CARPINTERIA, Calif., Aug. 20 /PRNewswire/ — The U.S. Department of Education just released findings that reveal: “On average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction.” Not the first study to support the benefits of online education, the report’s significance stems from the federal government’s recognition of the power of online education.

Online education has been gaining tremendous momentum. A study by the Sloan Consortium found that, just two years ago, nearly 4 million students were taking at least one course online. That number has since increased yearly by double-digit percentages.

Surveys conducted by theInternational Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), the only personal training certification organization accredited by a federally recognized agency, reveal that there are five key reasons for this growth.

#1: Flexibility Fitting Your Life

“The Department of Education report notes that the ability for students to use their time in a flexible manner boosted online education’s popularity,” says Dr. Sal Arria, CEO/Co-Founder of ISSA. “According to our students, the flexibility of our online accredited programs is among the top reasons for choosing ISSA for their fitness education.”

#2: Learn More, Faster

“Because you are studying at your convenience, you will learn and retain more information, much more quickly.”

#3: Save Time & Money

“By studying whenever you choose, wherever you are, the savings in time, travel, and money can be tremendous.”

#4: Universal Access to World-Class Education

“Some students live in areas with limited access to higher education facilities. Online education enables them to obtain the best fitness education available anywhere there is a computer.”

#5: Global Networking

“The ability to share ideas with anyone in the world is a major benefit of online education. 24/7/365 worldwide access makes the exchange of ideas as simple as an email or message board.”

“Once people experience the fun, ease, and power of online education, they won’t want to stop learning,” predicts Dr. Arria, “Online education allows people all over the world to expand their knowledge base, at their own pace, and in the way that works best for their schedule and lives.”

ISSA has been the world leader in fitness education and certification since 1988, providing education and certification to over 130,000 people in 85 countries. ISSA is the first fitness organization in theU.S.to receive DETC accreditation.www.ISSAonline.edu