As part of ACSM Committee on Certification and Registry Board’s (CCRB) ongoing commitment to professional standards, practice, and scientific integrity, all ACSM certification exams will reflect the 12th edition of the ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (GETP 12) beginning July 1, 2025.
While GETP 12 incorporates the latest scientific evidence and refinements in terminology and recommendations, the CCRB did not identify noteworthy changes to professional practice that would impact those preparing for health fitness occupational roles. Examples of major content updates that would prompt a public announcement and a 9–12 month lead time to adjust preparation include: USDA replacing MyPyramid to MyPlate (2011), substantial changes to ACSM’s preparticipation screening algorithm (2015), and ACC/AHA high blood pressure classifications (2017).
ACSM has made available a detailed crosswalk that compares GETP 11 and GETP 12 to assist candidates, educators, and students that outlines all substantive updates and allows users to clearly identify areas of change. The crosswalk can be accessed here: GETP 11–12 Crosswalk (PDF). Additional supporting resources are available on the ACSM website.
ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription 12th Edition at a glance
The GETP 12 integrates and applies the latest research findings and clinical best practices to the foundational exercise testing and prescription standards. The updated content reflects current ACSM guidance on evidence-based approaches to exercise testing and prescription, incorporating developments in the field and advancements in scientific understanding. Of note, GETP 12 offers expanded coverage on the application of exercise principles in real-world settings, as well as enhanced content related to behavioral theories and resistance training, further supporting practitioners in diverse clinical and health fitness sectors.
In addition, GETP 12 introduces several reader-friendly features to improve accessibility and practical use. These include an abbreviations and acronyms list at the front of the text, highlighted boxes, tables, and figures that emphasize key concepts for quick reference, and case studies that provide applied, real-world examples of exercise programming. The inclusion of FITT (frequency, intensity, time, and type) tables aids in the direct application of exercise prescription principles, while comprehensive appendices offer quick-access tools such as medication references, ECG interpretation tips, metabolic calculation guidelines, and more.
ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer and ACSM’s Resources for the Exercise Physiologist Updates
The current editions of ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer and ACSM’s Resources for the Exercise Physiologist textbooks are based on GETP 11 and remain reliable study tools for candidates preparing for exams before July 1, 2025. To support the upcoming transition to GETP 12-aligned certification exams, updated editions of both texts are in development and the updated texts are anticipated to be published in 2026; more details to follow as timelines are confirmed. Candidates planning to test on or after July 1, 2025, are encouraged to use the GETP 11–12 crosswalk to supplement their preparation and identify key updates that may impact exam content.
Preparing for the Transition
CCRB recommends that candidates who plan to take an ACSM certification exam on or after July 1, 2025, use resources that reflect current professional standards and practice. Candidates who have already prepared using or resources that align with GETP 11 should carefully review the GETP 11–12 crosswalk to identify meaningful updates and adjust their preparation as necessary.
CCRB is committed to providing transparent communication and sufficient time for candidates, students, and faculty to adequately prepare for alignment with professional standards and expectations. For additional information, please visit ACSM’s Certification Resource Page.
