Posted by Tyler Spraul, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) on March 1, 2024 — Updated on July 25, 2024
Read this NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification Review to decide if the NASM YES Certification is worth it and what the best personal training certification is for you.
Should you say “YES” to a NASM Youth Exercise Specialist Certification? The NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification offers a comprehensive program for fitness professionals looking to specialize in working with youth clients. With a focus on evidence-based training methods and practical skills, this certification equips individuals with the expertise needed to make a positive impact on the lives of young people through fitness and healthy lifestyle habits.
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The NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification is designed for fitness professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in youth fitness and exercise. This specialization focuses on developing age-appropriate exercise programs that promote physical activity, improve athletic performance, and instill lifelong healthy habits in young individuals.
Target Audience: Personal trainers, coaches, physical education teachers, and other fitness professionals who work with children and adolescents or wish to specialize in this demographic.
Curriculum: The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including developmental physiology, nutritional needs of young athletes, program design for youth, injury prevention, and strategies for engaging and motivating young clients.
Study Materials: NASM provides a comprehensive set of digital resources, including online modules, video lectures, interactive content, and case studies, to facilitate a thorough understanding of youth fitness training.
The NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification is a program designed to equip fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills to work effectively with youth clients aged 6-19. Here is a review based on the provided search results:
Overview
The NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification is tailored for fitness professionals who aim to specialize in developing and implementing safe, effective, and age-appropriate exercise programs for children and adolescents. This certification emphasizes the importance of promoting physical activity among youth, considering their unique physiological, cognitive, and emotional development stages.
The NASM YES Certification focuses on motivating young people to lead active lives, modifying exercise and nutritional recommendations for youth, and expanding fitness businesses to cater to a new demographic.
The program includes chapters on cardiorespiratory training, resistance training, plyometric training, and more.
It offers access to world-class fitness and nutrition experts, peer-reviewed content, and a state-of-the-art digital learning platform.
The self-paced online program allows individuals to complete their certification in as little as 2-4 weeks.
Exam Details
The certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions.
Participants have 90 minutes to complete the exam.
A passing score of 70% is required.
Three test attempts are included in the program.
Benefits
NASM has over 35 years of experience training fitness professionals globally.
The YES Certification distinguishes professionals as highly trained in working with youth clients.
NASM credentials are well-regarded by employers and stand out in the fitness industry.
Certification Requirements
Prerequisites: Generally, there are no strict prerequisites, but a foundational knowledge in fitness or a related field is beneficial. A current NASM-CPT certification or equivalent might be recommended but not mandatory.
Exam: The certification concludes with an examination that assesses the candidate’s knowledge and application of youth exercise principles.
Certification Process
Study Period: The self-paced nature of the program allows candidates to complete their studies within a timeframe that suits their schedule, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Exam Format: The exam usually consists of multiple-choice questions covering theoretical concepts and practical applications in youth exercise training.
Passing Criteria: Candidates must achieve a passing score to earn the YES certification, demonstrating their competency in designing and implementing effective exercise programs for youth.
Continuing Education and Recertification
Recertification: To maintain the YES certification, professionals are required to complete continuing education units (CEUs) within a specified recertification period, usually every 2 years.
Continuing Education: NASM offers various continuing education courses and workshops that YES-certified professionals can undertake to fulfill their recertification requirements and stay current with the latest developments in youth exercise training.
Cost
Certification Cost: The cost includes access to all study materials, the online course platform, and the exam fee. NASM may offer package deals or promotions that provide additional value.
Pros and Cons
By becoming a NASM Youth Exercise Specialist, you’ll be equipped to make a positive impact on the physical and mental well-being of young individuals, helping to instill healthy habits that can last a lifetime. This certification not only enhances your professional skill set but also contributes to the broader goal of improving youth health and fitness on a societal level.
Pros
Specialization in youth exercise addresses a critical need, enhancing a professional’s ability to work effectively with children and adolescents.
NASM’s evidence-based approach and integration with the Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model provide a structured framework for youth program design.
The certification opens up opportunities for professionals to work in various settings, including schools, sports teams, and youth fitness centers.
Cons
The cost of the certification may be a consideration for some professionals, especially those early in their careers or with limited budgets for continuing education.
Specializing in youth exercise may require additional certifications or training to address other populations or advanced fitness needs.
Comparison of NASM Youth Exercise Specialist (YES) Certification with Other Youth Fitness Certifications
Focuses on motivating and coaching kids to improve health, fitness, and self-esteem.
Empowers children to recognize the importance of physical, mental, social, and emotional development.
ACE Youth Fitness Certification
Positioned towards public health issues concerning youth fitness.
Provides a comprehensive curriculum for the youth population with a focus on health-related physical fitness concepts.
When comparing the NASM YES Certification with other youth fitness certifications like ASFA, ISSA, AFPA, and ACE, individuals should consider factors such as program content, target age groups, motivational strategies, injury prevention techniques, growth needs understanding, and the ability to design age-appropriate fitness programs. Each certification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to make a positive impact on the health and wellness of children and teenagers through specialized youth fitness training programs.
Saying “YES”
The NASM Youth Exercise Specialist Certification is an excellent choice for fitness professionals looking to specialize in youth fitness. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that addresses the unique needs of young individuals, preparing professionals to design safe, effective, and engaging exercise programs. With the growing emphasis on physical activity for children and adolescents, this certification provides valuable expertise that can enhance a fitness professional’s career and contribute positively to the health and well-being of the younger generation.
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The NASM YES Certification provides comprehensive training on how to create engaging, fun, and beneficial exercise programs for youth. It covers a range of topics including the fundamentals of youth fitness, developmental stages, exercise gamification, and strategies to instill healthy habits early on. The curriculum is designed to equip trainers with the skills to motivate and inspire young individuals to enjoy physical activity and understand its lifelong benefits.
Is the NASM YES Certification worth it?
Yes, the NASM YES Certification is a valuable addition to any fitness professional’s credentials, especially given the growing concern over youth inactivity and obesity rates. This certification allows trainers to expand their client base to include younger populations, offering specialized services that cater to the needs and interests of children and adolescents. It also positions trainers as experts in youth fitness, potentially opening up opportunities in schools, sports clubs, and community centers.
Who should get the NASM YES Certification?
This certification is ideal for:
Personal trainers and fitness instructors looking to specialize in youth fitness.
Physical education teachers and sports coaches seeking additional qualifications in exercise science for children and adolescents.
Health and wellness professionals aiming to contribute to the prevention of childhood obesity and inactivity.
How difficult is the NASM YES Certification exam?
The NASM YES Certification exam is designed to assess a comprehensive understanding of youth exercise science and program design. While it presents a challenge, it is achievable with dedicated study of the NASM materials and an understanding of the unique aspects of youth fitness. The exam format typically includes multiple-choice questions that test both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
How credible is NASM?
NASM is highly respected in the fitness industry for its evidence-based approach and rigorous certification programs. The YES Certification, like all NASM certifications, is developed based on the latest scientific research and best practices in fitness training. NASM’s reputation for excellence ensures that the YES Certification is recognized and valued by employers and clients alike.
What can you do with a NASM YES Certification?
With the NASM YES Certification, you can:
Design and lead specialized fitness programs for children and adolescents in various settings, such as schools, community centers, and sports clubs.
Work one-on-one with young clients to develop personalized exercise routines that address their specific needs, interests, and developmental stages.
Educate families and communities about the importance of physical activity for youth and how to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle.
How much does the NASM YES Certification cost?
The cost of the NASM YES Certification can vary depending on promotional offers, package deals, and additional resources included. For the most accurate and current pricing, it’s best to check directly with NASM.
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is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®). He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life.
