This program emphasizes real world industry applications and work based –learning to ensure students develop marketable skills using the most current technology. The program thoroughly covers all the essential components of fitness and health needed to develop a qualified fitness professional. Throughout the Program, students have an opportunity to learn in both a classroom, and gain practical experience through an internship process in Foothill’s state-of-the-art fitness center. As an intern, they have an opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience communicating and working with people – refining their practical interpersonal skills. Students receive the most up-to-date theoretical and technical knowledge regarding exercise science, fitness assessment, exercise prescription, program design, and fitness and sport’s nutrition. They also gain important job skills in the areas of exercise leadership, problem solving, and team work necessary for success in this dynamic industry.

Job opportunities in the fast growing field of fitness and health promotion are increasing tremendously in a nation concerned more and more with personal health and wellness. As the fitness industry becomes increasingly diverse, opportunities for the career-oriented professional continue to grow. For example, personal training and fitness instruction are considered to be in the most rapidly expanding segments of the fitness industry. This trend is fueling demand for fitness instructors and personal trainers all across the nation. The Bay Area alone lists over 300 health and fitness facilities in constant need of filling these type of positions with qualified personnel. At this time, there is no industry-wide standard required to practice as a personal trainer. Several key national fitness organizations such as American Council of Exercise (ACE), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), National Council Strength Association (NCSA) as well as many health club employers are calling for more comprehensive preparation in educational programs and exercise administration for personal trainers and fitness instructors currently employed in the field or for those seeking employment in this growing and diverse profession.

CCC = Career Certificate.

PT 51 Basic Nutrition for Sports & Fitness (3 Units)
PT 52 Strength Fitness (4 Units)
PT 53 Personal Fitness Trainer Internship (6 Units)
PT 54 Techniques of Fitness Assessment (4 Units)
PT 55 Concepts of Exercise Physiology for Fitness (4 Units)
HP 67A Prevention of Athletic Injuries (3 Units)
HP 67B Emergency Athletic Injury Care (3 Units)

RECOMMENDED COURSES
BIOL 40A Human Anatomy &Physiology (5 Units)
BIOL 40B Human Anatomy &Physiology (5 Units)
BIOL 40C Human Anatomy &Physiology (5 Units)
HP 67C Treatment & Rehabilitation of Athletic Injuries (3 Units)