Exercise Science: Independent Study

A course which is tailored to fit the interests of a specific student, which occurs outside the traditional classroom/laboratory setting under the supervision of a faculty member, for which credit is awarded. Offered at department discretion.

1-credit Personal Training Lab 12 weeks In-Person, Hands on Learning May 18 - August 7, 2026 Must be a Certified Personal Trainer Fee $30 for a Personal Trainer shirt and name tag S/U Grading

https://uvmcampusrec.com/sports/2017/7/5/training.aspx

This hands-on lab is designed for certified personal trainers who are ready to elevate their skills from memorization to mastery. Through guided mentorship and real-world practice, students will refine their critical thinking and coaching abilities by engaging in client intake, assessment, personalized program design, and effective training strategies. Emphasis is placed on meeting clients where they are, physically, emotionally, and motivationally, to deliver results that feel personal and impactful. By developing these essential skills, trainers will become more marketable in the competitive health and wellness industry. Students with practical experience and advanced coaching capabilities are better positioned to enter the field at higher pay rates and with greater confidence in their ability to create meaningful client outcomes. By developing these essential skills, trainers will become more marketable in the competitive health and wellness industry. Students with practical experience and advanced coaching capabilities are better positioned to enter the field at higher pay rates and with greater confidence in their ability to create meaningful client outcomes. Throughout this course, students will be mentored through the process of working with clients hands-on, from assessment to personalized training program design and implementation. Key focus areas include: • Building rapport and trust with clients • Conducting physiological and functional assessments • Designing, implementing, and modifying personalized programs • Facilitating meaningful behavior change • Applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills in real-world coaching scenarios Students will apply these skills in real-world settings at the UVM Campus Recreation Gucciardi Fitness Center, working with actual clients in a supportive environment.

• Attend all in-person classes • Dedicate 3–5 hours per week outside class for client assessment, programming, and training • Dress appropriately for physical activity and maintain professionalism • Actively participate and take initiative in all lab sessions training two clients

Assignments (Equipment Orientation, Client Intake, Assessment, Programming, Training Session): 50% Class Engagement: 25% Training Engagement (Lab): 25% Important Note: Credit for hands-on activities will only be awarded to students present in class; there are no make-up opportunities for missed in-class activities. Early departures, late arrivals, late assignment submission will impact your final grade.