FAQs

General FAQs

Is AFPA recognized and accredited? Answer

Absolutely! AFPA is recognized and accredited nationally and internationally.

AFPA has been in business for over 29 years with over 130,000 certified members working in all 50 states and over 140 countries. For additional information, click here.

How much do certification programs cost? Answer

AFPA has more than 30 certification programs on a wealth of topics, including nutrition, holistic wellness, specialized fitness training, and many more. Because the breadth of material varies, programs are priced according to what each certification entails. Our programs range from approximately $250 to $2,199, with the median cost being around $699.

*Enrollment fees subject to change.

What is included with my certification program? Answer

Program tuition includes digital access to all study materials, instructional support, examination, and issuance of credentials upon the successful completion of all program requirements and financial obligations.

What are my options for payment? Answer

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, and Amazon Pay.

You may also qualify for a Payment Plan Through Affirm. Pick the loan that fits your budget, and make payments over three, six, or 12 months. You get instant approval, and payment reminders are sent via email and text. For this option, select AFFIRM at AFPA checkout.

Do you offer payment plans? Answer

Absolutely. AFPA accepts AFFIRM for financing your enrollment.

When you pay with AFFIRM

  • You’re in control!  Buy what you love, pay over time.
  • Pick the loan that fits your budget, over 3, 6, or 12 months.
  • Instant approval. Safe & secure.
  • Security of your personal information is the top priority.
  • Payment reminders are sent via email and text.
  • At AFPA checkout, select AFFIRM as your payment source for instant approval.

Do you accept international students? Answer

Of course! AFPA is nationally and internationally recognized, with accreditation through multiple organizations. AFPA has been in business over 29 years with over 130,00 certified members working in all 50 states and 150 countries. For additional details, click here.

How are certification exams administered? Answer

If you have enrolled in a certification program, final exams are taken online. Once you have completed all the modules for the program, which may include reading, watching videos, quizzes, assignments, case studies, and or other interactive elements, you will then be able to complete our final exam on any desktop or mobile device. The total number of questions on the exam will vary depending on the certification program. You do not have to complete the exam in one sitting. You may log in and out, save your answers and return to the exam later. Once you submit your examination for grading and pass, you will receive your grade, credential, and a digital badge for sharing, verification, and displaying your achievement.

I am not sure which AFPA certification to enroll in. Can you provide me some guidance on which program would be right for me? Answer

Absolutely! We have created a free step-by-step guide to learn how to make a successful career change into health and wellness.

Here is your free guide: How to Make a Successful Career Change Into Health and Wellness

Does AFPA offer any kind of ongoing support once I become a certified member? Answer

AFPA representatives are available via phone at 800.494.7782 from 9 AM to 5 PM Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday, to assist you with any questions you may have. You may also email afpa@afpafitness.com or send us a live chat message with any questions!

Do you offer military discounts? Answer

AFPA is veteran-founded and proudly supports our military family. We offer all military members a 20% discount on our certification programs. Please contact us to verify proof of service and receive your exclusive discount.

What type of credential/certification do I receive once I have passed the exam? Answer

AFPA provides high-resolution digital credentials to all its members. The AFPA certified professional has unlimited access to save, download, print, email, and/or post digital credentials to their desktop or mobile device, in addition to electronically transmitting to their place of employment.

You will also receive a digital badge to embed on your website, social media platforms and email. Digital badges expand your reach to potential clients and employers and allows clients and employers to easily validate your qualifications.

In addition, once you have received your credential from AFPA, you will be eligible for Professional Liability Insurance.

Can I get a refund if I don’t complete or pass my certification? Answer

AFPA education, training, certification course enrollment, course fees, and course materials are non-reusable and non-returnable with no exceptions. All students are afforded the opportunity to complete the course they have enrolled in within a reasonable time frame, and you may request an extension. There are no refunds if you choose not to complete an AFPA certification program in which you have enrolled. AFPA certification candidates who do not successfully pass their examination may purchase a retest for $75. Candidates who purchase retests have 30 days from the date of purchase to retake the examination. Candidates must retest within two months of the first testing attempt.

I have another question that is not contained within the FAQs. Answer

Please contact us at afpa@afpafitness.com or call 800-494-7782. We appreciate your interest in AFPA certification programs and we are available to answer your questions.

Certification Renewal FAQs

Does my certification expire? Answer

Yes. Your certification will expire two years following successful exam completion. AFPA certification ID number and validity dates are noted on the certificate. Learn more about recertification requirements.

How do I renew my AFPA certification? Answer

In order to maintain AFPA credentials, individuals are required to obtain 16.0 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) during each 2-year certification period. To renew, you can complete the AFPA Certification Renewal Application, attach copies of all required documentation and fees, and submit to our office.

How do I get CECs? Answer

We offer a wide selection of educational programs and opportunities for all individuals worldwide. AFPA offers a variety of continuing education courses that you can complete at home or online.  We accept any program approved for CECs related to the fields of fitness, nutrition, wellness, and coaching. Also, each AFPA certification program is worth 16 CECs!

What is the difference between CECs and CEUs? Answer

AFPA requires its members to obtain 16.0 continuing education credits (CECs) as a part of the AFPA recertification process. Some organizations, such as AFAA, use the term continuing education units (CEUs). CECs and CEUs are interchangeable for AFPA recertification purposes. AFPA works in a whole number system, e.g., 1.0, whereas some organizations, such as ACE, work in a decimal system, e.g., 0.1. For AFPA recertification purposes, credits earned from an organization utilizing a decimal system are the equivalent of whole numbers, e.g., 0.1 ACE CEC is equivalent to 1.0 CEC for AFPA recertification purposes. An individual earning 1.6 ACE CECs would have the equivalent of 16.0 CECs for AFPA recertification purposes.

I have more than one certification. How many CECs do I need to renew? Answer

AFPA permits our members to renew multiple credentials with the same 16.0 CECs provided the credits are earned during the two-year validity period of each certificate submitted for renewal.

I just completed an AFPA certification course. Can I use this as CECs to renew my other AFPA certificate? Answer

Yes, a newly acquired AFPA certification has a value of 16.0 continuing education credits (CECs) toward renewal requirements of an existing AFPA certification. To qualify as CECs, the certification course must be successfully completed and credential issued.

Are AFPA certification programs valid as continuing education for other organizations? Answer

Each organization sets its own policies regarding renewal and continuing education credits. It would be necessary for you to check with your certifying organization to determine their requirements. They may accept the course or they may require that you petition for credits. If they require petitioning, upon request, we could provide you with a letter stating course hours when your AFPA credential is issued.

My certification is in Personal Training. Do I have to take CEC courses in Personal Training or can I take courses in nutrition or other areas? Answer

You may take any continuing education course that is of interest to you. AFPA encourages our members to explore other disciplines related to health, wellness, nutrition and entrepreneurship.

Can I renew if my certification is expired? Answer

Yes, but only up to two years past your certification expiration date. You will still be required to submit your past due renewal fees, late fee and CECs for the duration of time that your certification was expired.

AFPA certification credentials are updated by two years past the expiration date regardless of the date a completed renewal application is submitted.

If your certification expiration is past two years, please email info@afpafitness.com for more information on if you are eligible to renew.

Renew your certification here.

Nutrition FAQs

How soon can I start? Answer

We have open enrollment, so you may enroll whenever you are ready.

Do you offer payment plans? Answer

Yes, we do! Visit our Payment Plan page for more info on the pricing of our certification programs. Our payment tool will help you see how much a certification program costs and options for monthly payment plans.

Can I do this program while working a full-time job or being a full-time parent? Answer

YES! Absolutely. Many of our students complete the program while holding down full-time jobs. Also, if you only want to work in nutrition consulting part-time after you are certified, then that’s your choice—it is certainly possible to build a successful business part-time.

How do I become a Certified Holistic Nutritionist? Answer

In our free guide, Holistic Nutritionist Program Guide, you’ll learn how to turn your passion for health and nutrition into a profession with a holistic nutritionist certification.

I am interested in a career as a Holistic Nutritionist but I am not sure how to start. Can you provide more details on how to start my career as a Certified Holistic Nutritionist? Answer

We have created this eight-day email course to help you build a successful, fulfilling career in holistic nutrition that you’re passionate about. Check it out:

Build a Successful Career as a Holistic Nutritionist in this 8-Day Email Course

How do I get clients to start my career as a Certified Nutrition Professional? Answer

We have created this free guide, The Nutrition Consultant’s Guide to Finding and Winning Clients, for you to learn how to build a solid client base so that you can do the work you love. This guide covers everything from selecting the right client niche to creating a website that attracts clients.

What is the difference between the Nutrition & Wellness Consultant (NWC) program and the Holistic Nutrition Consultant (HNC) certification program? Answer

The Nutrition & Wellness Consultant certification program focuses on evidenced-based strategies to achieve optimal health through food based on MyPlate, a government-recommended revision of the Food Pyramid.

The Holistic Nutrition certification program covers the fundamentals of food and nutrition, the science of behavior change and communication, and the skills necessary to support clients in achieving health behavior change through coaching.

What is the difference between the Health and Wellness Coach (HWC) and Nutrition & Wellness Consultant (NWC) certification courses? Answer

The Health & Wellness Coach (HWC) certification programs focuses on the processes of coaching, how to be an effective coach and how to elicit behavior change from your clients.  This program focuses on how health is not specifically dependent on diet and exercise, but also dependent on supportive relationships, meaningful work, work/life balance, spirituality and more. HWC also looks at many areas of a client’s life that may be contributing to stress and poor health, instead of diet and exercise alone. Nutrition is not the focus in the HWC program as it is in the NWC program. For program details, click here.

The Nutrition and Wellness Consultant (NWC) certification program focuses on how to elicit dietary changes from your client. Nutritional wellness consultants are professionals who use their knowledge of nutrition and human physiology to improve the physical well-being of their clients by improving their diets. The course focuses on individual characteristics of clients to devise food-based strategies that can enhance their life. You will learn how to analyze eating habits and behaviors, look at a person’s physical health and makes suggestions based on your findings. For details, click here 

The NWC and HWC certification programs have the importance of nutrition and exercise in common. However, the NWC is much more rigorous in the nutrition learning component. In addition, coaching and consulting are somewhat different.

As a Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, you are asking guiding questions, giving advice, and co-creating to help solve problems. Consulting is unlike coaching because with pure coaching, the answers come from the client.

As a Health and Wellness Coach, you are supporting someone to uncover their internal obstacles and to learn how to manage them. Coaches partner with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The coach is the subject matter expert at coaching, not necessarily the subject matter expert of the client’s coaching topic i.e., nutrition, exercise.

What is the difference between dietitians, Nutrition & Wellness Consultants and Holistic Nutritionists? Answer

Nutrition Consultants, Wellness Coaches, and/or Nutrition Coaches provide guidance and counseling to people seeking nutritional advice for health, fitness, healthy lifestyles and weight management. You have opportunities for employment in a large array of capacities including, schools, community health centers, corporate arenas and can write, teach, and provide counsel with a large amount of flexibility.

Holistic Nutritionists are trained in natural complementary nutrition. You will identify nutritional needs for disease prevention and treatment and will design tailor-made dietary programs specific to the individual’s needs. You have an array of opportunities for employment, creating your own clientele, community centers, corporate arenas, community health centers and can teach, write and counsel people.

In general, Dietitians must have completed a four-year college degree with specific coursework in nutrition and must pass the Registration Examination for Dietitian to become a Registered Dietitian.

The word “Nutritionist” is less regulated and four-year college degrees are not required to use the term.

How much can I earn as a Certified Nutrition & Wellness Consultant? Answer

Download our free guide The Ultimate Nutrition Professional Salary Guide to see how much you can earn.

How much does a nutrition professional earn? Answer

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for nutritionists is $61,650.

Keep in mind that actual salaries within this field vary greatly. Your earning potential throughout your career will depend on variables like where you live, what services you provide, and who you work with.

In addition to these factors, your earning potential will also depend on your ability to market yourself and network in your community and online.

Does your program apply to vegans and vegetarians? Answer

While the Holistic Nutritionist certification program is not necessarily a vegan or vegetarian program, the principles it covers can be applied to most dietary patterns, including vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

How can I work in my state legally as a nutrition professional? Answer

To determine how you can work in your state with a nutrition certification and find out about the laws in your state, please click here.

Can I prescribe medicine, diagnose, or perform surgeries with the certification? Answer

Prescribing, diagnosing, and performing surgeries are generally a part of the “practice of medicine,” and it would be a violation of state medical practice laws for anyone to prescribe, diagnose, or perform surgeries without holding the appropriate state license. A federal drug license is also needed to prescribe drugs legally. Nutrition professionals do not prescribe or advocate the use of drugs.

What are the employment opportunities for a Certified Holistic Nutritionist? Answer

Many of our graduates create their own coaching businesses using their Certified Holistic Nutritionist credentials. This route allows them to work with clients, either 1:1 or in a group setting, on their own terms. If you value freedom and flexibility, starting a business could be the right route for you. There are also many other ways to use your certification, including:

  • Becoming a corporate wellness consultant or director
    Creating nutrition content
    Teaching your children healthy habits from an early age
    Facilitating cooking classes
    Writing a cookbook
    Leading nutrition workshops
    Volunteering at a food access non-profit
    Encouraging a partner who has been recently diagnosed with a chronic illness
    Supporting your body through marathon training
    Working as an in-house nutritionist at a naturopathic clinic

This list is by no means exhaustive. There are endless unique ways for a Certified Holistic Nutritionists to use their expertise.

What are the employment opportunities for a Certified Nutrition & Wellness Consultant? Answer

Nutrition Consultants, Wellness Coaches, and/or Nutrition Coaches provide guidance and counseling to people seeking nutritional advice for health, fitness, healthy lifestyles and weight management. You have opportunities for employment in a large array of capacities, including, schools, community health centers, corporate arenas and can write, teach, and provide counsel with a large amount of flexibility. According to Payscale, an online Human Resources platform, Nutrition and Wellness Consultants have an earning capacity that reaches $60,000 a year within 4 years of experience. A four-year college degree is not required, but completion of an educational training program in nutrition is needed.

What is the Master Nutrition Consultant certification program? Answer

We have created a program guide specially directed at answering questions about our most comprehensive nutrition program yet.

Check out the Master Level Nutrition Consultant Program Guide to see if this program is right for you.

Can I order each of the individual programs within the Master Level Nutrition Consultant Certification program, and once I complete all of them, obtain my Master Level designation? Answer

Yes, if you choose, you may order and complete the certifications individually. Once you have successfully completed all four programs, you would be issued the Master Level credential.

How much time is required to complete the Master Nutrition Consultant program? Answer

You will have up to 2 years to complete the Master Nutrition Consultant program. This program includes reading, listening, watching, note taking, self-assessment quizzes/activities, assignments and the final exam for each of the following programs:

  • Nutrition and Wellness Consultant
  • Holistic Nutritionist Consultant
  • Sports Nutrition Consultant
  • Weight Management Specialist

Health Coaching FAQs

What is a Holistic Health Coach? Answer

Holistic Health Coach is a trained professional who uses an integrative approach to both diet and lifestyle changes to improve their clients’ health. Working as a guide toward an overall healthier life, they will look at their clients’ nutrition patterns, relationships, physical fitness, spirituality, and more.

Holistic health coaches will generally meet with clients and conduct an initial interview, assess their current health, as well as observe any conditions that may present. During client-coaching relationship, a Holistic Health Coach will:

  • Coach and educate clients about how to achieve and sustain good health, such as a daily routine involving whole, nutritious foods, exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep.
  • Empower clients to achieve optimal health, for the present and the future, through addressing any imbalances caused by improper nutrition, lifestyle stressors, poor quality sleep, insufficient water, lack of exercise, and relaxation.
  • Educate clients to evaluate their lifestyle choices and to identify and change any potential causes of ill health.
  • Create healthy environments, conduct educational activities and demonstrations, and support clients in reaching their personal wellness objectives.
  • Recognize when it is necessary to refer a client to his or her primary care physician for treatment and/or diagnosis.

Additionally, a Holistic Health Coach may provide counseling, talk therapy, and different methods of holistic wellness, such as healing touch or reiki. Finally, they will document the client’s progress and meet with them regularly to follow up on the client’s goals and where they stand in terms of meeting them. They may even provide some kind of blueprint or action plan that the client can follow, made up of small, attainable steps. Of course, they will also provide a ton of encouragement and support.

What topics does the Health & Wellness Coach (HWC) certification program cover? Answer

The Health & Wellness Coach Certification course is broken down into 2 modules:

Health & Wellness Module:

This module examines the use of a balanced, integrated, holistic model of health, and explores the many dimensions of wellness. There is also a focus on self-assessment, development of critical thinking, and behavior change skills to facilitate personal awareness and well-being.

Topics covered, but are not limited to:

  • Achieving Personal Health
  • Mind-Body Communications to Maintain Wellness
  • Managing Stress and Mental Health
  • Eating and Exercising Toward a Healthy Lifestyle
  • Movement and Physical Activity for Health
  • Understanding and Preventing Disease
  • Understanding Drug Use and Abuse
  • Making Healthy Choices
  • Exploring Alternative Medicines
  • Overcoming Obstacles
  • Health Enhancement Methods

Lifestyle Coaching Module:

You will learn evidence-based coaching and systematic processes to guide, support, and motivate clients to achieve positive behavior change and long-term healthy lifestyles and practices. The International Coach Federation’s 11 core competencies are thoroughly examined, and application to the health and fitness arena is discussed. Included are specific coach–client dialogues and reflection sidebars that will help you to personally experience the content.  You will learn the necessary skills for professional development and for supporting and advancing clients in change processes related to health, wellness, and fitness.

Topics covered, but are not limited to:

  • Introduction to Lifestyle Wellness Coaching
  • Core Ingredients in Effective Coaching
  • Different Models of Coaching
  • Foundation for Effective Coaching
  • Meeting Ethical Guidelines and Establishing the Coaching Agreement
  • Coaching Agreements
  • Ongoing Support for New Behaviors and Actions
  • The Active Nature of Listening
  • Steps in Questioning
  • Direct Communication
  • Goals and Goal Setting
  • Coaching as a Path of Change
  • Reconfiguring the Concept of Expertise
  • Your Life as a Coach

What is the difference between the Health & Wellness Coach and Holistic Health Coach certification programs? Answer

The Health & Wellness Coach certification program focuses on the processes of coaching, how to be an effective coach, and how to elicit behavior change from your clients. This program focuses on how health is not only specifically dependent on diet and exercise, but also on supportive relationships, meaningful work, work/life balance, spirituality, and more.

The Holistic Health Coach certification program includes both the Health & Wellness Coach certification program and the Holistic Nutritionist certification program.

See above for a description of the Health & Wellness Coach program.

The Holistic Nutritionist certification program covers the fundamentals of food and nutrition, the science of behavior change and communication, and the skills necessary to support clients in achieving health behavior change through coaching.

What will I learn in the Holistic Health Coach certification course? Answer

The Holistic Health Coach Certification Program is comprised of the AFPA Health & Wellness Coach and AFPA Holistic Nutritionist certification programs. Once you have completed both certification programs, you will earn the Holistic Health Coach Certification. Collectively, these programs will teach you what you need to know about basic holistic anatomy, physiology, nutrition essentials, eating, and exercising, as well as wellness and stress management, understanding and preventing disease, making healthy choices and overcoming obstacles, health coaching, client intake, best practices, and how to build your clientele.

You will learn the types of questions to ask, how to provide feedback effectively, how to facilitate action planning, learn communication strategies to motivate, guide, inform, and support clients in moving toward personal change with a holistic approach. You will also learn about developing a trusting relationship, creating goals that are aligned with coaching processes, unblocking clients’ energy, and discovering resources for change. Ultimately, you will learn the evidence-based and systematic coaching methodology that you can apply in helping your clients move efficiently toward effective, long-term health and wellness.

This program also provides unprecedented, evidence-based, professional training in holistic nutrition, whole foods, and plant-based nutrition, which will provide you with a strong skill set and the confidence to coach and consult with any client seeking to not only prevent, but also to reverse disease and gain optimal health. Want to learn more about GMOs, organics, veganism, vegetarianism, whole foods, Paleo, dairy, non-dairy foods, and how to achieve total wellness? This program is for you! As a Certified Holistic Health Coach trained in natural complementary nutrition, you will be able to coach, consult, and advise clients on how to identify and help correct the nutritional causes of health complaints and design personalized diet and lifestyle programs that optimize health.

Needless to say, you will graduate with all of the essential skills and knowledge to launch a meaningful career as a Holistic Health Coach and how to achieve your own personal goals for success!  

Where can I work as a Holistic Health Coach? Answer

Some graduates may feel a bit overwhelmed with the career possibilities and choices available to them once they have completed the program and are in need of a little guidance. You can choose from a variety of work environments, doing full-time or part-time coaching, having your own coaching business, or working alongside other professionals first. Here are some options:

  • Colleges and Universities: Although college-level sports teams can use Holistic Health Coaches, it’s not just the athletes who can benefit from your insights. Many colleges and universities use health professionals for students, faculty, and staff as a way to reduce stress and boost overall wellness for everyone on campus.
  • Wellness Centers, Spas, and Gyms: As the interest in wellness and healthy lifestyle changes blossoms, the number of centers specializing in these services is growing—particularly at resorts and retreat organizations. Gyms also are expanding their offerings in order to stand out from competitors, and many offer more than just personal training.
  • Corporations: Companies of every size are implementing employee wellness programs and offering incentives for healthy lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, regular exercise, and health screenings.
  • Weight Loss Programs: Even well-established diet programs have been making major changes in the past few years, moving away from restrictive plans in order to focus on healthy eating behaviors. Many have acknowledged that deprivation and overly rigid diet programs can lead to yo-yo weight issues that are ultimately unhealthy for clients. As these programs shift toward a better model, Holistic Health Coaches fit in beautifully.
  • Training Centers: Holistic health coaches can be a strong addition to sports-specific training centers that cater to professional and amateur athletes. Often, those who are training need a range of strategies that don’t just encompass nutrition for optimal performance, but also stress management and recovery tactics.
  • Own your own business: Some Holistic Health Coaches prefer to have their own businesses and consult on a regular basis different types of organizations. Some existing practices are looking to partner with holistic health professionals in order to offer more services to their clients and grow their network. With many options for where you could work as a Holistic Health Coach, you have the opportunity to keep expanding your business and optimizing your revenue sources, in addition to helping clients live their best lives.

What about additional career ideas for a Health Coach? Answer

  • Create your own holistic nutrition and health blog
  • Create a YouTube channel and/or a podcast about nutrition and coaching
  • Host holistic nutrition and holistic wellness coaching groups on social media
  • Create nutrition and wellness programs in your community
  • Create your own online wellness products and programs
  • Develop a meal planning system for clients or organizations for your online business
  • Be a resource for sourcing local organic foods
  • Teach holistic nutrition and wellness seminars to special groups for a variety of ages
  • Lecture or speak on holistic wellness and behavior change at events and conferences
  • Author books on creating a healthy lifestyle and holistic nutrition recipes
  • Host a wellness retreat
  • Start a meal preparation and delivery business
  • Create and run a community kitchen and garden
  • Be a guest on local programming, such as radio, news, tv, or public forum
  • Work as an in-store nutritionist
  • Start a restaurant or personal chef business

What if I have already completed the Health & Wellness Coach Certification, or the Holistic Nutritionist Certification program and want to enroll in the Holistic Health Coach program? Answer

If you have already completed one of the certification programs within the Holistic Health Coach program, simply enroll in the remaining program, and once you have completed and obtained both the Holistic Nutritionist and Health & Wellness Coach certifications you will receive your final credential of Certified Holistic Health Coach.

What are the prerequisites for the Health Coach program? Answer

To be successful with this program, we suggest you have a sincere interest in helping others, are committed to health and wellness, and have a strong desire for a career change or to expand your current professional position. Additionally, you must be a minimum 18 years of age and have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.

What will a certified Holistic Health Coach certificate allow me to do? Answer

There is growing demand for wellness coaches and increasing recognition of Holistic Health Coaches as the premier strategies for preventing disease and improving one’s lifestyle. Graduating from AFPA as a certified Holistic Health Coach will open many doors, and our grads are using their training to pursue a range of career paths. They establish private coaching practices, bring Holistic Health Coaching to traditional medical practices, work in a corporate wellness environment, advance in their current positions, or a combination of these paths.

In addition, graduating from AFPA means you will be eligible to be a Board Certified Professional with the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) and American Naturopathic Medical Accreditation Board (ANMAB).

How long is the Health and Wellness Coach program? Answer

You can complete this program in 6 months or less.

How long is the Holistic Health Coach program? Answer

You can complete the Holistic Health Coach program at your own pace, in 12 months or less.

Where does the Health Coach program take place? Answer

This program is a self-paced, self-study course that is 100-percent online and can be completed from the comfort of your home.

Is this program recognized by any health coaching organizations or accreditation organizations like AADP or ACTO? Answer

Yes. Successful graduates of the program who meet AADP’s additional eligibility requirements may become a Board Certified Holistic Health Coach. AFPA is a recognized organizational member of the Association of Coach Training Organizations (ACTO).

How much can I earn as a Holistic Health Coach? Answer

As a Holistic Health Coach, it’s not uncommon to charge $100-$150 per session or even as much as $200-$500/hour even. In fact, according Glassdoor.com, health and wellness coaches can earn upwards of $87,000 per year doing what they love. The opportunities for health coaching professionals are only increasing year over year.

Is the program approved for continuing education? Answer

Yes. The program offers a total of 60 National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) Category 1 CEUs and 32 AFPA CECs. We work with a variety of additional professional organizations to receive approval for continuing education. As our program gains new approvals, they will be added to the enrollment page.

Does health insurance cover health coaching? Answer

There are some insurance companies that cover Health Coaching and Nutrition Consulting. We recommend that you ask the healthcare provider if these types of services are covered. Health Coaches do serve as an essential component of the healthcare system. So many people are looking for preventative and improved lifestyle services from a Holistic Health Coach rather than from a physician.

Who can enroll in the Health Coach certification program? Answer

We welcome anyone interested in making their lives better and those around them through creating a healthy lifestyle!

Also, any licensed and credentialed healthcare professionals, as well as individuals working as any of the following fields, may be interested in taking this program to further their skills and practice: physician, physician assistant, licensed clinical counselor, chiropractor, nurse practitioner/clinical nurse specialist, RN/LPN/LVN, therapists and assistants, dentist/licensed dental hygienist, registered dietitians, certified nutrition specialist, certified nutrition professionals, certified diabetes educator, certified athletic trainer, certified exercise physiologist, licensed acupuncturist, certified personal trainers, and certified fitness professionals.

My background is not in healthcare or fitness. Can I still enroll? Answer

Absolutely! Although experience in a health and wellness field is a plus, great coaches come from diverse career backgrounds and prior life experiences.

I just want to learn for my own self-improvement, can I still enroll in this program if I do not want to practice being a Holistic Health Coach? Answer

Absolutely. We encourage you to foster your personal and professional growth even if you have no desire to become a Holistic Health Coach. We are confident that the information you learn from this course will not only benefit you personally but also those with whom you share your knowledge.

When can I enroll? What do I need to do in order to enroll? Answer

Whenever you want!  We have a rolling enrollment for all programs, meaning that all you need to do is complete your enrollment online.

Are there any payment plan options? Answer

Absolutely! Pick the loan that fits your budget, and make payments over three, six, or 12 months. Our payment plans offer instant approval, are safe and secure—security of your personal information is top priority—and payment reminders can be sent via email and text. Please visit our Payment Plans page to learn more about available options.

Will I practice coaching techniques and client consultations during the program? Answer

Yes. You’ll have assignments that require you to practice coaching and consultation in your environment on your own and with a person of your choosing. Hands-on coaching practice sessions and dietary consultations will help prepare you to work with real clients after your program completion.

What job opportunities exist for health coaches? Answer

There is a growing demand for health coaches! Graduating from AFPA as a Certified Holistic Health Coach opens many doors, and our grads are using their training to pursue a range of career paths. They establish private coaching practices, work in private practices, bring health coaching to traditional medical practices, work in a corporate wellness environment, provide direct-to-consumer coaching as contractors for healthcare businesses, advance in their current positions, or a combination of these paths.

Will I have access to the entire course when I enroll? Answer

Yes! We don’t hold back your materials. Once you are enrolled, you will receive instructions to access your course and online materials.

What books and materials will I need? Answer

Your enrollment fee includes all of your course materials, assessments, online access, student support, and online certification testing. There are no added fees.

Is the program set up for international students? Answer

Yes. The program is designed to accommodate students from around the world.

What if I need technical support with my online access to materials? Answer

Should you have any questions or problems, we provide you with contact information for you to reach out to your instructor or the technical support team to troubleshoot any technical difficulties.

Personal Trainer FAQs

Do you need a license to be a personal trainer? Answer

Personal trainers are not “licensed” practitioners. You can conduct your training business how you chose, keeping in mind the AFPA Code of Ethics.

Why should I become an AFPA Certified Personal Trainer? Answer

AFPA is recognized nationally and international as a leader in fitness, wellness and nutrition education and certification. Earning your AFPA Personal Trainer Certification is the first step in gaining the knowledge to successfully train various populations of individuals, gain professional recognition and financial rewards. You will learn all the important information necessary to get you started as a Certified Personal Trainer.

Who completes the AFPA personal trainer programs? Answer

Many people with different backgrounds and education have participated in AFPA certification training programs: doctors, chiropractors, gym owners, college and high school coaches, wellness coordinators, weight loss counselors, non-certified instructors and trainers, and individuals who are currently certified by other organizations. There are no state-by-state regulations for personal training therefore your certification is valid in any state and country.

Are there any pre-qualifications I need to become an AFPA Certified Personal Trainer? Answer

AFPA requires that individuals be at least 18 years of age, have the equivalent of a high school education, and have a sincere desire to help others obtain their fitness and lifestyle goals.

How long does it take to complete the AFPA Certified Personal Trainer program? Answer

Completion time varies by individual and will depend on what certification program you enroll in, educational background, reading and writing skills and efficiency. Most individuals can become a competent Certified Personal Trainer within less than 6 months when studying 7-10 hours a week.

What is the enrollment fee to become an AFPA Certified Personal Trainer? Answer

The price for AFPA Certification varies depending on the certification course chosen. Please review the individual certification courses for the prices. These prices include all courses materials and examination fee – there are no hidden costs or additional fees!

How soon after I enroll can I get started? Answer

Enrollment orders can take up to 24 business hours to process. You will be sent an enrollment email with access to your online learning portal and digital course assets.

How long do I have to complete the Personal Trainer program, and how do I take my exam? Answer

The Personal Trainer course includes multiple ebooks, self-assessment quizzes, online videos, course guideline, and a final exam. Typically, it takes 100 hours. This is a self-paced, self-study program that’s typically completed in less than 6 months. The final exam is completed on your own desktop or mobile device.  For details, click here.

Do I have to go to a testing site for the final exam? Answer

No. You can complete the final exam on your own desktop or mobile device.

Does my certification include Professional Liability Insurance coverage? Answer

Due to the varied nature of the positions held by AFPA professionals, liability insurance coverage is not included with your enrollment fee. Once you complete your AFPA certification, however, you may apply for professional liability insurance with several AFPA approved insurance providers.

Do I need First Aid and/or CPR certification prior to enrolling in a fitness or personal trainer certification program? Answer

No. First Aid and CPR certifications are not required prior to completing your certification program.

What if I don’t pass the certification exam? Answer

If you don’t pass the certification exam, you may retake the exam for a retest fee of $75.00.

How much time is required to complete the Master Personal Trainer certification program? Answer

You will have up to 2 years to complete the Master Nutrition Consultant program. The average student takes approximately 400 hours to complete all 4 courses. The hours include reading, listening, watching, note taking, self-assessment quizzes/activities, assignments and the final exam for each program.

The courses included are:

  • Personal Trainer
  • Nutrition & Wellness Consultant
  • Advanced Personal Trainer
  • Sports Conditioning Specialist

For details, click here.