have one to actually take the test.
To take the personal trainer final exam you must:
- Complete your program within 1 year of enrolling
- Show a valid government issued ID
- Hold a current CPR/AED certification
- Have access to virtual testing equipment (webcam, microphone, internet connection)
AFAA Certification Cost
The most popular AFAA certification program costs are as follows*:
- Personal Fitness Trainer Certification: $499
- Textbook not included
- Interest free online payment plan available
- Group Fitness Instructor Certification: $399–$799
- Indoor Cycling Instructor Certification: $449
*These prices do not account for any discounts or sales.
The AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam
The group certification final exam may be administered as a non-proctored or proctored test.
Non-Proctored Exam
- Offered online only
- Upon passing you receive an AFAA Group Fitness Instructor Certificate (GFI)
- 100 questions
- Three-hour time limit
- Minimum passing grade of 70%
- Open-book
Proctored Exam
- Offered online or in person
- Upon passing you receive an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor (CGFI) designation
- 120 questions
- Two-hour time limit
- Minimum passing grade is a scaled score of 70
- Closed book
The AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Exam
- An independently monitored and authenticated online exam consisting of 120 multiple choice questions
- Two-hour time limit
- Minimum passing grade of 70%
Specialized Certification Programs
AFAA recognizes that some trainers will want to specialize in different areas of expertise or want to offer a wider array of services. In addition to the personal trainer and group instructor certifications they also offer the following certificates:
- Indoor Cycling (G.E.A.R.)
- Nutrition Coach (NASM–CNC)
- Sunrise Yoga
Continuing Education and Recertification
Like most other certifications, you will need to renew your AFAA certification every two years. This requires you to complete 15 continuing education units (CEUs) and comes with a $99 recertification fee.
However, the AFAA offers a unique lifetime recertification option. You still need 15 CEUs every two years, but this option includes a one-time charge of $399. For professionals who plan on making a career in health and fitness, this is a great opportunity to save time and money. Plus, you get a discount on AFAA continuing education courses, workshops, and more!
What You Can Do With an AFAA Personal Trainer Certification
Insurance Canopy recognizes and recommends the AFAA as the best certification program for those interested in group fitness instruction.
Their indoor cycling certification is also one of the most popular spinning instructor courses available.
The AFAA offers an excellent deal for those aspiring fitness professionals who may be on a budget but are still seeking the best educational content possible.
Once certified, you can start applying at most facilities that offer fitness programs nationwide. In some cases, you may even be able to work internationally.
Why Certified Personal Trainers Need Insurance
Getting your instructor certification is only the first step in pursuing your fitness career. To protect your budding business, you’ll also need personal trainer or group fitness instructor insurance.
Even the most experienced fitness professionals can’t avoid every misstep or strained muscle. Liability insurance is designed to help protect you from the cost of claims in the event of client injuries or damaged equipment.
Future employers may also require you to have your own liability insurance before hiring you.
With Insurance Canopy, you can receive top-rated personal trainer insurance for as little as $159 a year. Just like the AFAA, we know how to offer a high-quality product without the heavy price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions About AFAA Personal Trainer Certification
The AFAA’s Group Fitness Instructor programs are self-paced and can take as little as 6–8 weeks or up to 6 months. Time will depend on the individual student, their prior experience, and the time available to dedicate to study.
AFAA certifications cover topics such as general anatomy, exercise physiology, behavior modification, communication skills, fitness screenings, injury prevention, and the basics of nutrition and weight management.
Programs also include professional ethics overviews and how to design, choreograph and lead group fitness classes.
