In this article, I cover the 7 easiest personal training certification programs you can complete today.
I rank the easiest CPTs based on 4 key criteria to determine total ease:
- Easiest textbook
- Easiest exam
- Easiest study program
- Average study time
Make sure to take our helpful quiz to find the best personal training certification for you and your needs.
These are the top personal training certifications ranked in order from easiest to hardest based on our criteria.
CPT Certifications Overall Ease Rating
| Certification | Ease Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. ISSA CPT - Check ISSA Pricing | 10/10 |
| 2. IPTA CPT - Check IPTA Pricing | 10/10 |
| 3. NASM CPT - Check NASM Pricing | 9/10 |
| 4. NCSF CPT - Check NCSF Pricing | 8/10 |
| 5. ACE CPT | 7/10 |
| 6. NSCA CPT | 6/10 |
| 7. ACSM CPT | 6/10 |
Why We are Qualified to Recommend the Easiest Personal Trainer Certifications
Hi, I’m Dominic Angelino. With more than ten years in the fitness industry and a strong foundation in exercise science, I’ve dedicated my career to mastering and teaching the intricacies of personal training.
This article has been thoroughly reviewed by Tyler Read, a leading expert in personal training certifications. As the owner of PTPioneer.com and a holder of over 10 certifications, Tyler brings invaluable insights to ensure the accuracy and depth of our analysis.
Our rankings are the product of a collaborative effort by the Trainer Academy team, which boasts a combined 100+ years of experience in personal training and holds 15 certifications. With backgrounds in leadership, education, and hands-on coaching, our experts provide a well-rounded and reliable assessment of the top personal trainer certifications.
Most Helpful Study Materials
| Certification | Study Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA | 10/10 |
| 2. ISSA | 9/10 |
| 3. NASM | 9/10 |
| 4. NCSF | 8/10 |
| 5. ACE | 8/10 |
| 6. ACSM | 6/10 |
| 7. NSCA | 5/10 |
IPTA Study Materials (learn more)
IPTA’s study materials are our top choice. IPTA uses a structured, user-friendly approach that makes learning straightforward.
No other certification provider makes studying as easy.
The content is well-organized, with clear explanations, interactive elements, and engaging study aids that cater to various learning styles. This accessibility ensures that even those new to fitness can grasp key concepts efficiently, making IPTA the most beginner-friendly option.
Some of the study materials include:
- A fully interactive study guide (which includes an audio-only version for studying in the car)
- Exam simulator
- Flashcard system
- Gamification
- Mneumonics
- SurePass AI
- Tailored study plans
IPTA’s study materials are also less expensive than any of the other certifications on this list. Even the highest tier, the MVP, is just $699.
You can even try out their study system and gain access to the textbook for free.
ISSA Study Materials (learn more)
Following closely behind is ISSA. ISSA simplifies the studying process by including all the study materials in one package.
ISSA’s standard system includes:
- Current Edition Textbook
- Online Practice Exams and Quizzes
- Audio and Video Lecture Options
- Online Study Guide and Workbook
- Online Student Forum
- Online Exam
ISSA provides highly structured and easy-to-follow materials, integrating video content, quizzes, and well-written textbooks. The study experience is intuitive, helping learners retain information effectively.
NASM Study Materials (learn more)
NASM, known for its emphasis on movement science and corrective exercise, also offers a well-organized study experience. While NASM’s materials are slightly more technical, they are still presented in a way that is digestible, especially with the help of their guided study programs and interactive online resources.
In the higher tier NASM study packages you receive access to:
- A NASM portal
- A digital NASM personal training book (eBook)
- Video lectures
- An extensive NASM exercise library
- Practice quizzes and personal trainer practice exams
- Personal trainer study guides
- Anatomy guide to help with memorization
- NASM test prep webinars
- Coach and mentor guidance
- A hard copy of the NASM textbook
- 80-hour real-world practical
- Access to the NASM Business Accelerator
NCSF Study Materials (learn more)
NCSF provides solid study materials at a very reasonable price, however you don’t get quite the same level of support as with IPTA, ISSA, and NASM.
NCSF includes:
- Textbook
- Instructional Videos
- Lesson Notes
- Questions and Answers
- Review Quizzes
- Instructor Support
ACE Study Materials
ACE is known for its practical approach and accessible language, though some students find the organization of materials slightly less intuitive than higher-ranked programs.
- Textbook
- Audiobook (only in the highest study tier)
- Q&A Webinars
- Study Group
- ACE Study Companion
ACSM Study Materials
Moving down the list, ACSM earns a 6/10, as its study materials are not included in the price of the exam.
You do get access to a Free Facebook Study Group, however, nothing else is included in the price of the test.
You have to buy the textbook and study program separately.
You can opt to purchase the Prep Course or purchase a practice exam and quizzes on their own.
NSCA Study Materials
Finally, NSCA ranks the lowest with a 5/10.
Not only do you have to buy textbook and study materials separately from the exam, but the only study materials available are a PDF study guide, and a practice test and exam.
Additionally, NSCA lacks the structured, interactive study tools that make other certifications easier to absorb.
Overall, IPTA leads the pack in study material usability, while NSCA’s resources may require significantly more effort to comprehend.
Easiest Textbook to Read
| Certification | Textbook Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA CPT | 10/10 |
| 2. ISSA CPT | 10/10 |
| 3. NCSF CPT | 10/10 |
| 4. NASM CPT | 9/10 |
| 5. ACE CPT | 8/10 |
| 6. NSCA CPT | 7/10 |
| 7. ACSM CPT | 6/10 |
IPTA Textbook (learn more)
Not only does the IPTA textbook prepare you well for the exam, but it’s easy to read.
The textbook is well organized, with 30 chapters covering body systems, program design, periodization, corrective exercise, and training for special populations. The IPTA text offers chapters on nutrition, supplementation, and professional guidelines and outlines all you need to know as a new personal trainer.
The IPTA text is also the most recently updated of all the NCCA-accredited certifications and includes the latest research-backed exercise science.
ISSA Textbook (learn more)
The ISSA textbook is also incredibly easy to understand. You learn the fundamentals of personal training but with an easy-to-digest and conversational tone.
ISSA gives you both physical and online versions of the textbook. If you opt for the online version you get a space to write notes in the sidebar, which makes learning a breeze.
NCSF Textbook (learn more)
Similar to ISSA and IPTA, NCSF also provides a straightforward and user-friendly text, ensuring that key topics are well-explained without overwhelming technical jargon.
NASM Textbook (learn more)
NASM ranks just below these leaders with a 9/10.
While NASM’s textbook is well-structured and relatively easy to follow, it is more in-depth and leans heavily on corrective exercise principles and movement science.
Some sections can feel a bit dense, especially for individuals without a background in biomechanics or anatomy.
However, NASM balances this by using charts, diagrams, and real-world applications to make learning easier.
ACE Textbook
The ACE textbook is very similar to NASM, however we rank ACE lower due to the exclusion of certain exercise science concepts which we feel you need to know as personal trainer.
Learning about biomechanics and how the body operates is an essential aspect of personal training.
ACE does include an extra free course on exercise science in some of the study packages, but because this isn’t part of the initial textbook, we have to give ACE a lower score.
NSCA Textbook
NSCA, with a 7/10 rating, presents a more challenging reading experience. The NSCA CPT textbook is rooted in strength and conditioning science, making it slightly more technical and research-driven than the higher-ranked options.
While it provides a wealth of valuable information, the textbook assumes some prior knowledge in exercise physiology, which can make it less accessible to beginners.
ACSM Textbook
At the bottom of the list, ACSM earns a 6/10 due to its dense, highly scientific approach.
The ACSM CPT textbook is widely regarded as one of the most research-heavy in the industry, often feeling more like a college-level academic text than a user-friendly study guide.
While the information is highly credible and detailed, the lack of a simplified, structured layout makes it difficult for some learners to digest, especially those without a strong science background.
Overall, IPTA, ISSA, and NCSF offer the most readable textbooks, making them ideal for those seeking a smooth and accessible learning experience. NASM remains a solid option with slightly more depth, while NSCA and ACSM cater to individuals comfortable with more technical, research-oriented reading.
Easiest Exam to Take
| Certification | Exam Rating |
|---|---|
| 1. ISSA CPT | 10/10 |
| 2. IPTA CPT | 9/10 |
| 3. NCSF CPT | 8/10 |
| 4. ACE CPT | 8/10 |
| 5. NASM CPT | 8/10 |
| 6. ACSM CPT | 6/10 |
| 7. NSCA CPT | 5/10 |
When scoring the easiest exams, we looked at pass rates, the length of exam, number of questions, and the ability to take the exam in-person versus at-home.
Organization Proctoring Details:
Exam Information:
ISSA Exam (learn more)
ISSA ranks as the easiest exam to take with a 10/10 rating.
You have to answer the least amount of questions with only 120 to be completed in two hours.
ISSA offers two exam options. One is a NCCA-accredited version with a 75% pass rate.
The other is open-book, meaning test-takers can reference their study materials while answering questions. This has a 90% pass rate.
This significantly reduces test anxiety and allows candidates to focus more on applying their knowledge rather than memorizing complex details.
Although the open-book text is easier, we recommend to do the proctored version which ISSA lets you take at a test center or at home.
Additionally, ISSA provides a free retest, which is great for nervous test takers and those looking for a stress-free exam experience.
IPTA Exam (learn more)
Close behind, IPTA scores a 9/10 for exam ease. While not open-book like ISSA, IPTA’s test is designed to be clear and straightforward, focusing on practical application rather than trick questions or unnecessarily complex wording.
The IPTA test also has a 75% pass rate.
You have to answer 135 questions, but you get 3 hours to complete the test.
The questions align well with the study materials, ensuring that those who have put in the effort to learn the content will find the exam manageable.
Additionally, IPTA offers good support resources and practice exams, which further help candidates prepare effectively.
NCSF Exam (learn more)
NCSF’s exam is well-structured and fair, with a focus on applied knowledge rather than excessive memorization.
You have a higher total of questions than IPTA or ISSA with 150 to be completed within three hours.
ACE Exam
ACE also offer NCCA and non-NCCCA versions of their test. Just like NCSF, you must answer 150 total questions in 3 hours, and the pass rate is the same as NCSF at 69%.
NASM Exam (learn more)
Just like ACE and ISSA, NASM offers NCCA and non-NCCA versions of their exam.
The NASM final exam is only 120 questions (100 of which count towards your score) which you must answer in 2 hours.
NASM’s test is sometimes seen as more difficult due to its emphasis on movement science and program design.
While these exams are not the easiest, they are fair and passable for those who study consistently. The multiple-choice format across all three exams makes them approachable, but test-takers need to be well-prepared.
ACSM Exam
Toward the more challenging end, ACSM receives a 6/10 rating due to its exam’s more academic nature.
The questions often require a deeper understanding of scientific principles, making it more difficult for those without a strong background in exercise physiology.
ACSM’s exam is also known for having questions that can be tricky or phrased in ways that require careful reading, which can add to the challenge.
NSCA Exam
At the bottom, NSCA earns the lowest rating with a 5/10. NSCA’s CPT exam is considered one of the most difficult due to its focus on strength and conditioning principles, biomechanics, and in-depth exercise science.
The questions are often highly technical, requiring a deep understanding of human movement and training methodologies. Many test-takers find the exam challenging, particularly those without a background in strength and conditioning.
Overall, ISSA offers the easiest and most accessible exam experience, while NSCA presents the most rigorous challenge.
The other certifications fall somewhere in between, with IPTA, NCSF, ACE, and NASM offering fair but structured exams that require solid preparation.
Average Study Time
| Certification | Average Study Time |
|---|---|
| 1. IPTA CPT | 2 months |
| 2. ISSA CPT | 3 months |
| 3. NASM CPT | 4 months |
| 4. NCSF CPT | 4 months |
| 5. ACE CPT | 6 months |
| 6. NSCA CPT | 6 months |
| 7. ACSM CPT | 6 months |
We compared all 7 CPTs and TA and ISSA came out on top with the fastest study times. We think this is due to the amount of support you receive when studying for their exams and the fact that the textbook are easier to read.
After that NASM and NCSF are next with either 3 or 4 months of required study before most people take the exam.
Choosing a personal trainer certification with a fast study time can be a strategic decision for anyone eager to launch their career in the fitness industry.
In a field that is rapidly evolving, being able to complete your certification quickly means you can start working with clients and building your reputation sooner.
This rapid entry into the professional world is particularly valuable for those balancing other commitments or looking to pivot careers without long periods of downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the easiest personal training certification to take?
IPTA or ISSA remain the easiest to personal training certifications to pass. Both offer free retakes, excellent study resources, and exams with a 75% pass rate. After that, NCSF is another easy option.
Which certification is the hardest?
NSCA or ACSM will be the hardest test to pass. Both exams offer a pass rate of 66% and 61% respectively and neither comes with study materials. In addition, both certifications require you to purchase the textbook and study program separately.
How long does it take to study for your personal trainer exam?
Depending on your schedule and the program, allow 2-4 months to study for your personal training certification. If you have more free time to allocate to studying you might be able to pass in less time, but if you have a busy job, you might need up to six months to prepare adequately.
Do you need a college degree to be a personal trainer?
None of the training certifications on this list require a college degree. You will however need a high school diploma or GED equivalency and CPR/AED certification.
Conclusion
Choosing the easiest personal training certification depends on various factors, including the structure of study materials, textbook readability, exam difficulty, and post-certification support.
Based on these criteria, ISSA stands out as the most accessible certification due to its open-book exam, well-organized study materials, and strong career guidance.
IPTA and NCSF also rank highly for their user-friendly resources and balanced exam structures, making them excellent choices for aspiring trainers looking for a straightforward path to certification.
While NASM, ACE, and ACSM provide strong foundational knowledge, they require more effort due to their challenging exams or dense textbooks.
NSCA, known for its strength and conditioning focus, presents the greatest difficulty due to its scientific depth and complex exam structure.
Ultimately, the best certification for you depends on your learning style, career goals, and industry aspirations. If you’re looking for the easiest route into personal training, ISSA or IPTA may be the best fit.
However, if you’re willing to take on a bit more challenge for a highly respected certification, NASM or NCSF are solid options. No matter which path you choose, commitment to ongoing learning and practical experience will be key to success in the fitness industry.
