The obesity epidemic is a growing concern, with statistics estimating that 49% of all adults in the United States will be obese by 2030. For personal trainers looking to specialize in helping clients achieve their weight loss goals, the NASM Weight Loss Specialist (WLS) certification can be a valuable asset. This article provides an in-depth review of the NASM WLS certification, drawing upon practical experience and insights gained from working in the fitness industry.
What is the NASM Weight Loss Specialist Certification?
The NASM WLS is a specialized certification designed for personal trainers who want to develop a comprehensive understanding of weight loss coaching. While basic personal training certifications cover the fundamentals of weight loss, such as the "calories in versus calories out" principle and macronutrient functions, the NASM WLS provides a more in-depth framework for guiding clients through successful weight loss programs. NASM was founded in 1987 with the mission of giving fitness professionals the tools to help transform their clients’ lives.
Is the NASM WLS Worth It?
For trainers seeking to focus on weight loss, the NASM WLS is a worthwhile investment. It equips trainers with the knowledge and skills to effectively coach clients through the weight loss process. Adding the NASM WLS to your CPT is another tool in your belt.
Course Structure and Content
The NASM WLS program covers a wide range of topics essential for effective weight loss coaching. Each chapter begins with clearly defined learning objectives, setting the stage for the information to follow. Here's a breakdown of key areas covered:
Scope of Practice
Chapter 2 emphasizes the importance of understanding the proper scope of practice for a weight loss specialist. This knowledge is fundamental for success in coaching. While the scope of practice is similar to that of a personal trainer, weight loss specialists often deal more intimately with certain aspects of their clients’ lives than general CPTs. Trainers can assess clients’ fitness, provide nutrition coaching, and program design.
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Obesity and its Impact
The course delves into the far-reaching effects of obesity, addressing its impact on mental health and the cultural stigmas surrounding it, such as fat shaming.
Energy Balance and Popular Diets
The NASM WLS explores the core concept of energy balance, which is fundamental to weight management. It then examines various popular diets, analyzing the pros and cons of each approach.
Weight Loss Psychology
The course emphasizes the psychological aspects of weight loss, providing strategies for addressing the mental and emotional challenges clients may face.
Client Assessments
The NASM WLS provides guidance on conducting thorough client assessments, including identifying situations that warrant a doctor's referral. It also includes various dietary assessments and guidance on selecting the most appropriate ones for different clients. Chapter 11 teaches you skills like how to assess an assessment. The program also includes physical assessments to establish a baseline of fitness, including body composition testing, posture and movement assessments, and cardiorespiratory assessments.
Coaching Systems and Practical Application
The final section of the NASM WLS integrates all the learned material into a practical coaching system. It provides real-world coaching examples through six different case studies. NASM also teaches you specific programming guidelines for nutrition coaching for weight loss, how to use periodization to your advantage with diet breaks. The course also covers strategies for dealing with potential setbacks and helping clients recover from them. It emphasizes that the coach's work isn't over once a client reaches their goal weight.
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NASM WLS: Key Features
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The NASM WLS program offers a thorough exploration of weight loss principles, coaching techniques, and practical application.
- Science-Based Approach: NASM is a respected institution known for its science-driven approach, ensuring that the information provided is accurate and evidence-based.
- Practical Application: The inclusion of case studies and coaching examples allows trainers to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- Lifetime Certification: Once you pass the WLS exam, your certification is valid for life.
- No Specific Prerequisites: There are no specific prerequisites to fulfill prior to the course.
- Retake Options: If you fail the first time, you get 2 more free attempts.
Time Commitment and Cost
The NASM WLS program typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete, although the duration can be adjusted to fit individual learning styles and schedules. The NASM WLS currently sits on sale for $539 (it usually costs $899). Typically this costs a bit more, but the value is worth it in the long term, especially with NASM’s Ultimate Trainer bundle, which contains six total certifications (including the Weight Loss Specialist).
Examination
The NASM Weight Loss Specialist final test consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.
Career Prospects and Salary Expectations
According to ZipRecruiter, the average Weight Loss Specialist in the US makes $46,966 per year. Average personal trainer salary comes out at $45,002 according to Indeed. By obtaining the NASM WLS certification, personal trainers can enhance their expertise and potentially increase their earning potential.
Benefits of NASM Certifications
NASM certifications can provide personal and professional growth, as highlighted by testimonials from certified trainers. "I am a happier person, I am a stronger person, and I am more confident since gaining all three of my certifications with NASM. I am now training thousands of women across the world. “Given NASM’s reputation as a respected and science-driven institution, I knew these credentials would help set me apart-and they absolutely have. “Anything that you want to do in life, NASM will help you get there and help you achieve your goals. “When I first got certified as a CPT, I felt very confident with everything I learned and very well prepared for the job. “NASM has taught me that the link between my physical wellbeing and my mental wellbeing is important. When I first got certified as a CPT, I felt very confident with everything I learned and very well prepared for the job.
Potential Drawbacks
The NASM WLS may not be suitable for all personal trainers. It is a specialized certification that caters to a specific niche, so it may not appeal to trainers with broader interests. Additionally, it is not NASM's cheapest specialization.
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