Compare Group Exercise Certification programs quickly and easily with our easy to use chart. With a number of options, it can be difficult to determine which program is right for you. When you select a partner, there are many factors to consider. Here is a comparison of some key factors. You can also view our full PDF chart (PDF) to compare personal training certification programs.
Comparison of NCCA-Accredited Group Exercise Certifications:
NETA |
Most Popular Package $399 |
Test Only $249 |
Exam Questions 120 |
Exam Time 120 minutes |
Pass Rate 81% |
On-time Recertification Fee◊ $75 |
ACE |
Most Popular Package $465 |
Test Only $249 |
Exam Questions 150 |
Exam Time 180 minutes |
Pass Rate 74% |
On-time Recertification Fee◊ $129‡ |
NAFTA |
Most Popular Package $299 |
Test Only $199 |
Exam Questions 100 |
Exam Time 120 minutes |
Pass Rate 85% |
On-time Recertification Fee◊ $39 online $49 mail |
As of October 2024, three organizations offered an NCCA-accredited Group Exercise/Fitness Instructor certification. These include the National
Exercise Trainers Association (NETA), the American Council on Exercise (ACE), and the National Aerobics & Fitness Trainers Association (NAFTA).
* CECs = Continuing Education Credits, CEUs = Continuing Education Units.
† 0.1 ACE CEC is equivalent to 1.0 NETA CEC. 1.0 NAFTA is equivalent to 1.0 NETA CEC. NAFTA CEUs must be petitioned for NETA CEC approval.
‡ $129 for those holding one ACE certification, $69 each for those holding two ACE certifications, $59 each for those holding three ACE certifications, $49 each for those holding four ACE certifications.
◊ NETA, ACE, and NAFTA provide a 180-day reinstatement grace period.
View Full Comparison of NCCA Accredited Group Exercise Certifications (PDF)
