Although there are several excellent training programs to consider for aspiring personal trainers in Phoenix, Arizona, not all training destinations are created equal. Some stand out thanks to quality criteria such as curriculum standards, instructor quality, hands-on education, and career services.
To save Phoenix residents the stress of sorting through a pile of options for the best results, we have curated a list of top training programs for personal trainers in and around Phoenix below. We also include detailed explorations of each program, showing why they stand out.
Firstly, below is a quick overview of how to launch a successful personal training career in Phoenix.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in Phoenix
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) are widely regarded as the most reputable organizations for pursuing certification as a personal trainer. Personal trainers in Phoenix obtain certifications to enhance their credibility and reap the benefits of a successful career.
Employers also appreciate working with professionals who have already completed a degree from a formal training program. For this, individuals may choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree or associate degree program in exercise science, health science, kinesiology, or other related disciplines.
Top Personal Trainer Schools in Phoenix, Arizona
All of the entries below offer amazing training programs for aspiring personal trainers in Phoenix.
Maricopa Community Colleges
Tempe, AZ Campus Only
Maricopa Community Colleges offers an 18-credit Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Personal Training. The program is administered through a science-based curriculum aligned with leading industry certifications.
This means that graduates are eligible to become certified by organizations such as the ACSM, NSCA, NASM, and ACE. The program also equips students to conduct evidence-based health and movement assessments, as well as design and implement fitness plans for both healthy and athletic populations.
Tuition
$97 - $579 per CreditContact
(623) 845-3333
info@gccaz.edu
Pima Community College
Tucson, AZ Campus Only
Pima Community College is another excellent institution for aspiring personal trainers in Arizona. The school provides a Fitness Professional certificate program that includes an internship for real-world training.
Students are eligible for financial aid and can also pursue certification. For those who wish to pursue a more advanced degree, the school offers an Associate of Science degree program in Exercise Science that can ultimately lead to a Bachelor's degree as well.
Tuition
$1,809 per ProgramContact
(520) 206-4500
sschutte@pima.edu
Arizona Western College
Yuma, AZ Campus Only
Arizona Western College offers a training program for personal trainers known as the Personal Fitness Trainer Occupational Certificate program. Those who are accepted here will have the opportunity to develop skills in physical education, health, exercise training, lifestyle behavior modification, human physiology, and disease prevention.
Tuition
$88 - $115 per CreditContact
(928) 344-7540
jane.fisher@azwestern.edu
Coconino Community College
Online, AZ Online Only
At Coconino Community College, aspiring personal trainers across Arizona can apply for an online, self-guided, certified personal training course. This will help them qualify and prepare for certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
Tuition
$1,495 per ProgramContact
(855) 520-6806
National Personal Training Institute
Mesa, AZ Campus + Online
The National Personal Training Institute offers online and hybrid training programs for aspiring personal trainers nationwide. For candidates in Phoenix and across Arizona, the school offers a training center in Mesa, where individuals can study fundamental topics and earn certification as personal trainers.
Tuition
Call for DetailsContact
(623) 451-5223
info@nptifitness.com
Explore nearby states for education and training:
Explore detailed steps and the state’s licensing requirements: