The ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CEP) is a professional certification designed for individuals who work in clinical settings and provide exercise-related services to clients with chronic diseases, disabilities, or other health conditions.
To become an ACSM CEP, individuals must meet specific education and experience requirements and pass the certification examination. Here are the general steps involved in obtaining this certification:
Education: Candidates must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field from an accredited institution. The coursework typically includes topics such as exercise physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise prescription.
Experience: Candidates must have hands-on experience working with individuals with chronic diseases, disabilities, or other health conditions. The ACSM requires a minimum of 600 hours of clinical experience under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. This experience helps develop practical skills in assessing clients, developing exercise prescriptions, and monitoring their progress.
CPR/AED Certification: Candidates must hold a current CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) certification. These certifications ensure that exercise professionals are trained to respond to emergency situations that may arise during exercise sessions.
Exam: Once the educational and experience requirements are met, candidates can apply to take the ACSM CEP certification examination. The exam assesses the candidate's knowledge and practical skills related to exercise physiology, exercise prescription, clinical assessment, and safety considerations for individuals with chronic diseases and health conditions.
Continuing Education: To maintain the ACSM CEP certification, professionals must participate in ongoing continuing education. The ACSM requires certified individuals to earn 60 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) every three years to stay updated on the latest research and practices in clinical exercise physiology.
Becoming an ACSM CEP demonstrates expertise in working with clients in clinical settings and helps individuals stand out as qualified professionals in the field of exercise physiology. It allows CEPs to work closely with healthcare professionals, develop exercise programs for individuals with chronic diseases, and contribute to the overall management and improvement of their clients' health.