What is the difference between the IFPA and ACSM?
ACSM is a fine certification and is the oldest in the industry. ACSM certification was specifically designed by medical doctors and exercise physiologists for exercise physiologists who planned on careers in the health and medical community. ACSM certification is generally required for any exercise physiologist working in hospital or medical clinics with cardio-rehabilitation patients. ACSM certification requires a college degree in exercise physiology or related areas. The ACSM has attempted to develop personal trainer type certifications, but this is a very different scope of practice and outside of their medical expertise (How many doctors do you know that have any interest or knowledge in fitness or nutrition?). The ACSM fitness certifications lack the practical understanding of the fitness industry. We at the IFPA feel very strongly that the vast majority of the medical and health care concerns, expenses and problems of today can only be resolved by an army of dedicated fitness pr
ACSM is a fine certification and is the oldest in the industry. ACSM certification was specifically designed by medical doctors and exercise physiologists for exercise physiologists who planned on careers in the health and medical community. ACSM certification is generally required for any exercise physiologist working in hospital or medical clinics with cardio-rehabilitation patients. ACSM certification requires a college degree in exercise physiology or related areas. The ACSM is the one and only organization to offer a certification of this type. The IFPA does not have or plan to have any certification to compete with the ACSM. The ACSMs medical expertise is better suited to dealing with this special population than any other certification including the IFPA. The ACSM has attempted to develop personal trainer type certifications, but this is far a field from their medical expertise (how many doctors do you know that have any interest or knowledge in fitness or nutrition). The ACSM f
