The National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) Certification

The NCSF certification is recognized by nearly every national fitness chain.
The NCSF is accredited by the NCCA.
A NCSF certification is one of the most reputable certifications an industry professional can hold.

There are three ways to obtain a NCSF certification:
Weekend workshops
Attend a training school
Self study
Exam cost is $300

Many of the programs are offered through personal trainer schools.
NCSF education classes may be taken for college credit through the American Council on Education in Washington, D.C.
There are no prerequisites for completing the NCSF certification program. The program is fast paced and they reccomend that the student be proficient in muscle groups, kinesiology, biology and chemical process that occur in the body.