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Fitness Courses

Fitness courses can help you learn strength training techniques, cardiovascular conditioning, nutrition basics, and injury prevention strategies. You can build skills in creating personalized workout plans, understanding body mechanics, and tracking fitness progress effectively. Many courses introduce tools like fitness apps, wearable technology, and nutrition trackers, which support your journey in monitoring performance and achieving health goals.

Popular Fitness Courses and Certifications

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    NASM Personal Fitness Trainer

    Skills you'll gain: Goal Setting, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Nutrition and Diet, Nutrition Counseling, Smart Goals, Health Assessment, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Preventative Care, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Nutritional Assessment, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Automated External Defibrillator, Rehabilitation, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Coaching, Health And Wellness Coaching

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    289 reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Science of Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, Sports Medicine, Nutrition and Diet, Pharmacology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Immunology, Preventative Care, Respiration, Athletic Training, Endocrinology, Chronic Diseases, Vital Signs, Biochemistry, Public Health, Mental Health

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4.7K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Nutrition Mastery for Fitness and Wellness

    Skills you'll gain: Nutritional Assessment, Meal Planning And Preparation, Nutrition and Diet, Nutrition Education, Pharmacology, Exercise Science, Critical Thinking, Sports Medicine, Drug Interaction, Food Quality Assurance And Control, Physiology, Decision Making, Health Promotion, Health And Wellness Coaching, Regulatory Compliance, General Science and Research, Overcoming Obstacles

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    23 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Understanding Fitness Programming

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Coaching, Health And Wellness Coaching, Kinesiology, Injury Prevention, Physiology, Adaptability, Human Musculoskeletal System, Goal Setting, Communication, Anatomy

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    31 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Getting Started as a Personal Fitness Trainer

    Skills you'll gain: Goal Setting, Smart Goals, Health Assessment, Exercise Science, Preventative Care, Health And Wellness Coaching, Overcoming Obstacles, Public Health, Health Promotion, Motivational Skills, Needs Assessment

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    181 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Mechanics, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Nutrition and Diet

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    61 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Nutrition and Weight Management for Fitness Professionals

    Skills you'll gain: Nutrition and Diet, Nutrition Counseling, Preventative Care, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Nutritional Assessment, Health And Wellness Coaching, Exercise Science, Physiology, Biology, Anatomy, Communication

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    46 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    McMaster University

    Hacking Exercise For Health. The surprising new science of fitness.

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Productivity, Cardiology, Stress Management, Time Management, Adaptability, Human Musculoskeletal System, Nutrition and Diet, Physiology, Mental Health, Goal Setting

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    815 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    Y

    Yale University

    The Science of Well-Being

    Skills you'll gain: Growth Mindedness, Health And Wellness Coaching, Behavioral Health, Positive Behavior Support, Goal Setting, Resilience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychology, Social Skills, Mindfulness

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    40K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Science of Diet and Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Nutritional Assessment, Sports Medicine, Nutrition Education, Physiology, Kinesiology, Endocrinology, Health And Wellness Coaching, Vital Signs, Stress Management, Biochemistry, Systems Of Measurement, Biology

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    252 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Pennsylvania

    Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us

    Skills you'll gain: Vital Signs, Respiration, Respiratory Care, Pulmonology, Pain Management, Physiology, Health Assessment, Cardiology, Thermal Management, Neurology, Patient Evaluation, Anatomy, Clinical Assessment

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6.9K reviews

    Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    The Science of Movement

    Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Electrophysiology, Rehabilitation, Exercise Science, Human Musculoskeletal System, Sports Medicine, Exercise Therapy, Physical Therapy, Neurology, Physiology, Geriatrics, Control Systems, Coordination, Anatomy, Cell Biology, Biology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    15 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Searches related to fitness

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hacking exercise for health. the surprising new science of fitness.
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1234…10

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular fitness courses

  • NASM Personal Fitness Trainer: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Science of Exercise: University of Colorado Boulder
  • Nutrition Mastery for Fitness and Wellness: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Understanding Fitness Programming: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Getting Started as a Personal Fitness Trainer: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Nutrition and Weight Management for Fitness Professionals: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Hacking Exercise For Health. The surprising new science of fitness.: McMaster University
  • The Science of Well-Being: Yale University
  • Science of Diet and Exercise: National Academy of Sports Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions about Fitness

Fitness refers to the overall physical and mental well-being of an individual, encompassing various aspects such as strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. It is important because it contributes to a healthier lifestyle, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and enhances quality of life. Engaging in regular fitness activities can improve mood, boost energy levels, and promote better sleep, making it a vital component of personal health.‎

A career in fitness can lead to various roles, including personal trainer, fitness instructor, wellness coach, and exercise physiologist. These positions allow individuals to work in gyms, wellness centers, corporate fitness programs, or even as independent consultants. Additionally, opportunities exist in specialized areas such as nutrition coaching and sports performance training, providing a diverse range of career paths within the fitness industry.‎

To thrive in the fitness industry, certain skills are essential. These include knowledge of exercise science, nutrition, and anatomy, as well as interpersonal skills for effective communication with clients. Understanding fitness programming and coaching techniques is also crucial. Additionally, staying updated with the latest trends and research in fitness can enhance your ability to provide valuable guidance to clients.‎

Some of the best online fitness courses include the NASM Personal Fitness Trainer Professional Certificate and the Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions. These courses offer comprehensive training and knowledge that can help you build a successful career in fitness, covering essential topics and practical skills.‎

Yes. You can start learning fitness on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many fitness courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in fitness, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning fitness can be approached through various methods. You can start by enrolling in online courses, attending workshops, or participating in local fitness classes. Reading books and articles on fitness topics, as well as following reputable fitness influencers on social media, can also provide valuable insights. Practical experience, such as working out regularly and experimenting with different fitness routines, will further enhance your understanding.‎

Fitness courses typically cover a range of topics, including exercise physiology, nutrition, fitness assessment, and program design. You may also explore specialized areas such as weight management, injury prevention, and fitness coaching strategies. These topics provide a well-rounded education that prepares you for various roles in the fitness industry.‎

For training and upskilling employees in the fitness sector, courses like the Fitness Coaching Strategies for Weight Loss and Understanding Fitness Programming are excellent choices. These courses equip individuals with the necessary skills to effectively coach clients and design tailored fitness programs, enhancing overall workforce competency in the fitness industry.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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