For almost four decades, the International Sports Science Association (ISSA) has been leading fitness education efforts, setting the standard for professional development in the industry. As a leader in digital learning, ISSA seamlessly combines scientific principles with hands-on application across its over 50 certification courses. With half a million graduates across 176 countries and partnerships with 10,000 U.S. gym locations, ISSA’s global influence is undeniable.

What sets ISSA apart is its unwavering commitment to student success, exemplified by its industry-first job guarantee and exceptional support services. The organization has evolved from its cornerstone Certified Personal Training course to offer specialized courses, including innovative offerings like DNA-Based Coaching. Through this extensive curriculum and dedication to excellence, ISSA continues to shape the future of fitness education one professional at a time. 

ISSA

ISSA stands at the forefront of digital learning in the health and fitness sector, blending scientific rigor with practical application in every certification it offers. They share an unparalleled network with over 10,000 gym locations across the United States, which speaks volumes to their promise to help ISSA-certified professionals find work they love. 

Looking ahead, ISSA is driven by an ambitious goal to connect 100 million people to the power of healthy living by 2030. What truly distinguishes ISSA in this competitive market is its unwavering commitment to its students. This is evident in the industry-first job guarantee and the consistently top-rated student support services that position it as the field’s most highly regarded certification provider.

Bountiful Opportunities to Learn and Grow

ISSA has expanded from its foundational Certified Personal Training program to create a comprehensive roster of professional certifications. Its curriculum now encompasses everything from CPT en Español (a Spanish CPT course) to advanced specializations like Exercise Recovery Specialist and Group Fitness Training. The breadth of ISSA’s offerings—spanning over 50 distinct certifications, including the acclaimed 200-hour yoga instructor program—reflects the commitment to meeting the diverse needs of modern wellness professionals. 

Today’s trainers are increasingly seeking ways to elevate their careers and deliver exceptional value to their clients. They seek expertise beyond traditional workout instruction and pursue advanced specializations in areas such as Glute Specialist, Strength and Conditioning, and DNA-Based Coaching. This allows coaches to establish themselves as holistic wellness experts able to address their clients’ complete health journey and give them niche offerings to expand their business, capitalize as experts in a specialized area, increase rates, and provide premium services. You can see which programs were awarded spots in Coach360’s Top 24 Specializations Report for 2024. 

Ross Weaver, former NFL player, began a career in fitness after retiring his football pads. Through ISSA, Weaver holds ISSA certifications in Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, Youth Fitness, and Exercise Recovery. Ross was most impressed with the comprehensive nature of ISSA’s training approach compared to his previous experiences. “I absolutely love ISSA’s tests and the way the study material is broken down,” he explained. “Unlike other certifications, ISSA wants us to really know what we are doing instead of just passing tests. The quizzes and case scenarios helped me understand the material deeply, which is crucial when training athletes safely.”

ISSA’s commitment to advancing professional development in the fitness industry continues to evolve, with exciting new initiatives on the horizon. Working to expand Spanish offerings and a revised CPT course to bring the most advanced information available to ISSA Certified Professionals. With exciting things on the horizon for ISSA, the one thing guaranteed is that it will be with a high level of professionalism that prepares its trainers to succeed in a busy industry. 

Final Thoughts

After 35 years in business, ISSA remains a leader in professional development, creating pathways for success that combine cutting-edge knowledge with practical business practices. This dedication to continuous learning and professional advancement ensures that certified professionals are well-positioned to meet the sophisticated needs of today’s health-seekers. 

ISSA’s commitment to building successful, sustainable careers for its certified pros shows its belief in its education systems, preparing individuals to embark on a life-changing journey as leaders at the intersection of leadership and health. ISSA is so committed to excellence that it offers a job placement guarantee for its CPT graduates, utilizing its network to leverage jobs for its certified pros. Or your money back, guaranteed.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.