The National Association for Strength and Conditioning Research (NASC) is a professional body dedicated to advancing the science and application of human performance across Malaysia and the ASEAN region. Our mission is to bridge sports science and real-world coaching, offering education, research, and certification pathways that raise professional standards throughout the Southeast Asian strength and fitness industry.
NASC was founded by a team of sports scientists, performance coaches, and educators led by Datuk Zaki Khan, with the vision of creating a regionally relevant, science-based certification framework for fitness and strength professionals.
It was officially established in 2014 to unify research, education, and athlete development under one recognized institution serving Malaysia and neighboring ASEAN nations.
NASC is an independent professional organization operating under private management. While independent, NASC actively engages in strategic collaborations with sports, academic, and industry partners to strengthen the ecosystem of strength and conditioning education and research across the region.
This collaborative approach allows NASC to maintain autonomy, credibility, and scientific integrity while aligning with regional development goals in sports and performance science.
While international organizations like NSCA, ACE, and NASM provide excellent global frameworks, NASC focuses on the ASEAN context — adapting global strength and conditioning principles to local climates, athlete profiles, and cultural factors.
Our curriculum integrates Western evidence-based methodologies with Asian demographic data and environmental realities, ensuring that NASC-certified coaches are fully equipped to deliver world-class results in regional settings.
Yes. NASC certifications are designed according to internationally benchmarked standards in exercise science, coaching, and performance training.
While NASC is based in Malaysia, its curriculum aligns closely with the core competencies recognized by major global bodies such as NSCA and ACSM — ensuring regional relevance with international credibility.
This allows NASC-certified professionals to apply their knowledge globally, while maintaining expertise that is uniquely optimized for Asian athletes and environments.
Absolutely. NASC certifications are structured to meet the global competency frameworks required by fitness and performance industries worldwide.
Because NASC emphasizes scientific literacy, safety, and coaching professionalism, its graduates are well-prepared to work in international gyms, training centers, and sports organizations across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Many NASC professionals already apply their skills in ASEAN countries and international fitness chains, demonstrating the program’s transferability and trust.
Yes. The word “Research” is fundamental to NASC’s identity.
NASC conducts and supports scientific studies, field testing, and collaborative projects with universities, institutes, and sports organizations throughout Malaysia and ASEAN.
Our commitment to evidence-based practice ensures that every NASC course, guideline, and certification reflects the latest and most relevant findings in human performance, strength development, and injury prevention.
NASC provides a structured pathway of science-based certifications and specialized programs for fitness professionals, coaches, and enthusiasts across Malaysia and the ASEAN region.
Our core certifications include:
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Certified Fitness Instructor (CFI) – foundation in exercise science, coaching principles, and practical fitness instruction.
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Certified Gym Instructor (CGI) – focuses on safe gym supervision, equipment handling, and client management.
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Certified Strength Trainer (CST) – advanced training in strength development, biomechanics, and athlete preparation.
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Certified Aerobic Instructor (CAI) – tailored for group exercise, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness coaching.
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Certified Fitness Rehab (CFR) – bridges exercise science and injury recovery for post-rehabilitation and corrective exercise professionals.
In addition, NASC offers Fast Track Series — short, high-intensity modules such as Hypertrophy Mastery, Fat Burn Protocol, and Performance Conditioning for targeted skill advancement.
Specialized lifestyle and population courses include:
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Fit Mom Fit Baby – designed for pre- and post-partum fitness coaching.
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Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS) – focused on evidence-based nutrition strategies for athletes and general populations.
All NASC courses combine scientific knowledge, applied coaching, and practical assessment, ensuring graduates are industry-ready and aligned with global standards.
Most NASC foundation-level certifications run between two to three days (14–21 hours) of guided learning, while advanced and sport-specific courses may extend over multiple weekends or blended online modules. Anyone aged 16 and above, with an interest in fitness, sports performance, or coaching, is eligible to join. No prior degree is required for entry-level courses — NASC provides a progressive learning system that builds knowledge step-by-step from beginner to elite coach.
Yes. NASC is built on a career progression model that allows participants to move from foundational certifications to advanced, research-driven qualifications.
Graduates can pursue pathways in personal training, strength and conditioning, sports performance coaching, rehabilitation support, or academic research. Through its network of regional partners, gyms, and sports organizations, NASC helps certified professionals connect with real opportunities across Malaysia and ASEAN.
Joining NASC means becoming part of a scientific and professional movement that is redefining the standards of fitness and strength training across Malaysia and ASEAN.
Members gain access to research-backed education, credible certifications, regional networking, and continuous skill development opportunities.
Whether you’re a new instructor, experienced coach, or academic, NASC provides the tools, community, and recognition to grow your impact in the industry.
NASC membership opens the door to a wide range of exclusive privileges, including:
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Access to members-only seminars, workshops, and research briefings.
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Priority registration and discounts for courses and events.
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Continuous education points (CEPs) for professional renewal.
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Networking opportunities with coaches, athletes, and sports institutions throughout the region.
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Access to industry resources, including exercise libraries, case studies, and updated scientific materials.
In short, membership connects you to an active professional ecosystem built on credibility, growth, and lifelong learning.
NASC welcomes contributions from educators, practitioners, and students who are passionate about advancing the science of strength and performance. Interested individuals can apply through official event registration channels or submit proposals for speaking and collaboration via the NASC website or email.
Volunteers and interns are also encouraged to join — gaining hands-on experience in event management, education, and research coordination. Participation in NASC events is not only a learning experience, but also a gateway to networking and recognition within the regional strength community.