CPR Requirements for Personal Trainer
Yes. Current CPR/AED certification is required to obtain and maintain all major personal training certifications (NSCA, NASM, ACE, ACSM, NESTA).
Certification Requirements
Heartsaver CPR AED
Industry StandardAll four major personal trainer certification bodies (NASM, ACE, ACSM, NSCA) require CPR/AED with a hands-on skills component as a prerequisite to sit for the exam. This is one of the most consistent non-government mandates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do personal trainers need CPR certification?
Yes. All major personal training certifying bodies (NSCA, NASM, ACE, ACSM) require current CPR/AED certification. You cannot obtain or renew your personal training certification without it.
What CPR certification do personal trainers need?
CPR/AED from AHA, ARC, or other accredited providers is accepted by most personal training certification bodies. Healthcare-level BLS is typically not required.
CPR Requirements for Personal Trainer by State
Select your state to see specific requirements, state overrides, and classes near you.
At a Glance
- Requirement Level
- Industry Standard
- Certifications Needed
- CPR/AED
- AED
- Renewal Period
- Every 2 years
- Required By
- NSCA, NASM, ACE, ACSM certification requirements