Curriculum
Instruction Pack I: Personal Fitness Training, Nutrition and Physiology
Students explore the demand for personal fitness trainers and nutritional specialists and career opportunities in the fields of fitness, health, and wellness industries. Then, students learn the psychology of wellness and how lifestyle, motivation and expectation play a role in any fitness regime. Additionally, students gain an introduction to nutrition and how to effectively fuel activity. Finally, students learn the basics of exercise physiology.
Instruction Pack II: Cardiovascular Fitness and Muscle Anatomy and Physiology
Students learn theory and applications of cardiovascular exercise and energy production. Students then continue their anatomical and physiological studies as they closely examine how muscles work. They practice isometric, dynamic resistance and isokinetic exercises, as well as stretching and flexibility techniques.
Instruction Pack III: Fitness Equipment, Movement and Support I and Ethics for the Trainer
Instruction Pack III introduces students to the various types of equipment and clothing used in the fitness industry. Students then focus on the anatomy and physiology of upper body movement and support, covering the torso, the chest, upper back, shoulder girdle and arm. Students also learn about ethical and legal issues for the personal fitness trainer and nutritional specialist to consider.
Instruction Pack IV: Movement and Support II, Injury Prevention, Safety Precautions and Flexibility
Students study the anatomy and physiology of the pelvis and leg. They also learn to recognize, treat, and prevent injury. Additionally, students explore the theory and anatomy and physiology of stretching and developing flexibility. Students then take their studies to an interpersonal level––the initial client interview and how to assess a client’s goals, needs, desires and level of physical fitness.
Instruction Pack V: Exercise Prescriptions, Training for Weight Loss/Gain and First Aid
Students learn to manage training methods, intensity, duration, frequency, progression, and balance in fitness programs. Additionally, this instruction pack focuses on training methods and nutritional guidance for clients who want to gain or lose weight. Students learn basic first aid and emergency procedures. The course culminates in a practicum that allows students to develop appropriate fitness and nutritional prescriptions for a variety of hypothetical clients.
