ACSM seems to get all the mainstream legitimacy, but I don't really care too much for them. I disagree completely with their philosophy, and I don't think their manual and test really prepare you for actual training (unless you need to know if someone needs a radionuclide perfusion after a myocardial infarction or whatever that question was).
ACE is the easiest test you will take for sure, but they are like ACSM-lite. It will get you certified, but not prepared.
I like ISSA. I'm not certified with them, but I have a lot of respect for the cert, and have had good experiences with the trainers I've hired with ISSA certs.
I also like the CSCS (with some but not many reservations), and NESTA.
Good luck. Let us know which way you choose and keep us up to date. I'm curious about the fitness industry in Thailand anyway.
|