ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification Review (2024)
Read this ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification Review to decide if the AFAA Personal Fitness Trainer Certification is worth it and what the best personal training certification is for you.
The ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification is a program that addresses the growing demand for exercise emphasizing body positivity and inclusivity. This course challenges outdated information regarding weight loss regimens and focuses on empowering clients to love their bodies.
The ACE Inclusive Fitness Certification covers creating size-inclusive workout environments and understanding the relationship between weight loss and body positivity. The online certification is offered at $549 and aims to equip fitness professionals with the knowledge and skills to support clients of all body types on their fitness journeys.
Whether you want to learn how to become a personal trainer, or learn how to become a fitness influencer, or learn how to open a gym, or learn how to start a fitness business, or maybe you want to learn how to become a fitness model and smash industry norms and standards for fitness model height, weight, and age requirements, or anything in between, use the Exercise.com platform to accomplish your fitness business goals.
You can start an online personal training business, make a fitness app, learn how to make money selling workout plans online, put in-person personal training marketing ideas into action, use personal training income ideas to find personal trainer career options that will put you on track for the highest paying fitness jobs, and many other ways to make money from fitness doing what you love.
With the Exercise.com platform you have the best online fitness coaching software and the best software for fitness influencers all in one! (Not to mention the best gym software and the best personal training software).
Create workout plans.
Manage clients.
Run online fitness challenges.
Create and sell fitness memberships, products, and digital offers.
Manage, message, and market to your online personal training clients and leads.
All from your very own custom branded fitness apps.
ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification Overview
The ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification is designed to empower fitness professionals to effectively work with larger-bodied clients, promoting sustainable movement and a positive relationship with exercise.
Curriculum Highlights
Developed by Louise Green, an acclaimed fitness trainer, this program addresses the unique psychological and physiological needs of larger-bodied individuals, focusing on a weight-neutral approach for long-term health outcomes.
- The Truth About Body Image & Exercise: Discusses the impact of societal body image ideals and offers strategies for fostering a positive body image and inclusive fitness environment.
- Exploring Weight Bias & Lived Experience: Examines the harmful effects of weight bias and emphasizes the importance of understanding the lived experiences of larger-bodied clients.
- Training Methodology for Larger Bodies: Provides practical guidance on client intake, programming, goal setting, and group fitness strategies tailored for larger-bodied individuals.
- Form and Physiology Considerations: Addresses specific physiological and balance challenges faced by larger-bodied clients and offers a comprehensive exercise library.
- Equipment & Gym Setting Considerations for Larger Bodies: Covers how to make gym settings and equipment more inclusive and accessible for larger-bodied clients.
- Case Studies & Programming for Larger Bodied Clients: Allows for the application of the program’s principles through real-life scenarios and programming exercises.
- Marketing for Size Inclusion: Offers insights into effectively marketing fitness services to attract and retain larger-bodied clients, emphasizing size diversity and respectful imagery.
Pros
- Specialized Knowledge: Provides in-depth understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by larger-bodied clients.
- Promotes Inclusivity: Aligns with the Body Positive and Health at Every Size movements, helping to create a more inclusive fitness industry.
- Expands Client Base: Equips professionals to serve a significant and underserved demographic, potentially expanding business opportunities.
- Comprehensive Approach: Addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of fitness for larger-bodied individuals, promoting sustainable health and wellness.
Cons
- Niche Focus: Specialization may not appeal to all fitness professionals or fit within all business models.
- Sensitive Subject Matter: Requires a nuanced understanding and approach to avoid perpetuating biases or making clients feel uncomfortable.
- Continuing Education: Keeping up with evolving best practices in size inclusivity and body positivity may require ongoing learning.
Career Opportunities
This certification opens up opportunities to work in various settings, from gyms and wellness centers to private practice, catering to a growing need for size-inclusive fitness professionals.
CEC Credits and Affiliations
The program includes ACE CECs, enhancing professional development and recognition within the fitness industry.
Enrollment and Prerequisites
While accessible to all fitness professionals, those with a current NCCA-accredited certification or equivalent will be recognized as ACE Specialists. The program’s comprehensive materials, including online content, PDFs, and videos, provide a thorough educational experience in size-inclusive fitness.
Comparison to Similar Certifications
| Certification | Organization | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist | ACE | – Focuses on body positivity and inclusivity in fitness | – Requires a specific focus on size-inclusive workouts |
| NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist | NASM | – Highly respected certification in corrective exercise | – More expensive than ACE at the base package, better deals when bundling specializations |
| ISSA Corrective Exercise Specialist | ISSA | – Strong reputation and comprehensive study suite | – Perceived as easy to pass, potentially impacting quality of certification |
| NCSF Corrective Exercise Specialist | NCSF | – Provides a comprehensive approach to corrective exercise | – Requires industry experience and a rigorous exam process |
| TBMM Corrective Exercise Specialist | TBMM | – Study materials receive high ratings for preparation | – Exam is untimed with unlimited retakes, may lack time pressure |
When comparing the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist certification with other similar certifications like the NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist, ISSA Corrective Exercise Specialist, NCSF Corrective Exercise Specialist, and TBMM Corrective Exercise Specialist, each certification has its pros and cons. The ACE certification focuses on promoting body positivity and inclusivity but requires a specific focus on size-inclusive workouts. NASM offers a highly respected certification in corrective exercise but is more expensive than ACE at the base package. ISSA has a strong reputation and comprehensive study suite but is perceived as easy to pass by some. NCSF provides a comprehensive approach to corrective exercise but requires industry experience and a rigorous exam process. TBMM’s study materials receive high ratings for preparation but the exam is untimed with unlimited retakes, potentially lacking time pressure.
What is Inclusive Fitness?
Inclusive fitness is an approach to fitness and exercise that ensures all individuals, regardless of their abilities, disabilities, or limitations, have equal access to fitness opportunities. This concept emphasizes the importance of creating environments and programs that accommodate the diverse needs of all participants, promoting physical activity for everyone.
Key Principles of Inclusive Fitness
- Accessibility: Facilities and equipment should be designed to be easily accessible to people with disabilities. This includes features like ramps, wide doors, and adaptive equipment.
- Adaptability: Fitness programs should be adaptable to meet the varying needs of participants. This might involve modifying exercises, offering different levels of intensity, or providing alternative movements.
- Inclusivity: Promoting an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their physical abilities. This includes staff training to understand and support the needs of all participants.
- Safety: Ensuring that all exercises and equipment are safe for use by people with different abilities. This might involve providing additional support or supervision for certain activities.
- Empowerment: Encouraging individuals to participate in fitness activities by providing the necessary tools, resources, and support to help them succeed and feel confident in their abilities.
Benefits of Inclusive Fitness
- Improved Physical Health: Inclusive fitness programs help all individuals, including those with disabilities, to improve their physical health and well-being.
- Enhanced Mental Health: Participation in fitness activities can boost self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental health.
- Social Inclusion: These programs promote social interaction and community building, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and exclusion.
- Increased Participation: By making fitness accessible to everyone, more people are likely to engage in physical activity, leading to a healthier population overall.
Implementing Inclusive Fitness
To effectively implement inclusive fitness, consider the following steps:
- Facility Assessment: Evaluate your facility for accessibility. Ensure that entrances, restrooms, and workout areas are accessible to individuals with disabilities.
- Staff Training: Provide training for staff on how to work with individuals with diverse needs. This can include understanding different types of disabilities and learning how to adapt exercises.
- Adaptive Equipment: Invest in adaptive fitness equipment that can be used by individuals with physical limitations. Examples include hand cycles, seated ellipticals, and adjustable resistance machines.
- Program Design: Develop fitness programs that can be easily modified to accommodate different abilities. Offer classes specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.
- Community Outreach: Partner with local organizations that support individuals with disabilities to promote your inclusive fitness programs and encourage participation.
Examples of Inclusive Fitness Activities
- Wheelchair Accessible Workouts: Offering classes that are specifically designed for individuals who use wheelchairs.
- Adapted Yoga: Yoga classes that incorporate modified poses and use props to support participants with varying abilities.
- Aquatic Exercise: Water-based exercise programs that are gentle on the joints and can be adapted for individuals with mobility impairments.
- Group Classes: Inclusive group exercise classes where modifications are provided so everyone can participate at their own level.
By embracing inclusive fitness, fitness centers and programs can create a welcoming environment that supports the health and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their abilities. This approach not only benefits participants but also fosters a sense of community and equality in fitness spaces.
What is the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification?
The ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification equips fitness professionals to effectively support and empower individuals in larger bodies. Created by Louise Green, this program focuses on sustainable fitness approaches, emphasizing a weight-neutral, body-positive methodology that fosters long-term health outcomes and a positive relationship with exercise, distinguishing it from weight-centric fitness paradigms.
Is the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification worth it?
Absolutely. Given that over 70% of Americans are considered to be in larger bodies, this certification addresses a critical need in the fitness industry for inclusive training. By focusing on sustainable movement rather than weight loss, professionals can cater to a vast and underserved demographic, potentially transforming their health and relationship with fitness.
Who should get the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification?
This certification is ideal for fitness professionals who wish to create an inclusive environment for clients of all sizes. It’s particularly beneficial for those who want to adopt a weight-neutral approach to fitness, focusing on the health and well-being of larger-bodied individuals without prioritizing weight loss.
How credible is ACE?
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a leading organization in the fitness industry, known for its rigorous, evidence-based certifications. The Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification, like all ACE programs, is developed with input from experts, ensuring a comprehensive and credible education in inclusive fitness practices.
What can you do with an ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification?
With this certification, you can:
- Design and implement fitness programs that cater to the unique needs of larger-bodied clients.
- Foster a welcoming, inclusive environment in fitness settings.
- Educate clients and colleagues about the importance of size inclusivity in fitness.
How much does the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification cost?
The program costs $379, which includes comprehensive training materials and access to online resources, making it a valuable investment for professionals looking to specialize in size-inclusive fitness.
How does the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification compare to other inclusive fitness certifications?
The ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification stands out for its comprehensive approach to size inclusivity, focusing on psychological and physical considerations for larger-bodied clients. Unlike programs that primarily address weight loss, this certification promotes fitness and health without focusing on weight, aligning with the Body Positive and Health at Every Size movements.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Program?
While there are no strict prerequisites, a background in fitness or health education can be beneficial. The program is designed for professionals who are committed to learning about and implementing size-inclusive practices in their work.
How long does it take to complete the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification?
The program’s duration depends on your pace, but it is designed to be comprehensive yet accessible for busy professionals. The self-paced nature allows for flexibility in completing the modules and quizzes.
How can Exercise.com help you implement the skills gained from the ACE Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist Certification?
Exercise.com’s fitness business management software is an excellent tool for implementing size-inclusive practices. The platform enables you to create personalized workout plans, track client progress, and maintain open communication, ensuring that you can apply your knowledge to support clients of all sizes effectively.
