Certification Exam Candidate Handbook

Certification
Candidate
Handbook
GE T TING PEOPLE MOVING
Copyright© 2021 American Council on Exercise ®
Printed in the United States of America. Requirements

All rights reserved. Except for use in a review, the
reproduction or utilization of this work in any form or
by any electronic, mechanical, or other means, now
and processes
necessary to earn
known or hereafter invented, including xerography,
photocopying, and recording, and in any information
retrieval system, is forbidden without the written
consent of the American Council on Exercise.
and maintain
ACE, ACE IFT, ACE Integrated Fitness Training, and
American Council on Exercise are registered trademarks
of the American Council on Exercise. Other product
names used herein are for identification purpose only
and may be trademarks of their respective companies.
ACE Certifications
Distributed by:
American Council on Exercise
4851 Paramount Dr.
San Diego, CA 92123
(800) 825-3636
ACEfitness.org
P21-008
Revised January 2021
iii CERTIFICATION CANDIDATE H ANDBOOK
Contents Earning An ACE Certification 13

14 ACE Certified Professionals
Introduction 2 14 ACE Certification Exams

14 Exam Content Outlines
3 ACE Mission Statement
15 Study Materials and Resources
3 ACE Certification Programs
4 Accreditation
The Certification Exam Process 16
5 Statement of Nondiscrimination
16 Exam Registration
17 CBT Special Accommodations
Certification Exam Eligibility Criteria 6 17 International Exams
7 Eligibility Requirements 17 LRP Special Accommodations
8 ACE Code of Ethics 17 Exam Fees
18 Exam Administration
18 Test-taking Strategies for ACE Certification Exams
ACE Certification Exam Development 9
21 Exam Scoring and Passing Criteria
9 ACE Credentialing Department
21 Exam Results
10 Testing Service Provider
22 Verification of Certification Status
11 Exam Development Procedures
22 Exam Delivery and Security
12 ACE Certification Committees
22 CBT Administration and Security
12 Objectivity in Exam Development
23 LRP Administration and Security
12 Security
24 Calculator Policy
24 Confidentiality Policy
25 Cheating and Other Testing Violations
25 Candidate Comments
iv CERTIFICATION CANDIDATE H ANDBOOK
Maintaining Your
ACE Certification 26
Appendices 34
Appendix A:
27 Recertification Policies and Procedures
34 Appeals for Denied Eligibility
27 Renewing an Expired Certification
28 Continuing Education Credits Appendix B:
29 Continuing Education Petitions 34 ACE Professional Practices and
29 Maintaining Your CPR Disciplinary Procedures
and AED Certificates
Appendix C:
29 ACE Educational Services
35 Exam Content Outlines
30 Career Development
30 ACE Certification Marks Appendix D:
38 Exam Scoring Appeals and Rescoring
Privacy, Security, and Appendix E:

Records Retention 31 39 Pass Rates for ACE Certification Exams
31 Protection of Privacy Appendix F:

33 Length of Records Retention 39 Rescheduling, Retakes, and Refunds
33 Security

2 EXAM CANDIDATE H ANDBOOK
Introduction
FOUNDED IN 1985, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a nonprofit
organization committed to America’s health and well-being. Over the past
30 years, we have become an established resource for health and exercise
professionals and the public, providing comprehensive, unbiased research and
validating ourselves as the country’s trusted authority on health and fitness.
90,000
Today, ACE is the largest nonprofit health and fitness certification, education, and
training organization in the world, with more than 90,000 certified professionals
who hold more than 100,000 ACE Certifications. With a long heritage in
CERTIFIED
certification, education, training, and public outreach, we are among the most
PROFESSIONALS
respected organizations in the industry and a resource the public has come to
HOLD MORE THAN
trust for health and fitness education.
100,000 This ACE Certification Candidate Handbook covers the requirements and
ACE processes necessary to earn and maintain ACE Certifications.
CERTIFICATIONS

3 CERTIFICATION CANDIDATE H ANDBOOK
ACE Certification Programs

The American Council on Exercise has four core fitness certification programs, each with a
unique population and/or programming focus. Each ACE Certification program is evaluated on
a regular basis to ensure that it is up-to-date with the most current research and standards.
Assessments for each certification program are also updated on a regular basis, and are
designed to assess if candidates meet the established level of minimum competence to safely
practice within the scope of practice of the specified certification.
ACE PERSONAL TRAINER CERTIFICATION

The ACE Personal Trainer Certification is designed for health and exercise professionals
providing one-on-one or small-group fitness instruction to individuals who are apparently
healthy or have medical clearance to exercise.
ACE GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION

The ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification is designed for health and exercise professionals
teaching any form of exercise to apparently healthy individuals in a group setting.
ACE HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION

The ACE Health Coach Certification is designed for fitness, healthcare, corporate wellness,
and allied health professionals coaching a wide variety of individuals and groups to adopt
structured behavior-change programs that focus on lifestyle and weight management
through physical activity, nutrition, and education necessary to improve and maintain health,
fitness, weight, and total wellness.
OUR MISSION
ACE MEDICAL EXERCISE SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION
To get people
The ACE Medical Exercise Specialist Certification is designed for advanced health and
exercise professionals providing in-depth preventive and post-rehabilitative fitness
programming for individuals who are at risk for, or are recovering from, a variety of
cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and musculoskeletal diseases and disorders, as well
as apparently healthy clients in special population groups, including older adults, youth, and
moving.
prenatal and postpartum women.

Accreditation What does the NCCA accreditation standard mean to you

as a health and exercise professional?
NCCA ACCREDITATION The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) and Medical
Fitness Association (MFA) recommend that club owners and medical fitness facility
ACE’s four core certifications have been continuously accredited by the National
operators hire exercise professionals with certifications that are accredited by the
Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) since 2003. The NCCA, created in 1987,
NCCA or an equivalent accrediting organization. In addition, the Standards and
is the accrediting body of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE), which was
Guidelines for the Accreditation of Educational Programs for Personal Fitness Training,
formerly known as the National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA).
established by the Committee on Accreditation for the Exercise Sciences (CoAES) of
The NCCA is an independent non-governmental agency that accredits certification
the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP),
programs in a variety of professions, including athletic training, dietetics, occupational
include students’ performance on a national credentialing examination accredited by
therapy, financial services, and fitness, to help ensure the health, welfare, and safety
the NCCA as one of the primary outcomes for earning this accreditation. By earning
of the public. The NCCA reviews the certification organization’s procedures, protocols,
an NCCA-accredited ACE Certification, health and exercise professionals demonstrate
and operations, and determines if the certification properly discriminates between
that they meet the qualifications to take a legitimate place in the healthcare continuum
those who are qualified and those who are not qualified to be awarded the respective
within their defined scope of practice. Earning and maintaining an NCCA-accredited
credential. The NCCA evaluates the processes and systems used by an organization
certification can give you a competitive advantage when being considered as a
to identify professional role and scope of practice, develop exam content, and provide
candidate for employment with a company or organization that belongs to IHRSA or
proper exam administration and scoring to ensure the following:
MFA, as it demonstrates that you have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide
+ That the examination process is fair and unbiased
the public with safe and effective exercise programs.
+ That the examination accurately measures the minimal competence of the
candidate for the profession
+ That the public is protected from unqualified or ineffective practitioners
+ That the organization has the means to support its professionals
The NCCA has 24 Standards that a certification organization must meet and remain in
compliance with in order to earn NCCA Accreditation. These NCCA Standards serve as
a benchmark for how organizations should conduct certification programs.
For more information about the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, please go
to the NCCA website: www.credentialingexcellence.org/p/cm/ld/fid=86.

Statement of Nondiscrimination
ACE recognizes its responsibility to administer all of its policies in a manner consistent with federal, state and local laws and
regulations. In particular, ACE recognizes that equal opportunity is fundamental to equality in all forms of human endeavor.
Therefore, all administrative practices and procedures will be applied free of discrimination on the basis of race, creed,
national origin or heritage, age, religion, sex, gender or gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, physical
or mental disability, medical condition, ancestry, marital status, or service in the uniformed services.

Certification Exam Eligibility Criteria

TO SIT FOR an ACE Certification Exam, you must meet all eligibility requirements
that have been established for that particular certification exam, as detailed below.
On the day of the exam, candidates must present a current government-issued ID
with a photo and signature that matches the first and last name registered on the
exam admission ticket.

ACE MEDICAL EXERCISE SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION EXAM

Eligibility Requirements + You must be at least 18 years of age.
ACE PERSONAL TRAINER AND GROUP + You must hold a current adult CPR and AED certificate including live skills check.*
FITNESS INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION EXAMS + You must submit supporting documentation for each of the following:
+ You must be at least 18 years of age.
 A four-year (bachelor’s) degree in exercise science or a related field‡
+ You must hold a current adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated
500 hours of work experience designing and implementing exercise programs

external defibrillator (AED) certificate including live skills check.*
for apparently healthy individuals and/or high-risk individuals, as documented
+ You must have completed high school (or the equivalent). by a qualified professional**
Medical Exercise Specialist eligibility documentation information can be found here:

ACE HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION EXAM
ACEFitness.org/myace/exam-preapproval-mes.
+ You must be at least 18 years of age.
You may also contact the ACE Credentialing Department via email at
+ You must hold a current adult CPR and AED certificate including live skills check.*
[email protected] for additional information regarding the pre-approval
+ You must submit supporting documentation for one of the following: process for Advanced Certifications.
Current NCCA-accredited certification† in fitness, nutrition, healthcare,

For information regarding appeals for denied eligibility, refer to Appendix A.
wellness, human resources, or a related field; or
 An associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in fitness,
exercise science, nutrition, healthcare, wellness, or a related field;‡ or
Completed health coach training and education program approved by the

National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC)‡; or
A minimum of 2 years of documented work experience in coaching, leading,

designing, implementing, or facilitating one or more of the following: behavior
or lifestyle change, exercise, wellness, nutrition, or physical activity
Health Coach eligibility documentation information can be found here:

ACEFitness.org/myace/exam-preapproval-hc.
* CPR and AED are both required in the U.S. and Canada. Candidates outside the U.S. and Canada are required to hold only current CPR due to differing laws regarding AED use by non-medical
professionals in some countries. Candidates taking an ACE exam via computer-based testing must hold a current CPR/AED certificate prior to registration.
†
A list of NCCA-accredited certification programs can be found via the following link www.credentialingexcellence.org/p/cm/ld/fid=121
‡
A list of NBHWC-approved training and education programs can be found at: nbhwc.org/approved-programs
Note: Candidates must submit supporting documentation of current NCCA-accredited certifications, degrees, and/or work experience used to meet eligibility requirements prior to registering for the
ACE Health Coach exam.
**
Candidates for the ACE Medical Exercise Specialist exam must also submit documentation of their 500 hours of work experience prior to, or at the time of, exam registration.

ACE Code of Ethics

The ACE Code of Ethics governs the ethical and professional conduct of ACE Certified Professionals when working with clients,
the public, or other health and exercise professionals. Every individual who registers for an ACE Certification Exam must agree to
uphold the ACE Code of Ethics throughout the exam process and as a professional, should they earn an ACE Certification. Exam
candidates and ACE Certified Professionals must have a comprehensive understanding of the code and the consequences and
potential public harm that can come from violating each of its principles. The ACE Code of Ethics reads as follows:
As an ACE Certified Professional, I am guided by the American Council on Exercise’s principles of professional conduct
whether I am working with clients, the public, or other health and exercise professionals. I promise to:
+ Provide safe and effective instruction
+ Provide equal and fair treatment to all clients
+ Stay up-to-date on the latest health and fitness research and understand its practical application
+ Maintain current CPR and AED certificates and knowledge of first-aid services
+ Comply with all applicable business, employment, and intellectual property laws
+ Uphold and enhance public appreciation and trust for the health and fitness industry
+ Maintain the confidentiality of all client information
+ Refer clients to more qualified health or medical professionals when appropriate
+ Establish and maintain clear professional boundaries
These principles of professional conduct make up the ACE Code of Ethics. During the exam registration process, candidates
must affirm their agreement to uphold the ACE Code of Ethics throughout the ACE Certification process and in their
professional work should they earn an ACE Certification.

ACE Certification Exam Development

ACE Credentialing Department
The ACE Credentialing Department functions independently in its oversight of American Council
on Exercise certification activities. This includes governance over exam development and
administration, eligibility requirements to sit for and then earn an ACE Certification, issuance
of certifications, criteria for maintaining ACE Certifications through enhanced continued
competence, and developing and implementing disciplinary procedures.
The ACE Credentialing Department upholds ACE’s established policies and procedures in
maintaining the integrity of all examinations set in accordance with NCCA accreditation
standards. ACE Certifications are awarded only to individuals who meet the eligibility
requirements for the certification and then demonstrate that they meet or exceed the
established level of professional competence by passing the certification examination.
Governance for ACE Certification program direction is provided by the ACE Board of Directors
and the ACE Executive Team. Under the direction of ACE’s Executive Vice President of Mission
and Innovation, and ACE’s Senior Director, Standards and Practice Advancement, the ACE
Director of Credentialing oversees all administrative acts of the ACE Credentialing Department,
including management of all ACE meetings and processes focused on ACE Certifications, exam
development, disciplinary committees, and management of ACE’s business relationships with
Scantron, the testing service provider that ACE contracts for the development, delivery, scoring,
validation, and security of all ACE Certification examinations.

Testing Service Provider

The ACE Credentialing Department functions to achieve the following professional
objectives:
+ To create and publish standards, policies, and procedures for the development and ACE utilizes the services of Scantron to develop, administer, score, and report all ACE
administration of ACE Certification programs Certification exams. Scantron offers comprehensive content services built on a history of
developing quality high-stakes certification examinations for organizations that license
+ To determine candidate eligibility criteria to sit for each ACE Certification
or certify the expertise of professionals in various fields, including medical technology,
examination and for recertification
engineering, athletic training, occupational therapy, and fitness. Their specific exam
+ To establish policies, procedures, and requirements for continuing education and development services include:
recertification for all ACE Certified Professionals
+ Job/task analysis and role delineation studies
+ To confer recognition to individuals who successfully earn the ACE credential
and who successfully complete the continuing education and recertification + Development of test specifications
requirements established by ACE + Content validation studies

+ To define the scope of practice for each ACE Certification + Establishing cut score standards
+ To develop standards for professional conduct, known as the ACE Code of + Computerized item banking and examination production
Ethics, and implement procedures for addressing violations according to ACE’s
+ Item writing (virtual and in-person) and test assembly
Professional Practices and Disciplinary Procedures (see Appendix B)
+ Editorial and psychometric reviews
+ To uphold and promote the validity of the ACE credential to stakeholders
+ Delivery of exams in computer-based testing and live remote proctored formats
+ To comply with standards of, implement policies and programs for, and submit
relevant certification and recertification information to regulatory bodies to + Proctor and exam site identification and training
support the validity and reliability of ACE credentials
Scantron is located at the following physical address:
+ To earn and maintain accreditation (e.g., NCCA, ISO/IEC 17024) for ACE’s Scantron
certification programs and secure recognition for ACE Certified Professionals 6001 Hospitality Court, Suite 100
from Registers of Exercise Professionals (e.g., USREPS and ICREPs) in the U.S. Morrisville, NC. 27560 USA
and abroad. Phone: 919.572.6880
+ To acquire, develop, distribute, and maintain information relative to the certification Web: www.ScantronAssessment.com
functions of ACE Email: [email protected]

Scantron administers proctored certification and licensure examinations to Scantron to uphold these rigorous standards for all ACE Certification programs. This
candidates almost anywhere in the world at computer-based testing (CBT) facilities ensures that certified professionals meet minimum standards of knowledge and skills
and in homes via live remote proctored (LRP) exam administration offered in necessary to provide safe and effective exercise instruction and health coaching for the
partnership with Examity. Exam administration services provided include: protection of the public.
+ Establishing secure domestic and international test sites
All ACE Certification Exam questions and exam forms are developed by representative
+ Establishing secure LRP test administration partnerships and procedures panels of industry experts called subject matter experts (SMEs), who are recognized by
+ Hiring and training proctors ACE for their expertise in one or more areas relating to at least one ACE Certification
program. The composition of exam development committees varies for each certification
+ Adhering to Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for special-needs
program due to the different focus and scope of practice for each certification. These
candidates
committees are composed to fulfill the qualification requirements for each certification
+ Providing exam registration services weighted according to the exam content outlines.
+ Verifying candidate identification
All ACE Certification Exams are developed using a six-point exam development process
+ Developing test administrator and proctor manuals guided by standards accepted by the American Psychological Association, the American
+ Scoring, equating, and scaling of examinations Educational Research Association, and the National Council on Measurement in
Education. These steps are facilitated by the psychometric team at Scantron and include:
+ Secure reporting of exam results to candidates
+ JOB ANALYSIS/ROLE DELINEATION: A group of industry experts analyzes the
+ Secure storage of examination results and candidate information
specific job requirements in order to develop an outline of the tasks, knowledge,
Scantron provides individual and aggregated score reports. Individual reports provide final and skills required to perform the job effectively (e.g., group fitness instruction,
scaled score, pass/fail status, and domain performance (percentage correct). Aggregated personal training).
score analysis evaluates item performance, to help certification programs in identifying
questions that continue to effectively measure knowledge and skills and those that merit + VALIDATION STUDY: A research survey is conducted to determine the validity
retirement or rewriting. Scoring and reporting services include: of the job analysis. The survey is sent for validation to a large, random, national
sample of health and exercise professionals who currently hold the certification
+ Scoring, scaling, and equating as appropriate for the certification program
for which the job analysis was conducted.
+ Post-examination item analysis and summary statistics review
+ ITEM WRITING: A national and representative panel of industry experts develops
+ Generating customized score reports
exam questions that are tied to exam specifications and referenced to acceptable
+ Hand-scoring upon request
texts or documents. Once completed, each exam item, or question, must be
+ Preparing diagnostic reports validated by three SMEs who were not involved in writing the question.
Exam Development Procedures + EXAM ASSEMBLY: The questions are reviewed, selected, and approved by
an exam committee. The constructed exam is then forwarded to Scantron
Scantron specializes in offering comprehensive content services, including high-stakes
for final editing.
certification examination development, and upholds these rigorous standards for exam
development, administration, scoring, and equating. ACE works collaboratively with + CUT SCORE DETERMINATION: The passing score is determined as a standard

Objectivity in Exam Development

for public protection. Each question is rated by a group of industry experts
using criterion-referenced procedures. The experts estimate the percentage of
minimally competent professionals that will answer each question correctly. The ACE recognizes that equal opportunity is fundamental to equality in all forms of
passing score is then calculated and based on the overall degree of difficulty. human endeavor. Therefore, all administrative practices and procedures will be
nondiscriminatory on the basis of race, creed, national origin or heritage, age, religion,
+ CONTINUAL EXAM EVALUATION: Following an exam administration, there is
sex, gender or gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, physical
a continual evaluation and analysis of each question to help ensure validity. If a or mental disability, medical condition, ancestry, marital status, or service in the
question is determined to be flawed, it is reworked or replaced. Exam questions uniformed services. This includes all certification and exam development activities.
and exam forms will also be retired once they have had significant exposure in
terms of exam candidates. ACE SMEs go through training at the beginning of each certification committee
meeting and before virtual item writing to ensure that the objectives of the meeting
A new exam development process begins every five years, beginning with a new job are understood and that the panel understands the target population of the
analysis/role delineation. ACE Certification Exams are developed using the six-point certification examination. One key element that is part of the instructions for ACE
exam development process and are guided by standards accepted by the American Certification Committee meetings, covered collaboratively by the ACE Director of
Psychological Association, the American Educational Research Association, and Credentialing and the Scantron Psychometric Team, is to instruct SMEs that all
the National Council on Measurement in Education. All ACE Certification programs ACE Certification Exam questions should be unbiased and objective. This includes
adhere to the Standards for the Accreditation of Certification Programs from of the avoiding any gender, age, ethnicity, geography, or other biases in exam items
National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). developed, edited, and included on ACE Certification Exam forms. ACE does allow
for exam questions to include gender or age information when that information
ACE Certification Committees is critical for candidates to be able to differentiate between correct and incorrect
responses. Examples of these exceptions include risk-factor guidelines that differ for
ACE has a pool of committed and qualified volunteer SMEs for each certification program.
men and women, and exercise programming guidelines that differ for certain age
Each SME for a given program must hold that certification or qualifications that are
groups, such as youth.
equivalent to or exceed the certification, and they must work in the role of the certified
professional, or supervise or educate professionals who serve in the specific certificant
role. Some SMEs are qualified to sit on committees for more than one ACE Certification Security
program due to their combination of credentials, education, and work experience. Disclosure of examination content or information to persons outside of the exam
Due to professional roles and personal commitments, most SMEs are not available for development committees is prohibited and constitutes a breach of security,
every possible meeting for which they are qualified. As such, the ACE Credentialing compromising and invalidating the examination and certification in question. All
Department assembles ad hoc committees of qualified SMEs for each certification exam development members are required to sign non-disclosure agreements prior to
committee meeting. The ACE Credentialing Department takes care to ensure that each participation, agreeing to abide to security procedures established by ACE and the
committee includes representation from the major areas of function for the credential, psychometric staff to prevent compromise of any examination. All documents created
and that it is representative of the geographic and gender distribution of the certified during exam development meetings are shredded upon conclusion of the meeting by
population, with a focus on ethnic diversity as well. the ACE Director of Credentialing and Scantron Psychometric Project Manager.

Earning an ACE Certification

IN ORDER TO EARN an ACE Certification, candidates must first meet the eligibility
requirements, and then must register for and pass the certification examination. ACE will
not grant a certification to any individual based on education and/or experience, as all
ACE Certifications must be earned. ACE Certifications are valid for two years, and must be
renewed through submission of 20 hours or more of ACE-approved continuing education,
current cardiopulmonary resuscitation/automated external defibrillator (CPR/AED)
certificate, and applicable renewal fees. Information regarding ACE Certification Exams,
including eligibility criteria, registration, format, design, administration, scoring, passing
criteria, professional code of conduct, and maintaining an ACE Certification can be found in
the sections that follow.

ACE Certified Professionals Exam Content Outlines

ACE Certifications are valid for two years and must be renewed through continuing ACE uses competency-based examinations to assess if candidates meet the
education. The numbers below represent the total number of currently certified ACE established level of competence to earn the specific ACE Certification. All ACE
Professionals as of December 31, 2020: Certification exams are comprised of 150 multiple-choice questions, with 125
scored and 25 experimental questions. The 25 experimental questions are not
ACE CERTIFICATION CURRENTLY CERTIFIED included in the candidate’s score, as they are being evaluated to determine if they
AS OF 12/31/2020 perform well enough statistically to be introduced as scored items on a future exam.
69,333 Only the 125 scored items count toward a candidate’s finals score that determines
Personal Trainer
if the candidate passed or failed the exam. The 125 scored items are distributed
Group Fitness Instructor 22,484 according to the test specifications, called the exam content outline, for the specific
7,943 certification program.
Health Coach
Medical Exercise Specialist 938 Exam content outlines for ACE Certification programs are updated each time that
ACE conducts a role delineation study for the certification program, which occurs
on a five-year rotating basis for the ACE Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor,
ACE Certification Exams and Health Coach Certification programs and every five to seven years for the ACE
Medical Exercise Specialist Certification program. This is a critical step to ensure that
All four ACE Certification programs have competency-based assessments comprised
professional certification programs stay relevant and current, with examinations
of multiple-choice exams, with 125 scored items and 25 experimental items that make
that reflect the composition and focus as established and validated through the role
up the entire credentialing exam. Candidates are given three hours to complete an ACE
delineation study.
multiple-choice exam for any of the four ACE Certification programs.
Exam content outlines serve as blueprints for the development of each exam for
ACE employs Scantron, a full-service, third-party testing company, to ensure that
a given certification program. ACE exam content outlines are typically divided
ACE Certifications adhere to national testing standards. ACE Certification Exams are
into major areas of responsibility called Domains. Each Domain represents a
developed by committees of working health and exercise professionals who have been
logical grouping of Task Statements that detail the job-related functions under
identified as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for that particular ACE Certification program.
each domain. Each Task Statement has associated knowledge and skills deemed
Each multiple-choice question that is developed must be referenced to an appropriate
necessary to perform the task in a practical setting.
text or resource, such as ACE or other exercise science–related manuals, and current
industry standards, guidelines, and position papers (e.g., ACSM, AHA, ACOG, and USDA). Detailed exam content outlines with complete knowledge and skill statements for
Each multiple-choice question is written by at least one SME, and then reviewed and each ACE Certification program can be found in Appendix B of the manual for that
validated by a minimum of three more SMEs to ensure that each question is objective, program and at: ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/certification-exam-content.
clear, fair, current, maps to the exam content outline, and has only one clearly correct Abbreviated versions of all four exam content outlines can be found in Appendix C of
answer (response) and three incorrect responses. this document.

Study Materials and Resources

ACE has free online resources available to help candidates with questions as they
prepare for their ACE Certification Exam. These free resources are produced by ACE
ACE produces manuals and associated study materials for each ACE Certification Study Coaches and include common study questions, video demonstrations and
program. These manuals are produced first and foremost as resources to help lectures, exercise library, exam prep blogs, and Facebook groups. ACE Study Coaches
candidates prepare for professions in health and fitness. While these materials also have no involvement in the development and delivery of ACE Certification Exams;
help candidates prepare for the corresponding ACE Certification exam, it is critical however, they are ACE Certified Professionals who have experience working in the
that candidates view these study materials as helpful resources rather than the field and helping individuals to prepare for and advance their careers as exercise
sole authority for a particular profession or examination. Candidates do themselves professionals and health coaches. You can access these free resources by visiting ACE
and the industry a disservice if they believe that studying an ACE manual alone is a Answers at ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/ace-answers/.
comprehensive resource for their health and fitness knowledge and their career.
Suggested Reading Kennedy-Armbruster, C. & Yoke, M. (2020).

Methods of Group Fitness Instruction (4th
Diego: American Council on Exercise. Faigenbaum, A. & Westcott, W. (2013). ACE
Youth Fitness Manual. San Diego: American
Goodman, C. & Helgeson, K. (2011).
ed.). Champaign, Ill: Human Kinetics. Council on Exercise.
Exercise Prescription for Medical Conditions.
PERSONAL TRAINER Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.
CERTIFICATION HEALTH COACH National Academy of Sports Medicine (2018).
Muth, N.D. (2019). Sports Nutrition for Health
Professionals (2nd ed.). Philadelphia: F.A.
American College of Sports Medicine (2017). CERTIFICATION NASM Essentials of Corrective Exercise
Davis Company.
ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer Training (6th ed.). Burlington, Mass.: Jones &
American Council on Exercise (2019). The
(5th ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/ Bartlett Learning.
Professional’s Guide to Health and Wellness Muth, N.D. (2013). ACE Fitness Nutrition
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Coaching. San Diego: American Council on Manual. San Diego: American Council on
American Council on Exercise (2020). The Exercise. ALL PROGRAMS Exercise.
Exercise Professional’s Guide to Personal
American Council on Exercise (2014). ACE
Training. San Diego: American Council on Brehm, B. (2014). Psychology of Health and U.S. Department of Agriculture (2020). 2020-
Senior Fitness Manual. San Diego: American
Exercise. Fitness. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis Company.
Council on Exercise. 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (9th
National Strength and Conditioning ed.) www.dietaryguidelines.gov
Weinberg, R. & Gould, D. (2018). Foundations
Association (2012). NSCA’s Essentials of American Council on Exercise (2012). ACE
of Sport and Exercise Psychology (7th ed.).
Personal Training (2nd ed.). Champaign, Ill.: Essentials of Exercise Science for Fitness
Champaign, Ill.: Human Kinetics.
Human Kinetics. Professionals. San Diego: American Council
on Exercise.
GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR MEDICAL EXERCISE American College of Sports Medicine (2018).
CERTIFICATION SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and
American College of Sports Medicine Prescription (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters
American Council on Exercise (2016). ACE
(2017). ACSM’s Resources for the Exercise Kluwer/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Group Fitness Instructor Handbook. San
Diego: American Council on Exercise. Physiologist. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/
American College of Sports Medicine (2018).
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Desimone, G. (2012). ACSM’s Resources for ACSM Health/Fitness Facility Standards and
the Group Exercise Instructor. Philadelphia: American Council on Exercise (2015). ACE Guidelines (5th ed.). Champaign, Ill.: Human
Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Medical Exercise Specialist Manual. San Kinetics.

The Certification Exam Process

Exam Registration
Candidates may register for computer-based testing (CBT) and live remote proctored (LRP)
exams via either online or phone registration.*
Holding a current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certificate with CPR verification on file
with ACE is required prior to registering for an ACE Certification exam, as examination results
are immediately provided following exam submission.
Note: All CPR courses must include a live skills check. Online-only courses cannot be
accepted. Exam candidates in the U.S. and Canada must also have AED training included in
their CPR course.
Candidates may register for CBT examinations as early as 10 days prior to the date of the exam,
and may have the option to register for any exam date available on the website at the time of
registration. Candidates may register for LRP exams as early as 24 hours in advance and as
far out as 60 days in advance of the exam date. An overview of the exam registration process
is provided in the pages that follow, with a detailed step-by-step process found on the ACE
website at: ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/schedule-your-exam/
*ACE Health Coach and ACE Medical Exercise Specialist Certification exams require pre-approval prior to registration.
LRP Special Accommodations

The confirmation process for exam registrations is automated, with email
confirmation of registration dates being either approved or unavailable generally
received by candidates within minutes of submitting their registration. On occasion, Currently, extra time is the only request that can be accommodated during live remote
when there are technical issues, this process can take up to two to three business proctored examinations. Candidates requesting extra time during an LRP exam
days following registration. Once a candidate’s preferred examination choice is administration must contact the ACE Exam Registration Department at 800.825.3636,
approved, the candidate will receive their admission ticket via email and is subject Ext. 783 or [email protected] at least five (5) days prior to the desired
to ACE’s reschedule and cancellation policy. If the preferred examination choice is exam date for special accommodations consideration. Special accommodations beyond
unavailable, the candidate will receive an email with direction as to how to request a extra time can be provided only at computer-based testing sites.
new exam choice through the ACE Exam Registration portal at no additional charge.
International Exams
CBT Special Accommodations ACE offers its four certification exams via CBT internationally at select locations.
Candidates with a special testing need will be accommodated as best as To find an ACE exam offered outside the U.S., please go to ACEfitness.org/fitness-
possible. Candidates requesting testing accommodations may not register certifications/schedule-your-exam/. Select “Find an exam location” and then choose a
online. All Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) candidates must submit proper country in the “Select Country” dropdown bar.
documentation to support ADA requests. This documentation must be submitted,
The ACE Personal Trainer certification exam is available in the following foreign
along with a completed registration form, at least 15 to 30 days prior to the
languages: Finnish, Hindi, Hungarian, Lithuanian, Simplified Chinese, and Thai. The ACE
requested exam date. Please contact ACE Exam Registration at 800.825.3636, Ext.
Health Coach certification exam is available in Greek.
783 or [email protected] for further assistance. The confirmation
process for CBT exam registrations with special accommodations requires approval A list of International ACE Educational Partners can be found here: www.acefitness.org/
through the third-party contracted testing centers. The confirmation process for education-and-resources/business/partners/international-partners/
these types of registrations results in a confirmation email to be received roughly ACE offers four certification exams via LRP in English only. To schedule an international
24 to 72 hours after the registration is initially processed. On occasion, special LRP exam in English, please go to www.ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/schedule-
accommodations cannot be made on the requested exam date or at a specific your-exam/exam-locations/. Select the option for live remote proctoring (LRP) by
location. In this instance, a member of the ACE Exam Registration Department will clicking on “Online (at-home)” and proceed through the registration process accordingly.
contact the candidate for alternate testing locations, dates, and/or times. It is important to note that candidates do not schedule their date or time for their LRP
exam in their MyACE accounts. To select your desired exam date and time, please refer
to the “ACE Notice to Schedule” email, which will be sent from candidatesupport@
scantron.com within 24 hours of completing your registration.

Exam Fees
versions of all four exam content outlines can be found in Appendix C of this
document. The exam content outline lists the specific Task Statements that make
For current ACE exam pricing, please click here: ACEfitness.org/faqs/#Exam%20 up the exam blueprint for a given ACE Certification program’s examinations, and
Registrations. the percentage of questions that are mapped to each Domain of grouped Task
Checks or money orders should be in U.S. funds, drawn on a U.S. bank, and payable Statements. Similar to the principle of specificity that helps guide effective fitness
to ACE. ACE does do not accept cash, purchase orders, or invoices and will return programs, ACE Certification candidates familiar with the exam content outline can
all incomplete registration applications and/or registration applications with cash, use it to guide their studies, helping to alleviate test anxiety as they prepare for their
purchase orders, invoices, declined credit cards, or returned checks. Active military, examinations and a career in the field.
veterans, and eligible spouses and dependents can receive reimbursement for
The following strategies may prove helpful for candidates taking ACE Certification
their ACE Certification Exam fees from the government by submitting appropriate
Exams as well as other standardized tests:
paperwork as directed at benefits.va.gov/gibill/ this includes both first time and
retakes fees. For the most up-to-date exam pricing, please refer to the Exam + Pace yourself and make efficient use of your time. You should be halfway through
Registration webpage: ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/schedule-your-exam/. the exam (or slightly more) when half of your time is up.
+ Read each question carefully and avoid skimming or speed-reading. Be sure you
Exam Administration understand what the question is asking. Pay special attention to phrases such as
ACE Certification Exams are managed by Scantron, the testing service company BEST, MOST, etc.
that ACE contracts for the development, administration, scoring, and security of ACE + Try to anticipate what the answer is but still read all response options carefully
Certification exams. Scantron offers ACE Certification Exams in a CBT format for all four before finalizing an answer. Remember that there is only one correct answer and
ACE certification programs and in LRP format only for English-language exams for all two response options may appear to be similar without careful reading.
four ACE certification programs. Scantron offers ACE Exams at over 1,300 CBT facilities
+ Do not overanalyze or read into the question. Each question is written as clearly as
throughout the U.S. and Canada, and multiple locations internationally. For security
possible and should be interpreted as it appears. There is no hidden meaning or
purposes, CBT exams are offered only at proctored testing facilities and in-home exams
attempt to be tricky.
are offered only by Scantron in partnership with Examity for live remote proctoring
throughout the entire exam administration.. To register for an ACE Certification Exam, go + Eliminate the least plausible response options. Eliminating one or two response
to ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/schedule-your-exam/. options will increase your chances of selecting the correct answer.
+ Take care in marking your selected response correctly on the computer.

Test-taking Strategies for + Answer every question. Remember, there is no penalty for guessing.
ACE Certification Exams + Although first instincts are best, change your answer if you feel strongly
about it.
All exam questions are based on an exam content outline for the specific certification
program, which can be found at ACEfitness.org/fitness-certifications/certification- + Response options on ACE Certification Exams are randomized. If you know
exam-content. and as Appendix B of each respective ACE manual. Abbreviated absolutely nothing about a question, it is best to simply guess and move on.

ANATOMY OF A MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION

A multiple-choice question consists of a stem and response options. The stem is a statement or a question and
often includes key words to help candidates understand what is being asked or assessed. The stem may be
presented as a direct question, an incomplete statement, or a best-answer format. For instance:
Direct: What muscle flexes the elbow joint?
Incomplete statement: The muscle that flexes the elbow joint is:
Best-answer format: Which exercise MOST effectively strengthens the flexors of the elbow joint?
Response options consist of one correct or clearly best answer and distractors (all of which are incorrect).
Distractors usually contain common errors and are often drawn from the same conceptual category as the
correct response. Distractors are also similar in length, complexity, grammatical construction, etc., to the correct
response. For example:
Which of the following muscles is a prime mover for lateral flexion of the spine?
A. Latissimus dorsi
B. Rhomboid major
C. Transverse abdominis
D. Quadratus lumborum
(The correct answer is D.)
Recall questions
Recall questions assess facts, terminology, and comprehension of important principles. A relatively small
number of recall questions is presented on the ACE Exams since they assess candidates’ abilities to remember
information rather than apply it to solve problems. For example:
Which muscle flexes the elbow joint?

A. Bicep brachii
B. Triceps brachii
C. Biceps femoris
D. Triceps surae
(The correct answer is A.)

Application questions
An application question poses a problem or situation
Analysis questions
Analysis questions assess candidates’ abilities to
Nutrition Facts
that would most likely be encountered while working in examine information and understand the relationship 8 Servings Per Container
the profession. Application questions assess candidates’ between its components. In other words, how do the
Serving Size 6 pieces (40g)
abilities to recognize the proper use of factual information parts work together to make a whole? In this manner,
Calories 160
and principles in solving problems health and exercise a candidate who can correctly analyze the facts can Amount Per Serving
professionals might experience on the job. For example: identify a problem and its appropriate solution.
For example:
A new client has been sedentary for five years and is % Daily Value*
eager to begin resistance training. Results from the Total Fat 3g 4%
The food label on a 12-ounce bag of candy (right)
client’s Thomas test with each leg reveal that the back of
provides the following information: Saturated Fat 0.5g 3%
the lowered thigh does not touch the table, but the knees
do flex beyond 80 degrees. Based on this information, What is the total amount of kilocalories (kcal) and Trans Fat 0g 0%
what stretch would be MOST important to include in the percentage of calories that come from fat in the Cholesterol 0mg 0%
client’s initial program? entire bag? Sodium 0mg 0%
A. Iliotibial band stretch A. 27 kcal, 4 percent
Total Carbohydrate 30g 11%
B. Quadriceps stretch B. 160 kcal, 7 percent
C. Half-kneeling triplanar stretch C. 216 kcal, 17 percent Dietary Fiber 0g 0%
D. Hamstring stretch D. 252 kcal, 30 percent Total Sugars 30g 11%
(The correct answer is C.) (The correct answer is C.) Protein less than 1g
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient

in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000
calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Exam Scoring and Passing Criteria Exam Results

ACE Certification Exams are scored according to procedures accepted by the ACE Certification Exams are administered via Scantron’s secure internet-based testing
American Psychological Association, the American Educational Research Association, system at proctored CBT facilities in the U.S., Canada, and internationally, and in
and the National Council on Measurement in Education. The candidate’s score is homes where LRP exams are proctored via Examity’s live remote proctoring system.
derived from the number of questions answered correctly, and is then converted to a Exams are scored upon completion, with candidates receiving their exam scaled score
scaled score ranging from 200 to 800 points, with the passing point set at a scaled and pass/fail status immediately upon submission of their completed examination.
score of 500 points. Candidates who earn a scaled score of 500 or more points will be
The scaled score and pass/fail status on the results candidates receive from Scantron
awarded the ACE Certification for which they tested.
constitute a candidate’s official score and pass/fail status. Only the scaled score
determines pass/fail status. Any details that go beyond this scaled score (e.g., domain
All test forms for an examination are built to a standardized test blueprint. Using a test
performance in percentages) is provided only as a guide for failed candidates to
specification ensures that test forms are comparable in content coverage, that test
identify the domains where they have the greatest room to improve, should they
content is weighted in accordance with the requirements for competent performance,
choose to take the examination another time.
and that all forms of the examinations adhere to standards for content validity.
However, the actual items for an exam change over time. This is done to ensure the Candidates who achieve a final scaled score of 500 or more points on their
content is up-to-date and relevant, and to enhance test security. Since items differ in certification exam will be awarded the ACE Certification for the exam that they
terms of how easy or hard they are, different test versions may not be equally difficult. successfully passed. Candidates who pass their ACE Certification Exam will receive
As a result, ACE conducts reviews of the test forms to ensure that the passing score their certification within four to six weeks after the scores are released. Candidates
required is adjusted so that it is equivalent across the different test forms. ACE uses who achieve a final scaled score below 500 points will receive a “failed” status on the
scaled scores to enable us to compare candidate performance on different test forms, examination. These candidates have the ability to sit for a certification exam for the
or with people who may have taken different test forms. specific program at a reduced rate (see “Exam Fees” earlier in this chapter).
ACE candidates who sit for examinations at CBT facilities receive their exam scaled Scantron also sends the score reports to ACE on a daily basis, via secure data
score and pass/fail status upon submission of the examination for scoring. This is transfer, for all candidates who complete an ACE examination on a given day. These
referred to as immediate score reporting, which requires ACE Certification Exams exam results are stored in the specific candidate’s password-protected and secure
to be launched with an established passing point. All ACE Certification Program ACE web account.
examinations use a process known as item response theory (IRT) to establish an
For information on exam scoring appeals and rescoring; pass rates for ACE
equivalent passing score across different test forms. This robust method is an
Certification Exams; and rescheduling and retaking exams and refunds, refer to
industry standard for larger certification programs, especially when programs provide
Appendices D, E, and F, respectively.
immediate score reporting. The psychometricians at Scantron perform IRT equating
for all ACE Certification Programs. The only exception to this rule is the very first ACE-
CPT, ACE-GFI or ACE-CHC examination built according to a new exam content outline, Verification of Certification Status
which is rated by subject matter experts (SMEs) for the certification program at a ACE allows the public and employers to easily verify if an individual currently holds
standard setting. an ACE Certification. This information is readily available via the “Is my professional

certified with ACE?” search engine at ACEfitness.org/ACEFit/Locate-Trainer/. Only lockdown, and Examity’s live remote proctoring, including video surveillance of
currently certified ACE Professionals will be found using this search tool. Individuals the testing room and entire test administration. Candidates interested in LRP
who have let an ACE Certification expire, and are still in their six-month grace period testing must have a quiet, comfortable and secure room free from distractions,
following their expiration date, will not show up in this search engine until they adequate high-speed internet and computer compatibility to help establish an
complete all steps required to renew their certification. ideal testing environment.
It is important to note that certifications are issued by legal name (first and last).
Searches using nicknames, middle names, or abbreviated versions of full names will CBT Administration and Security
not retrieve the desired professional. As such, ACE provides a link to “view all of our Candidates are emailed admission tickets upon approval of exam location, date, and
professionals” and a phone number that the public and employers can call to verify if a
time and must bring the following to the examination location:
professional holds an ACE Certification.
+ Admission ticket
ACE also provides a “Find an ACE Certified Professional” search tool on this same + Current government-issued identification
page, allowing the public to find qualified health and exercise professionals in
with photo ID and signature
their area. Profiles will vary from basic certification validation to fully developed
professional profiles. The basic certification validation is provided to allow for Every attempt within reason is made to ensure a quiet and comfortable testing
verification of ACE Certified Professionals. The expanded professional profiles are an environment for all candidates. However, some environmental distractors cannot be
option that ACE provides to its certified professionals who want to provide the public anticipated. Candidates are encouraged to bring appropriate clothing (see admission
with additional information about the services they provide. ticket for clothing restrictions) to help adapt to cooler or warmer examination rooms
and to bring ear plugs if one is sensitive to noise distractions. Ear plugs will be subject
Exam Delivery and Security to inspection by the proctor.
All ACE Certifications are delivered by Scantron, which utilizes an extensive network of Only the individual named on both the admission ticket and registration roster and
examination testing site administrators, proctors and CBT centers. whose name on the photo identification matches the registration roster will be
permitted to take the examination. Candidates are strongly advised to contact ACE if
Scantron assumes responsibility for all CBT exam administration arrangements and
an admission ticket is not received via email. Failure to notify ACE may prevent entry
provisions for special exam accommodations as needed. They will ensure that all
into the examination center.
examination centers conform to local building, sanitation, ADA, health, and safety
codes, and are maintained in good, clean condition. Scantron will train testing Candidates have three hours to complete the 150-question multiple-choice exam
site administrators to provide a site that has accessible parking spaces within unless provided with special time accommodations.
reasonable distance to the examination rooms, as well as examination rooms that
are quiet, free from any known environmental distractions and interruptions, and Candidates must arrive on time. Candidates are required to adhere to the following
comfortable in temperature. examination policies:
+ No visitors are allowed in the examination rooms.
Scantron and Examity assume responsibility for all LRP exam administration
arrangements and provisions for special accommodations, as needed. Exam security + Candidates must perform all of their own work, without assistance. Sharing
is established through Scantron’s secure internet-based testing system, browser information or disturbing others is cause for dismissal with no refund.

+ Impersonating another candidate, giving or receiving help on the exam, or To sit for an LRP ACE Certification Exam, your computer must meet the following
removing exam materials or notes from the examination site is cause for technical requirements:
dismissal with no refund. + Webcam installed on your exam workstation
+ No dictionaries or other supplies are allowed during the exam. + A webcam with 640×480 video pixel resolution. Note: A laptop camera is acceptable.
+ No purses, bags, or any powered communication devices such as cell phones + Reliable access to the Internet, as Internet connection disruption will suspend
and PDAs are allowed in the examination room. the exam session
+ No food or drinks are allowed in the examination room unless approved in + A high-speed Internet connection (2 MBps). Wireless connection is acceptable;
advance by ACE for medical reasons. however, a wired connection is preferred.

+ A well-working computer with 1 GB of RAM or higher
Candidates may be disqualified from taking or continuing forward in the examination
process, or from receiving exam results, if ACE, Scantron, and/or the examination + Working speakers connected to the computer
proctor determine, either through direct observation or through statistical analysis, + A microphone connected to the computer—consider a webcam with a built-
that the candidate engaged in collaborative, disruptive, cheating, or other in microphone. You must use a computer with administrator access and the
unacceptable behavior before, during, or following the administration of the ACE computer must have Windows or MAC OS.
Certification Exam.
+ VPN must be disabled.
LRP Administration and Security + Browser compatibility: Firefox and Google Chrome. Mac users will need to
download Google Chrome.
Candidates are emailed admission tickets upon approval of exam location, date, and
+ Chromebooks cannot be used as a testing device. Additionally, smart phones,
time and must bring the following to their examination:
and tablets cannot be used as testing devices.
+ Admission ticket
+ You MUST download ZOOM in advance by clicking here: https://zoom.us/
+ Current government-issued identification with photo ID and signature download and selecting “Zoom Client for Meetings.”
Live remote proctored (LRP) exams place the responsibility of establishing an ideal Candidates are highly encouraged to test their system for LRP compatibility prior to
testing environment on the candidate. Considerations the candidate must think about selecting the LRP testing option.
prior to committing to an LRP exam include: + To configure your system for the LRP environment before the exam, click here:
+ Do I have a workstation and environment (e.g., comfortable seating, https://test.examity.com/systemcheck/ComputerReadinessCheck.aspx
ergonomically friendly workstation, proper lighting, and comfortable room + To check your system for Scantron’s delivery system, click here: www.
temperature) that will allow me to perform to the best of my ability?
scantronassessment.com/pass/PassLogin/SystemRequirements.aspx
+ Is my computer compatible with LRP requirements?
*Please test your system at a day and time similar to the day and time when you
+ Do I have adequate high-speed Internet connection?
anticipate sitting for your exam to ensure you will have the enough bandwidth
+ Will I be free of noise and other distractions during my ACE exam? when testing.

Calculator Policy
Only the individual named on the admission ticket and photo ID will be permitted
to take the examination. Candidates are strongly advised to contact ACE if an
admission ticket is not received via email. Failure to notify ACE may prevent entry Exam candidates for all four ACE Certification programs will have access to a
into the examination. basic four-function calculator with the following functions: addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division. Candidates will have access to an online calculator that is
Candidates have three hours to complete the 150-question multiple-choice exam part of Scantron’s CBT testing platform. CANDIDATES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BRING
unless provided with special time accommodations. THEIR OWN CALCULATORS. THIS ACT WOULD CONSTITUTE CHEATING AND BE
SUBJECT TO “ACE’S PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES AND DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES”
Candidates must access their ACE examination on time. Candidates are required to ACEfitness.org/Fitness-Certifications/Certified-Code.aspx. See Appendix B.
adhere to the following examination policies:
+ No visitors are allowed during the examination. Confidentiality Policy

+ Candidates must perform all of their own work, without assistance. Sharing The purpose of the ACE Certification Exams is to protect the public and other
information or disturbing others is cause for dismissal with no refund. stakeholders against ineffective practices and procedures. The examinations
are intended to ensure minimal entry-level competency of health and exercise
+ Impersonating another candidate or giving or receiving help on the exam is
professionals. Sharing of examination information with and between candidates
cause for dismissal with no refund.
compromises the validity of the examination. Consequently, in order to maintain the
+ No dictionaries or other supplies are allowed during the exam. integrity and security of all ACE Certification Exams, examination questions, answers,
+ No purses, bags, or any powered communication devices such as cell phones or other source materials are never released to candidates under any circumstance.
or personal digital assistants (PDAs) are allowed in the examination room. Candidates are expected to prepare for and pass examinations on their own merit.
+ No food or drinks are allowed in the examination room unless approved in Candidates who intentionally pursue examination information beyond what is legally
advance by ACE for medical reasons. and ethically shared by ACE and ACE employees, including pursuit of previous
examination candidates, are considered to be engaging in unethical and illegal acts and
+ No ear buds of any kind may be worn during the examination.
will be disqualified from eligibility. All candidates who take the ACE Certification Exams
+ No additional monitors may be utilized during the examination. voluntarily agree to maintain examination confidentiality and are contractually obligated
+ No scratch paper, personal writing utensils, or personal calculators are to uphold this agreement. Printed examinations are the copyrighted property of the
permitted for use during the examination. American Council on Exercise and should any confidentiality agreement be violated, the
culpable person or persons will be prosecuted by the American Council on Exercise.
Candidates may be disqualified from taking or continuing forward in the
ACE does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of religion, gender,
examination process, or from receiving exam results, if ACE, Scantron, and/or
ethnic background, age, national origin, or physical disability.
the examination proctor determine, either through direct observation or through
statistical analysis, that the candidate engaged in collaborative, disruptive, cheating, No information submitted to ACE, Scantron, or Examity will be released to a third
or other unacceptable behavior before, during, or following the administration of the party without authorization and a written consent from the candidate. This includes
ACE Certification Exam. examination results and pass/fail status.

The only situation where ACE provides individual pass/fail status to an organization All ACE Certification Exams are legally defensible, proctored examinations ensuring
is in conjunction with the MyCAA program. In this program, military spouses who candidates the most valid test experience. You may be disqualified from taking
meet eligibility criteria with MyCAA can receive reimbursement from the Department or continuing in the examination process, or from receiving exam results, if ACE,
of Defense for expenses associated with ACE examinations and associated study Scantron, Scantron proctors, Examity proctors, or personnel at the contracted testing
materials. Candidates eligible for and interested in receiving MyCAA funding give center have determined at any time during the exam registration, administration,
written consent for their pass/fail status to be sent to MyCAA, allowing their expenses or scoring process, through examiner observation or statistical analysis that a
to be paid through the MyCAA funding. candidate was engaged in collaborative, disruptive, or other unacceptable behavior
before, during, or following the administration of the ACE Certification Exam. This
ACE does verify if an individual currently holds an ACE Certification. This information is
includes irregular behavior associated with any aspect of the examination and
readily available to the public and employers via the “Is my professional certified with
violations of the ACE Code of Ethics.
ACE?” search engine at ACEfitness.org/education-and-resources/lifestyle/find-ace-pro.
Candidate Comments
Cheating and Other Testing Violations
Upon completion of an ACE Certification Exam, candidates are given the chance to
The purpose of the ACE examination is to protect the public by ensuring that
submit comments about the examination and testing environment. At the conclusion
candidates for certification have achieved entry-level competence to work in a
of an ACE computer-based exam, candidates are asked to complete a brief online
designated role within health and fitness (e.g., personal trainer). Candidates are
survey about the testing environment. These comments are also reviewed by the
expected to pass the ACE Certification Exam based on their own merit and without
Testing Manager at Scantron, and then copied and forwarded to the ACE Director
assistance (e.g., without referencing study materials or websites). Previous exam
of Credentialing. Where necessary, the ACE Director of Credentialing will follow up
candidates who share exam information with future exam candidates undermine the
with Scantron to determine if further action is warranted.
very purpose of the exam by putting the public at risk should an unqualified candidate
achieve a passing score through means other than their own merit.

Maintaining Your ACE Certification

ACE CERTIFICATIONS are valid for two years, expiring on the last day of the month in which the
certification was earned two years prior. In order to maintain current certification, ACE Certified
Professionals are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education biannually, which
equates to 2.0 continuing education credits (CECs), as one hour equals 0.1 CEC. As stated in the
ACE Code of Ethics, ACE Certified Professionals agree to remain up-to-date on the latest health
and fitness research and understand its practical application.
First and foremost, the purpose of continuing education is for the protection of the public. By
completing continuing education that advances knowledge, skills, and abilities, ACE Certified
Professionals stay current with the latest research, professional standards, and guidelines in the
fitness industry, healthcare, and allied health. This helps the health and exercise professional to
be better prepared to provide safe and effective fitness instruction. The second purpose is to help
the professional advance their career.
Given the dynamic nature of the fitness industry and the vast amount of exercise science
research published annually, it is imperative for health and exercise professionals to complete
continuing education on a regular basis. With new research and standards being released every
couple of years, ACE has set a two-year term for each certification period to help ensure that ACE
Certified Professionals are completing continuing education at least every other year to remain
current. During this two-year period, ACE Certified Professionals are required to complete at least
20 hours of ACE-approved continuing education. Both the two-year term for ACE Certifications
and the average of 10 hours per year of continuing education are in line with other NCCA-
accredited certification programs in fitness and other areas of allied health.
ACE encourages its certified professionals to complete additional continuing education as

necessary to help advance their careers and services provided to the public.

Recertification Policies and Procedures

ACE Certified Professionals are allowed to renew their certification at any point during
their certification cycle; however, CECs should be accrued for the current certification
ACE Certified Professionals must comply with the following every two years to renew cycle and cannot be applied to future cycles. Renewals can be completed online via your
their ACE Certifications: My ACE Account and must contain all the necessary information to be processed.
+ Complete at least 20 hours of ACE-approved CECs (2.0 CECs)
ACE mails renewal informational reminders six and 12 months prior to the expiration
+ Renew your cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external date of the professional certification, and also sends email notifications 90 and 30 days
defibrillator (AED) certificate(s), which must include a live skills check. You must be prior to the expiration date, informing individuals of how they can attain ACE-approved
current at time of renewal. CECs and renew their certification. ACE Certified Professionals can access their web
+ Remain in good standing with the American Council on Exercise. account at any time to check the status and expiration dates of their certifications,
update and verify CEC information on file, update and verify CPR/AED information on
+ Submit your renewal online along with the appropriate renewal payment prior to
file, and renew certifications.
the expiration date for the certification. Renewal rates are scheduled to recognize
individuals who hold multiple credentials, and to provide discounts to those Professionals who hold more than one ACE Certification can apply the same CECs to
renewing online. more than one certification for renewal, provided that the subject matter is appropriate
for continuing education for all ACE Certifications to which the CECs are applied. Each
certification has a renewal fee (see table above) and CPR/AED certificate must be
First Certification current at the time of renewing an ACE Certification.
If you have any questions about maintaining your ACE Certification, please contact ACE
On-Time Renewal $129
Educational Services via phone at 800.825.3636 or 858.576.6500, Ext. 782, or via email at
Additional Certifications* [email protected].
On-Time Renewal For 2 Certifications $69 each Renewing an Expired Certification

O
n-Time Renewal For 3 Certifications $59 each ACE extends a professional courtesy of an extension to individuals unable to
submit renewal information by their expiration date. During this “grace” period, the
On-Time Renewal For 4 Certifications $49 each certification is technically expired and the individual is not a current ACE Certified
Professional for the given certification.
Late Renewals
In these situations, there are penalty fees associated with processing the application.
Individuals in situations where they must submit their renewals within the six-month
Up To 3 Months Late $169 each
grace period following their expiration date must submit the renewal via email to
Up To 6 Months Late $199 each [email protected] or online through their My ACE account, with all appropriate
paperwork including the renewal fee plus the penalty fee. Individuals who are unable
Prices subject to change
to submit their application within this grace period will lose their certification and
.
* Rate based on total number of current certifications at time of recertification have no option but to re-register to take the exam to re-earn the certification.

Exceptions to the extension policy will be considered on a case-by-case basis for all ACE Certified Professionals and can be searched by all fitness and allied health
documented cases of serious illness, bereavement, natural disasters, and other professionals worldwide. Always look for the ACE approved logo and a notation of
emergencies. In these instances, candidates must contact ACE Credentialing Department how many CECs each course is worth. If you are unsure if a course is ACE approved,
at [email protected], to request reinstatement of their certification. contact ACE Educational Services via phone at 800.825.3636 or 858.576.6500, Ext.
Individuals in this situation must provide documentation to support their request 782, or via email at [email protected] for confirmation.
for reinstatement, along with proof of 2.0 CECs, current CPR/AED certificate, and a Repeating the same continuing education courses during subsequent renewal
reinstatement fee of $219 per certification. Reinstatement will only be considered for periods does not demonstrate continued competence for a certified professional and
individuals who are within 6 to 12 months beyond their expiration date. Reinstatement therefore would not be granted towards the certified professional renewal cycle.
is only offered one time per certification. All reinstatement requests are reviewed by CECs for same courses would only be awarded once.
the ACE Director of Credentialing, who ultimately makes the final decision regarding all
ACE recognizes that professional development and continuing education can come
reinstatement requests.
from sources other than traditional ACE approved continuing education courses.
Late renewal periods will be activated based upon the original renewal cycle period Such sources include the following:
and not rolled forward from that date renewed. For example, original renewal period is
+ College course completion with a grade of C or higher, with 0.8 CECs awarded
July 31, 2020 to July 31, 2022 and renewed in the grace period on November 30, 2022.
per quarter unit and 1.0 CEC awarded per semester unit.
The next proceeding renewal period would be July 31, 2022 to July 31, 2024. CECs
earned to renew one’s certification in the grace period do not roll forward towards the + Passing an additional ACE Certification Exam results in 2.0 CECs for the
next renewal cycle including any CECs earned beyond the 2.0 CEC requirement. studying involved in preparing for an ACE Certification.
+ Professional presentations can earn up to 0.5 CECs per renewal cycle for the
Retired/Inactive/Emeritus Status research involved in developing the presentation.
The purpose of holding a professional credential is to practice and demonstrate + Authorship of a correspondence course, or publishing fitness-related articles,
continued competency in a given field. Therefore it is ACE’s policy not to grant book chapters, books, or peer-reviewed journal articles can result in a
retired, inactive, or emeritus status. maximum of 0.5 CECs per renewal cycle.
+ Serving on an ACE committee results in 0.5 CECs per calendar year.
If you have questions about renewing an expired certification in situations that
meet the parameters above, please contact ACE Educational Services via phone at + Obtaining another NCCA-accredited fitness-related certification results
800.825.3636 or 858.576.6500, Ext. 782, or via email at [email protected]. in 0.5 CECs.
+ Clinical observation of surgical procedures that can enhance the
Continuing Education Credits understanding of human systems that relate to the certification can
be worth a maximum of 0.2 CECs per renewal cycle.
The ACE Professional Education Department reviews and approves more than
+ Internships in a fitness or related setting can result in up to 0.2 CECs per renewal
3,000 continuing education courses from more than 300 providers each year. This
cycle (for college credit internships, see college course information above).
provides ACE Certified Professionals with ample opportunities to earn their CECs
for certification renewal. All ACE-approved CECs can be found at ACEfitness.org/ + Community outreach in a fitness-related event or similar can result in 0.1 CEC per
ContinuingEducation/default.aspx, where ACE approved CECs can be searched by renewal cycle.
career track specializations, topic, CEC provider, course format (at home, conference, For more information on how to maintain your ACE Certification, log in to your My ACE
in class), CEC value, course start date, and location. This is a professional benefit to Account and go to: ACEfitness.org/CP/Certified-Maintain.aspx.

Continuing Education Petitions Maintaining Your CPR and

ACE recognizes that there are quality educational courses, workshops, and
conferences that are not submitted in advance to the ACE Professional Education
AED Certificates
Department for review and awarding of ACE CECs, and therefore has developed As a health and exercise professional, you never know when you may be called upon to
the ACE Continuing Education Petition process. In the event that an ACE Certified step in during a life-threatening event. With this in mind, ACE requires its professionals
Professional completes educational coursework that has not been reviewed and to maintain a current adult CPR/AED certificate, which must include a live skills check.
approved for ACE CECs, they may submit a petition for each individual course Note: AED certification is required in only the U.S. and Canada.
completed for consideration as continuing education for certification renewal. A $25
petition fee is assessed for each course being submitted. Each petition must contain ACE Educational Services
a copy of the course materials with course syllabus or outline, learning objectives, the
The ACE Educational Services Department is available to help ACE Certified
course instructor’s resume or curriculum vitae, including academic background and/or
Professionals maintain their ACE Certifications and advance their careers. Everyone
certifications, and verification of course completion.
working in ACE Educational Services holds at least one ACE Certification and has
Petitions are reviewed by the ACE Professional Education Department according to experience in the field. This professional team can help you with questions you may have
criteria established with input from the ACE Director of Credentialing. A petitioned about many topics, including:
course will be awarded CECs only if it meets similar criteria to what is required for + Certification renewal process
courses to be approved in advance by the ACE Professional Education Department. This
+ Use of the ACE Pro Site
includes the instructor holding either an ACE Certification or a four-year college degree
+ Career benefits
in exercise science or a related field to the subject areas taught (e.g., nutrition degree
for nutrition-related topics), and the course content must be appropriate to advance the + Status of certification
knowledge, skills, and abilities of the professional holding the specific ACE Certification + CEC status
for which the course is being petitioned. For each hour of educational content, 0.1 CEC
+ Liability insurance
will be awarded. No CECs are awarded for activity classes, topics that fall outside of
the scope of practice or are deemed inappropriate for the credential, or time dedicated + Secondary certification
to testing at the completion of a certificate program. Reviews will be completed within + Available CEC courses
30 days of receipt, after which the individual will be notified as to the final decision from
+ Eligible CEC activities (alternative to attending a class)
the ACE Professional Education Department. Courses that are not approved will not be
refunded the $25.00 petition review and processing fee. To submit a petition, log into You can contact ACE Educational Services via phone at 800.825.3636 or 858.576.6500,
your My ACE Account, and under Manage My CECs, click on Petition for CECs. Ext. 782, or via email at [email protected].

Career Development ACE Certification Marks

ACE is committed to helping ACE Certified Professionals develop their careers through Individuals who have met ACE’s Certification standards are authorized to the exclusive
quality continuing education, advanced fitness certifications, and business opportunities. use of the following marks issued by ACE:
Discounted insurance: + ACE Certified Personal Trainer; ACE-CPT
+ Gain exclusive access to discounted liability insurance. + ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor; ACE-GFI
+ ACE Certified Health Coach; ACE-CHC

Professional discount program:
+ Receive professional discounts and special offers on fitness apparel, educational + ACE Certified Medical Exercise Specialist; ACE-CMES
programs, products, and more. Individuals granted an ACE Certification will be entitled to use ACE’s marks in
conjunction with the individual’s name to demonstrate this accomplishment, so long as
Find an ACE Pro:
they abide by the policies adopted by ACE. It is essential that the marks are displayed
+ This searchable online database puts you in front of thousands of consumers
in a clear and consistent way. ACE’s policies on the use of these marks explain when
each month, and provides peace of mind to a potential employer or client by
and how to display them are provided to each ACE Certified Professional upon passing
allowing them an easy tool for verifying your ACE Certification.
their respective certification exam. ACE Logo Usage Guidelines and access to the ACE
Focus groups and surveys: Certified logos are available to ACE Certified Professionals through their password-
protected My ACE Account ACEfitness.org/MyACE. Failure to comply with these policies
+ From ACE decision-makers to the media, we rely on ACE Professionals for
may result in disciplinary action and/or revocation of certification.
valuable feedback.

Privacy, Security, and Records Retention

Protection of privacy
No individual under employment, contractual agreement, or volunteering with ACE shall
dispense candidate or professional information without the expressed, written consent from
the individual. Individuals requesting their information be released to third parties must submit
a signed letter of consent to permit information release. All individuals under employment,
contractual agreement, or volunteering with ACE are required to sign non-disclosure agreements
before commencing service.
All candidates are assigned customer identification numbers for ACE administrative purposes
and will select their own username email addresses and passwords to access their own
accounts. In the event a candidate forgets a username email address or password, they may
contact ACE customer service via email or phone, which will then release the login information
via an email to the candidate’s email address on file.
Confidential information will be made available to the appropriate parties if subpoenaed by a

court of law or if the candidate or professional violates the ACE Code of Ethics, whereby the
appropriate authorities must be notified.

Certain information is not considered confidential, as it is accessible within the public We use the information you provide about yourself or someone else when placing
domain. This information includes: an order or making a request only to the extent necessary to complete that order
+ Certification status or request.
+ State of residence We will not sell your email address or any other personal information. From time
+ Position of standing with the American Council on Exercise to time, we may send information about our services to the email or mailing
address provided by you. We may lease your mailing address to organizations that
+ Personal information that the professional willingly permits to be posted on the
share our mission and meet our criteria and standards of excellence. As an email
ACE “Find a Professional” search engine on the ACE website
recipient, your email address is confidential. When an email message is sent to you,
The American Council on Exercise posts the ACE Privacy Policy information on its the sender does not see your name or email address. The sender of a message,
website at ACEfitness.org/Privacy.aspx. To protect the privacy of all candidates, however, is always identified and the sender’s return email address is disclosed. This
consumers, and current and former ACE Certified Professionals, ACE posts a direct link policy promotes responsible use of email and directs you to the right source if you
to this ACE Privacy Policy at the bottom of every page of the ACE website (ACEfitness. feel that you are receiving inappropriate messages.
org). This policy explains ACE’s online information practices and the choices individuals
can make about the way their information is collected and used. ACE will share and disclose any information posted by certified health and exercise
professionals to the ACE database with IDEA Health & Fitness Association and/or
ACE requests only the information needed in order to provide the highest level of service other third parties.
to individuals using the ACE website or contacting ACE via email or phone. The types of
personal information collected include: To avoid receiving any mailings, you may contact ACE Educational Services. Unless
we think that such action is necessary to comply with the law or legal process or to
+ Name
protect the interests of ACE or others, we will not release personal information about
+ Address you without your consent.
+ Phone number
Individuals can access or correct the personally identifiable information that ACE
+ Company information maintains on them by contacting ACE Educational Services. To better protect
+ Email address privacy and security, the individual’s email address must match the email address
used to establish the account. ACE uses this procedure to better safeguard private
+ Credit/debit card Information (for purchases only – credit card
information. To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure
information is encrypted) the correct use of information, ACE has put in place appropriate physical, electronic,
+ Our site logs IP addresses and browser types for the purposes of system and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information ACE collects.
administration and user functionality. These logs will be analyzed to ACE website users are responsible for keeping their password secret and are
improve the value of the materials available on our website. While user sessions encouraged to never give their password to anyone, even someone claiming to be
are tracked, users remain anonymous. We do not link IP addresses to any an ACE employee. The ACE website may link to other websites that may collect user
personally identifiable information. We use non-identifying and aggregate information or solicit personal information. ACE does not control these sites; therefore,
information to better design our website. ACE is not responsible or liable for the privacy practices or content of such sites.

Any candidate, consumer, or current or former ACE Certified Professional who has removed. While public record of their information will then be removed, ACE will retain
questions about their information on file and ACE policies for the protection of their the member’s records securely for a period of five years. Records of ACE continuing
private information should contact the ACE Educational Services Department. education providers shall be retained for five years. Professionals holding an ACE
credential are encouraged to retain certification and continuing education information
HOW TO CONTACT ACE CUSTOMER SERVICE for a period of four years.
+ 800.825.3636
+ [email protected]
Security
ACE information is maintained in secure databases and archived electronically to a
Length of Records Retention secure local network. Individual information is accessible only via that person’s ACE web
The American Council on Exercise shall indefinitely retain records of all candidates account, which is protected by the username email address and password selected by
and current and former ACE Certified Professionals as long as they remain affiliated the individual. Any hard copy records are stored in locked filing cabinets in secure areas
with ACE as an organization or until they request (in writing) that the information be within the ACE administrative building.

Appendices
Appendix A: Appeals for Denied Eligibility
ACE reserves the right to reject any registration application that does not meet the specified eligibility requirements. If a registration
application for an ACE Certification Exam is not accepted, an individual can appeal and request the application be reviewed again.
The appeal must include a detailed explanation of the reason(s) why the individual believes they should be eligible, plus all supporting
documentation. Submit all eligibility appeals for review via mail or email:
ACE Credentialing Department

4851 Paramount Drive
San Diego, CA 92123
Email: [email protected]
Eligibility appeals will be reviewed and responded to within 10 working days of their receipt. Individuals submitting the appeal will receive
notice that their eligibility appeal was either “approved” with instructions for moving forward with exam registration, or “denied” with
notification of the reason for the denial. Individuals who have an eligibility appeal denied can submit a new eligibility appeal if they have
additional supporting documentation that meets the requirements noted in the denial.
Appendix B: ACE Professional Practices and Disciplinary Procedures

The professional practices and disciplinary procedures of the American Council on Exercise (ACE) are intended to assist and inform
certificants, candidates for certification, and the public of the ACE Application and Certification Standards relative to professional
conduct and disciplinary procedures. ACE may revoke or otherwise take action with regard to the application or certification of an
individual in the case of:
+ Ineligibility for certification
+ Irregularity in connection with any certification examination
+ Unauthorized possession, use, access, or distribution of certification examinations, score reports, trademarks, logos, written
materials, answer sheets, certificates, certificant or applicant files, or other confidential or proprietary ACE documents or
materials (registered or otherwise)

+ Material misrepresentation or fraud in any statement to ACE or to the public, questionnaires, interviews, and appropriate documents to determine risk for
including, but not limited to, statements made to assist the applicant, certificant, or exercise participation, identify the need for medical clearance and referrals, and
another to apply for, obtain, or retain certification facilitate program design.
+ Any physical, mental, or emotional condition of either temporary or permanent
2. Assess client readiness for behavior change and evaluate exercise attitudes
nature, including, but not limited to, substance abuse, which impairs or has the
and beliefs through effective communication to build rapport and establish
potential to impair competent and objective professional performance
appropriate goals.
+ Negligent and/or intentional misconduct in professional work, including, but not
limited to, physical or emotional abuse, disregard for safety, or the unauthorized 3. Identify and evaluate the quality of foundational movements through
release of confidential information observations and assessments to develop appropriate exercise programming
+ The timely conviction, plea of guilty, or plea of nolo contendere in connection with that enhances function, health, fitness, and performance.
a felony or misdemeanor, which is directly related to public health and/or fitness

4. Select and conduct baseline physiological assessments based on client
instruction or education, which impairs competent and objective professional
interviews, questionnaires, and standardized protocols to facilitate safe and
performance. These include, but are not limited to, rape, sexual abuse of a
effective program design and monitor changes over time.
client, actual or threatened use of a weapon of violence, and the prohibited sale,
distribution, or possession with intent to distribute, of a controlled substance. Domain II: Program Design and Implementation – 31%
+ Failure to meet the requirements for certification or recertification
1. Establish appropriate functional, health, fitness, or performance goals by
ACE has developed a three-tiered disciplinary process of review, hearing, and interpreting client interview and assessment data to design personalized
appeals to ensure fair and unbiased examination of alleged violation(s) of the exercise programs.
Application and Certification Standards in order to (1) determine the merit of
allegations; and (2) impose appropriate sanctions as necessary to protect the public 2. Design personalized exercise programs by applying appropriate exercise
and the integrity of the certification process. principles and guidelines to enhance cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular
strength and endurance, and flexibility.
Note: As an ACE Certification candidate and/or Certified Professional, you are deemed
to be familiar with, and comply with, the ACE Code of Ethics and ACE Professional 3. Select appropriate exercises and equipment and integrate them into client
Practices and Disciplinary Procedures. Please contact ACE to request a complete copy of programs in accordance with evidence-based research to improve function,
ACE Professional Practices and Disciplinary Procedures. health, fitness, and performance.
Appendix C: Exam Content Outlines 4. Instruct clients on safe and effective equipment use and exercise techniques
using verbal, visual, and kinesthetic cues to achieve program goals.
ACE PERSONAL TRAINER EXAM CONTENT OUTLINE Domain III: Program Modification and Progression – 26%
Domain I: Interviews and Assessments – 23%
1. Promote program adherence through motivation, education, and modification
1. Obtain comprehensive health, medical, exercise, and lifestyle information using to achieve client goals.

2. Recognize and respond to lapses in program adherence by identifying barriers Domain II: Group Instruction and Leadership – 39%
and providing solutions to ensure consistent client engagement.
1. Assess the space, equipment, environment, and participants to identify
3. Routinely evaluate progress by using data, observations, and client feedback to potential issues and make appropriate adjustments to the class plan to
modify programs as needed. ensure a safe and effective experience.
2. Communicate with participants in a welcoming, positive, and engaging

Domain IV: Professional Conduct, Safety, and Risk Management – 20%
manner prior to, during, and after class to build rapport and promote class
1. Apply risk-management strategies in accordance with recognized standards, adherence.
guidelines, laws, and regulations to protect the client, personal trainer, and
3. Instruct participants by demonstrating proper exercise movements and
other relevant parties to minimize liability.
modifications (e.g., regressions and progressions) while using verbal and
2. Document and secure client data, communications, and progress in accordance nonverbal communication to improve technique, reduce the risk of injury, and
with legal and regulatory requirements to maintain confidentiality and improve performance.
minimize liability.
4. Motivate class participants using appropriate methods to increase participant
3. Enhance competency by using credible resources to stay current with evidence- engagement and confidence, improve performance, and create a positive and
based research, theories, and practices. inclusive environment.
4. Prevent injury by identifying and reporting potential hazards in accordance 5. Educate participants on general health and fitness principles and the benefits
with recommended industry or facility protocols. of physical activity to improve performance, reduce risk of injury, and increase
participant self-efficacy.
ACE GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR EXAM CONTENT OUTLINE Domain III: Professional Conduct and Risk Management – 27%
Domain I: Class Preparation – 34% 1. Solicit and incorporate feedback from a variety of sources (e.g., participants,
peers, supervisors, self) to enhance professionalism and future class
1. Create a plan based on the class format, class objectives, and anticipated
experiences.
participants to establish a structure for safe and effective experiences.
2. Respond to and manage class incidents and high-risk situations following
2. Select and organize exercises in sequences that align with exercise science
established protocols to ensure safety and reduce liability.
principles, class components, and class elements (e.g., music, equipment) to
meet class objectives. 3. Maintain and enhance competency by staying current on science-based
3. Identify appropriate exercise options (e.g., regressions, progressions, research, technology, and best practices using credible resources (e.g.,
modifications) to reduce the risk of injury, improve performance, and create an professional organizations, peer-reviewed journals) to provide safe and
inclusive class environment. effective classes.
4. Rehearse the class content and refine the plan as needed to ensure a positive 4. Adhere to recognized standards, guidelines, policies, laws, and regulations to
and successful experience. manage risk and liability.

ACE HEALTH COACH EXAM CONTENT OUTLINE 2. Maintain accurate and confidential records using applicable standards in order
to ensure quality care and manage risk.
Domain 1: Coaching Behavior Change – 33%
3. Respond to emergencies and high-risk situations following established
1. Establish rapport with clients using effective communication strategies in order
protocols in order to ensure safety and reduce liability.
to build and maintain collaborative relationships.
4. Maintain professional competence by staying current on research, technology,
2. Help clients take responsibility for personal health by identifying strengths,
and industry standards in order to build proficiency as a health coach and
challenges, and available resources in order to make healthful lifestyle choices.
optimize client outcomes.
3. Facilitate client-directed behavior change using evidence-based coaching
5. Create an inclusive environment by developing awareness of, and
strategies to promote healthful lifestyle choices.
demonstrating sensitivity to, diverse populations.
Domain II: Conducting Assessments and Developing Plans – 26%
1. Use available health, medical, wellness, and lifestyle information by employing ACE MEDICAL EXERCISE SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION
appropriate assessment tools and standards in order to stratify risk, identify the EXAM CONTENT OUTLINE
need for medical clearance and referrals, establish baselines and facilitate plan
Domain I: Interviews and Assessment – 27%
development.
1. Gather health, fitness, and lifestyle information from client interviews and
2. Design individualized plans based on interviews, screenings, assessment data, journals, electronic medical records, questionnaires, and communication
and goals in order to progress clients toward healthful lifestyle management. with other healthcare providers to ensure accurate screening and
assessment of the client.
Domain III: Implementing and Adjusting Individualized Plans – 25%
1. Implement individualized plans using evidence-based coaching practices in 2. Evaluate health, fitness, and lifestyle information using industry guidelines
order to progress clients toward healthful lifestyle and behavior change. and recommendations to assess an individual’s readiness for physical activity,
facilitate program design, optimize adherence, identify at-risk clients, and make
2. Evaluate plan effectiveness in collaboration with clients to monitor outcomes appropriate referrals.
and support progress toward goals.
3. Perform baseline and periodic follow-up screens and assessments using
3. Collaborate with clients to adjust plans based on ongoing evaluations in order recommended guidelines and protocols in order to optimize program design,
to promote adherence, personal responsibility, and success. ensure safety, and enhance effectiveness.
Domain IV: Professional Conduct and Legal Responsibility – 16% Domain II: Program Design, Implementation, and Modification – 35%
1. Adhere to legal requirements, the ACE Code of Ethics, and scope-of-practice 1. Set realistic and appropriate goals based on client expectations and
guidelines in order to protect clients, maintain professional standards, and limitations, assessment data, and recommendations from healthcare
manage risk. professionals.

2. Design preventive programs for at-risk clients in order to help them improve adjustments, and communicate (as necessary) with other healthcare
health, fitness, and function while mitigating the risk of diseases, disorders, professionals.
ailments, and injuries.
2. Comply with applicable laws, regulations, ACE Code of Ethics, and industry
3. Design programs for clients in all stages of medical intervention in order to guidelines in order to protect the interests of all stakeholders and minimize risk.
complement treatment and improve health, fitness, and function.
3. Recognize and respond to acute medical conditions and injuries by following
4. Modify a client’s program and goals based on reassessment data; exercise, an emergency action plan in order to provide appropriate care and comply with
nutrition, and lifestyle logs; client- and healthcare provider–reported risk-management practices.
information in order to ensure program safety and success.
4. Pursue information from professional resources in order to provide services
5. Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team in order to deliver consistent with accepted standards of care.
complementary programs that promote improved health, fitness, and function.
Domain III: Communication and Behavior Change – 21% Appendix D: Exam Scoring
1. Develop rapport with clients using purposeful questioning and attentive Appeals and Rescoring
listening to facilitate communication, compliance, and a positive working
relationship. EXAM SCORING APPEALS
2. Educate the client on specific health behaviors and self-monitoring tools in Any candidate who feels that their examination effort was negatively impacted
order to enhance program adherence, safety, and success. by improper instruction, unprofessional proctoring standards, or unreasonable
environmental or other distracters, must report the grievance to the exam proctor
3. Instruct clients on safe and effective exercise techniques using appropriate
immediately. The proctor will document the complaint and submit it to Scantron, where
communication, coaching, and cueing strategies in order to optimize program
the complaint will be forwarded to the ACE Exam Registration Department for further
outcomes and build self-efficacy.
investigation. Following any examination administration where a candidate feels that
4. Apply coaching strategies in order to facilitate lasting healthy behavioral their examination effort was negatively impacted, ACE mandates that candidate also
change. contact ACE Exam Registration via phone at 800.825.3636 or 858.576.6500, ext. 783,
or email [email protected] to report the incident and how it negatively
Domain IV: Professional Conduct and Risk Management – 17%
impacted performance within 30 days of the examination. ACE will make an equitable
1. Maintain detailed records using policies and procedures that adhere decision based upon the information gathered from all relevant sources, including the
to professional guidelines in order to track progress, make appropriate candidate, proctors, Scantron, and Examity.

EXAM RESCORING HEALTH COACH

Should a candidate not pass the examination, yet believes that a scoring error was
CALENDAR YEAR CANDIDATES PASS RATE (%)
involved during the computer scoring, they may appeal and request to have their entire
examination manually rescored. While the results of a manually scored examination 2020 2,133 69%
rarely, if ever, differ from the result obtained through the automated process, the 2019 1,862 72%
candidate does have the right to pursue this option. In order to request a manual 2018 2,592 75%
rescore, candidates must contact ACE Exam Registration via phone at 800.825.3636
or 858.576.6500, Ext. 783, or email ([email protected]) to receive a MEDICAL EXERCISE SPECIALIST
manual rescore form. Candidates must then submit the completed form, along with the
$50 rescoring fee to Scantron. All requests for a manual rescore must be made within 30 CALENDAR YEAR CANDIDATES PASS RATE (%)
days of the original examination date. Scantron will inform the candidate of their rescored 2020 101 62%
results within two to four weeks of receiving the rescore request.
2019 118 61%
2018 104 65%
Appendix E: Pass Rates for
ACE Certification Exams Appendix F: Rescheduling,
PERSONAL TRAINER Retakes, and Refunds
RESCHEDULING: COMPUTER-BASED TESTING
2020 15,410 74%
If a candidate is unable to sit for an examination on the date they are registered, then the
2019 20,069 71%
candidate has until 11:59 p.m. PST on the day preceding the examination to reschedule
2018 22,923 70% the exam date. This reschedule can be done through the candidate’s ACE account. The
fee to reschedule a CBT exam is $149 in the U.S. and Canada.
GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR
Candidates may only reschedule their examination date once and may only reschedule
for another CBT format exam.
2020 5,081 79%
Exceptions to the reschedule fee will be considered on a case-by-case basis for
2019 5,301 63%
documented cases of serious illness, bereavement, natural disasters, and other
2018 5,265 63% emergencies. In these instances, candidates must contact ACE Exam Registration prior

to, or on the day of, the exam. Candidates must then provide proper documentation without issue. The determination of any returned items’ condition will
verifying their reason for missing their ACE Certification Exam. Candidates must also ultimately be decided by ACE.
work with the Exam Registration Department to receive assistance in rescheduling  I f the items are not returned in good condition, a 20% restocking fee will
their exam date. No refunds will be given for rescheduled exams. apply, which is applied to the total full cost of the program or materials
(excluding sales tax and shipping costs), regardless if paid in full or through
RESCHEDULING: LIVE REMOTE PROCTORED EXAM a full or partial payment plan.
tudy programs that include an exam voucher that has been redeemed
 S
A candidate may reschedule their live remote proctored (LRP) exam up to 24 hours
prior to their scheduled exam time. The reschedule will be free of charge, as long as within 30 days of purchase are not eligible for return or refund.
a candidate is rescheduling within their original 60-day LRP eligibility window. The + Exam vouchers are non-refundable and non-transferable.
candidate must reschedule their LRP exam date and time by accessing Scantron’s online
+ Exam vouchers must be redeemed within six months from the original date of
scheduling system here: www.scantronassessment.com/registration/asp/login.asp.
purchase.
Should a candidate want to reschedule their LRP exam for a date beyond their given 60-
day eligibility window, the $149 rescheduling fee will apply. + Cardiopulmonary resuscitation/automated external defibrillator (CPR/AED)
certification is required to register for the exam and must remain current through
the exam date. Course must include a live skills check; online-only CPR/AED
RETAKES courses are not accepted.
Candidates who do not pass a certification examination are eligible to sit for the exam
+ Extensions are not given on exam vouchers.
another time for a discounted retake fee for a period of one year after the date of the
initial examination. After this one-year period, the candidate must submit the first-time + Retake vouchers (included in select study bundles) must be redeemed within
candidate exam fee. 60 days of the original failed exam date.
Exceptions to the refund deadline will be considered on a case-by-case basis for

REFUNDS documented cases of serious illness, bereavement, natural disasters, and other
emergencies. In these instances, candidates must electronically date-stamp or postmark
Exam Voucher Policy
their request no later than 30 days after the examination date and provide any and all
Candidates who purchase certification bundles that include an exam voucher are supporting documentation. With proper documentation, candidates will be offered the
subject to the following policies: option to apply their examination fee towards a future registration to be scheduled within
+ Materials/products returned within 30 days of purchase are eligible for a the next six months, or they can request a full refund of examination fees. No refunds will
return. Exchanges of materials/products are not permitted. ACE does not offer be given for rescheduled exams.
partial refunds.
 If materials are in good condition, no restocking fee will apply. Good
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Certification Exam Candidate Handbook

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Certification Exam Candidate Handbook

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Certification

Printed in the United States of America. Requirements

Contents Earning An ACE Certification 13

Introduction 2 14 ACE Certification Exams

Privacy, Security, and Appendix E:

31 Protection of Privacy Appendix F:

American Council on Exercise

American Council on Exercise

ACE Certification Programs

ACE PERSONAL TRAINER CERTIFICATION

ACE GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION

ACE HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION

American Council on Exercise

Accreditation What does the NCCA accreditation standard mean to you

+ That the public is protected from unqualified or ineffective practitioners

+ That the organization has the means to support its professionals

American Council on Exercise

American Council on Exercise

Certification Exam Eligibility Criteria

American Council on Exercise

ACE MEDICAL EXERCISE SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION EXAM

Medical Exercise Specialist eligibility documentation information can be found here:

Health Coach eligibility documentation information can be found here:

American Council on Exercise

ACE Code of Ethics

American Council on Exercise

ACE Certification Exam Development

American Council on Exercise

Testing Service Provider

requirements established by ACE + Content validation studies

American Council on Exercise

American Council on Exercise

Objectivity in Exam Development

American Council on Exercise

Earning an ACE Certification

American Council on Exercise

ACE Certified Professionals Exam Content Outlines

American Council on Exercise

Study Materials and Resources

Suggested Reading Kennedy-Armbruster, C. & Yoke, M. (2020).

American Council on Exercise

The Certification Exam Process

LRP Special Accommodations

American Council on Exercise

+ Take care in marking your selected response correctly on the computer.

American Council on Exercise

ANATOMY OF A MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTION

Direct: What muscle flexes the elbow joint?

(The correct answer is D.)

Which muscle flexes the elbow joint?

(The correct answer is A.)

American Council on Exercise

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient

American Council on Exercise

Exam Scoring and Passing Criteria Exam Results

American Council on Exercise

Exam Delivery and Security to inspection by the proctor.

American Council on Exercise

advance by ACE for medical reasons. however, a wired connection is preferred.

+ That the public is protected from unqualified or ineffective practitioners

+ That the organization has the means to support its professionals

* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient

On-Time Renewal For 2 Certifications $69 each Renewing an Expired Certification