ISSA Certified Personal Trainer Exam 2019: How I Passed + Save $120 on Your Course Purchase!

THIS IS AN OLD VIDEO! View The Updated Version Here: • 2024: ISSA Certified P... ... I just received my certificate that I'm designated as an ISSA Elite Certified Personal Trainer (E-CPT). In this video, I give you my feedback on the ISSA Certified Personal Trainer course and what I did to pass. Please note this video was recorded in 2020. There have been MANY changes to the course since I took it. This is the first in a series - I also reviewed and tell you how I passed the Nutritionist, Youth Fitness Coach, and Strength and Conditioning courses. The production quality improves as the videos come into the present day. Please leave comments with your questions rather than trying to reach out to me directly.
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My name is Aimée Ricca, and I’m an ISSA Certified Elite Personal Trainer (E-CPT), Nutritionist (CN), and Youth Fitness Coach (CYFC). I'm also a PSA Ranked and Rated Skating Coach/Choreographer. My passion is to inspire and empower you to achieve your healthy living goals - because I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive!
I became a coach to help others avoid making the mistakes that I made. I've suffered injuries, been exhausted, and was frustrated because I didn't have access to the right program to achieve my goals properly. I learned everything the hard way by seeking out instruction, information, and inspiration. I share my experiences so that you don't have to learn the way I did - subscribe to my channel to find out the shortcuts!
⚠️⚠️ ⚠️ Disclaimers ⚠️ ⚠️ ⚠️
⚠️ This page contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. For more information click here: paidforadvertising.com/
⚠️ I am not a medical doctor. Each individual’s health, fitness, and nutrition success depends on his or her background, dedication, desire, and motivation. As with any health-related program or service, your results may vary, and will be based on many variables, including but not limited to, your individual capacity, life experience, unique health and genetic profile, starting point, expertise, and level of commitment. Full disclaimer: aimeericca.com/disclaimer/

This video was recorded in 2020. There have been changes to the course since I took it. Here is the 2022 Update on the CURRENT ISSA Certified Personal Trainer Course: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJ7LqXyco9B_brs Please leave comments with your questions rather than trying to reach out to me directly. Save Up to $120 on ISSA Courses (affiliate links): ❤️ Save $120 Off Your ISSA Fitness Coach Purchase: issa.sjv.io/AoO60N Use Promo Code: coachaimee120 at checkout! ❤️ View my reviews of other courses here: kzbin.info/aero/PLhIvo-BmGcaXE2zbdIpBfoiNsCc5PJNco ❤️ ISSA LABOR DAY SALE! Get 65% off the ISSA Elite Personal Trainer Certification, PLUS get a FREE CPR Certification AND a FREE Study Expansion Pack! (8/30 - 9/5/2022): issa.sjv.io/c/2432545/1443012/12162 ❤️ ISSA has an exclusive offer thru 9/30/2022! Take $75 off the ISSA Elite Trainer Package. Plus, get a FREE Advanced specialization. The offer ends soon, so enroll TODAY here: bit.ly/3uSIrEk use promo code ELITE75 ❤️ Check Out Other ISSA Promotions & Discounts: bit.ly/3iiovZ5 ❤️ Trainer Academy MVP Package: bit.ly/3kCJN4Q or All Star Package: bit.ly/3rqx4U9 ✅ NEW Fitness & Nutrition Bundle (Pn1 + CPT): issa.sjv.io/WDY4yO ✅ Certified Personal Trainer Course: bit.ly/3iirkt2 ❤️ Master Trainer Package: bit.ly/3vYyS8A ✅ Nutritionist Course: bit.ly/2TIF7iv ✅ Youth Fitness Course: bit.ly/3x0TnRN ✅ Strength & Conditioning Course: bit.ly/34K4jaC ✅ ACE Personal Trainer - Save Up To 50%: bit.ly/3ztjTFu ❤️ Get Your Team USA and Olympic Gear Here: fanatics.ncw6.net/rnG2RQ ✅ How Much Do Personal Trainers Make? fitnessmentors.sjv.io/yRrJby

[@keithhente5511]

At age 50 I’ve decided to become ISSA certified. Like you, I enrolled about two weeks ago and I’ve been busy with life and haven’t started the coursework yet. I’m really looking forward to getting started and I’m happy that I found your video on how to approach my studies. Thank You for sharing!

Keep in mind that this video was posted last year and the course has changed a bit. Be sure to check out my update video that I posted just a few weeks ago: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM Best of luck to you - you can do it!

[@elisabethmarti7865]

I will be starting my Elite program today and I'm so excited. Thank you so much for your video and for sharing your experience. It's really great for the ones starting, you are an inspiration 😬

You are so welcome! You got this!

In case you're interested, I posted a review of the current version of the course here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@anthonyscott16]

Wow, awesome job Aimee. You killed it! I too did it in 2 weeks and passed today, however, they are still processing my CPR, so I don't yet have a grade. I know I passed though. Either way, you Miss, took it to a whole other level. Super happy for you.

Thanks, Anthony! Thank you so much!!! 😊

[@aliaramla9809]

2 weeks ? Damn😂

Yes, it's possible!

[@sportsinvestmentspluswithj1452]

I changed from ACE to ISSA as well, and now I’m doing the Elite as well, but with Online fitness coach cert. as the 3rd. Keep crushing it 🦾

Thanks for watching and sharing! I’m now starting the ACE Health Coach cert. provided they approve my qualifications as prerequisites to sit for the exam. Let me know how ISSA compares to ACE!

[@healthyandrew5294]

@ any updates guys? I'm choosing between the 2 tonight including any specializations. The total is $1000 for 3 courses.

@@healthyandrew5294 No new updates that I'm aware of, except the video that I did on the on the newer version of the ISSA Nutrition course. You can find that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bJ-1oYNorNRnqtk you can also use my coupon code for $100 off your ISSA courses.

Here is my latest review of the current version of the ISSA CPT course: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@irissanchez2316]

I just want to say thank you I purchased the Issa last year and got busy. However now I just began studying and I’ve been freaking out on not having enough time. But after seeing this video I’m confident I will be able to finish the final exam in 2 weeks. Thank you !!

You’re welcome! Just focus on the study guide and take your time on the exam! Double check everything before you submit!

Oh, if you could use some additional time, ask them for an extension! Just don’t use it to procrastinate:)

[@irissanchez2316]

@ I’m currently a senior in high school. Since I’ve been so busy with school , applying for college and scholarships. I’ve been asking for extensions so I’m currently on my last 30 days. But thank you so much for the advice

@@irissanchez2316 ok! Best of luck!

[@irissanchez2316]

I’m having trouble with case study wat would you recommend?

[@runner406]

All the essay stuff you talk about doing seems like the only deal breaker for me doing this i was all in until you described the massive essays needed to be done . Thanks for your info on this

ISSA discontinued the Essays after I enrolled in my course. I explain this in the video. So, please check with them about what they do now. I think they changed in September of 2019.

[@TimonKarim]

I'm passing mine this week, if you want just let me know, I'll tell you if there is as essay or not 🙂

Here is my review of the current course - without the essays: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

How did you do? I posted my latest video this morning and it talks about the updates and changes to the course: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@hishammse8826]

I just started today ! so far everything is clear nothing confusing got the full bundle and I’m studying from the fast track 🙏🏽💪🏽💯

Good for you! Keep me posted!

[@hishammse8826]

@ will do! 🙏🏽

[@hishammse8826]

@ Quick update : i finally completed the CPT final exam and passed on my first try but god that exam was too exhausting 😂😅💪🏽

@@hishammse8826 Yes, it is exhausting!!! Congratulations!

[@hishammse8826]

@ thank you so much 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@patrickblack5887]

That question I ask you on Mon I realize this morning I may had ask the question not in the right way. But thanks for the info on rapport.

No worries!

[@VentureOut___]

I started my courses two days ago and im so excited, thank you for sharing your experience with the general public- it is super helpful! I was wondering if you happen to know of any ways to receive the course books at a discounted price? Or possibly find them on sale somewhere?

You’re welcome! My books came with the course when I purchased it in 2019. Just search on google there are lots of places to pick up used textbooks!

[@thefactsarehereyes7434]

I also did mine with the Essay questions and case studies. Got a 96% as well

Good for you!

[@reshannablount7223]

I am actually taking my classes now and studying for my exam I am trying to study online with the EBook basically should I just use the physical book, I am just always on the go with work etc

That's a personal choice, I think. I prefer an actual book. But, if you don't mind the PDF book it works too!

[@patrickblack5887]

Today I just talk to a trainer who knows about issa he said I had to work on talking, saying and asking questions so others and maybe 1 day my client would understand better.

Thanks for the comment! I'm not sure that I understand. Did he say that you had to work on building rapport with clients? If so, that's something ISSA recommends as well! And I definitely agree! Rapport is everything!

[@Carol_559]

I signed up with NASM in 2019 and keep procrastinating because it’s soooo hard. I don’t understand anything. I feel like I just wasted my time & $. The passing rate is only about 65% 😩😩😩😩

I get it! That's why I switched from ACE to ISSA. You should give ISSA a try!

[@faganfit572]

I also did my CPT when it included essay questions and was also proctored. Therefore you really had to know your stuff. I have no idea what the new course layout entails now🤷🏾‍♀️.

I'm not sure what the course is like now either. But, I do know that you can do a proctored test for an additional fee.

[@faganfit572]

@ Ahhhhh didn't even know that. Hardly anyone would opt for that option though 😄. Are employed as a trainer now?

@@faganfit572 I’m self-employed.

[@faganfit572]

@ That's awesome! I was actually unemployed for the past year after being laid off by my airline, but recently got hired by a gym. My ISSA credentials really helped. Keep on pushing. You've got support 🙏🏾🙋🏿‍♂️.

@@faganfit572 Thanks so much! That means a lot!

[@LIFEOFMARIAHANDBOSS]

I will be starting my classes tomorrow and I'm so nervous. I'm doing Elite Personal Training as well. Omg helpppp meeee

Don't be nervous! Just use the Self Study to guide you through and make sure that you do the full study guide. Anytime that you get wrong on a quiz go back and review that material. Before you take the final exam, take the quizzes again and make sure you score 80% or more.

Did you take the exam? If you haven't yet, you still have time! I posted a new review of the current version of the course here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@sdal4244]

Hi Aimee, Thank you for your video, I would appreciate it if you guide me on which one type of ceritifcation is suitable for someone with no prior pt certification because there are several types of certification on the ISSA site. Thank you so much

I would suggest that you start with the Certified Personal Trainer program. If you want a package, you can choose from the Fitness Trainer (includes the CPT + 1 Specialization that you choose), Elite Trainer - which is what I did (includes the CPT + Nutritionist + 1 Specialization that you choose), or Master Trainer (includes CPT + Nutritionist + 4 Specializations that you choose). In my opinion the Elite Trainer package is the best value.

[@sdal4244]

@ Thank you for your advice. :)

@@sdal4244 you’re welcome! Good luck!

If you're interested, I reviewed the current version of the course here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@sami3731]

how were you able to find out your score? Mine just says I passed but I wanna know my score

They should provide you with a letter that has feedback. I've received that for all my courses - when you take them online. Did you take the proctored exam instead?

[@RonFitCoaching]

Issa just got certified to have a third party Proctor and now you have just have the regular open book or pay $79 for the third party Proctor. Some people in the fitness industry claim Issa isn't igit out it. I will be doing my test soon. 1-2 months and I think I will be paying the $79 to quiet the naysayers.

Yep! ISSA began offering the NCAA-Accreditation with proctored exams in July 2020. I don’t have a need to get that, but it’s a great option for those that need or want it!

Did you take the NCCA version of the exam? I provided information about it in my latest video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@thetruth1622]

There are alot of Elite Certified Personal Trainers in here. I need 2 more special courses to get (M-CPT) anyone else going for this status.

I am!

[@patrickblack5887]

You should make a video about the case study that was hard for you cause sAw other videos of people who pass the exam that had a hard time with it.

Thanks, Patricia! I didn't feel that the case studies were difficult. They were just time consuming.

[@patrickblack5887]

Thank you but it is a good idea for other to get a better understanding of the case study

Patrick Black I think it’s a fine line because ISSA wouldn’t like us putting out information about exactly what’s on the exam. I was able to use the information from the course and apply it to my case studies. That’s what ISSA is looking for from potential trainers - that they are able to use the knowledge in an applied setting.

[@patrickblack5887]

@ oh your right on everything thank you.

​@@patrickblack5887 I'm working on adapting my essays to blog posts. I thought you might be interested in seeing the kind of content that I submitted (although it's been adapted for blogging) Here is the first one: aimeericca.com/the-3-energy-pathways/

[@briansawicz3443]

Aimée 😍😍😍

[@strengthtiger6402]

93.3 percent

Nice! Congratulations!!!

[@patrickblack5887]

I think so maybe and what rappot.

Patrick Black rapport means, a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other's feelings or ideas and communicate well

[@patrickblack5887]

How many quizes there are and how many chapters u mark before the final exam.

When I took the course, there were 31 quizzes - 1 after each unit/chapter. You have to take every quiz before you can unlock the exam.

[@patrickblack5887]

Thank you so that means there 31 chapter of each coures.

@@patrickblack5887 In the 9.0 edition of the CPT course, that is correct. Not including the introduction. However, check the website to see if the current edition differs. You can download the ToC.

[@sportsinvestmentspluswithj1452]

@ it’s still currently 31 chapters/quizzes that you can go back and change and read explanation of why you were correct or incorrect. I didn’t buy the books or workbook but I don’t think I’ll need them.

@@sportsinvestmentspluswithj1452 best of luck!!!! Lmk how you do!

[@Bushcraft242]

One more certification to master trainer

Good for you!!

[@LIFEOFMARIAHANDBOSS]

Yes please do a video on your passage

I'm not sure what you mean. This is a video on how I passed. Can you tell me exactly what you are looking for?

[@LIFEOFMARIAHANDBOSS]

@ your essays

Oh! I'm working on adapting those that are appropriate into blog posts. I can't post them verbatim because ISSA wouldn't appreciate that because it might encourage plagiarism.

@@LIFEOFMARIAHANDBOSS I'm working on adapting my essays to blog posts. I thought you might be interested in seeing the kind of content that I submitted with my exam (although it's been adapted for blogging) Here is the first one: aimeericca.com/the-3-energy-pathways/

[@healthyandrew5294]

@ just checked out your blog post. Thanks for the encouragement. I've put off studying because it's boring. I feel like college shoved this chemistry and biology aspect down my throat. Why does every health related study go over energy systems?

[@saharazeem238]

Hi miss!!! I have an exam for ISSA, I don't understand the question and answer how can I prepare for the test I need help please 🙏

[@saharazeem238]

I don't know which one right answer

Is there a particular question you are stuck on? Have you watched my other newer videos? If not, check them out here: kzbin.info/aero/PLhIvo-BmGcaXE2zbdIpBfoiNsCc5PJNco The newer videos have more up-to-date information!

Did you look it up in the textbook? Remember, the online exam is open book.

[@saharazeem238]

@ okay thank you so much

You're welcome!

[@aliaramla9809]

Do we still have to write essays now?

I think that I explained that in this video. I have another video coming out very with all the updates!

Here's the video with all the updates on the current course! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM

[@oliviadominique]

Please do. I’m currently studying for mine and extremely nervous

Olivia Hicks blog posts? I’m currently working on the backend of my blog so it will be ready for posts very soon! Go to my website aimeericca.com and subscribe to the newsletter at the bottom so you’ll get updated.

[@oliviadominique]

Aimée Ricca ok thank you so much

@@oliviadominique I'm working on adapting my essays to blog posts. I thought you might be interested in seeing the kind of content that I submitted (although it's been adapted for blogging) Here is the first one: aimeericca.com/the-3-energy-pathways/

[@gregoryblock9542]

If you were stumped on the test Were you pretty easily able to find your answers in the text ?

Yes. It’s open book.

[@gregoryblock9542]

Understood. I’m studying the fast track online version . Listening to the lectures from the guided study And taking the quizzes . Hope that’s enough for in 2 weeks

You’ll do fine!

[@gregoryblock9542]

@ thank you

@@gregoryblock9542 you’re welcome!!

[@restistance4387]

Late comment , but i just found out that you have not one but four assey questions.At the end of each test.So let me get this straight.Every two years you have to re-take all the test including the assey's again.And on top of that you have to purchase another certification. To keep your membership. Sound's like a money scam to me.Am not take 20 essays a year.Just to have free pizza working at Pizza Planet.Off topic sorry just needed to rant about it somewhere.

This video is 2 years old! There is a newer video with the latest version of the course: They have eliminated all the essays! See that version here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hquqkmd6hNeKnLM When I passed my test you did not have to re-take the course every year. I just checked with ISSA and that is still the case! ISSA trainers are required to renew their certification every 2 years. This process consists of a renewal fee, updated CPR/AED certification, and documentation stating the completion of 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). See more here: issa.sjv.io/DVekQy

[@restistance4387]

@ Thank you! I am ISSA certified.And to become certified there is no assays.But if you want to further your education there is four essays questions after each test.On the specialized certifications.And they told me I have to retake them every few years. I know to stay certified I have to retake. Personal trainer exam every two years. That's not a problem. I just don't want to retake the specialized certifications. That would add up to five different tests every two years or three years. Plus a new certification every two years. All just watch your videos

I think you're misunderstanding. If I understand you correctly, you do not want to take a continuing education course to renew because of the essay questions? So, you would rather just take the CPT again every two years? Once you receive a specialization, you do not have to retake that test every two years either. You just need to keep up with your Continuing Education Requirements, which is to take new courses for 20 CEUs every 2 years. This is completely normal - every professional certification has these kinds of requirements. Most people take new and different courses, and do not take the same course over and over again. If you prefer not to do the essay questions, you can take a specialization with another certification company like ACE or NASM as they do not have essay questions. However, if you do that, you have to pay the $99 renewal fee to ISSA.

[@restistance4387]

@ thank you for replying back.You answered my questions.I hope your KZbin Channel grows. You are very knowledgeable

Happy to help! Thank you!

[@randallrutherford1384]

Tell me about income. I enrolled today.

Income as a personal trainer varies depending on where you work and who you work with. There's lots of information out there on income for personal trainers. Fitness Mentors has really good information here: fitnessmentors.sjv.io/yRrJby

[@randallrutherford1384]

@ thanks so much!

@@randallrutherford1384 you're very welcome!

@@randallrutherford1384 You're very welcome!

[@Bushcraft242]

Is untyped ok to send in thanks

No. You enter everything online - typed.