National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) Practice Exam

Which decade saw the flourishing of personal training despite low staffing qualifications?

1. The 1970s

2. The 1980s

3. The 1990s

4. The 2000s

The correct answer is: The 1970s

The 1970s marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of personal training, establishing a foundation for the profession despite the absence of standardized qualifications. During this decade, fitness began to enter mainstream culture, largely influenced by the rise of health clubs and an increasing public awareness of exercise's benefits. Iconic figures such as Jane Fonda began promoting fitness, and attention to physical well-being blossomed. Even though personal training was not yet recognized as a regulated profession, many individuals found opportunities in this emerging field. This led to a diverse array of trainers, some well-trained and others with minimal formal education. As personal training gained popularity, the lack of a certification system allowed many to enter the industry, which ultimately stimulated growth and interest in personal fitness. This decade laid the groundwork for subsequent developments in personal training, including the establishment of certification programs and better educational standards in later years. This momentum established a trajectory leading into the more professionally regulated landscape of training that emerged in later decades, particularly during the 1980s and beyond.