CE Requirements at a Glance
| Requirement | NBHWC | ACE | NASM |
|---|---|---|---|
| CE Hours Required | 36 hours | 20 hours (2.0 CEUs) | 20 hours (2.0 CEUs) |
| Recertification Cycle | Every 3 years | Every 2 years | Every 2 years |
| Annual CE Hours | 12 hours/year | 10 hours/year | 10 hours/year |
| Online CE Allowed | |||
| CPR/AED Required | No | Yes (current) | Yes (current) |
| Recertification Fee | $150 | $129 | $99 |
| FitologyCE Courses Count |
Good News: FitologyCE courses are approved by NBHWC, ACE, and NASM. Earn CE credits for multiple certifications with a single course!
Detailed CE Requirements by Certification
Key Differences to Know
NBHWC: Health Coaching Focus
NBHWC requires the most CE hours (36 over 3 years) but offers the longest recertification cycle. CE must align with health and wellness coaching scope of practice and core competencies. NBHWC does not require CPR/AED certification, focusing instead on coaching skills, behavior change, and wellness topics. Best for health coaches working in corporate wellness, healthcare settings, or private practice.
ACE: Fitness Professional Standards
ACE requires 20 CE hours (2.0 CEUs) every 2 years plus current CPR/AED certification. CE topics can include exercise science, nutrition, program design, and business development. ACE offers multiple certification tracks (Personal Trainer, Health Coach, Group Fitness Instructor) with the same CE requirements. Recertification fee is $129. Best for fitness professionals working in gyms, studios, or with active clients.
NASM: Evidence-Based Training
NASM requires 20 CE hours (2.0 CEUs) every 2 years plus current CPR/AED certification. Known for evidence-based approach and corrective exercise focus. CE topics include biomechanics, program design, special populations, and sports performance. Recertification fee is $99 (lowest of the three). Best for personal trainers, strength coaches, and fitness professionals focused on performance and injury prevention.
Hold Multiple Certifications? Save Time with FitologyCE
One Course, Multiple Certifications
FitologyCE courses are approved by NBHWC, ACE, and NASM. Complete one course and earn CE credits for all certifications you hold—no need to take separate courses for each.
Save Money on CE
Instead of paying for separate NBHWC, ACE, and NASM courses, invest in FitologyCE courses that count for all three. Most courses are $79 for 3 CE hours—affordable and efficient.
Self-Paced Learning
Complete courses on your schedule with 30-day access. No live sessions or rigid deadlines—earn CE credits for NBHWC, ACE, and NASM when it works for you.
Evidence-Based Content
All courses are grounded in current research and best practices, meeting the high standards of NBHWC, ACE, and NASM. Quality CE that advances your skills.
CE Requirements FAQs
Can I use the same CE course for multiple certifications?
Yes! If a course is approved by multiple certification bodies (like FitologyCE courses), you can count the same CE hours toward NBHWC, ACE, and NASM requirements. This saves time and money for professionals holding multiple certifications.
Which certification requires the most CE hours?
NBHWC requires the most CE hours at 36 over 3 years (12 per year). ACE and NASM both require 20 hours over 2 years (10 per year). However, NBHWC's longer recertification cycle means you have more time to complete requirements.
Do all certifications accept online CE courses?
Yes! NBHWC, ACE, and NASM all accept online continuing education courses from approved providers. You can earn all required CE hours through self-paced online learning—no in-person workshops required.
What happens if I don't complete my CE requirements on time?
If you miss your recertification deadline, your certification will lapse and you cannot use the credential. NBHWC, ACE, and NASM all offer grace periods and reinstatement options, but fees increase the longer you wait. It's best to complete CE requirements early.
Are FitologyCE courses approved by all three certification bodies?
Yes! All FitologyCE courses are approved by NBHWC, ACE, and NASM. You'll receive a certificate upon completion that lists CE hours for all applicable certifications, making it easy to report to multiple organizations.