ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification Review (2024)
Read this ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification Review to decide if the ACE Functional Training Certification is worth it and what the best personal training certification is for you.
The ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification is tailored for fitness and allied health professionals seeking a deeper understanding of training the body to move more efficiently. This program focuses on enhancing movement quality, preventing injuries, improving balance, flexibility, strength, and overall quality of life for clients of diverse backgrounds. The curriculum covers functional movement techniques, including fascia understanding, assessments, exercise progressions, and stretching techniques.
To become an ACE Functional Training Specialist, completion of the program modules and associated quizzes is required. While anyone can undertake the program, recognition as an ACE Specialist necessitates holding a current NCCA-accredited certification or equivalent professional credential. The course aims to equip professionals with the skills to enhance clients’ movement efficiency and overall well-being through tailored training approaches.
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ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification Review
The ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification is tailored for fitness professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in functional training to help clients move more efficiently, effectively, and frequently. This certification focuses on the biomechanics of movement, physiological demands, and the development of integrated training programs tailored to improve everyday activities and athletic performance.
- Target Audience: Ideal for personal trainers, group fitness instructors, physical therapists, and other health and fitness professionals interested in advancing their knowledge in functional training to better support clients of all ages and fitness levels.
- Curriculum: The program covers a wide range of topics including muscular causes of structural imbalances, functional anatomy, myofascial systems, assessments, motor learning principles, and corrective functional exercises to enhance movement efficiency and reduce injury risks.
- Study Materials: The certification provides comprehensive learning materials including books, recorded videos, and online quizzes to facilitate a deep understanding of functional training principles.
The ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification is a valuable asset for fitness professionals aiming to broaden their expertise in improving functional movement and quality of life for their clients. By focusing on the principles of functional training, this certification enables fitness professionals to design programs that not only enhance athletic performance but also facilitate daily activities and reduce the risk of injury. With the backing of ACE and recognition from multiple organizations, certified professionals are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for functional training in the health and fitness industry.
Certification Requirements
- Prerequisites: While anyone can complete the Functional Training Specialist Program, an NCCA-accredited certification or equivalent professional credential is required for official designation as an ACE Specialist.
- CEU Credits: The program is approved for continuing education credits by multiple organizations including ACSM, AFAA, NASM, NCSF, NETA, NSCA, ensuring wide recognition of its educational value.
Certification Process
- Study Period: The self-paced online format allows candidates to complete the certification at their convenience, typically within a few months, depending on their starting knowledge and dedication to the course material.
- Payment Options: ACE offers flexible payment options, including an installment plan starting at $15/month after a $25 down payment, or a one-time payment of $199 for the entire program.
Comparison to Other Similar Functional Movement Certifications
| Certification | Organization | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACE Functional Training Specialist | ACE | – Comprehensive training in functional movement techniques | – Limited recognition compared to some alternatives |
| NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist | NASM | – Focuses on rehabilitation and physical improvement | – Courses may require specific schedules and in-person attendance |
| FMS Functional Movement Systems | FMS | – Specializes in functional movement systems | – Courses may have varying levels of hands-on experience and scheduling requirements |
| NASM Optimum Performance Training (OPT) | NASM | – Developed based on scientific research, evidence-based training | – Not a certification, but a methodology that impacts many certifications, like the NASM CPT – Higher cost compared to some certifications, but offers extensive additional courses |
When comparing the ACE Functional Training Specialist with similar certifications like the NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist, FMS Functional Movement Systems, and NASM Optimum Performance Training (OPT), each certification has its pros and cons. The ACE certification offers comprehensive training in functional movement techniques but may have limited recognition. In contrast, the NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist focuses on rehabilitation but may require specific schedules and in-person attendance. FMS specializes in functional movement systems, while courses may vary in hands-on experience. NASM OPT is developed based on scientific research but comes at a higher cost with extensive additional courses.
Pros and Cons
As an ACE Functional Training Specialist, you’ll empower clients to move more efficiently, effectively, and frequently, enhancing their overall health and quality of life. This certification is designed for health and exercise professionals looking to deepen their understanding of functional training, which emphasizes movement efficiency to support everyday activities and athletic performance.
Pros
- Enhances a trainer’s ability to develop programs that improve functional strength, mobility, and stability, catering to a broad range of client goals.
- Equips professionals with the skills to conduct comprehensive assessments and implement targeted functional exercises to correct imbalances and improve movement patterns.
- The certification is recognized by multiple organizations, adding significant value to a fitness professionalās credentials.
Cons
- Specialization in functional training may require additional investment in specialized equipment and resources to fully implement a diverse range of functional exercises.
- The specific focus on functional training might not align with the interests or client base of all fitness professionals.
By becoming an ACE Functional Training Specialist, you’ll not only enhance your career but also make a significant impact on your clients’ lives by helping them achieve better movement efficiency, which is essential for a healthy, active lifestyle.
What is the ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification?
This certification focuses on the biomechanics of functional movements, aiming to improve clients’ core function, balance, flexibility, strength, and overall movement efficiency. The ACE Functional Training Specialist Program equips you with the knowledge to train clients to move correctly, reducing inefficient movement that can lead to stress and potential injuries.
Is the ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification worth it?
Absolutely. In today’s fitness industry, the demand for personalized, functional training programs is on the rise. This certification enables you to cater to a broad range of clients, from competitive athletes to older adults, by helping them move better in their daily lives and sports activities, making it a valuable addition to your professional credentials.
Who should get the ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification?
This certification is ideal for:
- Personal trainers and fitness coaches aiming to incorporate functional training into their client programs.
- Group fitness instructors and movement teachers (such as yoga or Pilates instructors) who wish to integrate functional movement principles into their classes.
- Health and wellness professionals, including physical therapy aides and chiropractic assistants, interested in expanding their knowledge of functional movement.
How credible is ACE?
ACE is a globally recognized organization in the health and fitness industry, known for its high standards and evidence-based certification programs. The Functional Training Specialist Certification, like all ACE certifications, is developed by leading experts and based on the latest scientific research, ensuring that certified professionals possess cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
What can you do with an ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification?
With this certification, you can:
- Design and deliver personalized functional training programs that enhance daily living and athletic performance.
- Conduct comprehensive movement assessments to identify and correct inefficiencies and imbalances.
- Work with a diverse clientele to improve their movement efficiency, prevent injuries, and enhance their overall fitness and wellbeing.
How much does the ACE Functional Training Specialist Certification cost?
The cost for the certification program is $449, which can be paid in full or through interest-free payments as low as $38/month with Affirm. All ACE Certified Professionals automatically qualify to earn the title of ACE Specialist and are encouraged to specialize to serve special populations better.
