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Exercise Courses

Exercise courses can help you learn strength training, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility techniques, and nutrition basics. You can build skills in creating personalized workout plans, understanding body mechanics, and monitoring progress effectively. Many courses introduce tools like fitness trackers, resistance bands, and apps for tracking workouts, which support your journey in maintaining a balanced and active lifestyle.


Popular Exercise Courses and Certifications


  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Science of Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, Sports Medicine, Nutrition and Diet, Pharmacology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Immunology, Preventative Care, Respiration, Athletic Training, Endocrinology, Chronic Diseases, Vital Signs, Biochemistry, Public Health, Mental Health

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    4.7K reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    NASM Personal Fitness Trainer

    Skills you'll gain: Goal Setting, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Nutrition and Diet, Nutrition Counseling, Smart Goals, Health Assessment, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Preventative Care, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Nutritional Assessment, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Automated External Defibrillator, Rehabilitation, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Coaching, Health And Wellness Coaching

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    310 reviews

    Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Science of Diet and Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Nutritional Assessment, Sports Medicine, Nutrition Education, Physiology, Kinesiology, Endocrinology, Health And Wellness Coaching, Vital Signs, Stress Management, Biochemistry, Systems Of Measurement, Biology

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    259 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    American Council on Exercise

    Intro to Personal Training: A Career Starter Course

    Skills you'll gain: Selling Techniques, Exercise Science, Sales, Goal Setting, Health And Wellness Coaching, Customer Retention, Smart Goals, Nutrition and Diet, Consultative Selling, Customer Acquisition Management, Patient Education And Counseling, Workplace inclusivity, Motivational Interviewing, Patient Communication, Safety Training, Kinesiology, Active Listening, Performance Measurement, Health Education, Injury Prevention

    4.1
    Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
    ·
    20 reviews

    Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    American Council on Exercise

    Pathway to Wellness: Mind, Movement & Nutrition

    Skills you'll gain: Nutrition Education, Nutrition and Diet, Mental Health, Nutrition Counseling, Mindfulness, Exercise Science, Mental Concentration, Community Health, Preventative Care, Health Education, Health Promotion, Health Technology, Injury Prevention, Stress Management, Clinical Nutrition, Behavioral Health, Pharmacology, Geriatrics, Personal Development, Behavior Management

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    14 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    M

    McMaster University

    Hacking Exercise For Health. The surprising new science of fitness.

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Productivity, Cardiology, Stress Management, Time Management, Adaptability, Human Musculoskeletal System, Nutrition and Diet, Physiology, Mental Health, Goal Setting

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    815 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Holistic Weight Management

    Skills you'll gain: Stress Management, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Behavioral Health, Psychiatry, Psychosocial Assessments, Mental Health, Exercise Science, Social Determinants Of Health, Nutritional Assessment, Social Sciences, Nutrition and Diet, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Health And Wellness Coaching, Kinesiology, Medical Devices, Nutrition Counseling, Sociology, Coaching, Physical Stamina, Health Assessment

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    21 reviews

    Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

  • Next level skills. New Year savings.

    Save on Coursera Plus
  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Aligning Diet and Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Sports Medicine, Nutrition Education, Kinesiology, Health And Wellness Coaching

    4.9
    Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
    ·
    95 reviews

    Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

  • Status: Preview
    Preview
    U

    University of Toronto

    Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise

    Skills you'll gain: Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Injury Prevention, Exercise Science, Preventative Care, Health Education, Pain Management, Rehabilitation, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Oncology

    4.7
    Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
    ·
    802 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Mechanics, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Nutrition and Diet

    4.6
    Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
    ·
    66 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    N

    National Academy of Sports Medicine

    Understanding Fitness Programming

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Coaching, Health And Wellness Coaching, Kinesiology, Injury Prevention, Physiology, Adaptability, Human Musculoskeletal System, Goal Setting, Communication, Anatomy

    4.8
    Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    32 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

  • Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    A

    American Council on Exercise

    Foundations of Exercise and Nutrition

    Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Safety Training, Kinesiology, Health Education, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Physiology, Coaching, Goal Setting

    3.8
    Rating, 3.8 out of 5 stars
    ·
    6 reviews

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

What brings you to Coursera today?

Searches related to exercise

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managing your health: the role of physical therapy and exercise
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aligning diet and exercise
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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular exercise courses

  • Science of Exercise: University of Colorado Boulder
  • NASM Personal Fitness Trainer: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Science of Diet and Exercise: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Intro to Personal Training: A Career Starter Course: American Council on Exercise
  • Pathway to Wellness: Mind, Movement & Nutrition: American Council on Exercise
  • Hacking Exercise For Health. The surprising new science of fitness.: McMaster University
  • Holistic Weight Management: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Aligning Diet and Exercise: National Academy of Sports Medicine
  • Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise: University of Toronto
  • Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions: National Academy of Sports Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions about Exercise

Exercise is any physical activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health. It plays a crucial role in promoting cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and enhancing mental well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent chronic diseases, manage weight, and improve mood and energy levels. Understanding the importance of exercise is essential for anyone looking to improve their health and quality of life.‎

A variety of career paths are available in the field of exercise, including roles such as fitness trainers, exercise physiologists, physical therapists, and wellness coaches. These positions often involve working with clients to develop personalized fitness plans, providing guidance on exercise techniques, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. Additionally, opportunities exist in corporate wellness programs, sports teams, and rehabilitation centers, making this a versatile field for those passionate about health and fitness.‎

To succeed in the exercise field, you should develop a range of skills, including knowledge of anatomy and physiology, exercise programming, and nutrition. Communication skills are vital for effectively working with clients and understanding their needs. Additionally, gaining certifications in areas such as personal training or group fitness can enhance your credibility and job prospects. Continuous learning and staying updated on the latest fitness trends and research are also important for long-term success.‎

There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in exercise. For instance, the Science of Diet and Exercise Specialization offers a comprehensive understanding of how diet and exercise work together. Other notable courses include Foundations of Exercise and Nutrition and Hacking Exercise For Health, which provide valuable insights into effective exercise strategies and health benefits.‎

Yes. You can start learning exercise on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many exercise courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in exercise, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Exercise courses typically cover a range of topics, including exercise science, nutrition, program design, and injury prevention. You may also explore specialized areas such as strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility exercises. Understanding the psychological aspects of exercise, such as motivation and behavior change, is also common. These topics equip you with the knowledge needed to create effective fitness programs and support clients in achieving their health goals.‎

For training and upskilling employees or the workforce, courses like Managing Your Health: The Role of Physical Therapy and Exercise can be particularly beneficial. These courses provide insights into how exercise can be integrated into health management strategies, enhancing employee well-being and productivity. Additionally, programs focusing on nutrition and exercise science can help organizations promote a healthier workplace culture.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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