Academy graduates have a deep understanding of biomechanics, training adaptations, nutrition, anatomy, exercise physiology, and exercise prescription that far exceed the current standards in the industry. Classes are led by licensed educators with advanced degrees making our student's success our mission. The Academy offers a full-time, three month program with day and evening classes and a part-time six month program on the weekends.
Programs offered
Campus Locations

Job Assistance
According to theUS Department of Labor, personal training is one of the fastest growing careers in the United States. At the American Academy of Personal Training, we offer a job fair to every graduating class and our alumni. Approximately 90 percent of our students get jobs as personal trainers in major gyms, many, before they graduate.
Tuition
$4950 plus a non-refundable $75 application fee. The Academy offers numerous payment plans as well as Sallie Mae student loans, tuition assistance from VESID (for individuals with disabilities), the Montgomery GI Bill and other Veterans programs. Discounts are available for military, police, firemen, and students from non-profit organizations.
We do not offer Federal Grants.

Curriculum
Foundations of Fitness Science
Introduction to Assessment & Program Design
- Health & CAD Risk Stratification
- Fitness (Resting & Functional Values)
- Structure of a Workout
- Program Design Basics
- Practical - Assessments
Introduction to Anatomy & Kinesiology
- Skeletal Atlas
- Muscle Atlas
- Anatomical Movement Terminology - Planes, Joint Movements
- Basic Muscle Structure & Function - Origin, Insertion etc
- Practical Training - Gym Induction & Calisthenics
Introduction to Nutrition
- Nutrients of the Body
- Basic Energy Balance & Weight Management
- Basic Food Planning & Calculations
Introduction to Exercise Physiology
- Energy Systems & Bioenergetics
- Cardiovascular & Respiratory Systems
- Motor Units
- Fiber Types
- Training Principles/Adaptations for Hypertrophy, Strength, Power & Endurance
Anatomy & Kinesiology
- Trunk - Saggital Movements
- Trunk - Lateral & Rotational Movements
- Flexors of the Humerus & Hip
- Extensors of the Humerus & Hip
- Flexors & Extensors of the Elbow
- Flexors & Extensors of the Ankle
- Flexors & Extensors of the Knee
- Abductors of the Humerus & Hip
- Adductors of the Humerus & Hip
- Scapula Movements
- Rotators of the Humerus & Hip
- Strengthening Verses Stretching for Anatomical Balance Anatomy & Kinesiology - Practical Application
Practical Applications (Exercises and Stretching)
- Trunk - Saggital Movements
- Trunk - Lateral & Rotational Movements
- Flexors of the Humerus & Hip
- Extensors of the Humerus & Hip
- Flexors & Extensors of the Elbow
- Flexors & Extensors of the Ankle
- Flexors & Extensors of the Knee
- Abductors of the Humerus & Hip
- Adductors of the Humerus & Hip
- Scapula Movements
- Rotators of the Humerus & Hip
Exercise Physiology
- Muscle Physiology
- Cardiovascular & Respiratory Systems
- Bioenergetics
- Neuron Adaptations and Tissue Adaptations
- Biomechanics
- Endocrine System & Exercise
Program Design Theory
- Resistance Training
- Cardiovascular Training
- Weight Management & Introduction to Metabolic Equations
- Functional Training
- Speed & Plyometrics
- Introduction to Special Populations
- Introduction to Rehabilitation
Program Design - Practical Applications
- Assessments - assessing structure and performance
- Exercise Coaching Techniques
- Exercise Progressions & Regressions
- Resistance Training - advanced machines and free weight training
- Flexibility Protocols - static, dynamic, ballistic, PNF
- Introduction to Functional Training (stability ball, medicine ball, cable training)
- Introduction to Specific Functionally Designed Equipment/Exercise (cables, Balance)
- Bodybuilding - (supersets, compound sets, powerlifting)
- Power, Strength and Endurance Variables
- Plyometrics and Speed Training
- Group Fitness Training (circuits)
- Types of VO2 Fitness Tests
- Mock Training (client simulation training using learned practical applications)
Nutrition
- Macronutrients - Carbohydrates, Protein and Fat
- Micronutrients - Vitamins & Minerals
- Energy Balance
- Digestive System
- Nutrition & Exercise
- Nutrition & Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, CAD, Older Adult
- The Food Exchange System & Eating Plan Design
- Intro to Sports Nutrition
- Presentations ('fad diets' - 10 minute presentation from students)
Essentials of a Personal Trainer Business Practice
- What you will need
- Your business services outline
- Introduction to sales and marketing
- Getting & retaining clients
Subject Revision & Exam
- Subject revision (weekly review of all material and bi-weekly examinations
CPR - Attending one day CPR Certification Course
Instruction at AAPT extends beyond classroom lectures. The program will also include a comprehensive practical component with instruction in our state-of-the-art fitness center. This hands-on component is at the core of the AAPT experience, providing students with access to the same exercise equipment they are likely to use with future clients.