Personal Trainer Certification & Fitness Facility Accreditation

Personal Trainer Accreditation

Personal Trainer Code of Ethics

As a member in good standing of the Fitness Standards Council, I will do my utmost to:

1. Provide quality instruction to all clients and customers.

2. Screen health, exercise and nutrition history by having all clients complete a standard questionnaire form and, if necessary, complete a pre-exercise testing and/or doctor's physical.

3. Provide modified training programs for clients with special requirements or fitness levels.

4. Obtain specialized education for training special groups, e.g., the mentally challenged, osteoarthritis, etc., if applicable to my business operations and services offered.

5. Investigate, learn and incorporate valid, current research in the programs created.

6. Apply logic and objectivity, not emotion and subjectivity to all procedures.

7. Be knowledgeable and competent in CPR and emergency procedures while providing and maintaining a safe and effective training environment.

8. Encourage commitment to quality nutrition and fitness as a lifelong goal by following a regular exercise program and proper dietary habits.

9. Educate clients about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and promote self-reliance when appropriate.

10. Track the progress of clients and offer assistance when needed.

11. Respect the confidentiality of my clientele, never to disclose to any person any personal information acquired by a client unless authorized, in writing, by the client, unless a risk of health or death becomes an issue.

12. Avoid sensual or sexual touching and maintain professional touching in cases of technical spotting, correcting technique or posture, or when conducting necessary assessments.

13. Uphold a professional image by dressing appropriately, refraining from unhealthy practices and maintaining a positive attitude.

14. Accurately represent my qualifications, avoid misleading advertising, and accept responsibility in all my actions and fitness recommendations.

15. Recommend other professionals in fields outside my expertise.

16. Respect the rights, welfare, and dignity of fellow professionals and exchange knowledge and experience for the benefit of the exercise and nutrition science industries.

17. Never discredit other fitness practitioners, facilities, or organizations publicly through comment or conduct unless an objective opinion serves to educate the public about low quality or unsafe or dangerous practices.

18. Conduct business in a manner that commands the respect of the public within this industry and for the goals in which we strive.

19. Supply sufficient information to enable consumers to make an informed decision regarding membership and/or fitness package services, and that the following is adhered:

All promotional material is truthful, accurate, and clear. I will not use misleading or false advertising or marketing procedures that mislead or misrepresent pricing, benefits, consumer needs or staff abilities, or produce sales based on fear or guilt. Promotional materials do not encourage unrealistic expectations and the outcomes attainable from services or the facility and equipment provided. I will not make misleading or false comparisons with services offered by competitors. Prospective clients are allowed to inspect the premises without any obligation to purchase any service. This code and the standards contained herein are made available for client and prospective client perusal. I will act ethically and professionally, and avoid any unreasonable sales methods, including harassment or coercion.

20. Maintain honesty in all business transactions through fair pricing and abide to all contracts; and deliver what is promised through contract and otherwise.

21. Provide a high value of service to enhance customer confidence and loyalty, thus improving long-term commitment, and continue to increase the value and benefit of services and programs.

22. Maintain a high set of business standards that protects the rights and safety of the client.

23. Participate in the teachings and promotion of fitness science and objective practices, whenever possible.

24. Remain current on theoretical and practical information within the field through continuing education activities or by investigating quality information.

25. Never discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age or mental and/or physical limitations, and strive to provide equal and fair treatment to all individuals.

26. Expose irrationality that promotes potential danger or injury to individuals who do not have the expertise or knowledge to know better, and to safeguard the public by reporting violations to the FSC.

27. Comply with local, state/provincial and federal laws of the land including, but not limited to, applicable business, medical, employment, and copyright laws.