Fitness Training and Sports Nutrition Professional Pathways
Fitness Training and Sports Nutrition
ACHS offers programs perfect for anyone at any step of their education and career journey.
Want to learn more about professional pathways? Contact the ACHS Director of Alumni and Career Services Felicia Royce or email us at [email protected].
International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN)
The ISSN offers two professional exams:
- ISSN – SNS: Sports Nutrition Specialist (SNS) exam
- CISSN: Certified Sports Nutritionist exam
What is the main difference between the CISSN and ISSN-SNS Certifications?
This information is provided for reference only and was retrieved from http://www.sportsnutritionsociety.org/ in January 2023. Please contact ISSN for the latest information.
“The CISSN is more advanced; it is the preferred certification for those who wish to provide more detailed sports nutrition information to their clients. The SNS focuses more on the applied aspects of sports nutrition and is meant for those who do not have a 4-year degree or do not have a formal educational background in exercise science and/or sports nutrition. Individuals who wish to attain the SNS are likely to be personal trainers who work in the fitness industry; however, the certification is open to all individuals. The SNS provides working knowledge for personal trainers and fitness advocates to offer information on sports nutrition and supplement strategies. This certification will not provide the expertise or education necessary to work with patients who require medical nutrition therapy.”
Sports Nutrition Specialist (SNS) exam
Who should take the ISSN-SNS exam?
Personal Trainers or Other Fitness Professionals who do not hold a 4-year University/College degree.
Qualifying ACHS courses and programs as of January 2024, include:
- NUT 304 Sports Nutrition (Undergraduate course) – Visit http://www.sportsnutritionsociety.org/CISSN.html for information.
- NUT 504 Advanced Sports Nutrition (Graduate course)
- Other graduate programs where students also complete the NUT 304 or NUT 504 courses.
- Certificate in Integrative Health & Fitness Training
- Other programs where students also complete the NUT 304 or NUT 504 courses.
Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN)
Who should take CISSN?
- Exercise Physiologists
- Fitness Professionals
- Nurse Practitioners
- Nutritionists
- Personal Trainers
- Sport Dietitians
- Sports Nutritionists
- Strength and Conditioning Professionals
Qualifying ACHS courses and programs as of January 2024, include:
- NUT 304 Sports Nutrition (undergraduate course) – For students who already hold a Bachelors degree only. Visit http://www.sportsnutritionsociety.org/CISSN.html for information about exemptions.
- NUT 504 Advanced Sports Nutrition (graduate course)
- Other graduate programs where students also complete the NUT 304 or NUT 504 courses.
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
ACHS’s PFT 101 Personal Fitness Training course is based on the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) training model. Students in this course study a systematic approach to program design with exercise program guidelines and variables; protocols for building stabilization, strength, and power programs.
The PFT 101 course is designed to prepare students to sit for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam.
NOTE: The CPT exam requires that students also have a CPR/AED certification. CPR/AED certifications are accepted from the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, American Safety and Health Institute, St. John Ambulance, Emergency Care & Safety Institute or Emergency Medical Technician. Before taking the CPR/AED from another provider, please contact NASM to confirm acceptance. Learn more online at https://www.nasm.org/certified-personal-trainer/personal-trainer-exam.
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