The National Federation of Professional Trainers was founded in 1988 and provides a certification credential that is amongst the most recognized in the industry, nationally and internationally. NFPT objectives are to:

• Ensure that the graduate has an accredited, legally defensible, and trustworthy credential
• Provide a comprehensive and applicable research-based education using state-of-the-art presentation
• Offer a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) credential for consumer and employer recognition of competence & professionalism
• Provide software, animated exercise demonstration, and on-going continuing education information to Certified Personal Trainers for improved support services
• Facilitate and encourage the exchange of ideas, knowledge, business experiences, and financial opportunities between NFPT's network of fitness trainer affiliates and professionals

The NFPT-CPT assessment is developed and independently governed by its Certification Council, designated staff members, and entities to include Schroeder Measurement Technologies (SMT). SMT provides services to include test development, grading and processing, and statistical analysis which ensures legal defensibility of the assessment. The NFPT Certification Council and its assignees have governance over NFPT certification policies and procedures while NFPT's Board of Education serves to research, develop, revise, and enhance the content and delivery of NFPT education material.