Press Release

NASM’s AFAA Elevates Group Fitness Standards with NCCA Accreditation

Gilbert, AZ / Jan 20, 2026 / National Academy of Sports Medicine

National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM), the global leader in fitness and wellness content and certifications, announced today that the Certified Group Fitness Instructor (CGFI) program offered by its division, the Athletics and Fitness Association of America® (AFAA), has been awarded accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

This prestigious designation is widely recognized as the industry benchmark for excellence, confirming that the CGFI certification meets rigorous standards for validity, reliability, and professional practice. This distinction reinforces NASM’s and AFAA’s industry leadership, providing professionals, employers, and partners with absolute confidence in the value and recognition of the CGFI credential.

“Securing NCCA accreditation confirms our unwavering commitment to the integrity of the group fitness profession,” said Mike Fantigrassi, Head of Product at NASM. “We have dedicated significant resources to ensuring our exam and content reflect the modern demands of the industry. This accreditation signals to employers worldwide that AFAA instructors are not only passionate but possess the verified, evidence-based expertise required to lead safely and effectively.”

The accreditation process follows a comprehensive review and update of the program’s content and assessment protocols, ensuring alignment with current industry roles and requirements.

To learn more about the NCCA-accredited Certified Group Fitness Instructor (CGFI) program, visit www.nasm.org/gfi .

###
About National Academy of Sports Medicine®

NASM® is a global leader in evidence-based learning and certifications for fitness and wellness professionals. Building on over 35 years of expertise, NASM programs create a roadmap for fitness and wellness professionals to help their clients achieve better physical and mental performance in athletics and everyday life. NASM provides an industry-first training system, with the Optimum Performance Training (OPT™) model, creating robust courses and content based solely on science-backed research. Learn more at www.nasm.org.

Press Contact
FINN Partners
nasm@finnpartners.com
Strategic intelligence for the future of health.

We break down how fitness, wellness, and healthcare are converging — and what it means for business, culture, and capital.

No thanks.