ACE Introduces Two New Certifications to Address Mental Health and Anti-Obesity Medications
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
The fitness industry is evolving rapidly, with mental health and pharmaceutical interventions like GLP-1 medications taking center stage in 2025. As the focus on mental well-being grows, fitness professionals are uniquely positioned to help clients manage stress, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life. At the same time, the rise of GLP-1 medications presents opportunities for fitness operators to address lean muscle loss and attract a new membership base seeking to enhance their health.
To meet these demands, the American Council on Exercise has introduced two new certifications: the Mental Well-Being Certification and Leveraging Anti-Obesity Medications for Optimal Client Outcomes.
Developed in partnership with the Mental Wellbeing Association, an initiative of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation, the Mental Well-Being Certification equips fitness professionals with evidence-based strategies to support clients through exercise, nutrition, mindfulness, and social connection. This 10-module course emphasizes creating safe, inclusive spaces to address mental health challenges and build emotional resilience.
"The growing interest in mental health highlights the undeniable link between movement and mental well-being," said Cedric X. Bryant, PhD, FACSM, ACE President and CEO. "Health and fitness professionals are uniquely positioned to guide clients in leveraging the mental health benefits of exercise as part of a comprehensive approach to overall wellness."
This certification integrates mental health into fitness practices, providing professionals with tools to address clients’ holistic needs and reduce stigmas surrounding emotional well-being.
ACE’s second certification, Leveraging Anti-Obesity Medications for Optimal Client Outcomes, addresses the increasing use of GLP-1 medications in weight management. Authored by Renee J. Rogers, PhD, FACSM, and Mike Hansen, the course focuses on understanding the physiological effects of these medications, the challenges faced by clients, and designing fitness programs that combat lean muscle loss.
"As anti-obesity medications become more prevalent, the health and fitness industry must adapt to meet the unique needs of clients using these treatments," said Bryant. "Health and exercise professionals need to be well-versed not only in the physiological effects of these medications but also in addressing the challenges, biases, and stigma that clients may face."
This course helps fitness professionals create effective, client-centered programs that optimize outcomes and position the fitness industry as a critical partner in overall health management.
Together, these certifications reflect the fitness industry's broader shift toward personalized and comprehensive health solutions. By focusing on mental health and the unique needs of clients using anti-obesity medications, the industry is adapting to evolving demands and positioning fitness professionals to better support diverse client goals.
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