The NSCA’s Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) and NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCA-CPT®) certifications are the first nationally accredited certification programs in the fitness industry. Awarded only after passing a rigorous and challenging exam administered by an independent examination service, the credentials are widely respected and internationally recognized. Having received the full approval of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), the credentials are regarded as the Credentials of Distinction among fitness professionals.

The CSCS® program was initiated in 1985 to identify individuals who possess the knowledge and skills to design and implement safe and effective strength and conditioning programs. The program encourages a higher level of competence among practitioners that, in turn, raises the quality of strength training and conditioning programs provided by those who are CSCS® certified. To be eligible to take the exam, you must hold a BA/BS degree, be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited college or university, or hold a degree in chiropractic medicine, and be CPR certified.