SPECIALTY CERTIFICATION

ACSM/NCPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT)

A CIFT is a fitness professional who assesses, develops and implements an individualized exercise program for persons with a physical, sensory or cognitive disability, who are healthy or have medical clearance to perform independent physical activity. CIFT professionals hold a current NCCA-accredited health/fitness certification and CPR and AED certifications. In addition to knowledge of exercise physiology, exercise testing and programming, a CIFT has knowledge in inclusive facility design and awareness of social inclusion for people with disabilities and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Additionally the ACSM/NCPAD CIFT demonstrates and leads safe, effective and adapted methods of exercise; writes adapted exercise recommendations, understands precautions and contraindications to exercise for people with disabilities; is aware of current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policy specific to recreation facilities (U.S. Access Board Guidelines) and standards for accessible facility design and can utilize motivational techniques and provide appropriate instruction to individuals with disabilities to enable them begin and continue healthy lifestyles.

ACSM/NCPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer Scope of Practice

• Works with people with a disability who are healthy or have medical clearance to exercise and were referred or currently under the care of a physician or healthcare professional
• Leads and demonstrates safe, effective and adapted methods of exercise
• Writes adapted exercise recommendations, understands precautions and contraindications to exercise for people with disabilities and is aware of current ADA policy for recreation facilities and standards for accessible facility design.

Minimum Requirements for becoming an ACSM/NCPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer:

• Current ACSM Certification or current NCCA-accredited, health/fitness-related certifications (e.g., ACE, NCSF, NASM, NFPT, NSCA, Cooper Institute) AND
• Current Adult CPR (with practical skills component) & AED

Need More Information:

NCPAD Optional Resources

NCPAD Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) 

NCPAD FAQs 

Exam Price
ACSM Certified Professional Price is $150
Other eligible candidates: $195

ACSM Certified Professionals, e-mail certification@acsm.org for your discounted voucher.

To register for an exam visit www.pearsonvue.com/acsm/cet.

Register to receive your free ACSM Get Certified Guide here.