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
Exercise Physiology: Assessment

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
Note: Attending the Assessment module is highly recommended prior to attending the Program Design Module

Upon completion, participant will receive recognition 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


Exercise Physiology: Program Design

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
Note: Attending the Assessment module is highly recommended prior to attending the Program Design Module

Upon completion, participant will receive recognition 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


Nutrition

Components:
2 day in person - theory
20 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 recognition 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


Lifestyle Coaching

Components:
2 day in person - theory
20 client sessions – practical homework

Cost: $795 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 recognition 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


Business Systems

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 recognition 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


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:

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. Note: Attending the Assessment module is highly recommended prior to attending the Program Design Module. The Program Design module builds upon content covered in the Assessment module and how to use information gathered from a client assessment to appropriate design their program. It is not a requirement, however is highly recommended.

How do I submit my practical component?
Instructions will be given to you during the theory component of each module.

What if I don’t 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.

I’ve been coaching for a long time, can I bypass one of the levels?
No.


Upcoming Events*

*For private and small group courses, contact here.

Exercise Physiology: Assessment
February 20-21 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

April 17-18 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

September 7-8 2010
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

September 20-21 2010
Porto Vista Hotel
San Diego, CA, US 92101
Support facility: CrossFit Invictus

November 20-21,2010
Delray Beach, FL
Host Facility: CrossFit Delray Beach

January 8-9 2011
San Diego, CA, US 92101
Support facility: CrossFit Invictus


Exercise Physiology:
Program Design

April 2-4 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

June 11-13 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

September 10-12 2010
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

September 24-26 2010 SOLD OUT
Porto Vista Hotel
San Diego, CA, US 92101
Support facility: CrossFit Invictus

February 18-20, 2011
Delray Beach, FL
Host Facility: CrossFit Delray Beach

Lifestyle Coaching
May 22-23 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

March 19-20 2011
San Diego, CA, US 92101
Support facility: CrossFit Invictus

Nutrition
August 21-22 2010 COMPLETED
Optimum Performance Training
Calgary, AB

April 16-17 2011
Chicago, IL
Windycity CrossFit

Business Systems
October 9-10 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

"The OPT CPP Assessment Module is my first and has enticed me to continue my journey in the other four modules offered. The information that I have learned has now given me not only the "starting elements" to properly assess and progress my clients but also the confidence in my abilities to provide the best to my clients. James' passion, experience and commitment in helping others is what will make the OPT CCP Coach stand out from the many others in the industry."
Rachelle Yuzik

"This module helped to empower/enlighten me to an entire new dimension/responsibility as a coach. With that said, and just as important, it will help me in my personal journey which will in turn aid me in being able to help my clients better."
Michael Pilhofer

"Leadership and success begin on the extra mile. James delivers on his value and promise to us, and then digs even deeper to wow us. James always goes the extra mile and selflessly provides us with a world-class knowledge base on not just how to be good, but how to be great. I am so grateful to be a part of this journey."
Nancy Mansolino

"The course has really shifted some of my perspectives on how to help my clients and make our business successful, long term. Thank you and I can’t wait until the next installment."
Mike Sullivan

"Not sure if there is a specific area that was most valuable. I found ALL of it very informative and eye opening. I still have to review all of the program to really feel a sense of what I have learned. I do believe that the Higher order thinking will have a huge impact on my life and clients lives as well. I felt that the role playing was vital to me, I learn much more by doing than just by reading and absorbing. The resources that we were tapping this weekend in my mind were perfect for the group with which it was being presented to."
Rob Sifton

"I got more from this module than any of the others personally, because it exposed one of my biggest weaknesses as a coach and gave me some good tools on how to improve myself."
Colin Jenkins

"Thank you for another great weekend! There is an art and a science to good coaching, and I’m looking forward to putting these frameworks into practice to improve my skills in both areas."
Megan Chernesky

"I truly enjoyed the entire weekend. This course attracted a room full of amazing people and I learned a lot from both the presenters and my colleagues. I appreciated the group work that we engaged in. First time I’ve ever been in a course where it felt like there was enough!"
Sharon Prete

"Thanks for sharing this knowledge that you have accumulated. There is so much bullshit out there that is really convincing. I love that you have been there, experienced it and are willing to pass it on."
Heather Gillespie

"3 days of valuable information. James presents the material in a concise manner, easy to understand. By far the best seminar I have ever attended!"
David Hochberg

"Keep up the quality work, can't wait to learn more. Thank-you OPT Team you have done an amazing job at educating and helping your peers."
Heather Gillespie, Co-Owner/Coach, CrossFit Lehbridge

"Fantastic course. Tons of useful information, all of it immediately applicable to training and coaching at my own box."
Tyler Sanden, Co-Owner/Coach, CrossFit Athlete Inside

"I can see how this coaching program will far exceed all the other 'training' courses that are out there. I learned so much this weekend - thank-you, James!"
Megan Chernesky, Calgary, AB

"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 I’ve 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. Can’t 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. It’s 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, owner Projectfit,
Trainer Crossfit Littleton


"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, CrossFit San Diego Coach

"I think the most valuable aspect was the energy training and science behind it. It really opened my eyes to what “training” to get better vs. just doing random shit is all about. Learning how to individualize the program to each person was priceless."
Colin Jenkins, CrossFit Ventura Co-Owner/Coach

"Spending the time with James is broadening my growth as an athlete, coach and human being. The program is the bees knees in fitness. THANKS MATE."
Ben Kelly, CrossFit Performance Owner/Coach

"James was successful at communicating complex material in a clear and concise manner. Any coach who feels overwhelmed by all the factors and variables involved in program design needs to attend this certification. After the weekend, I felt empowered and excited about what was to come. Let’s go write some programs and make some fire breathers!"
Tania Vrga, CrossFit Winnipeg Co-Owner/Coach

"These past two weekends have been amazing and I can’t wait to go back and start applying what I have learned. The programming design module blew me away and I now have you to thank for making me think harder and be more creative."
Colin Jenkins, CrossFit Ventura Co-Owner/Coach

"Thank you for a remarkably informative weekend. I don’t know if you’ve ever skydived, but the experience was reminiscent for me. When you jump out of the plane the first time, there’s too much input for your brain to keep up with. It gets behind and you tend to lose track of things like time.... your brain stores all of the experience and plays it back at odd times afterward, almost like having a flashback. I had a couple of those on the way home yesterday … small insights into the big picture emerging as my brain processed some of what you said. Really good stuff."
Doug Zirkle, Boulder, CO

Level I - OPT Associate Coach List*

Completed

PIP (Practical in progress)

NAME LOCATION ASSESSMENT PROGRAM DESIGN LIFE COACHING NUTRITION BUSINESS SYSTEMS
   
Aaron Grider Raleigh, NC PIP - - - -
Adelle Palmer Calgary, AB - - PIP - -
Andy Swartz CrossFit Vancouver - PIP - - -
Ben Kelly CrossFit Performance PIP PIP - - -
Brad Kohler CrossFit OP PIP - - -
Brett Marshall CrossFit Calgary PIP - - - -
Chad Benko CrossFit Saskatoon PIP PIP PIP -
Chad Brandt Action Conditioning PIP PIP - -
Chantal Theberge CrossFit Calgary PIP PIP - -
Chris Fedora Temecula, CA PIP - - - -
CJ Martin CrossFit Invictus PIP PIP PIP PIP -
Colin Hill Calgary, AB PIP PIP - -
Colin Jenkins CrossFit Ventura PIP PIP PIP -
David Fyfe CrossFit Lethbridge PIP - - - -
David Hochberg CrossFit Delray Beach - PIP - PIP -
David Mullback Fresh! Fitness PIP PIP PIP -
David Weaver Inner Icon PIP PIP PIP -
DJ Wickham CrossFit Calgary/OPT PIP - - -
Doug Zirkle Boulder, CO PIP PIP - - -
Dutch Lowy CrossFit ATM - - - -
Eric Rasku Calgary, AB PIP - PIP -
Geoff Aucoin OPT PIP - - - -
Harper Wilmouth Raleigh, NC PIP - - - -
Heather Gillespie CrossFit Lethbridge PIP PIP - - -
Ian MacLeod Calgary, AB - - PIP - -
Ian Mosher   - PIP - PIP -
Jeremy Myers CrossFit Littleton PIP PIP PIP -
Jeri McMaster CrossFit Hood River PIP PIP PIP PIP -
Jolie Gentry Catalyst Athletics - PIP - - -
Justin Flynn Orange Coast CrossFit - PIP - - -
Kris Hallee CrossFit Calgary PIP - PIP -
Laura MacDonald CrossFit Calgary/OPT PIP PIP - - -
Mads Thygesen CrossFit Whistler PIP PIP PIP PIP -
Marshall Suetterlin Raleigh, NC PIP - - - -
Max El-Hag CrossFit Delray Beach - - - PIP -
Megan Chernesky Calgary, AB PIP PIP PIP -
Michael Pilhofer CrossFit MSP - PIP PIP PIP -
Mike Kesthely CrossFit Lethbridge - - - PIP -
Mike Sullivan CrossFit Cochrane PIP PIP PIP -
Mizar Fuentes-Ortega CrossFit Montreal - - PIP - -
Morgan Burke Chestemere, AB PIP - - - -
Nancy Mansolino Calgary, AB PIP PIP PIP -
Parker Craig Desoto Crossfit PIP PIP PIP -
Pierre-Paul Seguin CrossFit Montreal - - PIP - -
Rachelle Yuzik Calgary, AB - - PIP -
Rob Corson OPT - PIP - - -
Rob Sifton Calgary, AB - PIP PIP -
Roch Proteau CrossFit St. Hubert - - PIP - -
Ryan Gyaki Calgary, AB - - - -
Sarah Bowling CrossFit Delray Beach - PIP - - -
Scott Canino Raleigh, NC PIP - - - -
Scott Hagnas CrossFit Portland PIP PIP PIP -
Sean Guevremont OPT PIP PIP PIP -
Sean LeFloch CrossFit Delray Beach - - - PIP -
Shannon Divall Calgary, AB PIP - PIP - -
Sharon Prete Natural High CrossFit - - PIP PIP -
Stacey Deering CrossFit Calgary - - - PIP -
Steve Saville OPT - - PIP -
Tania Vrga CrossFit Winnipeg PIP PIP PIP PIP -
Thad Palin OPT - PIP - - -
Todd Dyer CrossFit Calgary/OPT PIP - - - -
Trish Davis CrossFit San Diego PIP PIP PIP -
Tyler Sanden CrossFitAI PIP - - - -
Wes Kimball CrossFit Austin PIP - - - -


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