ACE (American Council on Exercise) Certification
The ACE website says it best. "The American Council on Exercise is the largest nonprofit fitness certification and education provider in the world. Widely recognized as "America's Authority on Fitness," ACE continually sets standards and protects the public against unqualified fitness professionals and unsafe or ineffective fitness products, programs and trends."
... "Since its founding in 1985, ACE has certified more than 200,000 health and fitness professionals in the United States and 77 other countries. ACE certification exams are standardized, broad-based tests of the knowledge necessary to safely and effectively instruct one on one, lead group exercise, and consult on lifestyle and weight-management issues."
... "In 2003, the American Council on Exercise was granted accreditation for all of its certification programs by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). ACE is now only one of two certifying organizations in the entire fitness industry whose programs have been accredited."
... "ACE-certified Professionals are the most sought after and respected fitness instructors in the world. Known for their inspiration, dedication and knowledge, they train and educate their clients on safe and effective exercise techniques and motivate them to achieve healthier lifestyles."
The owner of Heron Creek, Dawn Sarabura, is an ACE certified Personal Trainer and Weight Management and Lifestyle Consultant. In addition to passing a rigorous 3 hour exam, the certification requires that trainers attend 15 hours of approved continuing education every two years. ACE provides its members with professional support, publications and a code of ethics to which they must all adhere.