Although a specialized education-based organization, the NIHS does'nt just provide high quality certificates in personal training and senior fitness. We believe that fitness specialists should be trained to meet the demands of today's health market. That's why we offer specialized programs in injury management, disease management, nutrition/weight control and special populations. Our courses are designed by professionals to meet the exacting standards of the NIHS and provide the fitness professional with valuable information to improve their marketability. 

Today more than ever there is a greater demand for specialist skills from fitness specialists. Gone are the days where fitness professionals worked primarily with healthy athletes, bodybuilders, celebrities and the affluent. Today, the average person seeking a fitness specialist does so because they may have medical or health related problem and they desire to control those problems with a healthy lifestyle, or because they need to regain lost daily living skills due to sarcopenia or ill health. These problems may include diseases such as heart disease or diabetes; musculoskeletal problems such as low back pain; or risk factors such as high blood pressure or hyperlipidemia.

Our intention is not to replace physical therapy, treat or diagnose injuries or perform rehabilitation. Our intention is to work with those who have been referred to a health club or other exercise environment by their doctor. These people typically involve those who have completed therapy and require the next step, a structured continuation program, monitored by a professional who understands that clients health related needs, and understands what can and should be done to help optimize that client's program. The NIHS prepares trainers to fit this role.