This publication presents approved guidelines for Texas institutions of higher and postsecondary education in the academic preparation of practitioners in the field of fitness for health. Developed in response to the rapid growth of this field, the guidelines identify and recommend the knowledge and expertise required in career preparation, and identify and recommend the minimum subject content, curriculum guidelines, and terminal competencies. At the associate degree level, the following competencies are described: functional anatomy and biomechanics, exercise physiology, human development/aging, human behavior/psychology, pathophysiology/risk factors, health appraisal and fitness testing, emergency procedures/safety, exercise instruction and programming, and nutrition and weight management. At the baccalaureate degree level, the same general competency areas are included, though with more complex specific competencies, and the areas of program administration/business management, electrocardiography, and legal and ethical issues are added. The section on master's degree level competencies provides guidelines for all the areas included in the baccalaureate degree section, with increasingly sophisticated specific competencies. A table shows recommended resources for establishing fitness for health programs. (JB)