Code of Ethics

A Code of Ethics defines the requirements for the Personal Trainer that is acceptable within the industry, socially and professionally. A good overall atmosphere of conduct would be that likened to the professional relationship that you would expect your doctor to conduct with you. To strive for any less would be degrading to yourself, your company and your clients. Failure to adhere to the IFA Code of Ethics can result in a board review of the incident, which can result in a permanent revocation of your certification.

Ethics


IFA Code of Ethics

  • The client's health, safety, and interests are paramount.
  • Selling products to clients strictly to further your financial gain is discouraged.
  • Workout schedules should be based on client requirements and not the trainers financial goals.
  • Never promote products or services that are unproven or controversial.
  • Never initiate or encourage discussion of a sexual nature, maintain professionalism.
  • Keep physical touching to a minimum except to guide proper form.
  • Discontinue all touching if it appears to make the client uncomfortable.
  • Maintain all client information as confidential both spoken and written.
  • Keep within the boundaries of your certified expertise and training.
  • Refer clients to medical personnel rather than cross those boundaries.
  • Continually seek to further your educational growth through any means available.
  • Do not actively solicit clients away from other trainers or the company that employs you.
  • Be truthful and unambiguous in your advertising and in your client relationships.
  • Never discriminate against anyone for their race, beliefs or gender.
  • Avoid the use of all drugs including tobacco and alcohol.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle befitting a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor.
  • Never providing false references or documentation with regard to your qualifications.
  • Never professionally associate yourself with individuals who do not adhere to the above.

Discipline

An IFA Instructor's certification may be cancelled for conduct which, in the opinion of the Board of Review, is derogatory to the dignity of or inconsistent with the purposes of this institution. The cancellation of a certification may be ordered upon the unanimous vote of the members of the Board of Review, and only after such Instructor has been informed of the charges brought against them and has been given an opportunity to refute such charges in writing.

Recommended Reading

Ethics of Touch by Ben E. Benjamin and Cherie Sohnen-Moe.  Although aimed at the Physical Therapist, it applies to Personal Trainers as well as any profession that requires close contact with clients.

Updated: Sep 25, 2016