Question about CSCS designation from a relative neophyte

[j1992s]

I am a long-time fitness enthusiast who has decided to change primary careers from the financial services industry to work in this field full-time (I have worked in the fitness profession on a part-time basis for years now). I have attained some of the (apparently) lesser-respected fitness certifications along the way, but have always known that if I wanted to take this up a notch, I would really need to acquire certification(s) through organizations like NSCA, NASM, etc.

Here's my issue: My long-term goals and interests as a fitness trainer are in the area of sports-specific conditioning and strength-building. That suggests to me that I might be smarter to pursue the CSCS designation. However, I'm in need of some candid advice...from those who know...if the CSCS materials and exam can be mastered by an otherwise-bright, dedicated person without a degree or strong background in health/physical sciences (my degree is in psychology). I just don't want to order the materials only to find out that a devotion to regular studying is not enough, and that I really needed to be well-schooled in, and have a good working knowledge of, biology, physiology, etc. at the outset to even have a decent shot at passing the CSCS exam.

I apologize if this question seems a little silly to some, but as I am still a bit "on the outside looking in," I have to rely on the sage advice of others for some guidance.

Thanks so much in advance!

Jeff

[LisaS]

I'll let those who have taken the exam comment on that part but let me turn it around on you a little - do you think it would be professional to be a

fitness trainer are in the area of sports-specific conditioning and strength-building

if you were not

well-schooled in, and have a good working knowledge of, biology, physiology, etc.

?

[Lisa~]

I don't have an exercise science degree either, but I passed the CSCS with confidence and a high score. If you're a good student, you can learn the material. If you've worked in the fitness industry part-time for a while, then your experience will help a lot. Because I began personal training after getting my ACE, the practical section of the CSCS was the easiest part for me. I had some experience watching clients lift. I had to study the science sections by reading additional materials, but I was not just willing, but interested.

The sample tests were a big help. There were two in my study materials. I took one right away to find out where my knowledge was lacking. It helped focus my study into appropriate areas.

Based on your goals, I agree that the CSCS is the right certification. Go for it.

[Mich]

Originally Posted by LisaS

do you think it would be professional to be a if you were not [...]

He said it was his "long-term" goal, so that would give him plenty of time to become well-schooled in biology, physiology and so on.

I've met trainers who had advanced degrees in assorted scientific -ologies, but did not have the personality or attitude that would make them useful to their clients.

[j1992s]

I thank each of you for taking the time to share your thoughts on my question.:-)

After some additional research, I think I will pursue the CSCS. That said, I agree, of course, with LisaS that a true fitness professional should have a good base of knowledge in the area of biological sciences, but also agree with Mich and Lisa~ that not having that at the outset of pursuing a designation should necessarily disqualify you from working toward a given certification if it's possible to begin such a course without it. Plus, there may be a bit of a semantics issue here- when I say a "solid working knowledge" of subjects that pertain to exercise sciences, I'm speaking not of someone who is merely acquainted them, but one who is actually well-versed. I'm now satisfied that I don't need to be at least halfway through medical school to be able to work the program, which is what I needed to know. I further expect to be in subordinate positions for quite a while as I gain the necessary experience and knowledge to one day be regarded as an expert (or thereabouts) in my field.

Anyway, thanks again!

Jeff