How do I become a certified personal trainer in Canada?

To become a certified personal trainer in Canada, enroll in an accredited program like the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) through NPTA. Complete the course, pass the exam, and meet CPR/AED certification requirements.

Is NASM certification recognized across Canada?

Yes. NASM is a globally recognized certification, and through NPTA—its official Canadian partner—your credentials are widely respected by gyms, fitness studios, and employers across Canada.

How long does it take to complete the NASM CPT program?

Most students complete the NASM CPT certification in 4 to 6 weeks, depending on their pace. NPTA offers a flexible online learning model so you can study when it works best for you.

Does NPTA offer mentorship for new personal trainers?

Yes. NPTA provides mentorship throughout the certification journey to help new trainers build confidence, find clients, and create a successful career path.

What is the Corrective Exercise Specialization, and who is it for?

The Corrective Exercise Specialization (CES) helps fitness professionals identify and address muscle imbalances and movement dysfunctions. It’s ideal for trainers working with clients recovering from injury or seeking pain-free performance.

What are the benefits of the Nutrition & Fitness Bundle PLUS?

The Nutrition & Fitness Bundle PLUS includes the NASM CPT, Certified Nutrition Coach, CPR/AED Certification, and mentorship. It’s perfect for those looking to start a comprehensive career in health and wellness.

Is the NASM CPT program available online through NPTA?

Yes. NPTA offers the NASM CPT certification fully online with self-paced modules, making it accessible for students across Canada.

Are NPTA certifications recognized by Canadian employers?

Absolutely. As the official Canadian partner of NASM, NPTA certifications are recognized by most major gyms, health clubs, and private fitness employers in Canada.

Can I pursue multiple specializations at the same time?

Yes, NPTA offers bundles that allow you to complete multiple certifications together, such as the Career Kickstarter or Nutrition Pro Bundle PLUS, saving time and money while expanding your expertise.

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Certified Nutrition Coach | CNC

Nutrition serves as the foundation for our health and the fuel for our performance. As a Certified Nutrition Coach, you’ll learn the foundational science of nutrition and use it to promote better health in yourself and others through smarter dietary choices, sustainable change, and a better relationship with food.

Online and self paced
Complete in 4 months or less
Financing options available

This course is included in the Advanced Nutrition Coaching Bundle, Exercise Recovery Bundle, Nutrition Essentials Bundle PLUS, Career Kickstarter Bundle, Nutrition & Fitness Bundle, Nutrition Pro Bundle PLUS, Nutrition Essentials Bundle, Career Kickstarter PLUS, and Nutrition & Fitness Bundle PLUS.

Starting at:

CAD 83.25 / month

12 payments

Full Price

CAD 999.0

One-time payment

Elective Financing Options

View full details

Program details

Evaluate client nutrition needs and provide guidance on a healthy, effective diet that supports their fitness and wellness goals

This specialization course will deep dive in behavioural change strategies to help you understand the psychology behind weight loss and how to maintain it. Help your clients navigate through realistic diet challenges such as food labels, portion sizing and fad diets.

CEU Value: 1.9 NASM

This program is perfect for:

Want to provide a holistic approach to their training by creating personalized nutrition plans that aligns with their client’s training schedule
Passionate in using nutrition to promote smarter and more sustainable dietary habits
Want to filter out all the nutritional fads on the internet and truly learn the right way to help you clients achieve their fitness goals

Curriculum

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for the Nutrition Certification. But we always encourage preparing for a career in nutrition by familiarizing yourself with the many nutrition courses NASM has to offer.

Section 1
110 Infographics | 14 Videos | 53 Knowledge Checks | 1 Printable Handout

Chapter 1: Introduction
Learn about the role of a Nutrition Coach and how the NASM Nutrition Certification can help enhance your career.

Chapter 2: Scope of Practice
Understand a Nutrition Coach's scope of practice, professional expectations, and differentiate among related nutrition professions.

Chapter 3: Evidence-Based Nutrition and Practice
In this chapter, you'll learn the importance of evidence-based practice as a nutrition specialist, the difference between basic scientific principles and methodology, and how to define scientific research processes.

Chapter 4: Food Preference and Influences
Understand the effects of nutritional intake on individual health, identify the role of dietary habits in overall health, and describe factors that influence dietary patterns. You'll also be able to recognize the dangers of a one-diet-fits-all approach and identify how different factors can influence eating patterns.

Chapter 5: Energy Balance and Metabolism
This chapter explores how macronutrients fuel activity and bodily functions, as well as how to balance the energy in versus energy out equation. You'll understand the First Law of Thermodynamics, energy balance, and energy systems.

Chapter 6: Protein
Protein is an important macronutrient that many bodily functions depend on. Learn the structure and function of protein, total daily protein requirements, and methods for establishing protein requirements in a dietary program.

Chapter 7: Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates provide energy for the body. Understand their structure and function, the digestion and absorption process, daily carbohydrate requirements, and more.

Chapter 8: Fats
Dietary fat has many important functions. In this chapter, you'll learn about the function and intake recommendations, healthy versus unhealthy fats, as well as key myths and hot topics related to fat.

Chapter 9: Alcohol
This chapter explains the digestion and absorption process of alcohol, as well as the physiological effects and methods for accommodating alcohol in a dietary program.

Chapter 10: Micronutrients
Micronutrients help maintain the metabolic processes required to produce energy. Understand the difference between water-soluble vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins, and minerals, identify common food sources, and learn to calculate daily recommended intakes and the values for each micronutrient.

Chapter 11: Hydration
In this chapter, you'll learn the compartmental aspects and shifts of water in the body following significant sweat losses. You'll also discover methods to help decrease excessive hypo- or hyper-hydration and learn about proper hydration strategies.

Chapter 12: Nutrient Timing
Discover appropriate nutrient-timing strategies for performance and for altering body composition, as well as the role that nutrient timing plays within an overall nutrition strategy.

Chapter 13: Supplements
Understand the role of supplementation across various goals, explain the strength of the evidence base for commonly used supplements, and learn to communicate with clients about the pros and cons of supplementation.

Section 2

18 Infographics | 11 Videos | 16 Knowledge Checks

Chapter 14: Psychology of Weight Control and Behavior Change
In this chapter, you'll learn how psychology affects fitness and wellness. Identify barriers to diet and exercise, common eating disorders, and common client types used to develop customized programs.

Chapter 15: Coaching and Communication
It's important for Personal Nutrition Coaches to communicate in a way that positively influences adherence to their programs. You'll identify strategies for building rapport and use effective communication skills to elicit behavior change.

Chapter 16: Motivational Interviewing
This chapter explains motivational interviewing and strategies that are used to help clients understand the underlying reasons for their own change while affirming their motivation.

Chapter 17: Goal Setting
Understand different types of goals, the benefits of effective goal-setting, methods for providing feedback and tracking progress, and identify obstacles commonly encountered when setting goals.

Section 3

62 Infographics | 16 Videos | 29 Knowledge Checks |

10 Printable Handouts

Chapter 18: Dietary Assessment and Body Composition Testing
In this chapter, you'll discover a step-by-step approach to assessing dietary intake and monitoring body composition. You'll compare body-composition assessment methods and understand the importance of consistency and accessibility.

Chapter 19: Food and Supplement Labels and Portion Size
Learn about the labeling standards for food and supplement products, as well as portion size recommendations.

Chapter 20: Helping Clients Navigate the Real World
This chapter explains strategies that can help clients make healthy food choices in everyday situations, such as at the grocery store or dining out.

Chapter 21: Navigating Diets
Learn the latest facts regarding diets and how they impact health, body composition, and athletic performance. This chapter explores many different diets and provides details regarding their safety and effectiveness.

Chapter 22: Nutrition Hot Topics and Controversies
An in-depth approach to explaining the science behind many of the nutrition hot topics and controversies faced by clients today.

Chapter 23: Managing Weight-Loss Plateaus and Maintaining Weight Loss
This chapter examines the science and psychology of weight-loss plateaus and how to help clients avoid this vicious cycle.

Chapter 24: Programming - Putting it All Together
Nutrition Coaches must have a foundational level of knowledge regarding nutritional science and behavior psychology. However, knowledge without action is virtually useless, especially when helping clients achieve their health-and-wellness goals. This chapter puts all of this knowledge into practice and details a step-by-step process for nutrition programming.

Final Exam:

After the completion of the course, you will take an online final exam from the comfort of your own home, or wherever you prefer to take tests. The test is 100, multiple-choice questions. You are allowed to go back and reference the course while taking the exam. The exam is timed and cannot exceed 90 minutes. To pass, you need a score of 70% or higher and you have up to 3 attempts to pass.

Certified Nutrition Coach | CNC

Online and self paced
Complete in 4 months or less
Financing options available

Starting at:

CAD 83.25 / month

12 payments

Full Price

CAD 999.0

One-time payment

Elective Financing Options

How it works

3 Steps to Go From Your Desk to Your Dream Job Coaching Clients

Get Certified

Choose from our diverse range of science-based certification programs. All courses are 100% online and self-paced to provide a flexible learning experience.

Gain Experience

Build your resume + confidence as a trainer through NPTA's Apprenticeship program. Gain hands-on experience and learn directly from Canada's top leading trainers.

Make Money!

Now that you’re experienced and job-ready, start maximizing your earning potential. Join NPTA’s affiliate program and inspire others to sign up for our top-tier certification programs. Earn up to $600 for every successful referral.

Certified Nutrition Coach FAQs

Why should I choose NASM to become a Certified Nutrition Coach?

As one of the most trusted sources of fitness training certifications in the world, NASM is a distinguished name that will stand out to fitness employers. Joining the NASM community grants you access to a job guarantee program for select programs, your top choice of gyms to work for, access to world-class fitness experts, and much more.

Peer-Reviewed Content from the Brightest Minds in the Industry
State-of-the-Art Digital Learning Platform
Programs Designed to Meet Multiple Learning Styles
35+ Years Of Experience Training Fitness Professionals
1.5M+ Fitness Professionals Trained
100+ Countries with NASM Fitness and Coach Professionals
14K+ Gym & Health Club Partnerships

How long does it take to complete the NASM Certified Nutrition Coach program?

You can complete your Certified Nutrition Coach Certification in as few as 4 weeks. In addition to its interactive multimedia-rich content, learning tools, resources, and comprehensive study-planning guide, you can also receive assistance from NASM experts when questions arise.

Can I complete the Certified Nutrition Coach program while working full-time?

Absolutely! You can complete the NASM Certified Nutrition Coach program while also working full-time. The study material is 100% online and self-paced, and can be accessed on a computer, or a mobile device such as a phone or tablet.

How many CEUs is the NASM CNC program worth and which organizations accept them?

NASM CNC is approved for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) by the following organizations:

NASM: 1.9 CEUs

AFAA: 15 CEUs

ACE: 3.0 CECs

CIMPSPA: 10 CPD Points

EREPS: 10 Learning Hours

Does getting my Certified Nutrition Coach Certification make me a Nutritionist?

A Nutritionist is different from a Nutrition Coach. With the foundational knowledge you’ll gain as a Certified Nutrition Coach, you’ll have the expertise needed to help clients make smarter nutrition choices and create sustainable change in their lives.

When you sign up to become a Certified Nutrition Coach through NASM, you’ll learn how to assess your client’s nutritional needs and ensure they’re met through three unique yet equally important modules:

• Nutrition Science: From proteins to fats, energy balance to counting macros, get a comprehensive look at the scope of your practice as a nutrition leader.

• Behavior Change: Learn how to use motivation and communication to enhance the psychology behind how we eat.

• Nutrition Coaching: Put everything together to create a personalized course of action for your clients. Whether it’s weight loss or weight gain, bulking up or maintaining where they’re at, you now have the keys to nutritional success.

What is the difference between NASM's Certified Nutrition Coach and Certified Sports Nutrition Coach Specializations?

A Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) works with a more general clientele to develop strategies that address issues like obesity, body composition, aging, and lifestyle approaches to disease management.

A Certified Sports Nutrition Coach (CSNC) digs a little deeper, working specifically with athletes to educate and provide coaching around performance nutrition within sports.

While these two roles differ in the audience they serve, they do work hand in hand to provide a well-rounded understanding of nutrition.

To that end, our CNC program sets down an effective foundation in nutrition to build from, helping through a fundamental understanding of how to serve clients’ nutrition needs. From there, our CSNC program takes what you learn throughout CNC and builds upon it to target a specific client base to focus on strategies that impact performance and recovery.

What's the NASM CNC final exam like and how does it work?

The final exam is administered online within your student portal. There are 100 multiple-choice questions and you'll have 90 minutes to complete it. A score of 70% or better is required to pass.

You have 365 days from the date of purchase to complete your final exam. If you need an extension or a retest, you can contact NPTA Student Care Support at 1-778-949-6782.

What is the NASM CNC certification renewal process?

The Certified Nutrition Coach credential must be renewed every two years.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Hear from our certified trainers

"I chose to get NASM certified because of its in-depth, evidence-based approach, which I knew would greatly benefit my clients."

Mark Lopez

"I selected NASM certification for its comprehensive and research-driven curriculum, ensuring my clients receive the highest level of expertise."

Martin Chan

"For the past six months, I have been studying hard to become a Certified Personal Trainer with NASM, known for its rigorous exam and strong reputation. Before this, I earned a German fitness instructor license (B-Lizenz). I worked in a gym while studying and really liked the NASM content, especially the OPT model."

Debora

"Becoming NASM Certified is a significant milestone for me. It represents the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired, and my dedication to helping others achieve their fitness goals."

Kevin

"Balancing studying, work, and motherhood was incredibly challenging, but I’m proud to have completed it. This certification enhances my skills for better client service. The Corrective Exercise Specialist course provided advanced techniques for movement impairments, and I’m eager to apply this knowledge to help my clients reach their goals."

Vierra G.

“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional education and support I have received at NASM. The knowledge and skills I’ve gained here have been invaluable, and I am truly thankful for the dedication and passion of the faculty and staff.”

Joyce

"I chose the NASM program for its excellent reputation and scientific approach, ensuring I gain the skills to provide top-notch service to my clients. With my NASM certification, I now create personalized training programs to help clients achieve their fitness goals safely and effectively.”

Mahmoud

"I study biochemistry, but my passion is exercise science. Finding NASM was the best choice ever. Completing the course while studying was tough, but it deepened my love for exercise science and equipped me with valuable tools to become a professional personal trainer. Thank you, NASM."

Hossam

"I'm officially a NASM-certified personal trainer and deeply grateful for the program's support in passing the CPT exam! I'm excited to use what I've learned to help clients achieve their fitness goals and transform lives. Certification is just the beginning, and I'm ready for what's next!"

Abigail

"I am now officially a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. I learned so much from this program. As a Certified Personal Trainer, I can now help people achieve their fitness goals and be the best version of themselves! Thank you to everyone who believed in me and helped me in my journey."

Natalya

"NASM made this course extremely enjoyable and very informative. I was able to acquire knowledge and skills that will allow me to be a successful personal trainer. I’ve learned so much information that I would love to implement to empower others and help them achieve their goals. I am truly passionate about assisting others in becoming the best versions of themselves and living healthier and happier lives."

Rodrigo

“I’ve been a Personal Trainer for 8 years and chose NASM for their reputation and flexible schedule. The certification took 4 months at my own pace and was applicable to both my profession and personal routines. I’m excited to use my new credentials to help people achieve their fitness goals and improve their lifestyles. Thank you, NASM!”

Marina

"Training isn't complete without nutrition. For those offering nutritional guidance, the NASM CNC is essential. In my nine years in fitness, it’s been one of the most comprehensive and insightful certifications. The sections on behavior change and coaching skills were transformative. I’m now equipped to assess client needs and provide tailored nutritional coaching for their fitness and lifestyle goals."

Frank

"Enrolling in NASM was one of the best decisions for my career as a Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist. The education provided was excellent and equipped me with essential knowledge for the fitness industry. I appreciated the focus on coaching, nutrition, and exercise techniques. Thanks to NASM, I feel empowered to pursue my passion and look forward to further education in fitness, health, and wellness. I highly recommend NASM for expanding your knowledge in the fitness industry."

Savanna

"Throughout the NASM CPT certification course, I've gained a comprehensive understanding of the intrinsic value associated with health and wellness. I take great pride in successfully achieving the designation of NASM CPT. I am enthusiastic about leveraging my acquired knowledge to support and enhance the well-being of my family, friends, and community as a NASM Certified Personal Trainer."

Alex Jung Lee

"In 2018, I became a NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) and Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC), turning a hobby into a full-time job with a busy schedule across two gyms, online clients, and home visits. Being a nutrition coach has enhanced my ability to help clients and added revenue streams to my business. I’m also proud to have been a gym owner for almost a year, enjoying the responsibility and freedom of leading my own team."

Felicitas Avendaño

"𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 💭 𝐝𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐞...𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐃𝐈𝐃 𝐈𝐓!⁣ Studying at 𝟓𝟕 is so very different than at 𝟏𝟗. Yet very possible.⁣"⁠

Helen

"Time to pass some of this fitness energy down to our youth! Helping to make sure that they play for at least 60 minutes a day."

Darryl

"You can teach an old dog new tricks 😂 something good came out of the pandemic for me!"

Kenneth

Have questions?

Certified Nutrition Coach | CNC

Certified Nutrition Coach | CNC

Program details

Curriculum

Certified Nutrition Coach | CNC