Is there a cost for the NASM Master Trainer program?
There is a cost to enroll in the Master Trainer program, but there are no ongoing membership fees or dues. Contact an NASM Advisor for more information regarding costs for NASM specializations and the NASM Master Trainer Summit experience.

Can I participate if I am not certified through NASM?
Individuals must have a valid NASM-CPT certification to become an NASM Master Trainer. You can continue to complete NASM specializations and move closer towards becoming an NASM Master Trainer, however, a valid NASM-CPT certification is required to become an NASM Master Trainer.

What do I do if my NASM-CPT expired before or during being in the Master Trainer program?
A current and valid NASM-CPT certification is required to be part of the Master Trainer program. Individuals who do not have a valid NASM-CPT certification must either retake and pass the NASM-CPT examination or recertify (if within the allotted recertification grace period).

What are the types of approved college degrees?
Approved degrees include Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, Kinesiology/Biomechanics, Physical Education, Nutrition/Dietetics, Athletic Training, Physical Therapy, Chiropractic, Occupational Therapy, Health Education, Public Health, and Sports Management.

How many specializations do I need to participate in the NASM Master Trainer program?
You will need a valid NASM-CPT, CES, and PES, plus one more Specialization or approved college degree.

Do I need all specializations prior to applying for the Master Trainer program?
Yes, you need to have a current/valid CPT, specializations, and/or degree at the time of application.

I am certified with NASM but have credentials with other organizations. Can those count towards a specialization?
Only NASM specializations or an accredited college degree in an exercise science-related program can be counted in the NASM Master Trainer program.

Will CEUs I’m obtaining while in NASM Master Trainer Program apply to recertification?
Yes, all CEUs will be counted toward NASM-CPT recertification.

Why should I complete the NASM Master Trainer program?
As an NASM Master Trainer you’ll gain credibility and recognition as an accomplished fitness professional. This designation also offers unique marketing and branding opportunities to help support your business, clients and career.

How long does it take to get through the NASM Master Trainer program?
It can vary. An individual must complete the NASM-CPT (typically takes 60-180 days), three NASM specializations (typically takes 4-12 months) and complete the NASM Master Trainer Summit experience (2-3 months, application, online course and participate in an instructor-led evaluation). It typically takes at least two years of training experience to complete the entire program, depending on your education, work history and level of dedication.

What happens after I become an NASM Master Trainer?
You’ll gain credibility and recognition as a select fitness professional from NASM and your peers. Unique marketing and branding opportunities will help support your business, clients and career. NASM will also recognize you through branded promotional items, online recognition and product discounts.

What’s the difference between an NASM-CPT and an NASM Master Trainer?
An NASM-CPT has displayed the necessary competence to complete and pass an accredited certification to work as a certified personal trainer. An NASM Master Trainer possesses a valid NASM-CPT certification, multiple NASM advanced specializations and has been evaluated by NASM faculty to be professionally recognized by NASM, as an NASM Master Trainer.

What if I’m considered a “Master Trainer” at my current employer?
Earning the NASM Master Trainer credential will not interfere with any designations you currently hold. In fact, earning the NASM Master Trainer credential will add to your current credibility and reputation as an accomplished fitness professional.

Will my clients know what an NASM Master Trainer is?
Some clients may know about the NASM Master Trainer program while others may not. After successfully completing the NASM Master Trainer program, you’ll be given access to unique branding and marketing opportunities to spread the word about your success.

How long do I have to complete the online component?
You will have four weeks to complete the online course.

What happens if I do not pass the online component of the NASM Master Trainer Summit?
Passing the NASM Master Trainer Summit event is accomplished through a score of 70% for each of the 3 parts of the process, which includes the online component, evaluation component during the in-person/virtual 2-Day evaluation, and the post-event exam. If you do not pass the online portion with a score of 70%, you will not be allowed to progress to the other 2 portions of the program and will have to re-apply at a later time.

Is it possible for me not to pass the NASM Master Trainer Summit?
Yes, it is possible to not pass the NASM Master Trainer Summit. Individuals in the NASM Master Trainer Summit must pass the online component, demonstrate mastery of various coaching, communication and training elements relative to NASM’s OPT Model while participating in the instructor-led virtual/in-person evaluation, and the online exam. Each of the 3 portions of the Summit must be passed with a 70% or higher. If you do not pass any of these sections, you will not pass the Summit.

What happens if I do not pass the NASM Master Trainer Summit?
You must wait one year to re-attempt the program. During this time it is suggested that you review the foundational courses offered through NASM: CPT, CES, PES.

What can I expect at the NASM Master Trainer Summit experience?
The NASM Master Trainer Summit experience is designed for the NASM certified personal trainer to audit their practical skills in personal training, corrective exercise and performance enhancement with the help of NASM Master Instructors.

The Summit is evaluated through 3 sections:

Part 1: Part one is an online portion. It will cover many aspects of fitness training including fitness testing and evaluation, exercise technique, program design, coaching and communication. You must pass with a 70% to be invited to Part 2 of the Summit.

Part 2: You will be asked to attend a 2-day workshop where our NASM faculty will evaluate and assess you through your ability to demonstrate mastery of coaching, communication, confidence in defining concepts, and training elements. Participants will be asked to speak, demonstrate, and coach on a variety of topics while being evaluated by NASM faculty. You must pass with a 70% to receive access to Part 3 of the Summit.

Part 3: A final examination. You will be given access to the final exam and will have 7 days to complete it after you have past Part 2. You must pass the exam with a 70% to earn the title of a Master Trainer.

What should I bring to the NASM Master Trainer Summit experience?
Participants should wear workout attire and have a notebook and pen handy. We also suggest having an area of 8x8 feet to demonstrate certain techniques, exercises, etc. You will need a foam roller and a band and/or dumbbells available for demonstration purposes.