OPT Coaching Certification Program (OPT CCP)
Program Overview
My goal is to create a package of coaching fundamentals for individuals who
want to learn, instruct and become a master in the ever evolving world of
fitness. I have been associated with leading members of the fitness industry
for years now and know what is a good path for success within this profession.
I want to improve and distinguish between who is a coach and who instructs
fitness classes. The OPT CCP is for individuals looking to build upon their
current knowledge and take their coaching to new levels. I use the word coach
as I believe in and understand the passion behind what this word means a
person who embodies and teaches from a sound knowledge base the aspects of
physical wellness. My belief is that there needs to be aspects of nutrition,
lifestyle consulting, physical assessment, exercise program design and business
savvy as major tools that this coach should have. I also believe that coaches
are more than educators but role models, life advisories and leading community
members that have far reaching impacts for us all. The OPT CCP is designed
to help individuals realize their own potential. This has been a passion
of mine for some time now to share and evolve with these coaches to create
change in the fitness profession; that time has come.
James FitzGerald
Owner, Director
Optimum Performance Training Inc.
Click on the Level 1 Program diagram boxes below for further
details
Pre-requisites
LEVEL 1
- Coaching for a minimum of 1 year
- Ability to proficiently instruct physical movement
- Physical Fitness standards - Female: 3 strict chin-ups, body weight deadlift x 3 reps, 3 dips, run 1 mile under 8 minutes.
- Physical Fitness standards Male: 10 strict chin-ups, 1.5x body weight deadlift x 3 reps, 10 dips, run 1 mile under 7 minutes.
LEVEL 2
- Successful completion of all Level 1 modules and a passing score in the case Level 1 study module
LEVEL 3
- Successful completion of all Level 2 modules and a passing score in the Level 2 case study module
LEVEL 1 OPT Associate Coach Modules Overview
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Components:
2 Day in person - theory
20 client sessions practical homework
Cost: $865 CAD
Course Conductor James FitzGerald and Ed Paget
Upon completion of the weekend theory and practical hours each coach will have the ability to:
- understand the importance of assessment and data (why, when and what)
- perform body fat testing for males and females (norms, data, goal setting) and how to communicate the data to client
- physically test a client by using functional movement screens and upper, torso and lower body specific muscular testing under load and non loading environments
- effectively observe and identify overtraining /overreaching
Upon completion, participant will receive a certificate of completion for the Exercise Physiology Assessment Module
Schedule:
Saturday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 5:00 pm In Session, Q and A
Sunday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm In Session Q and A
4:30 5:00 pm Exam
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Components:
3 Day in-person - theory
30 client sessions practical homework
Cost: $1295 CAD
Course Conductor James FitzGerald
Upon completion of the weekend theory and practical hours each coach will have the ability to:
- design effective programs based on clients needs and goals
- understand energy systems and how they intertwine in a program and how to prioritize
- understand different tools to accomplish energy system demands as well as skill based vs. intensity based training
- understand the science behind sets/reps/rest
- use assessment results and collaborate them in the program design
- schedule frequency of training, periodization and intensity/volume
- understand the importance of prioritization in program design
- deliver the program design to the client in a concise, effective manner
Upon completion, participant will receive a certificate of completion for the Exercise Physiology Program Design Module
Schedule:
Friday/Saturday
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm In Session
Sunday:
7:00 9:30 am - In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm Q and A/Exam
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Components:
2 day in person - theory
30 client sessions practical homework
Cost: $865 CAD
Course Conductors James FitzGerald and Mathieu Lalonde
Upon completion of weekend theory and practical hours each coach will have the ability to:
- assess and design individualized food programs based on client goals
- understand how hormonal regulations, gender, age, activity all play a role in designing nutrition programs
- design pre/post workout fueling based on body fat scoring, activity and the
individual
- understand differences between generic and individualized nutrition programs (diets/gimmicks vs. science and data)
- design nutrition programs based on emotional compliance
- understand how behaviour modification plays a role in client compliance
- understand how to design nutrition programs for individuals with food intolerances
Upon completion, participant will receive a certificate of completion for the Nutrition Module
Schedule:
Saturday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 5:00 pm In Session, Q and A
Sunday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm In Session Q and A
4:30 5:00 pm Exam
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Components:
2 day in person - theory
20 client sessions practical homework
Cost: $695 CAD
Course Conductors James FitzGerald and Bernie Novokowsky
Upon completion of weekend theory and practical hours each coach will have the ability to:
- use the fundamentals of Higher Order Thinking (HOT) to organize and prioritize client lifestyle planning
- create lifestyle goals with clients
- modify behaviours using HOT techniques
- understand how to create buy in and communicate philosophy
- understand daily circadian rhythms and design lifestyle programs
- understand the importance of bedside manner
- recognize the big picture and make clients compliant to this
- understand how to read and react to different personalities
Upon completion, participant will receive a certificate of completion for the Lifestyle Coaching Module
Schedule:
Saturday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 5:00 pm In Session, Q and A
Sunday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm In Session Q and A
4:30 5:00 pm - Exam
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Components:
2 Day Theory
Practical Business applications
Cost: $695
Course Conductors James FitzGerald and Sean Greeley
Becoming a great coach and running a successful business are two separate skill sets. If you truly want to make an impact on the world with fitness, then learning how to own and operate a business that can serve a large number of people is a requirement for success. In this module you will learn about the fundamental marketing, sales, management, finance, operation systems, environment and networks required for business success.
Upon completion of weekend theory and practical hours each coach will have the ability to:
- understand the importance of defining your mission, vision, and goals in business
- understand key numbers in your business, like break even and profitability
points
- set up operations so they run efficiently for both your staff and clients
- find, hire, train, and manage trainers to develop a winning team
- review package and pricing models that work best in selling both private and group training services
- understand key marketing strategies for generating leads and prospects for your programs
- create culture for retention and referrals
- incorporate the OPT model of experiences into your existing fitness operation
Upon completion, participant will receive a certificate of completion for the Business Systems Module
Schedule:
Saturday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 5:00 pm In Session, Q and A
Sunday:
7:00 9:30 am In Session
9:30-10:00 am Break
10:00 am 12:00 pm In Session
12:00 1:30 pm Break
1:30 3:00 pm In Session
3:00 3:30 pm Break
3:30 4:30 pm In Session Q and A
4:30 5:00 pm - Exam
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FINAL Case Study Online (PASS OR FAIL)
Components:
3 case studies with email submission
The final case study will be an opportunity for the coach to include all module learnings into an effective program for 3 clients. These 3 case study client examples will be given to the coach by the OPT CCP Director; there will be a time requirement and expectations for ability to complete in a timely manner.
Participant must include report on 3 different clients, including all the components of the modules to monitor and maintain compliance; must be submitted within 8 weeks after competition of last Theory Module.
Upon completion of the case study review and submission, each coach will have PROVEN the ability to:
- create a full comprehensive analysis and assessment of a client and provide
them with a detailed individualized program design, schedule and nutrition
plan utilizing the learnings from all the Level I modules.
LEVEL 2 OPT Advanced Coach Modules Overview
To Be Announced
LEVEL 3 OPT Master Coach Modules Overview
To Be Announced
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I submit my practical component?
Instructions will be given to you during the theory component of each module.
What if I dont have any current clients to do my practical component with?
It is imperative that a coach spends hours developing their skills as a coach; We suggest you contact friends, family members, friends of clients, co-workers. You can do client sessions as voluntary or for pay, it is your choice.
Why is the certification course so extensive?
Our belief is that coaching cannot be developed by weekend courses or reading books/manuals. It takes time and effort to develop oneself as a master coach.
Do I have to do the modules in a specific order?
No, the modules can be done in any order with exception of the Final Case Study Module which must be completed within 8 weeks after the completion of your final module.
How do I prove I can do the standards?
There will be practical components to each module in which you may be asked to perform the physical fitness standards.
Do the levels have to be done in order?
Yes, Level 1 must be completed before level 2, and level 2 must be completed before level 3.
What is the refund policy?
35% deposit is non-refundable/non-transferable (no exceptions). Registration
is non-refundable, however can be transferred to another colleague (they will
then be responsible for the additional deposit payment)
What do I bring?
Bring water, snacks, lunch, workout clothing, pen and paper.
How do I register?
Through our online store pay in full or
apply a 35% non-refundable and non-transferable deposit per module upon registration.
Enter deposit in the coupon code should you wish to pay the deposit only. The
remaining balance is due 4 weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Should
you be unable to attend the course, you can find someone else to take your spot
and transfer the spot to them, they are responsible for paying the deposit amount.
Can I do only 1 of the modules?
Yes. However, to get the most out of the certification program, we recommend all the modules.
Where is the best place to stay?
Four Points Sheraton
What do I get after completing each module and the full certification program?
You will receive a completion certification upon completing the theory and practical component. Once we verify your full attendance in the theory component and verify the completion of your practical homework, we will mail you a completion certificate. After completing all the modules and passing the final case study module, we will mail you your certification.
What if I fail the case study module?
Re-register for the final case study module. We recommend you either repeat the modules or consult with James on areas of development.
Ive been coaching for a long time, can I bypass one of the levels?
No.
Level I - OPT Associate Coach List
Ben Kelly
Brett Marshall
Chad Benko
Chantal Theberge
Christopher Martin
Colin Hill
Colin Jenkins
David Weaver
DJ Wickham
Doug Zirkle
Dutch Lowy
Eric Rasku
Geoff Aucoin
Jeremy Myers
Kris Hallee
Mads Thygesen
Mike Sullivan
Morgan Burke
Nancy Mansolino
Parker Craig
Rob Sifton
Scott Hagnas
Sean Guevremont
Tania Vrga
Trish Davis
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CrossFit Performance
CrossFit Calgary
CrossFit Saskatoon
CrossFit Calgary
CrossFit Invictus
Calgary, AB
CrossFit Ventura
Inner Icon Fitness
OPT/CrossFit Calgary
Longemont, Colorado
Dutch Lowy
Calgary, AB
OPT/CrossFit Calgary
CrossFit Littleton
CrossFit Calgary
CrossFit Whistler
CrossFit Cochrane
Chestemere, AB
Calgary, AB
Desoto CrossFit
Calgary, AB
CrossFit Portland
Athlete Factory
CrossFit Winnipeg
CrossFit San Diego
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Upcoming Events
Lifestyle Coaching
May 22-23 2010
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB
Case Study
Online submissions
Level I - OPT Associate Coach List
Click here
FAQS
Click here for answers to frequently asked questions regarding OPT CCP.
Testimonials
It was extremely valuable. I learned more valuable info in 2 days than in full year of traditional teaching in college. The usability is key and very exciting for the future of fitness and overall health.
David Weaver, Inner Icon Fitness
Lead Coach/co-owner
I think the directions James is going is the future of personal training.
Parker Scott Craig, Desoto CrossFit
Owner/Coach
These seminars are going to be the new standard of excellence.
Geoff Aucoin, OPT Coach
Scored the overall event 10 out of 10.
CJ Martin, CrossFit Invictus
Owner/Coach
Information has real life value.
Chantal Theberge, CrossFit Calgary Coach
Possibly the most informative seminar Ive been to
. I came away with countless
nuggets.
Scott Hagnas, CrossFit Portland Owner/Coach
Was a very useful process for me to go through. It opened my eyes more than
I thought. It is always great to come to something that challenges me both mentally
and physically.
Colin Hill, High School Educator
Calgary, AB
I love how all info covered was immediately useful and implementable.
Chad Benko, CrossFit Saskatoon Owner/Coach
Seeing the progressions used in assessment and being able to practice and apply
them to others was very helpful in learning. Cant wait to dig into the other
modules - Fantastic event.
Dutch Lowy, DutchLowy.com, Owner/Coach
I learned more about myself in relation to the material that I will be able
to apply to others. Its a honor to be in the program.
Nancy Mansolino, Financial Coach, Calgary, AB
I feel like this module will save me years of trial and error in coaching. The people I coach will benefit from my attendance on Monday.
Kris Hallee, CrossFit Calgary Coach
Phenomenal stuff!! I love adding more tools to the tool box and I have a bunch more to test drive after this weekend.
Jeremy Myers, Cross Littleton
Owner/Coach
I thought the seminar was very organized and well thought out. James
attention to detail and scientific approach to fitness and overall
well-being sets this seminar apart from the rest. The information in the
assessment module is the perfect primer for the seminars yet to come and the
real-life application is key. As amazing as this seminar was, I can't wait
for the remaining seminars.
Trish Davis
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