NASM CPT Certification Review | Is It Worth it? (2021)

Hello and welcome to or welcome back to the Sorta Healthy channel!
Today, Jeff is discussing a hot topic: The NASM CPT Certification and whether or not it's worth it.
In this video, Jeff will review the NASM Certified Personal Trainer certification in depth. Jeff recently took the exam after being a certified personal trainer for over 10 years.
Watch til the end to see our updated tier list and find out how the NASM CPT Certification stacks up to other personal training certifications and experiences that Jeff and Alexis have completed.
We appreciate your support and a "like" on this video and hitting the subscribe button means a lot to us. It also means we can continue to put out free content like this to all of you!
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#nasmcertification #nasmcptreview #nasmcertifiedpersonaltrainer

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Hey guys, make sure to check out the review of the newest NASM CPT Program (7th edition) right here!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@MrHugeSoul]

Finally someone said it.... How can you tell someone to squat on a bosu if he doesn't know how to squat at all... I liked a client's reaction to a week inside the stability phase that said: im not going to work on a circus, cant we just do some dumbbells?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Haha that’s a hilarious reaction! I wish I had said the bosu thing in the video tbh. That’s a good way to put it!

[@Jameeeeeeeeeee]

NASM Certified here, you definitely called out some of the stuff that I found questionable too like the obsession with stability! Geat job Jeff and Alexis! Keep making awesome videos :)

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thank you! We really appreciate that!

[@Holisticbarbarian]

Newly NASM certified personal trainer here, I've been working with my own trainer for a couple years now and his structure is nothing like NASM's. I definitely see the merit in what you're saying and I was questioning some of these things myself going through the program. Thanks for confirming what I was thinking, I gained a lot out of this!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks! I’m glad you found it helpful!

[@dr.jocelynsantana3624]

Thank you for the review. Grateful.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thank you! I appreciate that!

[@KeyannaWeaver]

Even though I haven't professionally trained clients just yet, I, too, questioned the OPT Model as I was going through the textbook and most especially the Stabilization Phase. Everything you said in reference to that phase and the OPT Model- I absolutely agree with! It makes me feel SO much better hearing someone who actually is an experienced, professional, and qualified trainer say the things that I was thinking the entire time. It makes me realize that my thoughts weren't wrong after all! Such a relief. And it's because of the things that I questioned from the model in the text and that 1st phase, that I've questioned programming and have been slightly confused on how to even start out with a client. Because I wondered if I truly needed to take them through an entire stabilization phase first? It's not something I've really seen other fitness professionals share about. And I even hired a NASM CPT early on last year- my first 4 weeks with her NEVER included stability-based work and she is someone who definitely knows what she's doing. So I was just like- well what the heck do I do for a client starting out when NASM preaches stability so much but I just never experienced it nor do I really see much emphasis of it within the fitness industry. Ahhh I hate being confused. lol Thankfully, your videos have been my go to source for clarity on programming and they're SO helpful. My confusion is fading- thank God. I'm sure you can tell at this point, Jeff, that I am literally watching video by video of yours as I continue to leave comments/questions. 😂 I plan on watching EVERYTHING and I am taking notes!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thank you so much for the support we really appreciate it! I think it’s important to say that the OPT model isn’t bad. I don’t think it’s as good as it should be though! I think devoting a phase to stabilization is ok but I think the way in which they go about creating that adaptation is a little bit weird. There is definitely an overemphasis on the value of balance tools. Thanks again for the support though! This is a great comment!

[@jenniferwhitehead9595]

I’ve been watching your videos for the past few months to get some insight on how to better help my Issa students. I’ve also recommended your channel to a few students who have had questions about starting their career. I’ve been working for ISSA since December and I can’t wait to hear your honest review of our program. We also pronounce it I S S A.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Wow thank you so much for sharing our channel with others! We really appreciate that! We’ll be digging into ISSA within the next couple months!

[@lisajudkins9859]

Hi I have a ISSA certification I did the split CPT/nutritionist I feel like I wasted my money though because the gyms I want to work at do not accept ISSA certs and I can't even use the nutrition part of my certification anywhere because they either want nutrition coach or diatition. I have called to express my concerns to my fitness coach and the other departments I forgot the name .. But they failed to give me any useful information they just said I don't know you will have to look in your area . Not very helpful .. I feel so frustrated and I feel I'm at a dead end because I wasted my money 🥺

[@Gastonwebbe]

Very great information. I’m a Nasm certified trainer so I understand and agree with everything you said just about lol

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Glad you found it valuable! Hope your training is going well!

[@cindyvieira5389]

Good job Jeff!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thank you for your support!

[@DustinLaBarge]

I can’t wait to see a video on ACE

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks! We’ll definitely be doing that one soon!

[@seanflac]

Thank you for the info.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Of course!

[@JD-hu3dg]

Nice Jeff! NASM all the way!!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Glad you found it helpful man!

[@jerrycitron8585]

I have a bio degree and I am very impressed with this critique of NASM

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thank you! I really appreciate that!

[@921FM]

Thank you!!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

You’re welcome!

[@hanimrembo8112]

As a NASM certified Personal trainer I agree ☝🏾 that stability phase is so redundant. 98% of my clients come to me to break a sweat 😅💪🏾 not to be told to balance on some toys.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Hah I liked the way you phrased that!

[@Giganticonion]

I’m a NASM certified trainer with a Phys Ed degree and I can definitely agree with a lot of points made. I’ve worked as a trainer in a corporate gym for four years and recently have worked in a local gym training for the past six months. I think that most ideas presented should be used as foundational techniques to progress specific clients, rather than something to be used rigidly on every client. In the stabilization phase, the foundation of creating neuromuscular efficiency is valuable, especially with older clients or people lacking in this area, to create good movement patterns. It also, often times can be utilized in addition to other training techniques and still be developed in a safe manner. It is up to you to understand when this should be implemented, in what way, and for how long. I don’t usually use the OPT model, although it is an excellent reference in my opinion. Using it as a general guideline and applying what you know to the specific client you’re working with and basing what you do on their wants/needs makes the most sense to me. This was the best breakdown of the certification I’ve seen on KZbin so far.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

First off thanks for the feedback! Good stuff! I definitely think a stabilization phase is good and necessary. Any half way decent training program has that first. I think NASM’s priorities were off a bit with their own stabilization phase though. I appreciate you checking out the vid and thanks for the kind words!

[@Giganticonion]

@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation I can understand that. I’ll be looking forward to more breakdowns in the future, good content man

[@NikkiGregory]

👍 info thanks. Now I'm confident I will pass.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks for the support! This is an older review. If you’re interested, this is the one for the current NASM certification: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@tamiebriggs9813]

Hey, I am enrolled in the NASM CPT 7th edition. I would have loved to have found you prior, however, I found you now ☺️ So, I am super fresh to this curriculum. What app do you recommend to use to help prepare for exam? I am setting myself a goal for 2 months. In addition, I have started to binge watch your channel because you are so informative, direct with your points of interests and "sorta funny" also 🥰🤩. I'm a fan! Thank you for being so open and transparent with your information!!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks I really appreciate the kind words! I used the NASM fitness prep app. It used to be called pocket prep. It’s definitely helpful! If you haven’t seen these videos check them out, here’s part 1: kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6XXZJx7eJV_jpo It’s primarily based on the 6th edition but the information is almost the same as the 7th edition. In part two I actually talk about the app.

[@JymStone]

I’m actually looking to enroll next week myself! How’s it going so far?

[@Youngbeastshredded]

IFFB INTENSIVE COURSE CPT . CAN'T WAIT YOU TO REVIEW THIS ACADEMY it's Popular now in Whole Country

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks!

[@stkbkr1]

thnk you

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Of course! This is an old review btw. If you wanna see our current NASM review watch this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@mixedmanzfitnessllc]

I do love NASM & am 2 years certified but have to agree the OPT Model is not useful for me as far as the stabilization phase,I do however feel thankful for the knowledge.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I pretty much feel the same way. NASM is good overall, but some things are better left in the text book rather then being used in actual practice!

[@mixedmanzfitnessllc]

@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation totally agree thanks again love you guys videos always helpful

[@JimmyWayne7]

could you also do a ACSM cert. and or NSCA comparison? i was wondering if ACSM CPT is good enough or the higher up Exercise Physiologist one is preferred?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

ACSM’s CPT cert is definitely good enough. It’s likely on par with the other ones like NASM. I’m planning on tackling ACSM soon. I’ve been certified through them for a while now as an exercise physiologist. I figured I would circle back to them after ACE and ISSA.

[@3abdoX]

in the OPT model I do agree the first 4 phases sound legit or fit the phases, and Power felt like "Ok what should we name the final phase" and a child says "power" and everyone gasps. I am a fresh graduate of Physiotherapy and have done a lot of research based exercise formulation, I can understand why you might say it is a waste of time to do warm ups and I do believe it should be target muscle group specific when doing the warmups, but yea I am not sure if I will gain anything from getting this course, but definitely I want the certification to be slapped on my resume for better job opportunities.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

The course won’t teach you too much if you’re already studying as a physiotherapist. That said, it does look good on a resume. This is an older review btw. The link below is our newest NASM review kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@bradfordmcdermott2063]

I'm a bodybuilder and don't expect everyone can train like I do but I do believe resistance training with weights, isolation training is the way to get in shape though it seems most clubs or trainers have nasm and want you to do functional training I've been turned down by facilities when before 2000 it was weight training makes no sense they won't want to hire me cause of bodybuilding style training. Rather start my own bussiness then work for a club again for one of those reasons

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I agree that NASM prioritizes functional moves too much. That being said, any consistent way of training where you’re increasing the intensity on a regular basis will work. I favor compound lifts over isolation moves, but it all depends on the demographic that you’ll be working with!

[@bmd5713]

I've seen a few of your CPT review videos now but which one out of all would you recommend?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

In this most recent review video I give my thoughts on several major certs. This is an old NASM review so the score in this newer video is representative of the new NASM course. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2OpiJKGosufjsk Overall, I think NASM is still the best overall.

[@glennprabhu5756]

Hi Jeff.. How would you rate the PTA Global certification?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I have heard reasonably good things but I haven’t looked into it yet. I will most likely check it out at some point though!

[@kristen5199]

I do not get why they suggest foam rolling and static stretching before your workout. Isn't much more beneficial to do more of a dynamic warm up stretch? Also, I completely agree they are way too obsessed with balance stuff haha. Also, the test is not hard to pass because there's an app that has almost every question they ask on the test and a lot of people use that

[@coachcarlie7893]

Most people live with muscle imbalances of some sort, and so using techniques such as foam rolling and static stretching on overactive/tight muscles, while also using activation techniques on underactive/lengthened muscles can actually be very beneficial in restoring balanced forces surrounding a joint. This way, you can ensure you're using the right muscles at the right time during your bigger exercises.

[@kristen5199]

@@coachcarlie7893 yeah but usually it’s more beneficial after the workout because it isn’t the best to stretch muscles that are not warmed up. They suggest it before instead

[@coachcarlie7893]

@@kristen5199 It just depends on your purpose and reasoning behind using stretching as a technique. They also do suggest it as a recovery tool as well in addition to a warmup. There's no one answer, and lots of methods can work :)

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I think this is well said!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I think dynamic stretches are the best thing to do before sessions. I also think static stretching and SMR can be useful before sessions. It depends on the client and their goals for me. That being said NASM more often than not recommends SMR, and some form of stretching before workouts. For them the type of stretching is primarily determined by the phase.

[@TheSiggy1990]

I'm Curious about your thoughts on N.C.S.F. I recently got my certifications through them for p.t. and sports nutritionist and they seem to be set up similar to NASM, but minus the OPT.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I plan on checking out the NCSF certs soon! Btw, this NASM review is older. Here’s the newest one if you’re curious: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@TheSiggy1990]

@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation thank you. Not only for the reply back, and the link, but also your channel. It's been a huge help for me getting my business up and running. I'm still new, but I don't plan on giving up soon. Keep up the amazing work. 🤘💪🤘💪

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

@@TheSiggy1990 thank you I really appreciate that! Don’t give up, keep pushing forward! I’ll be doing the same lol

[@TheSiggy1990]

@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation shall do. 😀 😃 🙂

[@caityP]

I’m curious what you think about ISSA certification?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I bought it a few weeks ago. A video will be coming out soon!

[@nickcretella1]

I’ve tired to watch this three times and the audio isn’t working. Can someone tell me whether to get nasm certified, or become level one coach I’m told it’s the same thing please help

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Not sure why the audio isn’t working. That’s a bummer! That being said, this is a more recent NASM review video here on our channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M This review was on the last edition

[@PG13Games]

Is it worth getting if my goal is to train people on the side of my actual career?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Good question! I’d say if you’re serious about training then yes, it’s worth it. Even if you’re only planning on training part time, that will still be the case. Keep in mind this is an older review. The newer NASM review is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4C9nWOVqLSKh7M

[@bryanjones5423]

standing on a bosu or wobble board is only beneficial for pt.... For most people they will never encounter those type of circumstances

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Definitely not something trainers should have most people do.

[@user-ue6lv9in8s]

Can you do the same for ACE?

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I will be tackling ACE within the next few months!

[@pcharm3711]

03:44😂

[@BS-by5nw]

I appreciate your honesty and politeness. But I disagree on a few points. Phase 1 doesn’t emphasize balance tools but rather it emphasizes gaining ideal mobility, stability, muscular endurance, and coordination. The amount of instability is dictated by the assessment results of the client., it’s not based on equipment like stability balls or BOSU balls. Everyone is different and the amount of instability should be client specific. Also, you’re review is on the 6th edition not the 7th edition. I would take a look at the 7th edition, especially the online program. It’s awesome and it touches on all the topics like movement patterns (pulling, pushing, squatting, hip hinging etc). And yes, there’s exercise instructional videos, like how to performa a proper squat. I disagree with your warm-up protocols as it’s too simplistic. The goal is to teach the client how to perform a comprehensive warm-up using the movement assessment as a basis. This identifies which muscles actually need stretching rather than picking random muscle groups. Once the client learns how to perform the warm-up, instruct the client to perform the warm-up prior to the session. I do this with all my clients. Keep up the good work with your reviews.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Thanks! I appreciate that! I think it's totally fine to disagree btw! It's also important to remember that overall, this is a great program. I think you mischaracterized what I said though. I never said phase 1 ONLY emphasizes balance tools. I like some of what phase 1 does. I simply said they emphasize them too much, which I firmly believe they do. There was likely more information on using balance tools then there was on proper cueing. This is is just plain silly tbh. I will be visiting vol. 7 in the next few weeks, and I hope that they changed that. I also never said that I pick "random muscle groups" when I warm clients up. I make that very clear in all of my videos. I could go into far more detail on that, but that's probably not necessary. Either way, agree to disagree and thanks for checking out the video!

[@cmluceroful]

Not happy with NASM’s . You can’t download the chapters to print!! But you can download study guides. I like to print what I read and they would not send a PDF of Chapters so I could print! Ridiculous!

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

I think the only reason they don’t allow that is because it would make it easier to leak their information online. I hear you though! That is annoying!

[@r.e.4640]

It's NOT worth it.

[@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation]

Meh it probably is tbh. It depends on what you’re trying to do