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.
Compared to our closest competitors, NETA offers the most affordable NCCA-Accredited Group Exercise Certification package.
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 March 2025, 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)
