CCFT CandidateHandbook
CCFT CandidateHandbook
CROSSFIT
TRAINER CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
ISO/IEC 17024
Personnel Certification
Program
#0994
DV4.1-20190205R1KW
© 2019 CrossFit, Inc. CrossFit is a registered trademark of CrossFit, Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, modified, used, published or distributed without the prior written authorization of CrossFit, Inc.
CERTIFIED CROSSFIT TRAINER
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
SCOPE OF PRACTICE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
ACCREDITATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
THE EXAMINATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
CONTENT OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
EXAMINATION DAY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
MAINTAINING CERTIFICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
STEP 1:
ABIDE BY THE STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE. . . . . . . . . . 34
STEP 2:
MAINTAIN CURRENT CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR)
CERTIFICATE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
STEP 3:
COMPLETE CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. . . . . . . . . . 37
STEP 4: COMPLETE ONGOING COACHING HOURS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
STEP 5:
SUBMIT RECERTIFICATION FEES AND VERIFY
CONTACT INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
CANDIDATE/CERTIFICANT AGREEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
FORMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
About CrossFit
CrossFit, Inc. is an international organization dedicated to improving health through nutrition
and exercise. CrossFit is founded on the first precise, scientifically rigorous definition of fitness,
and the methodology produces observable results that can be measured and replicated.
The purpose of a certification program is to ensure that an individual possesses the standard
knowledge and skill set required to train clients effectively. The CCFT is designed to assess experi-
enced trainers rather than entry-level trainers. This is achieved by requiring a significant number
of practical coaching hours to apply and by including examination questions that require the
candidate to utilize knowledge gained from his or her coaching experience.
The CrossFit Certification Board has set these standards with the expectation of continued
learning and the application of new knowledge through ongoing coaching hours. The
continuing education and coaching requirements serve to assist in the advancement of profes-
sional accountability in the community of CrossFit Trainers.
• Assesses, monitors, and develops exercise programming based on the athlete’s current
and ongoing fitness and performance goals, fitness level, readiness for training, perfor-
mance (relative to goals, level, and readiness for training), lifestyle patterns, diet, and
nutritional needs.
• Educates and motivates athletes towards exercise-program success and sound nutri-
tional and lifestyle strategies.
• Minimizes and manages risk for the athlete in the training facility, is prepared for emer-
gency situations, and responds appropriately when they occur.
ACCREDITATION, continued
Accreditation
Accreditation is a voluntary process in which a third party verifies that an organization’s certifi-
cation program meets national standards and best-practice guidelines. This verification requires
an extensive review and audit process to ensure all certification and recertification requirements
are goal driven, based on objective data, and follow the organization’s documented policies
and procedures.
CrossFit, Inc. chose to develop and maintain its certification program to meet the American
National Standards Institute/International Organization for Standardization 17024 - Standard for
Certification of Persons. ANSI was selected as the accrediting body due to its recognized status
as the national and international authority in accreditation of personnel certification programs
attributable to the high standards to which certification bodies are held. The accreditation
application process was initiated in 2013 and was successfully completed in 2015. All individuals
who obtain the CCFT credential are awarded an accredited certification.
ANSI is the only U.S. accrediting body which belongs to the International Accreditation Forum
(IAF). All members of IAF have adopted the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
personnel certifications standards. This is important because the ISO standard represents best
practices developed by subject-matter expects from an international community. These standards
were developed to ensure consistency and quality. Accreditation by ANSI represents that the
CCFT is accredited to international standards. The CCFT is the first and only fitness certification
accredited to an international standard.
The CCFT credential was developed and is currently administered to meet the ANSI/ISO/IEC
17024 standard. In addition to adopting ANSI requirements, the examination was developed
following standards used by the American Psychological Association, the American Educational
Research Association, and the National Council on Measurement in Education.
ACCREDITATION, continued
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants become eligible to take the Certified CrossFit Trainer examination upon successfully
documenting the following requirements:
AGE
Current CrossFit Level 2 Trainer certificate† 1,500 hours of active strength and condi-
tioning coaching at the collegiate or
and professional level. Hours need to have
occurred for groups or individuals during
750 hours of coaching CrossFit for groups employment for a college/university or
or individuals. Hours must be accrued while professional sports team and must have
candidate’s Level 1 or 2 certificate is current been accumulated in the last five years.††
and must have been accumulated within
the last five years. †† Hours must be spent directly training
athletes using GPP-based strength and
† CrossFit credentials will be automatically conditioning; sport-specific training does
verified by CFHQ, but coaching hours must not count for this requirement. Hours must
be verified by a qualified individual at time be verified by a qualified professional at time
of application. of application.
MEDICAL
Note: Only certificates which include AED instruction in the curriculum will be accepted.
††† Ongoing maintenance of CPR training is required every two years and proof of a current
certificate may be requested by the CrossFit Certification Department at any time.
Candidates must agree to abide by the CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice and
apply these principles to their use of the Certified CrossFit Trainer credential at all times.
• Respect and promote the rights, welfare, and dignity of all individuals to participate in
exercise and provide competent, fair, and equal treatment to all individuals regardless
of gender, age, disability, occupation, ethnic origin, color, cultural background, marital
status, sexual orientation, religion, or political opinion.
• Uphold and enhance public appreciation and trust for CrossFit and CrossFit Trainers.
CrossFit Trainers will not engage in any behavior that adversely affects CrossFit or
compromises their professional responsibility both within their practice and publicly
(to include all forms of social media).
• Have a sincere commitment to provide the highest quality of care to those who seek
the professional services of a CrossFit Trainer.
• Act in the client’s best interest in order to respect the client’s privacy and dignity,
protect the client from harm, and advocate for the client’s welfare.
VERIFICATION OF ELIGIBILITY
Candidates must provide proof of completion of all eligibility requirements at the time of appli-
cation. A third-party individual is required to verify the coaching hours for both Path 1 and Path
2 candidates. An applicant may not act as their own verifying professional. Any application
which does not include this third-party verification will be returned to the candidate for revisions.
Applicants should be prepared to provide a list of the classes coached, whether it is an individual
logbook, a coaching summary from business management software, or proof of payment from
an employer. Any attempt to falsify eligibility requirements is a direct violation of the CrossFit
Standards of Professional Practice and will be cause for rejection of the application and/or
revocation of certification.
All eligibility requirements are subject to random or systematic audits for verification purposes.
The audit process is explained in greater detail in the Recertification section of this handbook.
1. The candidate must meet all eligibility requirements and initiate an application on
the Certifications website by logging in with a current CFID or by creating a new CFID
account. When the application form is complete, the candidate will pay the application
fee of US$150 and the application will be submitted for approval.
This application fee is nonrefundable even if the application is rejected. However, the
candidate will have one year to submit a complete application at no additional cost.
After one year from the original application date, the candidate will need to reapply
and pay the standard application fee again.
2. After the application has been approved, the candidate will receive an email
notification to pay the examination fee. Once the exam fee is paid, the candidate will
be directed to Pearson VUE website to schedule an exam.
3. The candidate must visit the provided website to schedule the examination
appointment. As long as all eligibility requirements remain current, the candidate
has one year from the date their application was accepted to schedule, take, and
pass the exam.
4. The candidate must take the examination at the confirmed location, date, and time as
indicated in the email confirmation sent from Pearson VUE.
• Application fees
Deadlines
Candidates have one year from the payment of the application fee to submit a complete appli-
cation. After one year, the candidate must reapply and pay the standard fee again.
Candidates have one year from the date of the accepted application to take and pass the exam-
ination. If a candidate does not successfully pass the exam during this period, the candidate
must reapply and pay the standard application fee again.
If a candidate’s eligibility requirements (e.g., CPR or L2) become invalid during the one-year
exam authorization period, the exam authorization will be placed on hold until the candidate
produces evidence of updated training or revalidation.
Examination Sites
Certified CrossFit Trainer examinations are administered worldwide at Pearson VUE testing centers.
For a current list of the testing center locations, visit the CrossFit examination section of the
Pearson VUE website.
To schedule online, go to the CrossFit examination section of the Pearson VUE website and click
on “Schedule Online.” The candidate will be prompted to create a login and password and then
schedule the exam.
To schedule by phone, go to the CrossFit examination section of the Pearson VUE website and
click on “Schedule by Phone” to find the phone number and hours of operation for the call center
for the appropriate country. A customer-service agent will work with the candidate to find the
most convenient testing center and time.
Candidates are urged to schedule exams as soon as convenient after application approval. The
exam authorization is valid for one year from the date of approval; after that, it will be necessary
to reapply and pay an additional application fee.
Fees
The current non-refundable application fee is US$150. The current examination fee is US$500.
In the event the candidate fails the certification exam, retest fees are US$250. This reduced fee is
applicable for one year from the date of the approved application. After one year, if a candidate
does not pass, he or she must reapply and pay all applicable fees.
The three-year recertification fee is US$250. This must be accompanied by all recertification
requirements, including current CPR certificate, Continuing Professional Development Activity
Log, and proof of required coaching hours.
In the event the certification is allowed to expire, the candidate must reapply and pay all
applicable fees.
Language
While the CCFT examination is offered internationally at Pearson VUE testing centers, it is
currently only available in English.
Accommodation Request forms are available in the Forms section of this handbook. The
CrossFit Certification Department may submit information regarding the stated disability and
requested accommodation to its own expert advisers and reserves the right to provide only
those reasonable accommodations required by law.
Incomplete Applications
Incomplete applications will be rejected. The applicant will receive a notification indicating
the reason for the rejected application as well as instructions on how to complete the missing
requirement(s). Applicants will have one year from the date of initial application to fulfill the
request for information and submit a completed application.
Cancellation/Fee Refund
The examination fee is refundable (minus US$50 processing fee) if the candidate notifies the CrossFit
Certification Department that he or she no longer wants to take the exam. This notice must be submitted
in writing to [email protected]. For exams that have been scheduled, a cancellation notifica-
tion must be received one week prior to the exam date. To cancel an exam that has been paid for but
not scheduled, notification must be given 48 hours prior to the application expiration date.
Candidates may reschedule an exam (by phone or online) without penalty up to 48 hours before
their appointment. Candidates may make a new appointment – without incurring a fee – then
or at another time. If a candidate fails to keep an appointment without canceling on time, he or
she will be considered a no-show and will forfeit the exam fee.
No-Shows
A candidate who does not show up for an examination appointment without at least 48 hours
notice will be considered a no-show. Likewise, a candidate who arrives late and is not admitted,
fails to present adequate identification, or refuses the Nondisclosure Agreement, will not be
allowed to take the exam and will be considered a no-show.
A no-show is treated like a failed exam. No-shows will only be allowed to schedule a new exam
appointment upon payment of the US$250 retest fee.
• Candidate submits written verification and supporting documentation of the situation to the
CrossFit Certification Department within 30 days of the original examination date. This verifi-
cation and supporting documentation must be submitted to [email protected].
If such a request is not made, the candidate will forfeit the full examination fee and be
considered a no-show.
Examination Format
The Certified CrossFit Trainer examination consists of a 160 multiple-choice questions. Some
of the questions include tables, drawings, photographs, or video clips. Of the questions, 140
count toward the score. The remaining 20 are not scored but are included for a practice known
as “pretesting.” Pretesting means that these items are being evaluated for potential inclusion
on future examinations as scored questions. To ensure the CCFT exam is up to date, secure, and
always improving, new questions must be continuously introduced and evaluated. Pretesting is
an accepted testing practice that helps ensure high quality and consistent scoring. The scored
and unscored questions are spread throughout the examination; candidates should answer all
160 questions to the best of their ability.
Candidates have 3 hours and 55 minutes to complete the exam, which is administered through a
networked personal computer. The testing program allows candidates to move freely through the
exam, change answers, mark questions for later attention, skip questions, and review questions.
Taking the examination requires little or no computer experience. Candidates are encouraged to
review the FAQ, test taking tips, and view the computer-based test
demo that can be found on Pearson VUE’s test taker page.
Sharing information can
An exam appointment will last four hours. At the beginning of
be a good thing, but
the exam, candidates have up to five minutes to agree to the
not when it comes to
Nondisclosure Agreement. If candidates do not agree to the
examination content.
Nondisclosure Agreement, they are not allowed to take the exam and
also forfeit the exam fee. Please review the Nondisclosure Agreement
When you take a CrossFit
(below) prior to taking the CCFT exam.
exam, you agree to not
disclose information in
Nondisclosure Agreement for Examinations
any format about exam
Developed For CrossFit, Inc.
questions and answers.
This examination is confidential and is protected by trade secrets law.
It is made available to you, the examinee, solely for the purpose of
This includes talking
becoming certified as a CrossFit Trainer. You understand, acknowl-
publicly about exam
edge, and agree:
items in classes, on
message boards, and/
• that the questions and answers of the exam, including
or social media (e.g.,
exhibits, are the exclusive and confidential property of
Facebook). It also includes
CrossFit, Inc., are protected by copyright, and are protected
discussing exam material
by CrossFit, Inc.’s intellectual property rights;
privately with your
friends, clients, students,
• not to disclose the exam questions or answers, including
colleagues, supervisors,
exhibits, or discuss any of the content of the exam
mentors, or coaches.
materials with any person without prior written approval of
CrossFit, Inc.;
• not to remove from the examination room any exam material of any kind provided to
you or any other material related to the exam, including, without limitation, any notes
or calculations;
• not to sell, license, distribute, give away, or obtain from any source other than
CrossFit, Inc. the exam materials, questions, or answers; that your obligations under this
agreement shall continue to be in effect after the examination and, if applicable, after
termination of your certification, regardless of the reason or reasons for termination,
and whether such termination is voluntary or involuntary.
Examination Development
Development of this credential was based on a practice analysis: a study of the roles and respon-
sibilities of the CrossFit Training profession. The study, guided by industry leaders in certification
standards and psychometric services, began with a survey of over 2,000 CrossFit affiliates. In
the survey, affiliates identified and ranked the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to be
an effective trainer. From this, an examination content outline was developed, and questions
were written according to this outline.
Content experts were invited to be on the CrossFit Item Writing Committee, which was respon-
sible for developing the examination questions. These experts represented the fields of CrossFit
training, general strength and conditioning, sport coaching, physical medicine, education, and
nutrition; they received training to develop content that meets industry standards. The questions
underwent extensive review by this committee and the Certification Board to ensure that they
were technically accurate, unambiguous, and clearly stated. After initial testing, the examination
results were subject to statistical analysis to ensure quality and fairness in testing.
Working under the guidance of testing consultants and psychometricians, a group of content
experts used the widely accepted Modified Angoff method to recommend the passing score
for the initial examination forms. The CrossFit Certification Board used this recommendation
and additional data to determine the passing score. Additionally, the exam was developed in
accordance with ANSI 17024 standards for security, impartiality, and transparency.
Examination Forms
There are multiple forms of the examination, each following the content outline noted in
subsequent pages. While candidates have the possibility to receive different exam forms, each
form remains statistically equivalent in the domains assessed, number of multimedia content
included, and difficulty level.
Examination Oversight
The CrossFit Certification Board is the oversight group responsible for the certification review
process. The Certification Board is in charge of approving the current content outline, as well
as future content outline additions or revisions. The Board periodically reviews examination
analysis data to examine if individual exam items are performing to standard and ensure the
exam forms remain equivalent in testing performance.
A new practice analysis is conducted every five years as a part of the review process. This study
is compared to the previous practice analysis to determine what changes are needed to either
the content outline or examination forms. The Board and Item Writing Committee engage in
ongoing review of the exam content and develop new exam forms to reflect updates in the
latest standards of CrossFit Training.
The process of maintaining the CCFT examination is guided by Authentic Testing, a firm that
specializes in developing, administering, and maintaining licensure and certification programs.
This professional guidance, and along with strict certification policies and procedures, ensure
quality and adherence to ANSI 17024 standards.
This material is intended to provide knowledge to support CrossFit training skills. Candidates
should not attempt to memorize the content in the study material. The exam questions are not
necessarily taken directly from these sources. Instead, candidates should attempt to understand
the concepts presented and be able to apply them to training scenarios.
Study material can be found on the Certifications website. The CrossFit Certification Department
does not intend the list to imply endorsement of these specific references.
The content outline may serve as a study guide in preparation for the exam. All areas assessed
by the exam, and their relative weightings, are outlined within. There are six main domains (or
subject areas) of the exam:
2. Programming
3. Teaching
4. Coaching
Each domain has tasks within it that are necessary of an effective trainer. Each task has skills
needed to accomplish the task, and the knowledge required to demonstrate that ability.
Candidates can assess their readiness for the exam by evaluating: 1) their ability to demonstrate
the skills in their regular coaching practice; and 2) their knowledge relative to that presented
in the study material.
• Read each question thoroughly and carefully. Understand what the question is asking
and attempt to anticipate the answer before looking at the available choices.
• Take each question at face value. There are no questions that are intended to be
misleading, and there is only one possible answer for each question. Choose the best
answer.
• Flag questions for review and return to them later if unsure of an answer. Do not
spend excessive time on one item at the expense of others. Each question is weighted
equally.
• Watch videos a second time, if needed, but avoid utilizing a lot of time watching videos
repeatedly. Again, flag them for review and return to them with any remaining time.
• With any remaining time, provide an answer for any questions left blank.
• Work quickly but not carelessly. The time limit to complete 160 questions is 3 hours 55
minutes. Budget the time wisely.
Candidates need two forms of identification for admission: a primary ID and a secondary ID.
The name that appears on the two forms of identification must match the name under which the
candidate is registered to take the exam. Do not register under a nickname! If a name change
is needed, candidates must contact [email protected] five business days before the
testing appointment to change the name on the record.
• Passport†
• Military ID†
†The primary ID must contain a photo and signature unless the signature is embedded in the iden-
tification. When this occurs, the candidate must present another form of signature identification
from the primary or secondary list.
Candidates will receive an erasable note board or a small notebook consisting of erasable and
reusable pages for use during the exam. They are to be returned to the exam administrator at
the completion of the exam.
Biometrics
As part of Pearson VUE’s test-security program, a palm-vein scan is required at some testing
centers. An electronic signature and digital photo are required at all centers.
Dismissal
Any candidate who is observed engaging in any misconduct will be subject to dismissal from the
examination, may be barred from future exams for a period ranging from one year to permanent
dismissal, and may be required to forfeit his or her current exam fee and/or period of eligibility.
Testing-center proctors or exam administrators are authorized to take immediate and appropri-
ate measures against candidates who are caught violating testing rules. The candidate is entitled
to appeal the dismissal determination through the formal appeals process.
Inclement Weather
It is the policy of Pearson VUE to remain open whenever possible. However, if any candidate
is unable to arrive at a designated examination site because of inclement weather, terrorist
acts, a natural disaster, or other unforeseen emergencies beyond control of the candidate, the
candidate will be allowed to take the next scheduled exam without being charged a retest fee.
If for any reason the exam is unable to be administered, then the candidate will be given as
much notice as possible, and the exam will be rescheduled within a reasonable period of time.
Candidates may take the exam at the next administration without being charged a retest fee.
Candidates are responsible for any related expenses for retesting.
Examination Irregularities
Any problems, suspected instances of cheating, alleged inappropriate examination adminis-
tration, environmental testing conditions severe enough to cause disruption of the process, or
other irregularities related to exam administration should be addressed to the onsite proctor or
to test center staff. All such matters will be reported, investigated, and subject to further action
based upon certification policies and procedures.
Handling of Examinations
The CrossFit Certification Department takes all available precautions to ensure the appropriate
and secure handling of completed examinations. In the rare and extreme case in which the exam
results become lost or unreadable, candidates will be required to undergo retesting without
being charged a retest fee. Candidates are responsible for any related expenses for retesting.
Notification of Results
Candidates will be notified of their unofficial results on-site upon completion of their examina-
tion. Official results, which are issued by the CrossFit Certification Department, will be sent via
email within seven to 10 days after the exam. Candidates who pass the CCFT exam will receive
a report indicating a passed exam. No numerical score is given.
Candidates who do not pass the exam will receive a diagnostic report which contains an outline
of their performance in each of the exam domains. Each domain is weighted differently, as
indicated by the percentages documented in the content outline above. This means participants
cannot average scores across subject areas to determine a specific score. Subject-area analysis
is provided solely for the purposes of preparing for the next exam. No numerical score is given.
Due to issues of exam item security, CrossFit, Inc., its employees, and other representatives
cannot provide information on the exact questions that were answered incorrectly.
Certification
Candidates who pass the CCFT examination will be awarded a CCFT certificate. All certificates
are non-transferrable.
Certified individuals may refer to themselves as Certified CrossFit Trainers and list the certifica-
tion as a personal credential on stationary, website bios, business cards, and other materials as:
Credential holders may state they are Certified CrossFit Trainers but shall not state or imply that
they are registered or licensed, nor shall they use any other titles or designations to signify the
attainment of the certification other than those identified in this handbook.
Should the certification be suspended or revoked for any reason, the individual must imme-
diately cease the use of the certification designation and acronym on stationary, website bios,
business cards, and any other materials (to include all print or electronic materials).
The CCFT designation does not allow for the use of the CrossFit name, slogans, artwork, photos, or
content from the CrossFit Journal or website in any other business or promotional manner. Only
CrossFit Affiliation grants the legal right to use the CrossFit name for business or promotional
purposes. A separate affiliate application and licensing agreement are required to become a
CrossFit affiliate and use the CrossFit name for business or promotional purposes.
Retesting
In the event that a candidate fails the examination, the CrossFit Certification Department requires
a waiting period of 90 days between all retest attempts.
Candidates who fail or no-show their appointment are permitted to sit for the next exam admin-
istration for a fee of US$250. This reduced fee is applicable for one year from the date of the
approved application. After one year, if a candidate does not pass the exam, he or she must
reapply and pay all applicable fees.
When the candidate is eligible to retake the exam, an email notification is sent from the
Certification Department with the necessary instructions to pay for and reschedule a new exam.
This notice will only be sent if the candidate’s application is still valid.
Appeals
An appeal is defined as a formal request to the CrossFit Certification Department for special
consideration of accommodation related to an individual’s certification status. Appeals will be
considered for:
• Examination irregularities
• Suspension/revocation of certification
A sound rationale regarding the need for special consideration must be provided by the
appellant. Note: an appeal is not an avenue for requesting a passing score on a failed exam.
Submission of an Appeal
An appeal must be submitted within 30 days of the notification of an adverse decision by the
CrossFit Certification Department. Individuals must submit a completed Appeals Application
via email to [email protected] with the word “Appeal” and the appellant’s name in the
subject line of the email.
The Appeals Application is included in the Forms section of this handbook. Appeals are not
accepted in any other format. All relevant supporting documentation must be included or
referenced in the appeal submission.
Initial Review
The Certification Department staff shall review appeals within 10 business days of receipt. A
response will be sent to the appellant via email.
Initial Response
The response will be one of:
• Appeal Granted by the Certification Department, along with further instructions for
the appellant as needed.
• Appeal Denied by the Certification Department, along with an explanation for the denial
and/or information on an alternate course of action if applicable. The denial will include
information on appellant’s further recourse if appellant wishes to pursue the appeal.
• Appeal Forwarded to the Appeals Board, with information for the appellant about how
he/she will be contacted to present the appeal.
• Appeal Delayed to provide time to gather further information. Within 30 days appel-
lant will be sent either a Denial or Appeal Forwarded notification.
Upon receipt, the Certification Department staff shall review the appeal. If the matter is adminis-
trative and can be handled at the staff level, a decision will be made and the appellant informed.
If further action is required, the Certification Department staff shall request evaluation of the
appeal by the Appeals Board. The individuals must be impartial and have no conflict of interest
with the appeal. Where conflict of interest exists, or is perceived to exist, it will be disclosed,
and the Appeals Board member will recuse himself or herself from the case. The Director of
Certification will then appoint another certificant to evaluate the appeal.
The Appeals Board shall meet by email within 30 days of receipt of the appeal. All determinations
regarding appeals shall be made by simple majority vote of the Appeals Board. Written notice
of the Appeals Board determination shall be provided to the candidate via email. Appeals Board
determinations are final.
Complaints
A complaint is defined as a communication submitted to the CrossFit Certification Department
in which an individual explicitly expresses dissatisfaction regarding a Certified CrossFit Trainer
or any aspect of the certification program.
Certification Board is notified. The complaint will be reviewed by the Certification Board and a
decision shall be communicated to the complainant within a period of no longer than 60 days. The
determination of staff or a Certification Board is appealable and the Appeals policy shall apply.
The complaint and all related documentation shall be dealt with in a strictly confidential manner.
• Once a complaint is filed, the complainant agrees to hold in strict confidence, and will
not announce or promote in any manner, or use personal or chapter communication
vehicles to announce filing of a complaint.
• The Certification Board will submit a written report of its findings within sixty (60)
working days of receiving all further requested supporting information.
• Within ten working days of the written report findings being accepted, the findings of
the Certification Board will be communicated to the subject of the complaint.
• Warning— A written warning and notice of such shall remain in the certificant’s file
and articulate clearly the consequences if the situation occurs again, or if there is
another violation.
The subject of the complaint may appeal the disciplinary actions. The CrossFit Appeals
Policy shall apply.
Disciplinary Process
If a Certified CrossFit Trainer is found to be in violation of the Standards of Professional Practice,
his or her certification can be suspended and ultimately revoked.
The CrossFit Certification Board also reserves the right to suspend or revoke any certification
based on other unprofessional practices by an applicant or certificant, including but not limited to:
4. Illegal use of CrossFit’s name, slogans, artwork, photos, or content from the CrossFit
Journal or website.
6. Any behavior that negatively impacts the health and welfare of clients.
This process entails completing all five steps outlined below. There are maintenance activities,
including continuing to abide by CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice and maintaining
a current CPR certificate. There are development activities, including completing continuing
education and engaging in a minimum number of coaching hours per year. There are also
administrative tasks, including updating contact information and paying recertification fees.
Each step is explained in greater detail below.
STEP 1
Abide by CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice
STEP 2
Maintain current CPR certificate
STEP 3
Complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activity requirements
STEP 4
Complete 300 contact hours coaching individuals or groups
STEP 5
Submit payment for recertification fees and verify contact information
STEP 1
The CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice should guide the Certified CrossFit Trainer or
candidate in work with any client. In these Standards of Professional Practice, the term “client”
includes any other individual or individuals with whom the trainer interacts. If a Certified CrossFit
Trainer is found to be in violation of these standards, his or her certification can be suspended
and ultimately revoked.
• Act in accordance to all applicable national and local laws and regulations, which
include all applicable business, employment, copyright, and intellectual-property laws.
• Respect and promote the rights, welfare, and dignity of all individuals to participate in
exercise and provide competent, fair, and equal treatment to all individuals regardless
of gender, age, disability, occupation, ethnic origin, color, cultural background, marital
status, sexual orientation, religion, or political opinion.
• Uphold and enhance public appreciation and trust for CrossFit and CrossFit Trainers.
CrossFit Trainers will not engage in any behavior that adversely affects CrossFit or
compromises their professional responsibility both within their practice and publicly
(to include all forms of social media).
• Have a sincere commitment to provide the highest quality of care to those who seek
the professional services of a CrossFit Trainer.
• Act in the client’s best interest in order to respect the client’s privacy and dignity and
protect the client from harm, always advocating for the client’s welfare.
STEP 1, CONTINUED
• Refer athletes or clients to more qualified fitness, medical, or healthcare professionals
when appropriate.
STEP 2
Note: Only certificates which include AED instruction in the curriculum will be accepted.
STEP 3
CPD Objectives
• Improve overall competency and accountability of CCFTs.
• Advance the CrossFit Training profession by expanding the knowledge base and skill
level of CCFTs.
1. Complete the Learning Needs Assessment (LNA). Candidates cannot document proof
of continuing education until the LNA has been completed. The LNA is completed
online in the candidate’s Certification account. It is recommended, though not
required, to submit this survey within 90 days of the beginning of the recertification
interval to guide professional-development decisions.
3. Submit verification of completed CPD activities and corresponding CEU totals in the
Activity Log. Candidates can access their Activity Log online in their Certification
account once the LNA has been completed. This log must be completed and all other
required documentation must be submitted prior to the end of the recertification
interval. Submissions can be ongoing throughout the recertification interval.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
The Activity Log to track CEUs will not become active until this form is completed.
On the Learning Needs Assessment, certificants rate their knowledge in the areas on a scale of 1-3:
STEP 3, CONTINUED
A list of approved activities can be found on the Continuing Education page of the
Certifications website.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
• CrossFit Courses and Seminars may be attended multiple times, but CEUs will
only count once during a single recertification interval unless otherwise noted in
the course description.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
STEP 3, CONTINUED
• Webinars must be in real time with the opportunity to interact with the
presenter.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
Continuing medical
education (CME) seminars
1 CEU per contact hour Certificate of attendance
Continuing education
seminars for healthcare
providers*
* MD, PT, OT, ATC, RD, PA, RN, RT, PharmD, LMP
STEP 3, CONTINUED
• Authored journal articles can be counted for credit for original content; credit
will not be given for review articles. Article must be published within the
recertification interval.
• CEUs for advisory board participation or as a speaker/panelist will only count one
time per topic.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
Letter of acknowledgment
Exam item writer 1 CEU per contact hour from organization’s exam-
writing coordinator
STEP 3, CONTINUED
Approved Providers
Approved Providers are groups or individuals who provide quality training programs and
offer continuing education units (CEUs) for the purpose of meeting professional-development
requirements. Approved Providers must meet the CrossFit Certification Department’s standards
for continuing education. Providers attest to uphold these standards for each approved course
in order to maintain Approved Provider status.
CrossFit, Inc. is an Approved Provider and a list of all Approved Providers can be found here.
Certificants can submit an individual request for approval by following the instructions below:
1. Prior to enrollment, the certificant should login to his or her Certification account and
complete the online CEU Approval Request form.
• Instructor Biographies - The course provider must have current bios for all lead
instructors and/or individuals responsible for the development or delivery of the
course content. This information should be publicly available or furnished upon
request to potential course participants. Course sponsors and instructors must be
free from commercial bias and be in good standing with CrossFit, Inc.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
• Continuing Education Units (CEUs) - CEUs must be clock-hour based. The course
material must specify the requirements for satisfactory completion in order to
achieve CEUs. Criteria for satisfactory completion may be based on performance
and/or written assessments consistent with demonstrated learning outcomes or
may be tied to attendance alone.
• Disclosures - Course providers must publicly disclose any relevant financial and
non-financial relationships that may have the appearance of a conflict of interest. It
must be clear that the purpose of each course is educational and does not intend
to promote a product or service. This information should be available to potential
participants in registration materials.
• Content Review - All courses or activities are subject to a content review to ensure
that it is within the scope of a Certified CrossFit Trainer or falls under other acceptable
activities as outlined in the Professional-Development Activity Type tables.
3. Consideration will be given to courses that were attended without pre-approval. These
activities must have been completed within the three-year recertification interval
dates printed on the CCFT certificate. To request approval and credit for a class that
has already been attended, submit the online CEU Approval Request form and pay the
US$25 administrative fee. Submission of this request is not a guarantee of approval.
5. Denial of credit does not mean that the credential holder cannot take the course
or complete the project. It only means CEUs will not be recognized by the CrossFit
Certification Department for use toward CCFT recertification.
The CrossFit Certification Department reserves the right to accept or reject courses and/or
course content at its sole discretion based on the standards in this Handbook and in department
policies and procedures.
Activity Log
The Activity Log in the Certification account is where all accrued CEUs are tracked. Certificants
must submit an entry on the Activity Log for each professional-development activity completed
in the current recertification interval. A minimum of 50 CEUs must be acquired and logged
before the certification expires. Approved courses can be logged by selecting courses from
STEP 3, CONTINUED
the drop-down menu directly in the Activity Log. Courses not listed in the Activity Log can be
submitted for approval by completing a CEU Approval Request form.
Note: the Activity Log will only be activated after the completion of the LNA.
For professional-development activities that do not issue a certificate, the participant is required
to submit a Professional Development Participant Form. See the Professional-Development
Activity Types table for activity examples. Upload the completed form (including signature) to
the Activity Log. Incomplete forms will not be accepted.
Audits
To maintain standards of accreditation and ensure compliance with eligibility requirements
and ongoing educational activities, the CrossFit Certification Department conducts audits for a
certain percentage of certified individuals. An audit is an in-depth review of a certificant’s docu-
mentation for the purpose of certification and recertification. This may require the certificant
to submit verification of completed coaching hours, current CPR training, and/or verification
of CEUs (ranging from actual certificates of attendance to official copies of transcripts) from
professional-development activities. Audits can be conducted to verify any certification or recer-
tification requirements.
Detailed instructions are emailed to the certificant with an official notification in the event of
an audit. Original documentation of the requested documentation must be submitted to the
CrossFit Certification Department for review, which must be dated or postmarked within 30
days from the date of the audit-notification letter. In addition to routine audits, the CrossFit
Certification Department reserves the right to audit any individual at any time.
STEP 3, CONTINUED
STEP 4
STEP 5
Verification of contact information is critical for communication regarding CCFT information and
updates. Certificants should update all contact information prior to the end of the recertification
interval in order to ensure timely transfer of information.
»» Submit change of address, phone number, or email address in the account settings on
the Certifications website
Active – Certification is in good standing. Individuals may practice in accordance with certifica-
tion requirements set forth by the CrossFit Certification Board. Individuals with an Active status
may represent themselves as Certified CrossFit Trainers and use the CCFT designation. Active
certificants will be listed in the CrossFit Trainer Directory as a CCFT.
STEP 5, CONTINUED
the notice of suspension. If an individual fails to submit an appeal within this timeframe, the
certification will be revoked.
Revoked – Certification is permanently revoked after individual is suspended and an appeal for
reinstatement has been denied by the Certification Board or has not been submitted within the
one-month window for appeals. Upon this determination, individuals will be listed as “Revoked”
in the CrossFit Trainer Directory and may no longer represent themselves as Certified CrossFit
Trainers or use the CCFT designation.
All five recertification requirements must be met by the end of the recertification interval or the
certificant’s status is considered expired and he or she will no longer be able to represent himself
or herself as a Certified CrossFit Trainer during this time. Completion of the above procedure and
approval by the CrossFit Certification Department will allow the certificant to regain active status
upon satisfactorily completing all requirements and submitting all applicable fees. Expired
credential holders who do not complete this process must start a new application process, which
includes meeting all current eligibility requirements and passing the examination.
This Candidate Handbook contains essential information for applicants and candidates to take
the required steps to earn the CCFT credential. It contains the guidelines for professionally inter-
acting with clients and maintaining the credential. This last section contains the guidelines
and requirements for how both a candidate and a certificant must interact with the CrossFit
Certification Department and CrossFit, Inc. Acknowledging this agreement will be required as
part of the application process and well as the recertification process.
• Comply with the requirements to attain and maintain the CCFT designation, including
meeting eligibility requirements, carrying out the tasks of a CCFT, complying with the
CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice and fulfilling recertification requirements.
• Notify the CrossFit Certification Department promptly if unable to comply with the
certification requirements, including meeting eligibility requirements, carrying out
the tasks of a CCFT, complying with the CrossFit Standards of Professional Practice and
fulfilling recertification requirements.
• Make claims regarding certification only with respect to the scope for which certifica-
tion has been granted.
• Not use the certification in such a manner as to bring the certification body into disre-
pute, and not make any statement regarding the certification which the certification
body considers misleading or unauthorized.
• Discontinue the use of all claims to certification that contain any reference to CrossFit
or the CCFT upon suspension or withdrawal of certification, and return any certificate
issued by CrossFit.
FORMS, continued
Appeals Application
FORMS, continued
Candidates with disabilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (or Canadian/Australian equivalent) must complete
the Special Testing Accommodations Request form and have an appropriate licensed healthcare professional complete the
Documentation of Disability-Related Needs by Qualified Provider form in order for their accommodations request to be
processed. All documentation needs to be submitted at least two weeks in advance of the scheduled course date.
Candidate Information
Name:
Address:
Email Address:
Test Date and Location (test center) for which you are requesting accommodation:
Address:
City: State:
±± Reader
Candidate Signature:
FORMS, continued
A licensed healthcare provider or an educational or testing professional must complete this form. The nature of the disability,
identification of the test(s) used to confirm the diagnosis, a description of past accommodations made for the disability, and the
specific testing accommodations requested must be included.
Professional Documentation:
in my capacity as a(n)
(professional title)
The candidate discussed with me the nature of the exam being administered. It is my opinion that because of this candidate’s
disability described below, he/she should be accommodated by providing the special arrangements listed on the Special Testing
Accommodation Request form.
Comments on Disability:
Signature:
Title:
Organization:
Phone Number:
Date:
Candidate Instructions:
Return this form with a copy of the Special Testing Accommodation Request form to [email protected]. All
documentation needs to be submitted at least two weeks in advance of the scheduled examination date. Please write
“Accommodations Request” in the subject line of the email.
FORMS, continued
APPEALS APPLICATION
Name of Appellant:
Test Information:
Test Taken:
Test Location:
Test Date:
Outcome Desired:
Instructions:
Submit this completed form to [email protected] with the word "Appeal" in the subject line. This form must be submitted
within 30 days of the event which is being appealed.