ONLINE PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE IN PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINING - Texas

$199 PER COURSE; Elective Internship course $299

The Certificate Program
The new Online Professional Certificate in Personal Fitness Training (PFT) is a collaboration between Sam Houston State University Continuing Education and the College-University Partners Network, industry experts, internship affiliates, and national organizations.  This interactive, comprehensive Web-based Certificate program with an optional field internship elective course will allow students from around the world to fit courses into their busy work and home schedules, go online wherever they are, and complete the certificate within five months or have up to two-years if necessary.  Content and curriculum within each course in the program is designed to present the student with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to implement a unique medically-based fitness model to their future or current clients.  Students will learn how to apply their client’s health history, goals, and abilities integrating exercise science curriculum and practical training techniques into a systematic model that teaches students to progress their clients through different training levels and phases.    The program is offered in partnership with the American Council on Exercise® (ACE), allowing graduating certificate students a preferred discount on the ACE Personal Training Certification Exam and study materials.  Current ACE-Certified Professionals who complete courses in the Certificate in PFT Program will earn ACE Continuing Education Credits (CECs) towards recertification.  In addition, the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), the credentialing agency for the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has approved the Certificate in Personal Training program for 150 Continuing Professional Education Units (CPEUs), the Advanced Certificate program for 90 CPEUs, and the Optional Field Internship Course for 60 CPEUs for both Registered Dietitian (RDs) and Dietetic Technician-Registered (DTRs).

Who Should Attend
The Certificate Program is designed to supply essential educational pathways and career opportunities to those seeking to start a career in the emerging fitness/health industry, for established fitness professionals who desire advanced education, and for allied health and medical professionals from all fields seeking to broaden their careers to become full or part-time personal trainers/fitness instructors.  According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau publication Occupational Outlook Handbook, overall employment for personal trainers is expected to increase 44% from 2002 to 2012.

Certificate Structure and Start Dates
To earn the certificate you are required to complete all five core courses.  You may also elect to take the optional field internship course.  The five core courses plus the optional field internship are offered in a three-module format; each module consists of two courses that are offered simultaneously.  You are not required to take course in any order; however it is highly recommended that you begin with two courses in module 1: (Introduction to Exercise Science, Level I and Level II).  You may also register for individual courses if desired.  The three-module series is offered three times per year in the fall, spring, and summer.  The program can be completed in as little as five months but you must complete the requirements within two-years.

Students may also elect to register for the advanced certificate program courses. Students that have completed the core Certificate may then register for the advanced certificate which requires three additional courses.  The advanced certificate is designed for students interested in furthering their personal training education by incorporating specialized resistance training, functional movements, and nutritional programs for their clients in partnership with RDs.

Workplace Advantages and Benefits

• On-going guidance, instruction, and interaction from instructors that hold either a Master’s or Ph.D. degree in exercise science, biomechanics, exercise physiology, kinesiology, physical therapy, nutrition or an exercise science-related degree.  Our instructors will support their students and become valuable resources and mentors well after they graduate.
• Optional Personal Training Internship Course:  Students have three internship options. They may elect to intern at a partnered internship site, a facility of their choice located anywhere in the U.S. or internationally (with program coordinator/instructor approval), or at a facility a student may already be working.
• A professional certificate from an accredited institution.
• College courses provide CECs or CEUs for personal trainers and allied health/medical professionals seeking re-certification, re-licensure, or career advancement.
• Networking opportunities with industry experts.

Award of the Certificates:

• Professional Certificate in Personal Fitness Training: complete all five core courses within a period of two years
• Advanced Certificate in Personal Training: complete the Professional Certificate and all three Advanced Certificate core courses within a period of two years
• Complete and receive a passing grade of (C- or above) in all courses:  which includes quizzes, exams, written/research projects, and class assignments

Why Online Learning?

• Learning occurs in a user-friendly environment and is accessible to participants with little or no computer experience.
• Online courses give you the knowledge and tools you need to stay ahead in today’s rapidly changing professional marketplace.
• Online education allows students to access their courses from anywhere there is an Internet connection even if you are traveling on business or on vacation.
• Flexibility: Students can attend class in the comfort and convenience of their own home, office, library, or internet café and complete assignments after breakfast, during lunch, late at night, while on vacation, or any time that is convenient for the student.  
• Cost-effective: expenses related to facilities, travel, and non-productive time is reduced.

Cost Per Course
$199 for each Certificate course and the Elective Internship Course is $299.  The cost for your textbooks/course materials is separate.

Demo
For an online demo go to www.efs.pageout.net

Registration Information
To register for courses call us at 936-294-4568 or fax to 936-294-3729.  Our office is located at 1825 Sycamore Avenue, Huntsville and our mailing address is Box 2477, Huntsville, TX 77341.

For program information contact:
Ken Baldwin, M.ED., is the Program Coordinator and an instructor for the Professional Certificate in Personal Fitness Training Program.  He is the former Chair of IDEA’s National Personal Trainer Committee and Chair of the Senior Fitness Subcommittee for the Massachusetts’s Governor’s Committee on Physical Fitness and Sports.  Ken is the Co-Editor and lead author for ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer Manual (2nd Ed.) and textbook.  He continues to serve on national committees for ACSM, AAHPERD (AAPAR), and the MFA.   He has been honored with numerous awards including IDEA’s Personal Trainer of the Year Award, presented at the IDEA International Personal Training Summit.  If you have questions about the certificate program and courses, you may contact the Program Coordinator at kbpft@yahoo.com

Ken Baldwin, M.ED
Program Coordinator
Professional Certificate in Personal Fitness Training
IDEA Personal Trainer of Year Award Winner
Email Address: kbpft@yahoo.com

Professional Certificate and Advanced Certificate Start and End Dates

Spring Semester:   Feb 11 - Jun 15, 2008
Summer Semester:  Jun 16 - Oct 19, 2008
Fall Semester 2007:     Sep 24 -Dec 2, 2007

Fall Semester 2008:     Sep 22, 2008-Jan 25, 2009

Certificate Course Dates & Descriptions:

MODULE I

Introduction to Exercise Science-Level I: (Anatomy and Kinesiology)

Spring 2008 :

Feb 11- Mar 23

Registration Deadline:  Feb 8

Summer 2008 :

Jun 16 - Jul 27

Registration Deadline:  Jun 13

Fall 2008 :

Sep 22 - Nov 2

Registration Deadline:  Sep 5

In this course, students gain an understanding of musculoskeletal and functional anatomy and the effects of exercise placed on joint structure during exercise movements. Emphasis is placed on learning about proper body alignment, joint range of motion (ROM), basic biomechanics, and kinesiological principles to the development of safe and effective exercise programs.

Introduction to Exercise Science-Level II:  (Exercise Physiology)

Spring 2008 :

Feb 11- Mar 23

Registration Deadline:  Feb 8

Summer 2008 :

Jun 16 - Jul 27

Registration Deadline:  Jun 13

Fall 2008 :

Sep 22 - Nov 2

Registration Deadline:  Sep 5

This course is designed to teach the personal trainer how the muscular, skeletal, and cardiorespiratory systems function with and without exercise conditioning. Additional topics include energy metabolism, neuromuscular function, and the physiology of exercise in relation to training programs and environmental considerations.

MODULE II
Health Risk Profiles and Fitness Assessment Techniques

Spring 2008 :

Mar 24-May 4

Registration Deadline:  Mar 21

Summer 2008 :

Jul 28 - Sep 7

Registration Deadline:  Jul 25

Fall 2008 :

Nov 3 - Dec 14

Registration Deadline:  Oct 31

This course teaches students how to assess and evaluate cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular testing techniques, joint ROM, flexibility, body-fat analysis, blood pressure, and body measurements based on ACSM guidelines. Topics include client screening procedures, medical and health history intake forms, identifying high-risk clients, determining the appropriate test, conducting the test, and evaluating the results.

Business Administration and Management Aspects for Personal Trainers

Spring 2008 :

Mar 24-May 4

Registration Deadline:  Mar 21

Summer 2008 :

Jul 28 - Sep 7

Registration Deadline:  Jul 25

Fall 2008 :

Nov 3 - Dec 14

Registration Deadline:  Oct 31

This course gives personal trainers a solid background in developing or starting a personal training business and prepares them for financial management, marketing strategies, and business plan development. Techniques for effective management include standards and guidelines, facility/studio personnel management, and operational issues from a small personal training (PT) studio to managing a PT department at a large health facility.

MODULE III
Designing Exercise Prescriptions for Normal/Special Populations

Fall 2007:

Dec 17 - Jan 2008

Registration Deadline:  Dec 14

Spring 2008 :

May 5 - Jun 15

Registration Deadline:  May 2

Summer 2008 :

Sep 8 - Oct 19

Registration Deadline:  Sep 5

Fall 2008 :

Dec 15, 2007- Jan 25, 2009

Registration Deadline:  Dec 12

This course teaches how to develop an exercise prescription in relation to health implications for normal/special populations related to age, medical condition, and fitness level. Topics include cardiac conditions, diabetes, physical disabilities, HIV and AIDS, asthma, sensory impairments, pregnancy, and program design for children to senior populations. This course is designed as a research-based class with emphasis on designing a step-by-step process to creating individualized exercise programs.:

Optional Elective Course
Optional Field Internship in Personal Training:

Fall 2007:

Dec 17 - Jan 2008

Registration Deadline:  Dec 14

Spring 2008 :

May 5 - Jun 15

Registration Deadline:  May 2

Summer 2008 :

Sep 8 - Oct 19

Registration Deadline:  Sep 5

Fall 2008 :

Dec 15, 2007- Jan 25, 2009

Registration Deadline:  Dec 12

Prerequisite: 5 Core Courses and CPR Certification
NOTE: This course is an optional course and is not required to receive the Professional Certificate.  Learn to work with professionals in the fitness and health industry for a hands-on experience working with members at fitness facilities and health centers.  Students intern for 60 total hours in this course.

Advanced Certificate Course Dates & Descriptions
Nutritional Analysis and Management

Spring 2008 :

Feb 11- Mar 23

Registration Deadline:  Feb 8

Summer 2008 :

Jun 16 - Jul 23

Registration Deadline:  Jun 13

Fall 2008 :

Oct 20 - Nov 30

Registration Deadline:  Oct 17

Students will study the basic nutrition principles and how to apply them when designing structured nutritional programs for clients in collaboration with registered dietitians and nutritionists. The focus will be on vitamin, mineral, and supplement knowledge; the effects of nutrition on the exerciser and non-exerciser; strategies for successful weight management; and recognizing normal to disordered eating patterns.

Functional Flexibility, Core, and Balance Training 

Spring 2008 :

Feb 11- Mar 23

Registration Deadline:  Feb 8

Summer 2008 :

Jun 16 - Jul 23

Registration Deadline:  Jun 13

Fall 2008 :

Oct 20 - Nov 30

Registration Deadline:  Oct 17

Students will study principles and techniques for evaluation and implementation of exercise prescriptions that include instruction in flexibility, core, and balance training.  Students will learn how the beginning phases of an exercise program are based upon the starting point/level of the client based upon performance of initial assessments, neurological ability, and individual goals.  In addition, students will learn to implement the Sequential Exercise Training (SET) Model to enhance posture, body alignment, stability, proprioception, and awareness to more complicated exercise movements or functional movements.

The Science and Biomechanics of Resistance/Weight Training Techniques  

Spring 2008 :

Feb 11- Mar 23

Registration Deadline:  Feb 8

Summer 2008 :

Jun 16 - Jul 23

Registration Deadline:  Jun 13

Fall 2008 :

Oct 20 - Nov 30

Registration Deadline:  Oct 17

This course teaches an educational systematic approach to teaching resistance/weight training movements. The practical application of anatomy, physiology, and body alignment is introduced to analyze weight training techniques, exercise equipment, and the risk/benefit analysis of a specific exercise chosen. Equipment modalities reviewed include stability balls, exercise bands, free weights, body weight, and commercial strength equipment.

Professional Certificate in Senior Personal Fitness Training(TM) (120/180 hours)

Program Description:

This interactive, comprehensive Web-based Certificate program (with an optional field internship elective course) designed to establish a national standard to ensure the development of safe and effective exercise programs for older adults by personal trainers, allied health/medical and fitness professionals, and the general public.  The certificate program has been designed to incorporate curriculum standards from the "International Curriculum Guidelines for Preparing Physical Activity Instructors for Older Adults in Collaboration" by the World Health Organization.  The program will supply essential educational pathways and job opportunities to begin a career working with senior/older adults in the emerging fitness/health industry; for established fitness professionals who desire advanced education in working with older adults; and for allied health and medical professionals who desire advanced education in working with older adults; and for allied health and medical professionals from all fields seeking to design specialized exercise and wellness programs for their older adult clients and fitness facilities, retirement communities, YMCA/JCC's, hospitals, community wellness programs, personal training studios, physical therapy clinics, long term care facilities, corporate fitness centers, collegiate settings, and private and commercial health clubs.  In addition, the certificate will also prepare the individual 50+ exercise enthusiasts in the development of a personalized program based on current research and organizational guidelines.  The program is offered in partnership with the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), the American Senior Fitness Association (SFA), the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA), and Healthways SilverSneakersR Fitness Program.  Students graduating from the certificate program will receive preferred discounts for the SFA's certification exams (Senior Personal Trainer Certification or the Senior Fitness Instructor Certification), the AEA's certification exam (Aquatic Exercise Association Fitness Professional Certification), and Silver SneakersR Group Exercise Certification:  Healthways Certification for Older Adult Exercise.

SPFTOA Certificate Courses:

Course 1:  Socio-Physiological Aspects of Aging (TM)

                       This course will provide the student with a solid foundation in the social and physiological aspects of aging.  Topics covered include:  theories of aging; physiological changes within cells, organs, and bodily systems; social implications of growing older; and common conditions and diseases associated with aging.

Course 2:  Designing Older Adult Exercise Programs (TM)

                       In this course, students will gain an understanding of the role of exercise in improving health, fitness, function and quality of life in older adults.  The current recommendations for cardiovascular, flexibility, resistance, mobility and balance training will be discussed.  An emphasis will be given to common health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis and frailty.

Course 3:  Business Management and Administration for the Mature Market (TM)

                      A contemporary view of aging in this country will be explored to better understand the current and rising aging cohorts.  Through a study of age-friendly facility design, equipment selection, fitness management, marketing, administration, financial procedures and protocols, and various aspects of operations students will appreciate how to attract, serve and retain the mature market.

Course 4:  Exercise and Aging for Special Populations (TM)

                 As a continuation of Designing Older Adult EXercise Programs, this course encompasses a deeper study of designing safe and effective exercise programs for older adults.  Going beyond the basic exercise recommendations for this population, students will, by the end of this course be able to design an appropriate fitness regimen taking into consideration critical information such as a client's age, gender, health history, current health conditions and exercise history.

Course 5:  Optional-Field Internship in Senior Personal Fitness Training - Elective (TM)

                 NOTE:  This course is an optional course and is to required to receive the Professional Certificate.  Learn to work with professionals in the fitness and health industry for a hands-on experience working with older adults at senior fitness facilities and health centers.  Students intern for 60 total hours in this course. 

Senior Personal Fitness Training Schedule 2007-2008

Professional Certificate Start and End Dates

Spring Semester:   Feb 11 - Jun 15, 2008
Summer Semester:  Jun 16 - Oct 19, 2008

Fall Semester 2008:     Sep 22, 2008-Jan 25, 2009

Fall Schedule 2007

Module 3: Dec. 3, 2007- Jan. 13, 2008 (Registration Deadline is Nov. 30):   

Course 5: Optional-Field Internship in Senior Personal Fitness Training

Spring Schedule 2008

Module 1: Feb 11 - Mar 16 (Registration Deadline is Feb 8):     

Course 1: Socio-Physiological Aspects of Aging

Course 2: Designing Older Adult Exercise Programs

Module 2: Mar 17 - Apr 20 (Registration Deadline is Mar 14):     

Course 3: Business Management and Administration for the Mature Market

Course 4: Exercise and Aging for Special Populations

Module 3: Apr 21 - Jun 1(Registration Deadline is Apr 18):   

Course 5: Optional-Field Internship in Senior Personal Fitness Training

Summer Schedule 2008

Module 1: Jun 16 - Jul 20 (Registration Deadline is Jun 13):     

Course 1: Socio-Physiological Aspects of Aging

Course 2: Designing Older Adult Exercise Programs

Module 2: Jul 21 - Aug 24 (Registration Deadline is Jul 18):     

Course 3: Business Management and Administration for the Mature Market

Course 4: Exercise and Aging for Special Populations

Module 3: Aug 25 - Oct 5 (Registration Deadline is Aug 22):   

Course 5: Optional-Field Internship in Senior Personal Fitness Training

Fall Schedule 2008 

Module 3: Dec 1, 2008 - Jan 11, 2009 (Registration Deadline is Nov 28):   

Course 5: Optional-Field Internship in Senior Personal Fitness Training

Program Coordinator:

Cody Sipe, MS, ACSM - Exercise Specialist, RCEP

Cody Sipe, MS, is the Program Coordinator and an instructor for the Professional Certificate in Senior Personal Training for Older Adults Program.  He has a diverse background in the fitness industry including training and management in medically-based fitness, for profit, not-for-profit and educational facilities.  His primary areas of expertise are in fitness for older adults and in the prevention and management of chronic disease conditions.  He regularly presents at national and international conferences and writes for a variety of publications.  Cody was awarded the 2005 IDEA  Program Director of the Year and the 2003 Midwest ACSM Clinical Exercise Professional of the Year.  He serves as a contributing editor for IDEA and as a Committee Member for ACSM's Strategic Health Initiative on Aging and Exercise Science.  In addition, he is the Co-Fonder and current vice-president for the Coalition for Living Well after 50.

Professional Certificate in Fitness Management (TM) (120/180 hours)

Program Description:

This interactive, comprehensive Web-based Certificate program with an optional field internship elective is designed as a "one-of-a-kind" Program that teaches students how to manage a Personal Training Program &/or Fitness Department as a Strategic Business Unit (S.B.U.).  This Program will provide students with a reality -based framework and practical training skills necessary to prepare certificate graduates to work as a Fitness Manager in both commercial and non-commercial based health clubs in either the United States and/or overseas.

Fitness Management Certificate Courses:

Course 1:  Business Development and Entrepreneurship in Fitness (TM)

This course examines the planning process for starting a new venture, as well as the most common approaches to develop a strategic business plan for specific types of health and fitness-related facilities. The course presents the skill-sets and competencies that the fitness manager needs in order to be a successful entrepreneur, owner, or department head. Studies of topics include planning policies and procedures, entrepreneurship, business plan development, budget formulation, and strategic planning.

Course 2:  Financial Principles and Business Concepts (TM)

This course provides an introduction to financial and managerial accounting concepts, revenue and budgetary procedures, and the financial status necessary to be successful business entity in the fitness industry. Topics include fee structures, financial impact analysis, price setting strategies, financial forecasting, and the relationship between financial analysis and strategic business planning. The course examines additional business concepts including purchasing, contractual agreements, risk management and negligence, technology issues, and other fiscal concerns.

Course 3:  Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service Management (TM)

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of how successful marketing and branding guides a company's business strategy and influences, discovers, and creates a demand for fitness services and products. Examination of the elements of the marketing mix as they pertain to the fitness enterprise include sales and service management strategies, customer relationship management methods, and sales techniques in fitness.

Course 4:   Fitness Management and Business Administration (TM)

This course provides an examination of the organization and administration of for profit and not-for-profit health/fitness facilities, with emphasis on business management principles and operational concepts, including organizational structure, facility management, industry standards and guidelines, personnel management, and management practices. The course helps the fitness manager develop leadership skills, managerial or administrative skills, and interpersonal or human skills. The course is supplemented by the analysis and review of fitness management situations through observations and case studies.

Course 5:  Optional Elective - Field Internship in Fitness Management (TM)

NOTE: This course is an optional course and is not required to receive the Professional Certificate. Learn to work with professionals in the fitness and health industry for a Fitness Management experience interning at fitness facilities and health centers. Students intern for 60 total hours in this course.

Fitness Management Schedule 2007-2008

Professional Certificate and Advanced Certificate Start and End Dates

Spring Semester:   Feb 11 - Jun 15, 2008
Summer Semester:  Jun 16 - Oct 19, 2008
Fall Semester 2007:     Sep 24 -Dec 2, 2007

Fall Semester 2008:     Sep 22, 2008-Jan 25, 2009

Fall Schedule 2007  

Module 3: Dec. 3, 2007- Jan. 13, 2008 (Registration Deadline is Nov. 30):   

Course 5: Optional Elective-Field Internship in Fitness Management

Spring Schedule 2008

Module 1: Feb 11 – Mar 16 (Registration Deadline is Feb 8):     

Course 1: Business Development and Entrepreneurship in Fitness

Course 2: Financial Principles and Business Concepts

Module 2: Mar 17 – Apr 20 (Registration Deadline is Mar 14):     

Course 3: Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service Management (CSM)

Course 4: Fitness Management and Business Administration

Module 3: Apr 21 - Jun 1 (Registration Deadline is Apr 18):   

Course 5: Optional Elective-Field Internship in Fitness Management

Summer Schedule 2008

Module 1: Jun 16 – Jul 20 (Registration Deadline is Jun 13):     

Course 1: Business Development and Entrepreneurship in Fitness

Course 2: Financial Principles and Business Concepts

Module 2: Jul 21 - Aug 24 (Registration Deadline is Jul 18):     

Course 3: Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service Management (CSM)

Course 4: Fitness Management and Business Administration

Module 3: Aug 25 - Oct 5 (Registration Deadline is Aug 23):   

Course 5: Optional Elective-Field Internship in Fitness Management

Fall Schedule 2008

Module 1: Sep 22– Oct 26 (Registration Deadline is Sep 19):     

Course 1: Business Development and Entrepreneurship in Fitness

Course 2: Financial Principles and Business Concepts

Module 2: Oct. 27– Nov 30 (Registration Deadline is Oct 24):     

Course 3: Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service Management (CSM)

Course 4: Fitness Management and Business Administration

Module 3: Dec 1, 2008- Jan 11, 2009 (Registration Deadline is Nov 28):   

Course 5: Optional Elective-Field Internship in Fitness Management

Program Coordinator:

Bob Esquerre, MA, MES, NSCA-CPT

Bob Esquerre, MA, is the Program Coordinator and an instructor for the Professional Certificate in Fitness Management Program.  Bob is recognized nationally and internationally as a fitness business consultant and a leading educator for both personal trainers and group exercise instructors.  Bob is President of the Esquerre Fitness Group International (EFGI) and is a sought after consultant and speaker in the areas of fitness management, personal training, and wellness program design.  He has presented lectures at conferences for Club Industry, IDEA, IHRSA, ACSM, and the Medical Fitness Association and consulted for clients such as Towns Sports International, Life Time Fitness, and Reebok International/Reebok University.

Professional Certificate in Nutrition for Optimal Health, Wellness and Sports (TM)

(120 hours)

Program Description:

Content and curriculum within each course in the program is designed to present the health/medical/fitness professional, Registered Dietitians, or individuals from the public with up to date research and strategies for practical application in weight management, meal planning analysis, functional food implementation, public nutrition, and sports nutrition.  Individual consumers interested in learning more about nutrition, daily meal planning, wellness strategies, and sport nutrition and performance will be introduced to information to help them achieve their own goals for themselves or family members.

NOHWS Certificate Courses:

Course 1:  Nutrition and You:  Functional Foods (TM)

Heard about the health benefits of cocoa on cardiovascular health? What do garlic, tomato sauce, and tofu have in common? Which spices and herbs need to be consumed in your daily diet? There is truth to the expression “you are what you eat”. In this course you will learn what to eat and how to decrease the incidence of many common diseases such as metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Whether you are a health/medical/or fitness professional who want the latest on functional foods or an individual seeking to improve your overall health, this course will help you meet your goals by providing a foundation for wellness nutrition based on current scientific research.

Course 2:  Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle(TM)

Applying the principles of good nutrition starts at Day 1, whether working with clients or designing a personal healthy eating program. With almost 20% of America's children and 60% of America's adults classified as overweight/obese there is an ever-pressing need to understand the influences on both child and adult food habits and nutrient intakes. Bad habits that start from an early age often continue into adulthood and can lead to weight issues, diabetes and chronic disease. This course teaches students the principles behind helping a client in any stage of their lifecycle to set and achieve weight goals while working in conjunction with a registered dietitian in a team approach.  You will obtain tools and handouts which can be effective when teaching and reinforcing positive food habits and behaviors. In addition, discover how the right nutrition can help you feel young while growing older and what specific nutrients need to be increased in your diet as you age. Dispel the myths of fad diets as you learn how to personalize your own meal plan and those of your clients.

Course 3:  Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance(TM)

If you currently work as a fitness professional, need a refresher or introduction to sports nutrition as a health care provider, need to improve your competitive edge as an athlete, exercise enthusiast, or weekend warrior, or are a sports nutrition dietitian looking for new information, this class will help meet your personal or professional goals.  Learn what to eat before competing, understand the principles of healthy meal planning for athletes and be able to identify safe sport supplements such as protein powders/bars, creatine, and sport drinks. Find out if you're providing the best fuel for your body in the short or long term and gain insights into how proper nutrition can provide optimal muscle recovery and sports performance. 

Course 4:  Public Nutrition and Wellness Education (TM)

This course delves more deeply into nutrition and disease prevention. Master the tools needed to provide educated answers on how to stay healthy, become healthier, reduce the risk of chronic disease, prevent disease, and improve the overall well-being of your clients or yourself. Whether you're educating the public as a health/medical/or fitness professional or teaching your family how to live healthier, this course helps you navigate through the media's mixed messages on nutrition and diets. Learn to effectively interpret nutrition news and understand critical information on the truth behind vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Nutrition for Optimal Health, Wellness and Sports Schedule 2007

Professional Certificate and Advanced Certificate Start and End Dates

Spring Semester:   Feb 11 - Jun 15, 2008
Summer Semester:  Jun 16 - Oct 19, 2008
Fall Semester 2007:     Sep 24 -Dec 2, 2007

Fall Semester 2008:     Sep 22, 2008-Jan 25, 2009

Spring Schedule 2008

Module 1: Feb 11– Mar 16 (Registration Deadline is Feb 8):     

Course 1: Nutrition and You: Functional Foods

Course 2: Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle

Module 2: Mar 17– Apr 20(Registration Deadline is Mar 14):     

Course 3: Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance

Course 4: Public Nutrition and Wellness Education

Summer Schedule 2008

Module 1: Jun 16– Jul 20(Registration Deadline is Jun 13):     

Course 1: Nutrition and You: Functional Foods

Course 2: Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle

Module 2: Jul 21– Aug 24(Registration Deadline is Jul 18):     

Course 3: Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance

Course 4: Public Nutrition and Wellness Education

Fall Schedule 2008

Module 1: Sep 22– Oct 26 (Registration Deadline is Sep 19):     

Course 1: Nutrition and You: Functional Foods

Course 2: Weight Management and Nutrition in the Lifecycle

Module 2: Oct 27– Nov 30 (Registration Deadline is Oct 24):  

Course 3: Introduction to Sports Nutrition and Performance

Course 4: Public Nutrition and Wellness Education

Program Coordinator:

Melissa Halas-Liang, MA, RD, CNSD, CDE

Melissa Halas-Liang, MA, RD, CNSD, CDE is the Program Coordinator and an instructor for the Professional Certificate in Nutrition for Optimal Health, Wellness, and Sports.  Melissa is a Registered Dietitian, with a Masters in Nutrition Education, is a Certified Diabetes Educator and a Certified Nutrition Support Dietitian.  In addition to working in clinical management and clinical nutrition she has assisted in clinical trials, taught small group diabetes classes, and counseled patients on weight loss.  She has spoken on a wide range of topics in the community including disease prevention and treatment, fitness, and sports nutrition.  Melissa has published articles in periodicals on healthy eating and edited textbook nutrition sections.  She has developed curriculums for medical residents and lectured to health care professionals  for continuing education credits on a variety of topics.  Her commitment to cardiovascular health, promoting physical fitness and the prevention and recognition of diabetes is remarkable.  She is committed to creating a healthy "next generation" through her community outreach and children's nutrition website, www.sbanutrition.com, which utilizes Registered Dietitian's expertise from across the United States.  Melissa's enthusiasm for healthy eating is contagious and her outgoing and interactive approach to learning motivates her audience to commit to new lifestyles.

Professional Certificate in Women's Exercise Training and Wellness (TM)

(120 hours)

Program Description:

The program is designed to prepare graduating students for a career working with women of all ages at medically-based fitness facilities, community wellness programs, personal training studios, physical therapy clinics, health promotion sites, and private and commercial health clubs.  Female health and exercise enthusiasts of all ages seeking to stay current with information to design personalized exercise programs specific to women's needs and concerns would benefit from this program as well.

WETW Certificate Courses:

Course 1:  Female Anatomy and Physiology (TM)

This course is designed for students to gain an understanding of the musculoskeletal and functional anatomy of the female pelvis, including the reproductive system, the hormonal/endocrine system and key muscles of the Pelvic Pyramid™. Emphasis is placed on joint range of motion (ROM), bone density, hip stability, mobility and the pelvic floor muscles (PFM).

Course 2:  Designing Women's Exercise Programs (TM)

This course teaches students how to establish exercise programs/prescriptions, exercise-related goals and objectives, appropriate training modifications, and program evaluation strategies. Additional topics include specifically designing exercise programs based on ACSM guidelines implementing resistance/weight training techniques, flexibility/stretching training, and cardiovascular/aerobic/weight loss plans incorporating the use of walking, running, and commercial cardiovascular machine (treadmills, elliptical trainers, stationary/recumbent bikes, etc.) programs.

Course 3:  Women's Health and Wellness for Special Populations (TM)

This course teaches students a more in depth look at different health considerations women face at different stages of their lives and how to appropriately adapt exercise and wellness programs to meet their needs. Topics of interest include the “Female Athlete Triad”, pre and postpartum fitness, women with pelvic floor dysfunctions, osteoporosis, menopause, autoimmune disorders, and breast, ovary, and uterine cancers. Students will gain an understanding of how to design exercise programs for these special populations.

Course 4:  Medically-Based Fitness Management and Administration (TM)

This course provides the health/medical and fitness professionals a solid background in understanding key terminology in medicine, health promotion, and fitness. Topics include understanding the roles of medical and fitness professionals, developing a medically-based fitness model, key terms in healthcare administration, interacting with medical professionals, and privacy issues and authorization forms for health and fitness professionals.

Professional Certificate in Women's Exercise Training and Wellness Schedule 2007

Professional Certificate and Advanced Certificate Start and End Dates

Spring Semester:   Feb 11 - Jun 15, 2008
Summer Semester:  Jun 16 - Oct 19, 2008
Fall Semester 2007:     Sep 24 -Dec 2, 2007

Fall Semester 2008:     Sep 22, 2008-Jan 25, 2009 

Spring Schedule 2008

Module 1: Feb 11– Mar 16 (Registration Deadline is Feb 8):     

Course 1: Female Anatomy and Physiology

Course 2: Designing Women's Exercise Programs

Module 2: Mar 17 - Apr 20 (Registration Deadline is Mar 14):     

Course 3: Women's Health and Wellness for Special Populations

Course 4: Medically-Based Fitness Management and Administration

Summer Schedule 2008

Module 1: Jun 16 - Jul 20 (Registration Deadline is Jun 14):     

Course 1: Female Anatomy and Physiology

Course 2: Designing Women's Exercise Programs

Module 2: Jul 21 - Aug 24 (Registration Deadline is Jul 18):     

Course 3: Women's Health and Wellness for Special Populations

Course 4: Medically-Based Fitness Management and Administration

Fall Schedule 2008

Module 1: Sep 22– Oct 26 (Registration Deadline is Sep 19):     

Course 1: Female Anatomy and Physiology

Course 2: Designing Women's Exercise Programs

Module 2: Oct 27– Nov 30 (Registration Deadline is Oct 24):     

Course 3: Women's Health and Wellness for Special Populations

Course 4: Medically-Based Fitness Management and Administration

Program Coordinator:

Jasmine Jafferali, MPH, ACE-CPT

Jasmine Jafferali, MPH, is the Program Coordinator and an instructor for the Professional Certificate in Women's Personal Exercise Training and Wellness.  She has a diverse fitness background with over ten years of industry experience in campus recreation, corporate wellness, and the commercial health club setting.  She has presented on a wide range of health and fitness topics for the community, at major corporations, and at national and international conferences.  She also advocates bringing the  fitness and medical community together through wellness and preventative programming.  Jasmine specializes in Women's Health and Wellness focusing on pre and postnatal fitness and is a Master Trainer for Healthy Moms (R) Fitness and Resista-a-ball (R).