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Personal Training, Certificate

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Overview

This two-semester certificate program will serve those who would like to work in the fitness industry as personal trainers. The certificate program is designed for students who have never worked in a fitness-center setting, those who are currently employed non-certified personal trainers who desire to upgrade their educational background as well as other fitness-industry professionals seeking the personal trainer designation. The certificate program will prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to work as personal trainers and further certify through the National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) after graduation.

Program Goals and Objectives
  • To assist students in completing three general education areas specifically chosen to develop knowledge of interpersonal communication, body systems and of writing skills for industry.
  • To prepare students to obtain NCSF certification.
  • To provide students with skills in personal fitness training.

Alumni Spotlight

Brandon Janca ’22

Brandon Janca (pictured between the owner of Applied Fitness, Brian Meisenburg, and fellow SUNY Niagara alumni, Alex Kaczmarek ‘20) graduated from the SUNY Niagara PTRN program in 2022. He has found a great deal of success upon graduating the program, and had the following to say about it:

“I have a military background that was the catalyst for me starting my health journey. I started at SUNY Niagara as an animation major, but did not like my hobby becoming my career. Through the help of my advisors, I was easily able to switch majors and start the Personal Training Certification Program.”

“I would recommend anyone who wants a career in the fitness industry to look into this program. The difference between the hands-on education and doing self-study online is substantial. The biggest advice I can give is to be humble. There is too much information and new studies to know everything. Challenge yourself on what you do know and (discover) if there is more to learn for your benefit.”

“Since graduation in 2022, I have reached full-time as a personal trainer at the studio I work at, with my own clientele. Furthered my education and became a certified nutritionist, with my next certification on the horizon. I was invited to give a speech for the American Heart Health Foundation banquet, to spread word on heart health and motivation. It is a fulfilling career, and nothing is more rewarding than having my clients mention how much easier life has become thanks the training they do.”

Brandon is pictured here at Applied Fitness with its owner PTRN Advisory Committee member Brian Meisenburg (left), and SUNY Niagara PTRN alumni and co-worker Alex Kaczmarek '20 (right)

Program Contact

John D Strong
Program Coordinator
Phone: 716-614-6272
Email: jstrong@niagaracc.suny.edu
Location: H-164
Division Office: 716-614-5940