Body Composition Certification (BCC-ISSN)

What People Are Saying …

"Drs. Katch and Katch are the pre-eminent scientists in this field and have devised THE Body Composition Certification for the ISSN.  This certification is an excellent credential for all sports nutritionists and fitness professionals alike."
- Juan Carlos Santana, MEd, CSCS, Director - Institute of Human Performance

"Accurate assessment of body composition by fitness professionals and sports nutritionists is an important tool for monitoring the effects of various dietary and exercise intervention programs.  The ISSN is committed to bringing a quality body composition certification to the industry."
- Joan Eckerson, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Exercise Science, Creighton University.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does BCC-ISSN stand for?

Body Composition Certification by the International Society of Sports Nutrition.  The BCC-ISSN was produced by renowned exercise physiologists, Dr. Frank Katch and Dr. Vic Katch, owners of Fitness Technologies and co-authors of several of the leading books in the Exercise Science field. 

Who should enroll in the BCC-ISSN?

• Exercise Physiologists
• Fitness Professionals
• Health/Medical Professionals
• Nurse Practitioners
• Nutritionists
• Personal Trainers
• Sport Dietitians
• Sports Nutritionists
• Strength and Conditioning Professionals

Why should you earn the BCC-ISSN?

Below are five important reasons why it is important to assess body composition.

1)  Body composition assessment provides individuals with a starting point to base current and future decisions about weight loss and weight gain (weight control and management)

2)  Body composition assessment provides realistic goals about how to best achieve an ideal balance between the fat and non-fat compartments of the body.

3)  Body composition assessment relates to general health status, and as such, should play an important role in the health and fitness goals of all individuals.

4)  Body composition assessment monitors changes in body fat and lean components during exercise regimens of different durations and intensities, and rehabilitation programs utilizing different modalities and treatment practices.

5)  Body composition assessment allows the allied-health practitioner (sports nutritionist, dietician, personal trainer, coach, athletic trainer, physical therapist, physician, exercise leader) to interact with the individuals they deal with to provide quality information that relates intimately to nutrition, weight control, and exercise, training and rehabilitation.

Do you have to be an ISSN member to earn the BCC-ISSN?

No. It is open for all individuals. Non-members pay a higher fee. See below.

What are the requirements to earn the BCC-ISSN?

Bachelors degree in Exercise Science, Nutrition, Biology, or related field. 

What if you have a 4-year degree or graduate degree in the liberal arts or other non-scientific field, do I qualify for the BCC-ISSN?

It is recommended that you complete and pass an Exercise Physiology course (college level) with a B grade or higher;  (Under special circumstances, individuals may have these requirements waived; please contact Jose Antonio, Ph.D. at DrJoseAntonio@aol.com for further information).

How do you earn the BCC-ISSN?

You must pass a 100 question multiple choice exam to earn the BCC-ISSN.  A passing score of 70% is required.

What Study Materials will I receive when I sign-up for the BCC-ISSN?

There are several good textbooks to study for the BCC-ISSN exam.  We would recommend one of the following: Human Body Composition by M.D. Heymsfield Steven B., Timothy G. Lohman, ZiMian, Ph.D. Wang, and Scott B., Ph.D. Going (2005); Applied Body Composition Assessment by Vivian H. Heyward and Dale R., Ph.D. Wagner (2004).

How do I earn CEU to maintain my BCC-ISSN?

To Earn Continuing Education Units (CEU) to maintain the BCC-ISSN, you must earn 1 CEU per year or 5 CEU every five years.

• 2 CEU:  present at national or regional ISSN conference
• 2 CEU:  serve as President, VP, Secretary or Student Representative
• 2 CEU:  publish in the JISSN
• 1 CEU:  attend national ISSN conference or any regional conference
• 1 CEU:  retaking the one-day workshop on body composition
• 1 CEU:  serve on ISSN''''''''s Advisory or Legal Board

Pricing

Self-Proctored Exam - $299 ISSN members, $399 non-members
On site cost of the Exam - $199 ISSN Professional Members; $99 ISSN Student Members; $299 Non-Members.

If you would like to receive more information or Get Certified with the BCC-ISSN, please contact us at ISSN@sportsnutritionsociety.or.