For Mackenzie Bates, becoming a personal trainer wasn’t just a career move — it was a personal transformation rooted in resilience, healing, and a desire to help others. Her journey began during the pandemic, a time when many people, including Mackenzie, faced unprecedented physical and mental health challenges. Determined to make a change, she turned to fitness and discovered more than just physical strength. She found purpose.
That purpose led her to enroll in PFT 101: Personal Fitness Training at the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS), a foundational course designed to prepare students to sit for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam. The course teaches a systematic, evidence-based approach to fitness training, including how to design individualized exercise programs based on client assessments.
A Hands-On, Science-Backed Education
“PFT 101 was very informative and interactive,” Mackenzie shared. “It gave me the foundation I needed to sit for the NASM exam with confidence.”
The course not only meets the educational requirements for the CPT exam, but also emphasizes practical skills, such as conducting assessments, building stabilization and strength programs, and applying basic nutrition principles. Weekly quizzes help reinforce key concepts and even mirror the style of NASM exam questions, which Mackenzie found especially helpful.
Today, Mackenzie works as a personal trainer at a large gym in Portland, Oregon, where she’s spent the last two years supporting clients in reaching their health and fitness goals. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the transformation in people, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Many of my clients have overcome major obstacles, and we’ve built a real sense of community.”
A Future Rooted in Holistic Wellness
Mackenzie’s story doesn’t stop there. Inspired by the impact of fitness on her own life and those of her clients, she plans to return to school to study nutrition. Her goal? To offer an even more comprehensive, holistic approach to health and wellness.
Her journey is a testament to how education, passion, and personal growth can come together to create a meaningful career path.
Interested in Becoming a Certified Personal Trainer?
PFT 101: Personal Fitness Training is a comprehensive, online course rooted in the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) training model. Designed for those who want to begin or grow a career in fitness, this course provides students with the skills to create safe, personalized, and effective exercise programs for clients with no medical or special conditions.
The course also prepares students to sit for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam — a nationally recognized credential in the fitness industry. Students who complete PFT 101 may even qualify for a discount on the NASM exam.
Students must also have a valid CPR/AED certification to sit for the NASM exam. Accepted certifications include those from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, Emergency Care & Safety Institute, and others. It’s recommended that students confirm approval with NASM before enrolling in a CPR/AED course. Learn more at nasm.org.
Your Path Starts Here
Whether you’re looking to switch careers, deepen your understanding of exercise science, or make a difference in others’ lives, PFT 101 is a powerful first step. With a flexible, online format and an evidence-based curriculum, the course is ideal for adult learners, career changers, and health professionals alike.
Ready to take the first step toward your fitness career? Explore PFT 101 and other programs at achs.edu and start your journey toward helping others transform their lives, just like Mackenzie!
