During their undergraduate academic careers, students majoring in exercise science-related fields contemplate various career paths and often seek guidance regarding the necessary steps to begin their career upon graduation. It is common to encounter soon-to-be graduates who want to work in the fitness industry but are confused about the wide breadth of certifications currently available.
Who
The ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist® (ACSM-EP) certification is ideal for those who want to work with generally healthy populations, and potentially clinical populations in the future. Most importantly, the ACSM-EP certification recognizes the certified professional’s educational background. All certified EPs must possess a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology or an exercise science-related field, which indicates that they have had in-class and experiential learning opportunities directly related to their work as an EP. This sets ACSM-EPs apart from certified professionals whose certifications lack such requirements.
Why
Additionally, the ACSM-EP certification provides a stepping stone for those who have ambitions to become an ACSM Clinical Exercise Physiologist® (ACSM-CEP), which requires clinical experience in addition to a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree. Thus, being an ACSM-EP provides the certificant the opportunity to work with generally healthy individuals in nonclinical settings while gaining the required clinical experience in a supervised setting to become an ACSM-CEP.
How to apply
A qualified ACSM-EP candidate must possess these basic credentials, and master knowledge, skills and abilities within four domains:
Credentials —
- Bachelor’s degree in an exercise science-related field (or be enrolled in the last semester of the degree program). View course requirements here.
- Starting August 15, 2027, candidates will be required to have a bachelor’s degree from an institution that is accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), which will further strengthen the credibility of the certification. Learn more.
- Currently CPR/AED certified
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities —
- Health and Fitness Assessment
- Exercise Prescription and Implementation
- Exercise Counseling and Behavior Modification
- Risk Management and Professional Responsibilities
Access detailed exam content outline
Value to employers
Employers can expect ACSM-EPs to be highly knowledgeable in the aforementioned areas, such that they can immediately work with generally healthy individuals, as well as those with medically controlled diseases. An ACSM-EP should be able to successfully conduct proper client assessments, develop and apply evidence-based exercise programs, implement proper behavior-change techniques and minimize the risk of injury for clients and staff.
Thus, employers should be eager to provide the ACSM-EP with the opportunity to enhance the lives of individuals that they serve and be confident in their ability to lead others through appropriate exercise programs and related tasks.
