SIC Targets Fitness Training in New Program

In the latest of a number of new program offerings, Southeastern Illinois College is now registering students for a personal trainer/fitness instructor certificate beginning spring semester 2013.

“As a former fitness instructor I couldn’t be any more excited about this program,” said Matt Lees, faculty member at Southeastern.  “It gives our students access to one of the fastest growing career fields along with a credential that has become the industry standard — an American Council on Exercise (A.C.E.) certification.  SIC is one of only three Illinois community colleges affiliated with A.C.E.”

According to Lees, students may enroll in the long certificate program, which consists of 27 credit hours taken over two semesters, or enroll in the short certificate program, which consists of 11 credit hours taken one semester. 

The long program is for those who would like a more in-depth study of personal training including coursework in nutrition, anatomy and physiology, and small business management.

Lees emphasized that the new program begins in January and is the only program of its kind south of Bloomington, Ill. 

The American Council on Exercise reports that “the fitness industry continues to grow, despite the current economic conditions.  In fact, there is a projected shortage of personal trainers.  In the personal trainer/fitness instructor program, students will learn to design safe and effective exercise programs and provide basic dietary advice.”

Leading SIC’s certificate program is personal trainer Rebecca Wyatt Nevitt.  Nevitt comes with more than 25 years of industry experience in fitness training and multisport coaching. 

Her credentials include American College of Sports Medicine Certified Health and Fitness Specialist, American Council on Exercise Faculty and Certified Personal Trainer, YMCA Certified Fitness Specialist, USA Triathlon Level 2 Certified Coach, Aerobics and Fitness Association of America Examiner, American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer of the Year 2003 Nominee, Senior Population Group Exercise Instructor, and American College of Sports Medicine’s Exercise Management for Persons with Chronic Diseases and Disabilities.

Nevitt’s specializations include continuing education for fitness professionals, multisport coaching and performance testing for athletes, and health weight management.

For more information on the college’s new personal trainer/fitness instructor certificate program, contact an SIC recruiter at 618-252-5400, ext. 2245 or 2325.  Registration is going on now.

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