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Alzheimer’s Fitness Specialist Program Supports Brain Health Through Movement

Posted: Nov 03, 2025 in ACE Press Releases

San Diego, Calif., November 3, 2025 — In recognition  of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) is proud to announce the release of the Alzheimer’s Fitness Specialist Program, a new educational offering designed to empower health and exercise professionals to support individuals interested in maximizing cognitive fitness and preventing cognitive decline as well as those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia through safe, effective physical activity programming. 

Developed by Jonathan Ross of Funtensity , a leader in brain health and movement education, the program equips professionals with tools to design fitness experiences that enhance cognitive function, promote independence, and improve overall quality of life for those affected by memory loss. 

“As the population ages, the need for compassionate, informed care grows increasingly urgent,” said Cedric X. Bryant, Ph.D., FACSM, ACE chief executive officer. “This program offers a powerful opportunity for health and exercise professionals to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families navigating Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We’re proud to partner with Aion Fitness to bring this vital education to our community.” 

The Alzheimer’s Fitness Specialist Program includes comprehensive education on: 

  • The science of Alzheimer’s and dementia 

  • The role of exercise in supporting cognitive function and neuroplasticity 

  • Behavior-change strategies for working with memory-impaired populations 

  • Safety considerations and program design for individuals at risk and those living with various stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 

“Physical activity supports brain health at every stage of life, and we have the opportunity to make it even more effective. When exercise includes elements of fun, interactivity, and cognitive challenge, its benefits for brain health are significantly amplified,” said Ross. “Brain health is also shaped by lifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and social connection—areas where health and fitness professionals can have a powerful impact.” 

Participants who complete the course will earn the ACE Alzheimer’s Fitness Specialist credential, demonstrating their readiness to deliver person-centered fitness programming that supports both physical and emotional well-being for both clients and caregivers. 

The program is available now. To learn more or enroll, visit https://www.acefitness.org/continuing-education/specialist-programs/alzheimers-fitness/. 

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About the American Council on Exercise (ACE) 

Since 1985, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) has been the leading non-profit education and certification provider for health coaches and exercise professionals in the United States and around the world. 

With more than 90,000 highly respected certified health coaches and exercise professionals, ACE Certified Professionals are on the ground daily helping people move, stay active and make lasting lifestyle behavior changes to build healthier communities. 

Headquartered in San Diego, ACE collaborates with public health partners to educate people of all backgrounds about the importance of physical activity and other healthy lifestyle behaviors; advocates for public policies to increase physical activity opportunities; and supports scientific research that investigates the efficacy of behavior-change interventions and the effectiveness of exercise practices and trends. Learn more at acefitness.org. 

About Jonathan Ross  

His “800 Pounds (363 kg) of Parents” inspired Jonathan’s prolific fitness career.  His father’s death from obesity lit a spark in Jonathan to turn his professional pursuits from Astronomy to fitness. And specifically, to help more people experience the kind of life his father did not.  He specializes in bringing sensible fitness to the people who need it most.   

His study of brain health, motivation, and decision-making was a turning point in his career as it provided the insights necessary to motivate anyone and led to the development of Funtensity – Jonathan’s fitness program that mixes fun with intensity and is based on a foundation of brain science.   It provides an enjoyable yet challenging fitness experience that additionally provides numerous brain fitness benefits while participants focus only on the fun and social connection. 

He is an ACE & IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year Award-Winner, creator of Funtensity™, brain fitness visionary, and author of the Alzheimer’s & Brain Fitness Specialist Course which is changing the future of brain health through fitness.

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