Become a Certified Personal Trainer in North Dakota — 100% Online with Fitness Mentors

Fitness is thriving in North Dakota. Now is the time to turn your passion into a profession.

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From Fargo’s growing fitness studios to Bismarck’s thriving wellness communities, North Dakota is quickly becoming a hub for health-conscious professionals. If you’re ready to turn your passion for fitness into a fulfilling career, earning your personal trainer certification in North Dakota with Fitness Mentors is the perfect first step.

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Our nationally recognized, 100% online program lets you study at your own pace and get certified in as little as 3–6 months. With expert mentorship, hands-on training resources, and business education included, you’ll graduate ready to transform lives—and launch the fitness career you’ve always dreamed of.

Get certified online today and start your journey as a personal trainer in North Dakota

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Why Become a Personal Trainer in North Dakota?

High Demand for Trainers

North Dakota’s fitness industry is growing steadily, from Fargo’s modern gyms and Grand Forks’ university wellness centers to Bismarck’s expanding community fitness hubs. As more residents embrace active, health-focused lifestyles, the need for certified personal trainers continues to rise. Opportunities are available across gyms, rehabilitation centers, corporate wellness programs, and private studios—making it an ideal time to enter the fitness field in North Dakota.

Flexible Career Paths

North Dakota offers personal trainers the freedom to build a career that fits their goals and lifestyle. Whether you prefer working with clients in-person, leading outdoor group workouts, or training clients virtually, flexibility is built into the profession. With growing health awareness across the state’s urban and rural areas, certified trainers can carve out meaningful and lasting careers.

Strong Earning Potential

A career as a certified trainer in North Dakota can be both personally and financially rewarding. The average personal trainer salary in the state ranges from $50,000 to $65,000 per year, with many professionals earning more through private sessions, fitness bootcamps, and online coaching. Fitness Mentors graduates can further boost their income by earning advanced CEU certifications or starting their own fitness brands—giving them complete control over their success.

North Dakota Personal Trainer Certification Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Before beginning your certification journey, make sure you meet the basic eligibility standards for becoming a personal trainer in North Dakota:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Hold a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Maintain a current CPR/AED certification.

These foundational steps ensure you’re prepared for the educational and professional responsibilities of a certified trainer.

Licensing Note

North Dakota does not require a state-issued personal trainer license, but employers expect candidates to hold a nationally recognized, accredited certification. This ensures you meet industry standards for safety, exercise science, and professionalism, making your credentials valid and respected across North Dakota and nationwide.

Accredited Certification Options

Choosing an accredited certification is crucial. The Fitness Mentors Certified Personal Trainer (FM-CPT) program aligns with NCCA standards, ensuring national recognition and employer trust. While popular certifications such as ISSA, ACE, NASM, and NSCA are also respected, Fitness Mentors stands out for its flexibility, mentorship, and business training. If you’re looking for the best CPT certification in North Dakota, Fitness Mentors provides a complete, affordable, and 100% online pathway to success.

Why I Am Qualified To Recommend Top Personal Trainer Certifications

The Best Personal Trainer Certification Programs

Hi, I’m Eddie Lester, the founder and CEO of Fitness Mentors. I’ve been a personal trainer for nearly 20 years and have 10 personal training certifications. In addition, I used to be a personal trainer certification teacher at a vocational college making me highly familiar with the educational materials and learning styles of each major CPT body and prospective students, respectively. 

The contents of this article have also been reviewed by Alex Cartmill and Matt McLeod, both of which are experienced personal trainers holding multiple personal training certifications themselves, as well as having more than 10 years of training experience. 

I am excited to share with you my analysis of the best personal trainer certifications that will specifically cover:

  • Certification cost
  • Exam difficulty
  • Curriculum contents
  • Exam pass rates
  • Accreditation status
  • Overall rating

Tens of Thousands of trainers certified. Here’s what they say…

Pick a Package. Get Certified. Change Your Life Through Helping Others.

Starter

Includes the Fitness Mentors CPT Certification

$499

Extra 25% OFF

With code “Fitness25” at checkout!

MOST POPULAR

Plus Bundle

Popular plan

Includes TWO Certifications and 1-Year Mentorship!

$729

Extra 25% OFF

With code “Fitness25” at checkout!

Master Trainer Bundle

Includes THREE Certifications and 1-Year Mentorship!

$999

Extra 25% OFF

With code “Fitness25” at checkout!

BEST VALUE

Ultimate Bundle

Includes SIX Certifications and 1-Year Mentorship!

$1599

Extra 25% OFF

With code “Fitness25” at checkout!

How to Become a Certified Personal Trainer in North Dakota

Step 1 – Choose Your Accredited Program

The first step to launching your fitness career is selecting an accredited program that employers recognize and trust. Accreditation ensures your certification meets national standards for safety, science-based training, and professional excellence. The Fitness Mentors Certified Personal Trainer (FM-CPT) program is one of the best personal trainer certifications in North Dakota, offering NCCA-aligned education that’s respected by gyms, health clubs, and wellness centers across the state. With Fitness Mentors, you’ll gain both the technical knowledge and business skills to stand out in North Dakota’s competitive fitness industry.

Step 2 – Study & Prepare Online

Flexibility is key to success. With the online personal trainer certification North Dakota program from Fitness Mentors, you can learn at your own pace through interactive lessons, video tutorials, quizzes, and mentorship support. Most students complete the program in 3–6 months, balancing studies with their current job or lifestyle. You’ll build confidence as you master anatomy, exercise science, and client programming all through a proven, student-friendly online platform.

Step 3 – Pass the FM-CPT Exam

Once your coursework is complete, you’ll take the FM-CPT certification exam, which includes 100 multiple-choice questions completed over two hours. A 70% passing score is required to earn your credential. Fitness Mentors provides practice exams and study guides to help you prepare with confidence. The exam tests your applied knowledge of exercise science, program design, and client safety, ensuring you’re fully ready to train clients in any professional setting.

Step 4 – Get CPR/AED Certified (if not yet)

Before working with clients, you must hold a valid CPR/AED certification. This ensures you’re equipped to respond in emergency situations and meet employer requirements. Fitness Mentors offers resources and recommendations to help you complete this step quickly and efficiently.

Step 5 – Start Training Clients

With your certification in hand, you’re ready to begin your new career! North Dakota offers endless opportunities to train clients in gyms, corporate wellness centers, private studios, or online. Many Fitness Mentors graduates also launch their own businesses, supported by Fitness Mentors Business Coaching and continuing education programs that help you grow your brand and income. Whether you’re in Grand Forks, Minot, and West Fargo, your journey as a certified personal trainer starts here.

About the Fitness Mentors CPT Program

Why Choose Fitness Mentors

The Fitness Mentors Certified Personal Trainer (FM-CPT) program is built to help aspiring trainers in North Dakota start and grow successful careers with confidence. Our certification is 100% online, offering complete flexibility so you can study on your schedule from anywhere in the state. You’ll receive lifetime mentorship and business support, guiding you beyond certification and into career success. Aligned with NCCA accreditation standards, the FM-CPT ensures your credentials are nationally recognized and respected by employers. Plus, Fitness Mentors provides bonus CEU courses and business tools, giving you everything you need to stand out in North Dakota’s competitive fitness industry.

Program Highlights

Our personal training certification course in North Dakota is designed to give you a deep understanding of the science and strategy behind effective fitness coaching. The curriculum covers key topics including anatomy, exercise science, program design, client assessments, nutrition basics, and business strategy everything you need to become a knowledgeable and confident professional. You’ll study through a combination of video lessons, interactive quizzes, textbooks, and practice exams, ensuring you’re fully prepared for both the certification exam and your real-world clients.

Payment Plans & Packages

Fitness Mentors makes certification accessible for everyone with affordable personal trainer certification in North Dakota. Choose from three flexible packages: Starter, Plus, and Ultimate to fit your learning goals and budget. Each package includes 0% interest payment plans, allowing you to invest in your career without financial stress. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking an advanced edge, there’s a Fitness Mentors CPT option designed to help you succeed.

"I am currently going through the online course for the Fitness Mentors' CPT exam and it is great stuff! The team at fitness mentors does a great job of laying out the material in an efficient and easier way to understand than other certifications do and it results in me absorbing the material better!"
Caleb
FM CPT
"I've had nothing but the best interactions with Fitness Mentors; first, with supplemental materials for my NASM certification study, then with completing their own CPT certification. Thank you, Eddie and Team Fitness Mentors for the high quality of service you provide."
Tamieca
FM CPT

Career Opportunities for Personal Trainers in North Dakota

Top Hiring Cities

North Dakota’s fitness industry is expanding across its major cities, offering promising opportunities for certified trainers. Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, and West Fargo each have a growing network of gyms, wellness centers, and private studios. Major employers such as Anytime Fitness, Planet Fitness, YMCA, and Snap Fitness are consistently hiring certified trainers to meet rising local demand. Whether you enjoy Fargo’s vibrant urban energy or Bismarck’s close-knit community atmosphere, fitness professionals are finding rewarding careers throughout the state.

Average Personal Trainer Salary in North Dakota

Personal trainers in North Dakota enjoy competitive earning potential and flexible career options. On average, trainers earn between $23 – $45 per hour, translating to an annual salary of $50,000–$65,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Those who offer private sessions, group fitness classes, or online coaching often earn more by expanding their client base beyond local gyms.

Online Training & Remote Coaching

The shift toward online fitness continues to create exciting new opportunities for trainers across North Dakota. With the Fitness Mentors CPT program, you’ll gain the skills to succeed both in-person and online—helping clients from anywhere. Whether you’re building a virtual coaching business from Bismarck or leading online programs for clients across the country, Fitness Mentors gives you the tools, confidence, and business knowledge to thrive in today’s hybrid fitness world.

Fitness Mentors Vs. Other Certifications

Fitness Mentors
NASM
ACE
ISSA
NCCA accreditation option
Best industry value CPT
Highest pass rate
20 CEU requirement
Lifetime expert guidance included
Business coaching included
After-hours and weekend support
Virtual coaching education included

Continuing Education & Renewal

Your certification is the foundation of your career, but continuing education keeps you at the top of your game. The Fitness Mentors Certified Personal Trainer (FM-CPT) credential is valid for 2 years. To renew your personal trainer certification in North Dakota, you’ll need to complete 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and maintain a current CPR/AED certification.

Fitness Mentors makes this process easy and affordable with a wide range of continuing education for trainers, including specialized CEU courses in Nutrition Coaching, Online Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, and Business Growth. These programs not only help you meet renewal requirements but also expand your skills, attract more clients, and increase your earning potential.

Start Your Personal Trainer Career in North Dakota

Whether you’re in Grand Forks, Minot, or West Fargo, there’s never been a better time to launch your fitness career. With North Dakota’s thriving health and wellness industry, you can turn your passion for fitness into a purpose-driven profession that transforms lives, including your own.

The Fitness Mentors CPT Program gives you everything you need to succeed: a flexible, 100% online certification, NCCA-aligned credibility, and affordable pricing options designed for real-life learners. You’ll gain expert knowledge, business confidence, and lifelong mentorship to help you thrive in any setting, from elite gyms to your own online fitness brand.

👉Enroll in the Fitness Mentors CPT Program today and start your certified fitness career in North Dakota 100% online, NCCA-aligned, and backed by industry experts.

“No matter your experience level, we have the course for you.”

“Even with 15 years of experience teaching fitness classes and aerobics, this course exceeded my expectations on ease of use, instruction guides, video tutorials, and format. Easily one of the best online courses available for aspiring trainers.” 

Habilitat, Inc.

North Dakota Personal Trainer FAQ

Do I need a license to be a personal trainer in North Dakota?

No. North Dakota does not issue a state license for personal trainers, but employers require a nationally recognized certification like FM-CPT.

How long does it take to get certified?

Most students complete their certification in 3–6 months, depending on study pace and schedule.

Is FM-CPT recognized by North Dakota gyms?

Yes. FM-CPT is NCCA-aligned and recognized by leading gyms and wellness centers throughout North Dakota.

How much do personal trainers make in North Dakota?

Trainers earn between $25 and $50 per hour, averaging $55,000–$70,000 per year, with higher earnings in major cities or private settings.

Can I complete my certification 100% online?

Absolutely. The Fitness Mentors CPT program is fully online and designed for flexible, self-paced learning anywhere in North Dakota.

"I am currently going through the online course for the Fitness Mentors' CPT exam and it is great stuff! The team at fitness mentors does a great job of laying out the material in an efficient and easier way to understand than other certifications do and it results in me absorbing the material better!"
Caleb
FM CPT
"I've had nothing but the best interactions with Fitness Mentors; first, with supplemental materials for my NASM certification study, then with completing their own CPT certification. Thank you, Eddie and Team Fitness Mentors for the high quality of service you provide."
Tamieca
FM CPT

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We care so much about your happiness with our certifications that we hired the best, nicest, most awesome human beings we could find to help with anything you need. We call them the Fitness Mentors Customer Happiness Team, and they’re your go-to when you need a recommendation, have a question, or just need a reason to smile.
Reach out to us to say hi!
(310) 227-9261

Still Unsure? Talk To A Coach!

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Coach Eddie

30 Minute Meeting

Web conferencing details provided upon confirmation.

I can’t wait to speak with you about your personal training goals and aspirations! Beginning your personal training career and growing in the fitness industry should be exciting and uplifting. That’s why I am here to help!

This will be a video call via google meet. Please find the link in the confirmation email. If you prefer to speak over the phone, feel free to dial in without video. Let’s schedule a time together to chat!