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Jeroen Offergelt

In this course you will learn everything you need to know to become a fitness trainer. You will start from the beginning so you don't need any prior knowledge about fitness or exercising (however if you do, that makes it easier).

This course is taught by Jeroen who is an internationally certified personal trainer and internationally certified nutrition coach with over 12 years of experience helping clients and teaching other personal trainers and nutrition coaches how to better help clients reach their goals.

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In this course you will learn everything you need to know to become a fitness trainer. You will start from the beginning so you don't need any prior knowledge about fitness or exercising (however if you do, that makes it easier).

This course is taught by Jeroen who is an internationally certified personal trainer and internationally certified nutrition coach with over 12 years of experience helping clients and teaching other personal trainers and nutrition coaches how to better help clients reach their goals.

In this course you'll learn everything you need to know to start as a fitness trainer and we build a solid foundation that you can use in the future to better your skills.

You will learn about the anatomy of the human body and how it relates to personal training. We'll discuss the skeleton and the different bones and how these function in the different types of joints. Then we will discuss what muscles are, the different fibers and the function of each individual muscle and how to train it.

We'll even go in more detail about the heart muscle and how it functions within the respiratory system, how we can improve this and how to measure the efficiency. Do you know what the parameters of the cardiovascular system are? By the end of this course you will.

We cover a lot of theory which is important for a fitness trainer, to understand how the body operates and how to improve postural problems. To improve the way the body of client moves you need to be able to perform a screening, so that's something we definately discuss in depth in this course.

And combined with the theory, there are practical lessons and videos as well. You'll learn how to perfrom a screening, SMR and stretching. Of course we will go over all the important exercises and how to execute them and you'll get tips and tricks to get the best results. And finally you'll learn how to set up a training program for different training phases.

So if you want to become a fitness trainer then this is the course for you.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to perform a screening
  • How to properly stretch muscles
  • The anatomy of the human body
  • The different type of muscle fibers

Syllabus

The introduction
Introduction
For who is this course
What will you learn in this course
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers anatomy and muscle function, which are foundational for designing effective and safe training programs
Includes practical lessons and videos on performing screenings, SMR, and stretching, offering hands-on experience
Explores the cardiovascular system and how to measure its efficiency, providing a deeper understanding of exercise physiology
Requires no prior knowledge of fitness or exercising, making it accessible to beginners interested in the field
Discusses postural problems and how to improve them, which is important for addressing client needs and preventing injuries
Focuses on setting up training programs for different training phases, which is a core skill for personal trainers

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive fitness trainer foundation

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive foundation for becoming a fitness trainer, starting from the basics. Students particularly appreciate the detailed coverage of human anatomy, including bones, joints, and individual muscles, which they find essential for understanding movement and training principles. The course also includes a strong focus on practical screening techniques to identify imbalances, with helpful demonstrations. While the theory is solid, students note that hands-on practice is required outside the course to master the practical skills fully. They also mention that while it offers excellent knowledge, it may not serve as a standalone official certification depending on regional requirements.
May not be a full certification.
"This course provides a great knowledge base, but check your local certification requirements as it may not be standalone."
"It covers core personal training knowledge well, but official certifications might require more specific accreditation."
"Useful for knowledge and foundational skills, but might need supplementing for specific career requirements."
Practical application needs hands-on work.
"While the theory is strong, becoming proficient requires practicing skills like screening on others outside the course."
"The exercise execution demos are helpful, but you definitely need to practice them yourself and ideally, coach others."
"This course provides the knowledge, but real-world application and coaching experience are essential additions."
Instructor brings real-world experience.
"Jeroen's experience as a trainer is evident throughout the lessons, offering practical insights."
"He shares useful tips and tricks from his years working with clients, which is very helpful."
"It's beneficial learning from someone with international certifications and extensive experience."
Anatomy section is very detailed and in-depth.
"The deep dive into bones, joints, and individual muscles is incredibly valuable for understanding how the body works."
"I learned so much about specific muscle functions and how to train them effectively."
"Understanding the anatomy makes the exercise application and screening much clearer."
Emphasis on screening is very practical.
"Learning the different screening methods, like static and FMS, is great for practical work with clients."
"The practical demonstrations of screening help bridge the gap from theory to application."
"Identifying imbalances is a key skill the course covers well and provides tools for."
Provides a strong base in theory and practice.
"This course gives a really comprehensive overview of everything needed to start as a fitness trainer."
"It covers anatomy, screening, exercise, and programming concepts thoroughly, starting from the basics."
"I found it to be a great all-around introduction to the field of personal training."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Personal fitness trainer with these activities:
Review Basic Anatomy and Physiology
Reinforce your understanding of basic anatomy and physiology to better grasp the course's explanations of muscle function and movement.
Browse courses on Human Anatomy
Show steps
  • Review your notes from previous biology or anatomy courses.
  • Focus on skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.
  • Complete practice quizzes on anatomical terms and functions.
Anatomy and Physiology for Dummies
Gain a foundational understanding of anatomy and physiology to better understand the course material.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on the skeletal and muscular systems.
  • Take notes on key terms and concepts.
  • Complete the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
Practice Identifying Muscles and Bones
Reinforce your knowledge of anatomy by practicing identifying muscles and bones on diagrams and models.
Show steps
  • Find online anatomy quizzes and labeling exercises.
  • Use anatomical models or apps to visualize muscle and bone locations.
  • Focus on the muscles and bones covered in the course syllabus.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Screening Techniques with a Partner
Develop your screening skills by practicing with a partner and providing each other with feedback.
Show steps
  • Find a partner who is also taking the course or has some fitness knowledge.
  • Take turns performing the screening techniques learned in the course.
  • Provide constructive feedback on each other's technique and accuracy.
Design a Sample Training Program
Apply your knowledge by designing a sample training program for a specific client profile.
Show steps
  • Choose a client profile with specific goals and limitations.
  • Select appropriate exercises and training phases based on the client's needs.
  • Create a detailed training schedule with sets, reps, and rest periods.
  • Justify your choices based on the principles learned in the course.
Create a Video Demonstrating Proper Exercise Form
Solidify your understanding of exercise technique by creating a video demonstrating proper form for a key exercise.
Show steps
  • Choose an exercise covered in the course.
  • Research the proper form and common mistakes.
  • Record a video demonstrating the exercise with clear explanations.
  • Edit the video and share it with classmates or on social media.
NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training
Expand your knowledge with the industry-standard NASM textbook.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Focus on the sections on assessment, program design, and exercise technique.
  • Complete the practice exams and quizzes.

Career center

Learners who complete Personal fitness trainer will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Corrective Exercise Specialist
A corrective exercise specialist focuses on identifying and addressing movement dysfunctions to improve posture and reduce pain. The course's in-depth coverage of human anatomy, including the skeletal system, joints, and muscles, is foundational to this role. Moreover, the detailed lessons on performing screenings, like static and functional movement screenings, are directly applicable to assessing imbalances. By understanding muscle functions and reflexes, gained through this course, the corrective exercise specialist develops targeted interventions to restore proper movement patterns. Someone interested in a career as a corrective exercise specialist should take this course.
Kinesiologist
A kinesiologist studies human movement to improve health, performance, and function. This course helps build essential knowledge in human anatomy, including the skeletal system, joints, and muscles, which are foundational to kinesiological analysis. The course's detailed coverage of screening processes and movement patterns allows the kinesiologist to assess and understand movement dysfunctions. The practical lessons on exercises and training programs provide insights into how to optimize movement for various populations as a kinesiologist. Someone interested in a career as a kinesiologist should take this course.
Strength and Conditioning Coach
A strength and conditioning coach designs and implements training programs for athletes to improve their physical performance. This course helps build a foundation in understanding the anatomy of the human body, including the skeleton, joints, and muscles, which is crucial for designing effective and safe training programs. Learning how to assess movement through screenings, as covered in this course, allows the strength and conditioning coach to identify imbalances and tailor exercises to correct them. The knowledge of muscle fibers and how to train individual muscles will inform the coach's decisions in developing customized strength programs. Someone interested a career as a strength and conditioning coach should take this course.
Athletic Trainer
An athletic trainer specializes in preventing and treating athletic injuries. The course helps to build a deep understanding of human anatomy, including the skeletal system, joints, and muscles, which is essential for accurately assessing and managing injuries. The detailed lessons on performing screenings and understanding movement patterns are directly applicable to injury prevention and rehabilitation. The knowledge of muscle function and reflexes helps the athletic trainer develop targeted treatment plans to restore athletic performance. Someone interested in becoming an athletic trainer should take this course.
Movement Therapist
A movement therapist uses movement and exercise to improve physical and mental well-being. This course provides foundational knowledge of human anatomy, including the musculoskeletal system and how muscles function, which is crucial for designing effective movement therapy interventions. The in-depth look at screening processes enables the movement therapist to assess movement patterns and identify underlying issues. The practical lessons on stretching and exercises will be invaluable in guiding clients through therapeutic movements. This role typically requires an advanced degree. Someone interested in becoming a movement therapist should take this course.
Rehabilitation Specialist
A rehabilitation specialist assists patients in recovering from injuries or illnesses through exercise and movement. This course provides a solid understanding of human anatomy, including bones, joints, and muscles, which is essential for creating targeted rehabilitation plans. The course's coverage of screening processes enables the rehabilitation specialist to identify movement dysfunctions and tailor interventions accordingly. Furthermore, the practical lessons on stretching and exercises will be highly valuable in guiding patients through their recovery journey as a rehabilitation specialist. Someone interested in a career as a rehabilitation specialist should take this course.
Exercise Physiologist
An exercise physiologist designs and implements exercise programs to improve cardiovascular health, strength, and endurance. This course helps develop a foundation in understanding the anatomy of the human body along with how the muscular and skeletal systems interact, which is crucial for the work of an exercise physiologist. Further emphasizing the cardiovascular system, the course prepares the exercise physiologist to prescribe appropriate exercises and promote overall well-being. Someone interested in becoming an exercise physiologist should take this course.
Group Fitness Instructor
A group fitness instructor leads exercise classes for groups of people, providing instruction and motivation. This course helps to build a foundation in the anatomy of the human body, especially the musculoskeletal system; this knowledge is essential for designing safe and effective group exercise routines. The course covers proper stretching techniques, which are crucial for injury prevention in group fitness settings. The practical lessons on exercises and training programs will equip the group fitness instructor with the tools to create engaging and well-structured classes. Someone interested in becoming a group fitness instructor should take this course.
Physical Education Teacher
A physical education teacher instructs students in physical activities and promotes healthy lifestyles. This course assists in building a foundation in human anatomy and movement, which is essential for designing age-appropriate and safe physical education programs. The course's coverage of exercises, stretching, and training programs prepares the physical education teacher to lead engaging and effective activities. The knowledge of screening processes helps in identifying students who may need individual attention or modified exercises. Someone interested in becoming a physical education teacher should take this course.
Sports Coach
A sports coach trains athletes in a specific sport, focusing on skill development, strategy, and physical conditioning. This course helps develop foundational knowledge of the human body and movement, which informs the sports coach's approach to physical conditioning. The coverage of muscle anatomy and training helps the coach design exercises to enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries. Additionally, the understanding of screening processes contributes to identifying potential weaknesses and imbalances in athletes. Someone interested in becoming a sports coach should take this course.
Wellness Coach
A wellness coach guides clients in adopting healthy lifestyle habits to improve their overall well-being. This course may provide valuable insights into the function of the human body, including the anatomy of muscles and the skeleton, which assists in a wellness coach's understanding of physical fitness. The lessons on screening, stretching, and exercises may help the coach develop personalized wellness plans that incorporate physical activity. Someone interested in becoming a wellness coach may find this course helpful in their wellness journey.
Ergonomist
An ergonomist designs workspaces and equipment to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. This course may be useful as it helps build an understanding of human anatomy, especially the musculoskeletal system, which is essential for assessing how people interact with their environment. The course's coverage of body movement and posture contributes to the development of ergonomic solutions that minimize strain and discomfort. Someone interested in becoming an ergonomist may find this course helpful as a supplement to their other education.
Yoga Instructor
A yoga instructor guides students through yoga poses and breathing exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and mindfulness. This course may improve some aspects of a yoga instructor's teaching as it will give them a basic knowledge of the human body as it relates to exercise, and because it teaches about stretching techniques. Someone interested in becoming a yoga instructor may find this course useful in advancing their teaching.
Pilates Instructor
A Pilates instructor teaches the Pilates method, which focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. This course may be helpful, since it provides an introduction to the anatomy of the human body, including muscles and bones. Additionally, the stretching and exercise techniques in the course are similar to those used in Pilates training. Someone interested in becoming a Pilates instructor may find this course useful.
Dance Instructor
A dance instructor teaches dance techniques, choreography, and performance skills to students of all ages and levels. The course may be helpful as it introduces the anatomy of the human body, specifically the muscles, bones, and joints, which are beneficial for instructors as they lead classes. Also, dance instructors can learn about exercises and stretching techniques. Someone interested in becoming a dance instructor may find this course useful.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Personal fitness trainer.
Is the standard textbook used by NASM for their personal trainer certification. It provides a comprehensive overview of all aspects of personal training, from anatomy and physiology to program design and client communication. It valuable resource for anyone serious about becoming a certified personal trainer. This book adds significant depth to the course material and is commonly used by industry professionals.
Provides a solid foundation in anatomy and physiology, which is essential for understanding how the body moves and functions during exercise. It is particularly helpful for those without a strong science background. The book explains complex concepts in an accessible way, making it a valuable resource for grasping the anatomical and physiological principles discussed in the course. It serves as a useful reference for understanding the musculoskeletal system and its role in personal training.

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