AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan social welfare organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates.
AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the definitive voice for 50+ Americans and the world's largest-circulation magazine with over 35.1 million readers; AARP Bulletin, the go-to news source for AARP's millions of members and Americans 50+; AARP Viiva, the only bilingual U.S. publication dedicated exclusively to the 50+ Hispanic community; and the website, aarp.org.
AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
AARP is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life as people age, leading positive social change and delivering value to members through information, advocacy and service. Membership in AARP is open to any person age 50 or above.
For more information, visit www.aarp.org.
Finding the right trainer for YOU
Through the AARP/ACE program, you have access to ACE-certified professionals who meet all of the following requirements:
- Hold an NCCA-accredited certification
- Have completed continuing education programs focused on older adult fitness
- Hold a current CPR and AED certificate
- Carry professional liability insurance
ACE-certified professionals must renew their certification every 2 years and are required to take continuing education designed to keep them up-to-date on the latest information and training techniques. This gives you the assurance that you are working with an allied healthcare professional that has the knowledge and skills to provide you with a safe and effective workout.
Work Experience and Area of Specialization
Read the trainer’s profile or ask how many years of experience he/she has working with clients, particularly those with your needs or limitations. Does he/she have expertise in a certain area of fitness or prefer to work with certain types of clients, for example: working with clients who are overweight, older adults, or post-rehabilitative? If you have a medical condition or a past injury, he/she should design a session that accounts for this so be sure to share this information and look for fitness professionals who have this experience. If you are receiving care for a medical or orthopedic condition, he/she should obtain your consent to discuss exercise guidelines and contraindications with your healthcare provider.
Talk to the Fitness Professional
Developing a personal, yet professional relationship with your trainer is very important. Trust your Instincts, and talk to the trainer to get to know them. Ask yourself if you think you could get along well with the trainer and whether you think they are genuinely interested in helping you. The fitness professional you select should motivate using positive, not negative, reinforcement. Importantly, that fitness professional should be someone you like.
Decide if This is Someone You Can Work With
Some people like to exercise in the morning, some in the evening. Can your fitness professional accommodate your schedule? What about the trainer’s gender? Some people prefer working with a fitness professional of the same sex; others prefer the opposite sex. The trainer who fits your style is the one to hire — because that is the professional who will help motivate you to achieve the best results.
Find an ACE-certified Trainer Near YOU
Start by finding an ACE-certified fitness professional offering discounts in your area!
AARP Health is a collection of health-related products, services and insurance programs available through AARP. Neither AARP, nor its affiliates are the provider.