NASM and VIDA Fitness Celebrate Five-Year Milestone of Inclusive Scholarship Program Supporting a More Diverse Future Fitness Leaders Industry

National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM), in partnership with VIDA Fitness, is proud to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the VIDA Fitness Inclusive Scholarship Program. Since its launch in October of 2020, this transformative initiative has been dedicated to removing financial and systematic barriers for aspiring personal trainers, particularly from underrepresented communities.

Marking this five-year milestone, the program celebrates the successful graduation and certification of nearly 80 fitness professionals. This initiative was founded on the belief that the fitness industry’s leaders should reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.

“This partnership is about tangible change, it’s about access, opportunity, and representation,” said Aaron Moore, President of Urban Advenventure Companies. “Watching these scholars turn their passion into a profession over these past five years has been a testament to what’s possible when we invest in talent from all backgrounds. We are building a stronger, more inclusive fitness community from the ground up, and we are incredibly proud of the impact.”

Empowering the Next Generation of Fitness Professionals

The program provides a comprehensive pathway from education to employment. Each year, up to 20 scholars are selected to receive a full scholarship package, which includes:

• Full access to NASM’s Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) course materials and exam
• A complimentary CPT hardcover textbook
• A unique promotional code for course access
• Participation in VIDA’s Personal Training Mentorship Program, featuring:
  • In-person and virtual workshops
  • Study sessions
  • Shadowing opportunities with VIDA trainers
  • Fireside chats and office hours for career guidance
• A Job Guarantee Program for certified graduates who meet all program requirements

Eligibility & Application Process

To qualify, applicants must:

• Live, work, or attend school in Washington, D.C., Maryland, or Virginia
• Demonstrate ambition and self-drive through leadership, work experience, or extracurricular involvement
• Show a strong interest in pursuing a career in personal training

Applications are accepted electronically only and are reviewed by VIDA’s Diversity & Inclusion Board. The next application window opens in January 2026.

Program Timeline

• March – July: Monthly workshops
• September: Shadowing and mentorship
• Post-certification: Scholars are encouraged to apply for personal trainer roles at VIDA

A Lasting Commitment to Equity in Fitness

“NASM is honored to provide the educational foundation for this critical program,” said David Van Daff, VP of Industry Affairs at NASM. “By providing our world-class CPT certification, we are empowering these scholars with the knowledge and credibility to excel. VIDA’s commitment to mentorship and guaranteed placement makes this a model partnership for the entire industry, and we congratulate them on five years of success.”

“This partnership is about more than education; it’s about access, opportunity, and representation,” said Moore. “We’re proud to continue investing in the future of fitness by supporting passionate individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.”

For more information on the program or to apply, visit the official VIDA Fitness Scholarship page at https://vidafitness.com/scholarship/