Personal trainers for obese patients

Exercise professionals (with the appropriate academic and practical training) have the knowledge to provide information to patients that is based on sound physiologic principles, a clear awareness of the contraindications to exercise, and an extensive understanding of research and its practical application. In Canada, exercise professionals who have undertaken advanced academic and practical preparation are recognized through the comprehensive certifications provided by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP), which include the CSEP-Certified Personal Trainer and the CSEP-Certified Exercise Physiologist certifications.2 As physicians specializing in exercise science and other allied health professionals, we cannot endorse personal training designations that do not require postsecondary education in exercise science.