Foundations of Medical Fitness: A Comprehensive Course for Specialists
Foundations of Medical Fitness: A Comprehensive Course for Specialists
Foundations of Medical Fitness: A Comprehensive Course for Specialists
Foundations of Medical Fitness: A Comprehensive Course for Specialists

Course Overview

This product is an online, self-study course. Start and complete at your own pace.

This course is for fitness and health professionals who want to learn how to use exercise as medicine with clients who suffer from one or more chronic diseases including, but not limited to, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, or orthopedic dysfunctions.

With the information found in this course, you will learn to assist in the prevention and/or management of numerous chronic diseases, and collaborate with clinicians.

Suitability & Prerequisites

Join thousands of successful graduates who transformed their careers with
our award-winning training programs.

Who Is This Course For?


Perfect for personal trainers, fitness and allied health professionals, rehab specialists, and coaches seeking to understand, assess, and effectively support people living with or at risk for Type 2 Diabetes.

Entry Requirements


To receive a Certificate of Specialization, learners must provide evidence of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a fitness or health-related field and/or hold a nationally recognised certification (NCCA or CIMSPA recognised), along with proof of professional liability insurance. Those who do not meet these requirements are still welcome to enrol in the course, but will not be eligible for the Certificate of Specialization.

Learning Experience

Join thousands of successful graduates who transformed their careers with our award-winning training programs.
Engaging, Evidence-Based Curriculum
  • Seven modules covering chronic disease epidemiology, scope of practice, and screening/assessment.
  • Lessons on exercise interventions for cardiovascular, metabolic, pulmonary, orthopaedic, and special populations.
  • Includes business strategies, case studies, and professional competency standards
Practical, Real-World Application
  • Conduct postural, movement, and cardiorespiratory assessments with confidence.
  • Safely adapt and design exercise programs for clients with diverse medical needs.
  • Learn business practices for collaboration within the healthcare ecosystem.
Flexible, Self-Paced Online Learning
  • 20 hours of structured video content, manuals, assignments, and downloadable resources.
  • Study anytime, anywhere, with access to updates and MedFit’s online learning community.
  • Final exam included to validate skills and award your specialist certification.
Expert Instruction & Professional Growth
  • Led by Dr. Dan Mikeska, DHSc—educator, Exercise is Medicine credential-holder, and fitness innovator.
  • Curriculum aligned with ACSM, ACE, and Exercise is Medicine standards.
  • Expand your expertise, credibility, and referral opportunities in the growing medical fitness field.

Frequently asked questions

Can this help my business?
Absolutely—expand your service offerings with a sought-after specialisation and marketing guidance.
Are course updates included?
All future updates are available to enrolled students at no additional charge.
How long does the course take to complete?
The curriculum totals 20 hours; most students finish in 2–6 weeks of part-time study at their own pace
What credentials will I earn?
Successful students receive a Certificate of Completion as a Medical Fitness Specialist, demonstrating competency in the field.
Are there any prerequisites?
No strict prerequisites, but knowledge of fitness or anatomy is highly recommended. Current CPR/AED certification is advised.
Can this course help me attract medical referrals?
Yes. The program builds the expertise required to collaborate within healthcare and receive referrals for medical fitness intervention.
What if I have questions during my studies?
Instructor and peer support are available through the online platform and MedFit Classroom community.
What lessons are included?
Prologue Lesson 1 – Chronic Disease and the Benefits of Exercise Lesson 2 – Scope of Practice and Health Risk Lesson 3 – Rapport and Psychology Lesson 4 – Postural and Movement Assessments, & Corrective Strategies Lesson 5 – Cardiorespiratory Assessment Lesson 6 – FITT Lesson 7 – Coronary Heart Disease Lesson 8 – Hypertension Lesson 9 – COPD and Asthma Lesson 10 – Diabetes Lesson 11 – Hyperlipidemia Lesson 12 – Body Composition, Overweight and Obesity Lesson 13 – Metabolic Syndrome Lesson 14 – Cancer Lesson 15 – Pregnancy Lesson 16 – Core, Balance, and Gait Lesson 17 – Common Shoulder Dysfunctions Lesson 18 – Common Dysfunctions of the Distal Arm Lesson 19 – Common Hip Dysfunctions Lesson 20 – Common Knee Dysfunctions Lesson 21 – Common Dysfunctions of the Lower Extremity Lesson 22 – Low Back Pain Lesson 23 – Arthritis Lesson 24 – Osteoporosis Lesson 25 – Business Application Competency Assessment Epilogue: What To Do Next Appendices
Who is the course author?
Dan Mikeska’s mission is to improve population health and to increase the quality of life by connecting education, medicine, and fitness. This goal can be achieved by providing an educational pathway for fitness professionals who want to become respected members of the healthcare community, prompting clinicians to prescribe exercise, and encouraging patients to enlist the services of a qualified fitness professional.
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