which pt scope of practice?

Recomp, ASCA and Fitness Australia and Physical Activity Australia each have a distinctly different scope of practice defining what a personal trainer can do and what their insurance covers. In broad terms:

• The Recomp Scope of Practice broadly covers the planned manipulation of muscle mass and fat mass using exercise and diet, in both the general public and athletes, for fitness through to competition. Basically it is the planning, teaching and application of bodybuilding training (including powerlifting) and nutrition techniques.
• The ASCA Scope of Practice broadly covers developing the strength and conditioning of athletes for sports performance. It does not cover working with the general public.
• The Fitness Australia (and Physical Activity Australia) Scope of Practice broadly covers helping the general public engage in physical exercise for general health and fitness (i.e. the absence of physical illness and injury). It specifically excludes all sports coaching, including bodybuilding and powerlifting, and sports nutrition.

which is right for you?

The table below gives a more detailed comparison of capabilities defined as included or excluded from each organisations scope of practice. Any PT offering a cross-section of activities would be strongly recommended to rethink their services. Body recomposition, fitness and sports are not complimentary disciplines; and in many cases conflict negatively. In particular, Fitness exercise and principles directly contradict athlete development best-practice and objectives.