Greeting ladies and gentlemen, this brief post is for those of you who are interested in becoming a NASM AFAA Group exercise instructor. This brief AFAA certification test update will detail the process as it is now that NASM has taken over AFAA.
If you read the more prevalent posts on the internet about the process, though extremely helpful, you may find some information that is no longer accurate regarding the current procedure. I decided that before testing I would get on a phone call with an AFAA representative to acquire any details that may have changed.
As of this moment, I am not yet a certified group exercise instructor. I’m about to take the test, and I learned some new information that will prove helpful to those of you who are going to take the test for the first time as I am.
One important fact to note, which will be very helpful to someone like me, is that the test is entirely multiple choice. I asked this several times, and the representative stated, “Yes, it is all multiple choice.” Multiple choice tests are usually a best case scenario. If you aren’t sure about an answer, you have the option of using process of elimination. Another benefit is that you can always come back to a question later. Sometimes a later question can help trigger your memory about an earlier one. This is helpful compared to having to remember and write terms or long sentences as in the practice material, which can be more challenging.
The test is still administered online, and a proctor will watch you take the test via webcam. You have one hour to answer the 100 multiple choice questions. I have taken the practice test several times, and out of the 30 questions, I had 2 wrong the first time, finishing in 7 minutes. Now, I get them all right and finish in about 5 minutes. If this practice test reflects the real test, I’m feeling confident about it!
Another important fact to be aware of is that they WILL allow you to retest if you do not pass the exam. However, it will cost you half the original cost of the materials. It will be $149 to retest. I was going to take the test right away because I felt confident in using logic and reason to figure things out, especially with multiple choice questions. However, this detail encouraged me to study a bit more. You might want to do the same.
The final piece of information I want to share is that the practical portion is no longer required. In the past, you had to do demonstrations, lead a class, etc. Since NASM took over, that part has been removed. I suppose this makes sense since gyms require auditions anyway. It saves time and money, which is important in today’s environment. This is good news because it eliminates one part you need to prepare for and lets you focus solely on the knowledge portion.
I plan to take the test in the next couple of weeks and will update this
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