Certifications: What Are They Really Good For?

In the world of fitness and coaching, certifications often seem like the key to credibility, opportunity, and legitimacy. They are the letters behind your name, the badge that says “I am qualified.” But are they actually necessary to be a successful coach?

What Does It Take to Be a Coach?

Let’s start at the foundation. Becoming a coach does not start with a certificate—it starts with coaching. There are four progressive levels of coaching:

1. Call yourself a coach. That is the first step. Seriously, just deciding to identify as a coach.
2. Coach people. The real test: working directly with clients and helping them make meaningful progress.
3. Get paid. This is where business skills come into play: setting up payment systems, pricing, and so on.
4. Go professional. To operate as a pro, you need systems for communication, programming, execution, liability coverage, and legal compliance.

Notice what is not in any of these levels? Certification. In most countries and states, coaching is not a licensed profession. That means there is no governing body that defines who can be a coach or removes the title if someone falls short.

So… Why Get Certified?

If certification is not legally required, why do so many coaches chase it? CJ breaks it down into five solid reasons to get certified—and none of them are about impressing other coaches.

To Break Down Barriers

Some clients simply expect to see a certification—even if they do not understand what the letters mean. In those cases, any recognized certification may help you get your foot in the door, especially when building a client base outside your personal network.

To Unlock Specific Opportunities

Many jobs require specific certifications. Want to work at a CrossFit gym? You will need a CrossFit Level 1, no matter how experienced you are. Certifications can be gatekeepers for certain roles and environments.

To Channel Your Learning

Many certifications are actually structured education programs. Think: Precision Nutrition or Barbell Logic. They teach a methodology and help you develop real skills. The certification is just a final validation. If the process makes you a better coach—even without the piece of paper—it is probably worth it.

To Demonstrate Specialization

If you work with a niche audience—like powerlifters or Olympic lifters—having a specialized certification can help communicate your expertise. These audiences may be more discerning, and a relevant certification can build trust faster than a general one.

For Confidence and Permission

Sometimes, new coaches just need the psychological boost of being “official.” If certification gives you the permission you need to step into your role with confidence, that is a valid reason. Just recognize that it is about internal validation, not external necessity.

What a Certification Actually Means

Here is the honest truth: a certification does not mean you are a great coach. It means you have completed a process set by a specific organization—paid the fee, passed the test, attended the seminar.

The value of a certification depends entirely on the reputation of the issuing organization. Most clients will not know the difference between ACSM, NSCA, ISSA, or any of the other acronyms. They just want to know you can help them reach their goals.

So, should you get certified? Ask yourself:

• Will this certification help me get started?
• Will it open doors I cannot access otherwise?
• Will it make me a better coach through real education?
• Will it help me connect with the niche I want to serve?
• Will it give me the confidence to take action?

If the answer to one or more of those is “yes,” then go for it. While certification is not strictly necessary, it can be incredibly helpful—especially at the professional level. It can assist with liability insurance, provide legal protection, and demonstrate a basic level of preparation.

If you are ready to take that next step, the Professional Barbell Coach Certification from Barbell Logic is a skill-focused process that includes a written exam, interview, and coaching evaluation—designed to help you become a true professional.