About Central Valley Fitness

Several years ago, after a 25-year career in radio broadcasting and freelance writing, I entered the fitness field.  I’ve always been extremely interested in health, exercise and fitness, so personal training seemed like a perfect second career.  Since earning my training certification through the American Council on Exercise and starting my own business (Central Valley Fitness), I’ve successfully trained many satisfied clients, ranging in ages from 14 to 83.

If you’ve been looking for a personal trainer, you know that it can be a difficult process.  You might be confused by the seemingly endless number of different certifications available for personal trainers, and you might be wondering if some of those certifications are more reputable than others.  Finding the answers to those questions can help you wisely choose a qualified trainer who will help you safely achieve your fitness goals.

When choosing a personal trainer, narrow your choices to those who are currently certified through reputable organizations.  Steer clear of any “trainer” who received his certification by taking an brief online fitness quiz and paying a few bucks for an official Personal Trainer Certificate.  Such certifications probably aren’t worth the paper they’re printed on.  After all, does it really make sense to hire a “trainer” who might know less about exercise and fitness than you do?

Reputable organizations require prospective trainers to undergo extensive testing to demonstrate a working knowledge in a variety of subjects, including exercise physiology, kinesiology, human anatomy, nutrition, health screening, principles of training, program design, injury prevention, etc.  After passing the test, the trainer is then required to maintain his certification by taking continuing education courses.

Here are a few of the organizations offering the most reputable, widely respected certifications in the fitness industry:

• American Council on Exercise (ACE)
• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
• The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
• The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)

I earned my certification through the American Council of Exercise.  Please visit the ACE website for more information.

If you live in the Madera or Madera Ranchos area, and would like to learn more about my personal training services, please call me at (559) 871-1658.  I’ll be happy to schedule a free consultation.  For clients who prefer working out at their own place, I’m also available for in-home training sessions.

If you live or work in the Fresno area, and are interested in training at a fully equipped, family-friendly gym, visit me at Centerpoint Athletic Club, where I train clients Monday through Friday mornings.  (Centerpoint offers some great training rates, especially for senior citizens)

Plenty of references are available upon request.

By the way, if you need a good laugh (or even a bad one), please visit my other blog, www.markmayfield.wordpress.com

Thanks for your time!

Mark Mayfield