CSEP Certified Personal Trainer®

CSEP-CPT accreditation is available to individuals who have completed a minimum of 2 years of formal post-secondary training in physical activity/exercise prescription focusing on health-related physical fitness.
Step 1
- Provide proof (official transcripts) of (minimum) 2 year college or university study in an approved program in human kinetics, kinesiology, physical education, health and/or exercise science. Copy of Diploma is required, if applicable. Approved courses must address the core competencies of the CSEP-CPT. These are outlined on the Core Competencies for CSEP-CPT page of this website. Transcripts & Diploma copies must be submitted to the Alberta CSEP Health & Fitness Program Coordinator (Michelle Berg at michelle.berg@ualberta.ca) for review by mail, fax or email.
If your educational institution is not listed; please provide course syllabus’ AND outlines for all applicable courses. Core competencies and prerequisite areas must still be satisfied. Please contact the Alberta CSEP Office if you have any questions 780–492-4435 or email Michelle Berg at
michelle.berg@ualberta.ca
Step 2
Successfully complete BOTH the written CSEP-CPT Theory Exam (with a minimum of 70%) and the CSEP-CPT Practical Assessment Exam (pass/fail).
The Practical Exam requires demonstration of practical skills and knowledge in an applied setting. This examination will be conducted by a CSEP-CPT Instructor Examiner and assessed on a Pass/Fail basis (i.e. Acceptable/Unacceptable practices).
CSEP-CPT Courses and Exam location and dates
Study Resources
| CPT Study Guide Order Form. |
| CPAFLA order form. |
Step 3
Submit a complete CSEP-CPT Certification Application package, including CSEP annual membership fees. CPT packages are to be submitted to Michelle Berg Alberta CSEP Health & Fitness Program Coordinator.
Step 4
Provide proof of a minimum 25 hours of practical experience with clients after you become certified. You have until your first renewal to provide the Alberta CSEP Office with a copy of your hours. Renewals are due March 31st of each year. Proof consists of at least one letter of support from a guarantor such as a university professor/college instructor, an employer/supervisor, or a health care practitioner that verifies this experience.
CPR and First Aid
Candidates are required to hold a current/valid CPR – Level C or Health Care Provider and to have successfully completed a course in Standard First Aid or Emergency First Aid. All CPR documents must be current = within one year of date of issue. First Aid must be active/current as per expiry date(s) detailed on card/certificate. All CPR and/or 1st Aid Instructors must also provide proof of valid/current CPR at time of certification AND renewal.
