I now have certification as an ACE-CMES. You may not have heard of this before so I’ll try to explain briefly how it differs from being a certified personal trainer.

Even with the specialty certifications I had before–orthopedic exercise and senior fitness–I was able to work with adults who were mostly healthy without long term or chronic health issues.

As a medical exercise specialist, I now am certified to work with people who have chronic or long term health problems, including those who are or have been treated for heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis or who are overweight or have obesity as well as being able to expand my work with people who have chronic back problems or who are recovering from a muscle, bone or joint injury.

My hope is to work with the health care team–doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, acupuncturists, dietitians, etc.–to provide clients with the most thoughtful, safest and effective exercise plans and nutrition education available today.

I feel honored to join the small number of personal trainers and health coaches who are Medical Exercise Specialists.