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.

University of Colorado Boulder
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
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

National Academy of Sports Medicine
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
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

National Academy of Sports Medicine
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
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 4 Weeks

American Council on Exercise
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
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

American Council on Exercise
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
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

McMaster University
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
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

National Academy of Sports Medicine
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
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

National Academy of Sports Medicine
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Sports Medicine, Nutrition Education, Kinesiology, Health And Wellness Coaching
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Toronto
Skills you'll gain: Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Injury Prevention, Exercise Science, Preventative Care, Health Education, Pain Management, Rehabilitation, Cardiology, Orthopedics, Oncology
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

National Academy of Sports Medicine
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Mechanics, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Nutrition and Diet
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

National Academy of Sports Medicine
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Coaching, Health And Wellness Coaching, Kinesiology, Injury Prevention, Physiology, Adaptability, Human Musculoskeletal System, Goal Setting, Communication, Anatomy
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

American Council on Exercise
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Nutrition and Diet, Safety Training, Kinesiology, Health Education, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Physiology, Coaching, Goal Setting
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
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:
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.‎