In the personal training space, NASM is revered as one of the top certification bodies.

But NASM doesn’t just focus on personal training- you can also become a NASM Certified Nutrition coach.

Here are the pros and cons of this certification:

Pros: 

• Comprehensive Curriculum 

The NASM nutrition certification course, like PN and others, goes in depth about the science of nutrition and behavior change strategies.

This makes it a great option for those who may be getting certified in nutrition coaching for the first time, as you will learn all of the fundamentals of nutrition science.

• Internationally Recognized Certification

NASM is an internationally recognized certification body. 

Meaning that your credentials will be widely accepted for continuing education, and for employment options if you plan to work in gyms and health clubs.

Cons: 

• Limited Accountability and Feedback

Like other certifications on this list, the NASM certification is a self-paced course that you do on your own time.

This means you aren’t getting live feedback, mentorship, and accountability the way you would in a certification program.

• No Business Development 

The NASM certification is solely focused on teaching you the science of nutrition, and behavior change. There is no information on getting clients in this specific course.

If you’re looking to learn how to get clients- you will want to look elsewhere.

Who is the NASM Certification Best Suited For?

The NASM Nutrition Certification is best suited for coaches just getting into the nutrition space, or who need the background of nutrition science. 

If you are already a trainer or nutrition coach, this course will be a lot of the same information you’ve already learned- finding an alternate certification that helps you hone in on specific skills like business, marketing, or client results would be a better option.

The Dr Marc Method is a Nutrition Coaching Certification Program created by myself, Dr Marc Morris, a PHD in Human Nutrition, and nutrition coach.

The DRMM method is designed for both new and experienced coaches who want to learn the science of nutrition, systems to get client’s results, and grow and scale their nutrition coaching business in 90 days.

Here are the pros and cons of this certification:

Pros: 

• The DRMM is a Program, Not Just a Course.

In the DRMM my coaches and I work hands on with our students to answer their questions, provide feedback on coursework, and lead 4 live calls a week that students can attend.

You’re not just taking a course, you’re using the coursework to build out your business in real time, with the help of expert nutrition coaches in the trenches with you. 

This is the process that’s worked for me, thousands of my own nutrition clients, and the coaches we certify. It will work for you too. 

• Business Development and Marketing 

Not only do we teach you how to get clients results, we also make sure your business is set up for success by teaching you how to create business systems, and how to get clients. 

We show you a step-by-step system to follow from the point of first contact with a client, to actually working with a client, and troubleshooting setbacks. 

We provide the systems and templates to get you going, saving you tons of time. 

Lastly, we focus heavily on marketing your business on social media, and developing sales skills. 

There’s nothing worse than having all the knowledge and passion in the world to coach others- and no one is interested in working with you. That’s why focusing on marketing and sales is key.

• Results Focused

The DRMM is entirely results-focused. We not only want you to get results in the program, but we want your clients to get results as well.

Most nutrition certifications load you with information on science, and an overwhelming amount of strategies to get results- but have no step by step system to repeat with each client.

That’s why we actually give you a repeatable step-by step coaching process that will get your clients results, leading to happy clients with life changing transformations.

• Real World Application

In the DRMM we firmly believe the fastest way to learn is through real world experience.

That’s why to graduate from the program, you are required to take on a test client to coach while under our guidance. 

This allows you to test your comprehension in real time. If you hit any snags, our team of experienced coaches is here to help you out.

Cons: 

• Deadline to Complete

Since the DRMM is a structured program designed to get you results fast- you only have 90 days to complete the DRMM program. 

For most- this is a plus because you get to focus entirely on building your business, so you can be successful, as quickly as possible. 

However, if you are looking for a self-paced course that you can complete over a long period of time- this isn’t it.

• CEUs

Since we are a newer certification company- we are not yet widely accredited- which may affect certain CEUs, and potentially employment opportunities if you plan to work in gyms or health clubs. (Although many of our past students have not had any trouble with this.)

We are currently accepted for continuing education credits by NASM, AFAA, Canfitpro, NCSF, and ISSA, but you may want to check with your certifying body to make sure we are accepted.

Who is the DRMM Best Suited For?

There’s a reason why our students keep coming back. The Dr. Marc Method is three certifications in one - nutrition, business, coaching, with the intent to get you results. 

The DRMM is best suited for people who are passionate, know they want to help others, and make money doing it. When you value you that, you don’t have time to waste. 

If you are someone looking for just a self paced course, or you just want to dig into the science of nutrition exclusively, this may not be the option for you.

 MNU is a highly regarded nutrition certification based out of the UK founded by Martin MacDonald.

MAC Nutrition University provides an entire 12-month course that you can complete fully online or in-person (if you live in the UK) when you sign up for the Live with Honors extended course. 

Both programs have pre-requisites, so do check what kind of experience, knowledge and qualifications you need to enroll. 

Pros: 

• Extended Curriculum 

The MNU program covers all aspects of nutritional science, how to get clients results, as well as how to handle dietary deviations with clients.

MNU goes beyond working with general population clientele and also covers things to consider when working with elderly clients, PCOS, pre- and post- natal nutrition and more.

• Hands on Mentorship 

In MNU you access tutors, and even some of the best health professionals in the industry to get support.  

When you sign up, you get access to a tutor, as well as access to live workshops that you can attend virtually.

If you are located in the UK- you can attend some events in person!

• Internationally Accredited

MNU is a highly revered and internationally recognized certification. Giving you an advantage if you want to work in gyms, health clubs, or even clinics.

 Who is the MNU Certification Best Suited For? 

The MNU is best suited for coaches who want to take their knowledge to the next level, or coaches who want to specialize in certain areas of nutrition science that require more education, like training high level athletes, etc. 

This course may not be best suited for those who want to start working with clients as soon as possible, and for those who already can get results, but need help on their business and marketing strategy.