take your time. It is in your best interest not to rush through the test and definitely go
back and check your work.
Once you feel completely ready for the exam, check the website and set up a time to go
to a testing location or learn how to take the test online. It is extremely important that
you are 100% prepared for the test because the exam is not inexpensive! If you do fail,
you can take the test again. You may have to wait a certain amount of days to re-take it,
but you certainly will have the opportunity to do so.
After you pass the test you will receive a package in the mail with your certification. You
will also get more information about the NESTA organization and continuing education
opportunities, membership information and other great that you can only get by being a
member of a certified organization. The publications that you will receive (typically
monthly) from NESTA are priceless. The information comes directly from doctors,
researchers, scientists and leaders in the industry. Unlike the fitness articles you may
read in fitness magazines or online written by journalists, the NESTA newsletters are
backed by research and scientifically grounded. One of the many privileges of being a
Certified Personal Trainer is having unlimited access to these amazing publications for
free.
Sometime between getting your certification from Wexford University and getting
NESTA certified, you will want to get certified in CPR, First Aid and the AED defibrillator.
This can be done at your local YMCA or straight through the American Heart
Association in your area. Just check online for testing times and centers. As a
professional in the industry, it is in your best interest to have this life-saving certification.
Most gyms will not hire you without it. It is also extremely crucial if you have your own
Personal Training business or studio that you are CPR certified. Even if you never have
to use it, you will need it for insurance purposes. This certification needs to be re-taken
every few years for a nominal fee. If you work in a gym they may pay for you to get recertified.
Quick Chapter Review Points:
1. Most gyms will not hire you without a degree or certification. A degree from Wexford
University and a NESTA certification are the perfect combination and will get you hired
easier.
2. Be sure to get all of your study materials and books directly from the Wexford
University and NESTA sites. Many other sites have books you can purchase but are
often outdated or contain inaccurate information. You can be sure you are getting the
best information on the Wexford and NESTA websites.
3. Practice and study for the exams. Even if you feel as though you know everything, be
sure to stay over and over again until you have it down perfectly. The exams are a big
deal.