How do I become a personal trainer?

While becoming a personal trainer is a fairly straightforward process, many underestimate the personal and professional qualities needed to truly succeed as a PT. You only have to look at some of the UK's best personal trainers to understand that there is no one magic formula or blueprint. Instead, to become a personal trainer you need to have a burning desire to help people, great communication skills, a passion for self-improvement, and a client-focused attitude. In terms of qualifications, enrolling onto the right personal training courses is a must. If you're brand new to the fitness industry then your first port of call is the Level 2 Gym Instructor , this is followed by the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training . These courses can either be done individually or combined to form comprehensive career packages. Our career packages also unlock a range of extras and exclusives including video content from Matt Roberts and Ben Coomber, offers and discounts and exclusive job opportunities via CV Connect. To explore what it truly takes to become a leading personal trainer in much more detail, we’ve created an in-depth and comprehensive article for you to read. Our Become a Personal Trainer career guide covers everything from the essential PT qualifications, personal trainer insurance, career opportunities and much more.

Do you run personal training courses near me?

We've partnered with some of the country's best-equipped and well-known gym chains, health clubs and leisure centres in the UK to deliver the practical elements of our personal trainer courses. Working with the likes of David Lloyd, Bannatyne and Village Hotels, just to name a few, we're able to offer you maximum choice and flexibility when it comes to your studies. Currently, we have over 20 venues across England, Scotland and Wales where we deliver our PT courses and our most popular locations include London , Manchester , Cardiff , York , Glasgow , Birmingham and Newcastle . A full list of venues can be found personal trainer venues and locations page. It's here you'll be able to learn about each venue's facilities, accessibility and any offers and discounts that are available, for example, discounts on hotels. We've also provided a route planner to help you comfortably get to your training via your preferred method of travel whether that's walking, driving or public transport.

How long will it take to get qualified as a personal trainer?

If you're enrolled on to our Essentials career package, which combines the Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Training courses, we'd typically say you could be qualified in just 10-12 weeks. Our larger packages, Premium and Master, contain more courses so naturally, these will take a little longer to complete in their entirety. If you've previously completed your Level 2 Gym qualification and are just studying Level 3 Personal Training then we usually advise it could take 8-12 weeks. With that being said, those timescales are just guidelines. Each and every learner is unique and will approach their studies at a different pace. We know first-hand how exciting, rewarding and life-changing a career in personal training can be, when it comes to the all-important studies however, this isn't something we like to rush. The more time, effort and attention you can invest in your personal training education, the better chance you have after qualifying of truly taking the industry by storm. Our personal trainer courses utilise the blended learning model which involves practical weekend training and a period of home study. After speaking to thousands of students over the years, we've found that an hour's study a day is more than enough to make steady progress with your course. To guide your learning, we've created comprehensive study guides for each of our courses which will really help you map our the learning journey ahead.

What learning resources are available while I study?

Our personal trainer courses and qualifications utilise the blended learning model and this means students will complete a period of home study and then attend a venue and take part in practical training. For those completely new to home study, it might seem a little daunting at first, but we can guarantee that you'll receive all the learning resources and support you need. That's not just when you enrol or before you sit an exam either, it's every single step of the way. From the moment you enrol you'll be assigned a personal support tutor who is available Monday - Friday via phone or email. Your tutor is a qualified personal trainer, they've been there and seen it all before, so no question is too big, small or complicated. You'll also receive 24/7 access to LES, the Learner Engagement System. This platform is where you'll complete the majority of your home study learning. Practice quizzes, workbooks and hours of video lectures delivered by leading physiotherapists, doctors, nutritionists and dietitians are all available at your fingertips. Alongside the online resources we provide, you'll also receive print manuals that have been exclusively written and designed in-house by a team of experts. To get a sneak peek at the comprehensive resources we offer, we've prepared a sample of our Level 3 Personal Trainer Manual .

Do you offer guaranteed personal trainer interviews and jobs?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions and the simple answer is no. It continues to be incredibly concerning that time and time again we hear of other fitness training providers offering guaranteed interviews and jobs that simply turn out to be self-employed positions. Qualified trainers in these situations can often end up struggling to make ends meet because they're paying considerable weekly or monthly rent to work in a club before they've even secured their first client. To shed a bit more light on these practices, we've produced a guide to guaranteed interviews and jobs for personal trainers that is very much worth a read. Instead of engaging in the practice of guaranteed interviews, we've created CV Connect . This is a game-changing new way to connect employers with newly qualified personal trainers. As soon as you complete your personal trainer course, a new section in LES (Learner Engagement System) is unlocked. It's here that you're able to upload your CV (featuring your brand new qualification, of course), search for employers in your area and apply directly. It really is that simple and straightforward. We've cut out recruitment agencies and any other hoops or barriers that could get in the way, nothing should stop you from securing your dream job. To date, we're closing in on nearly a thousand active vacancies from some of the UK's biggest and most prestigious employers including UP Fitness, Pure Gym, Fitness First, Your Personal Training, DW and JD Gyms. If you're keen to take things into your own hands then we have resources available for starting a personal training business . This article features some exclusive insights from one of the UK's most successful trainers, Matt Roberts. Matt has exclusive premises in London and he's trained politicians, film stars, fashion designers and athletes. So, there's no doubt he very much knows what he's talking about.

What are my payment options?

You've chosen the individual personal trainer courses or PT Career Package that suits you best, you've found your nearest venue and you're ready to go, why should anything, including money stand in your way? It's our job to make your journey to personal training success as straightforward as possible and that's why we have numerous payment options available to you. If you're keen to get everything sorted upfront, we'll give you a 5% discount if you pay for your PT course or career package in full. For those looking to spread the cost, we have 0% interest 6-month and 12-month payment plans. With both these options, you can secure your place on a PT course for as little as £100 or £250 if you're booking a career package. Select personal training courses and packages have also been military approved . If you're serving personnel or a service leaver, contact our Careers team on 0800 612 4067 for more information about the MOD's Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCAS).

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HFE personal trainer with client pushing prowler in gym

HFE personal trainer instructing client using prowler in gym

Personal training courses and qualifications

Not all personal training courses are created equal. Our internationally recognised PT qualifications are written and delivered by some of the industry’s leading training experts, including doctors, physiotherapists, celebrity personal trainers, dietitians and nutritionists. Learn from the best with HFE.

Our standard

When you’re training to become a trustworthy and professional personal trainer, it’s not just the qualification that matters. You’re shaping the health and fitness of your clients with the goal of improving the quality of their lives. That’s why our personal training courses are designed to align with the highest standards, ensuring that you learn more, achieve more and ultimately, become more.

Internationally recognised

Our personal trainer courses are recognised around the world by fitness industry employers and professional bodies like CIMSPA. So, wherever your PT career takes you, you’re covered.
Flexible study options

We offer both online and face-to-face personal training courses to suit all your learning needs. As standard, you’ll get the same high-quality content and an outstanding level of support.
Trusted by employers

We have a reputation for training excellence. As such, our range of personal trainer qualifications are highly sought after by leading gyms, health clubs and active leisure employers.
Premium locations, nationwide

We deliver our all of our PT courses from some of the UK’s premier health clubs. With venues nationwide, you won’t have to go far to get your career off on the right foot.

Flexible study options

Nothing should get in the way of you becoming the best personal trainer you can be. We know everybody is different, which is why we offer a variety of ways to learn and study. Our personal training courses offer an ultimate level of flexibility to fit the busiest of schedules.

Personal training courses near you

Our attended personal training courses include face-to-face training, allowing you to gain that all important hands-on experience. Blending home study with weekend practical attendance, you’ll get the best of both worlds.

Online personal training courses

Learn at your own pace with our flexible online personal training courses. You’ll receive a high-quality, content-rich personal training programme that includes all the theory knowledge and practical skills you need to succeed.

Entry-level Personal Training Courses

The industry’s most recognised entry-level personal training course is the Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training. This combines the Level 2 Gym Instructor units with the Level 3 Personal Training units to create a single diploma qualification.

Online

Attended

Essentials Online

Personal trainer with client using battle ropes

Key Package Details

£995 From £62pm

Courses Included:

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (combines L2 Gym Instructor + L3 Personal Trainer)

You're in safe hands:

Internationally recognised qualification
High-quality CPD courses as standard
Designed and delivered by industry experts
Trusted and sought after by employers
5-Star learning experience

Essentials Online

Get your career as a qualified personal trainer underway with our fully online on-demand Essentials of personal training package. This is a fully-loaded online personal training course which contains all the resources and support you need to succeed in your future career as a PT. This is one of the most flexible and content-rich qualifications available.

Qualifications

Our online Essentials package is awarded by YMCA Awards and combines the qualifications below into a single ‘practitioner’ diploma. The qualification is Ofqual regulated, internationally recognised, fully endorsed by CIMSPA, and is one of the leading personal training qualifications in the industry.

There are two core elements to this personal training course:

– Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instruction
– Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training (Practitioner)

There are no entry-requirements for this package.
Key content
Featured below is some headline content from our online Essentials of personal training course package.
- Anatomy and physiology – level 2 and 3
- Principles of exercise and fitness training
- Designing gym-based exercise programmes
- Teaching gym-based exercise
- Nutrition for exercise and weight management
- Nutrition to support personal training
- Personal training programme design
- Progressive exercise programming
- Advanced fitness training methods
- Client motivation and consultation skills
- Behaviour change, and motivational interviewing
- Marketing and sales skills for personal trainers
Employment

On completion of this PT qualification, you’ll be eligible to work in any health, fitness, or personal training facility around the world as a qualified personal trainer.

Personal training represents a significant portion of the UK fitness industry, and there are an almost endless array of possibilities for qualified personal trainers. This programme is one of the most recognisable and respected personal training courses in the fitness industry and is guaranteed to get your career off on the right footing.

Fully endorsed by CIMSPA, this programme is internationally recognised by employers and regulatory bodies around the world (e.g., Register of Exercise Professionals – REPs). You can rest assured that you’ll be able to take your qualification with you, wherever you go

On completion of this qualification, you’ll be able to connect your CV with all the major UK gym chains and independent operators via our flagship CV Connect platform. This service is exclusive to HFE.
Payment options
- Pay in full
  Total payable £945.25 5% discount £49.75
- 6 month payment plan
  1 x £125 and 5 x £124 Minimum deposit £250 Total payable £995
- 12 month payment plan
  1 x £63 and 11 x £62 Minimum deposit £250 Total payable £995

Enquire Book Now

Essentials Attended

Key Package Details

£1595 From £112pm

Courses Included:

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (combines L2 Gym Instructor + L3 Personal Trainer)

We've got your covered:

Globally recognised qualification
Premium CPD courses included
Developed and taught by industry professionals
Highly valued by employers
Exceptional 5-star learning experience

Essentials Attended

Take those all-important first steps to becoming a qualified personal trainer with our tutor-led Essentials of personal training package. This programme is delivered in a live teaching environment by our team of expert personal training tutors from one of our regional training venues located across the UK.

Qualifications

The attended version of our Essentials of personal training package is certificated by YMCA Awards and combines two separate qualifications (gym instructing and personal training) into a single Diploma qualification (see below).

This is an Ofqual regulated qualification that is endorsed by CIMSPA against their personal training standards and as such, is recognised around the world as a kitemark for quality education.

– Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instruction
– Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Practitioner)

There are no formal entry-requirements to enrol on this programme.
Key content
Included below is some key content with our attended Essential personal trainer course.
- Anatomy and physiology (level 2 and level 3)
- Principles of exercise, fitness, and health
- Programming gym-based exercise sessions
- Delivering gym-based exercise sessions
- Fitness testing and programme design
- Nutrition to support health and weight management
- Advanced programme design for personal trainers
- A range of advanced fitness training methods
- Client consultation and screening approaches
- Principles of behaviour change
- Lifestyle management approaches
- Business and marketing for personal trainers
Employment

Whether you are looking to work in a gym, health club, online, or in more of a mobile or outdoor capacity, this qualification will equip you with the very latest knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to thrive as a PT.

The personal training industry is a thriving part of the UK fitness industry, with this highly sought after qualification. By the time your studies are over, you’ll be eligible for employment around the world as a professional personal trainer.

This programme is fully endorsed by CIMSPA, ensuring that your achievements will be recognised by employers, insurers, and professional organisations (e.g., Register of Exercise Professionals – REPs).

On completion of your qualification, we’ll give you instant and exclusive access to our ground-breaking CV Connect platform, allowing you to engage with thousands of personal training operators near you who are actively seeking qualified PT’s. This is a service only available with HFE.
Payment options
- Pay in full
  Total payable £1515.25 5% discount £79.75
- 6 month payment plan
  1 x £225 and 5 x £224 Minimum deposit £250 Total payable £1595
- 12 month payment plan
  1 x £113 and 11 x £112 Minimum deposit £250 Total payable £1595

Enquire Book Now

Empowering your PT career: Free online CPD

To succeed as a professional personal trainer in today’s fitness industry, it’s crucial to have cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills that go beyond the standard gym-based training approaches. Functional training has become increasingly popular as people develop more restrictions and pain associated with being more sedentary, and no two training approaches apply the principles of functional training more than kettlebell training and foam-rolling (also known as self-myofascial release, or SMR).

We’re committed to raising standards throughout the entire physical activity and personal training sector, which is why when you enrol on any of our personal training career packages, we’ll also enrol you for FREE on the following two online CPD programmes:

• Kettlebell instructor course
• Foam rolling instructor course

These programmes are presented by leading industry experts and have been specifically designed to ensure you are industry-ready once you complete your initial training and qualifications. On completion of our personal training courses, you’ll have much more than the industry-standard qualifications, making you more attractive to future clients and employers alike.

NB: Available on personal training packages only.

HFE tutor teaching kettlebell training and self-myofascial release

Become an expert personal trainer

Raise the bar with one of our expert personal trainer packages. These specialist study programmes combine the Essentials programme with more specialised personal training qualifications and content to accelerate your career as a professional personal trainer. With our expert packages, you can open the doors to a wider range of clients.

Specialist

^From £1305

Personal Trainer

Make your personal training services more inclusive with our specialist package. Discover how to tailor your exercise and fitness training services to meet the needs of a range of clients with specific long-term health and medical conditions.

Qualifications:

Our specialist package is awarded by YMCA Awards and combines the Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training with the Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral. This programme allows you to work with clients that need more specialist support. The qualifications are fully endorsed by CIMPSA and internationally recognised.

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)
Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral
Level 3 Business Acumen for Personal Trainers

Key content:

Featured below are some of the key elements of this programme:

Planning and delivering gym-based exercise
Principles of fitness training and programme design
Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness (level 2 and level 3)
Consultation skills and fitness assessment
Understanding medical conditions for exercise referral
Managing long-term health conditions
Therapeutic effects of exercise for long-term conditions
Planning and delivering exercise referral programs for clients

Future employment:

On completion of this package, you will have multiple qualifications that will allow you to work in any health, fitness, or personal training facility around the world. Additionally, you’ll be eligible to work in exercise referral schemes, community health programmes, and work with clients with controlled medical conditions.

As a HFE graduate you will be able to connect with the UK’s major gym chains and brands through our flagship recruitment platform, CV connect. This is a HFE exclusive.

0% payment plans

Interest-free
payment plan
£87
per month
Get started with a deposit of £250
See Plans

5% discount
for prompt payment
save £65.25

Book Now Enquire

Advanced

^From £1510

Personal Trainer

Step up to the plate with our Advanced Personal Training package. With this multi-course study programme, you’ll learn how to provide more advanced nutrition services to clients to support their health and fitness ambitions.

Qualifications:

The advanced programme combines all of the qualifications below to equip you with the knowledge skills and confidence to deliver personal training and advanced nutritional support to your clients. This package is awarded by YMCA Awards and is fully endorsed by CIMSPA, giving you international recognition.

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)
Level 4 Nutrition for Sport and Exercise Performance
Level 3 Business Acumen for Personal Trainers

Key content:

Featured below are some of the core subjects of this programme:

Planning and delivering personal training sessions
Progressive programming for personal training
Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness (level 2 and level 3)
Consultation skills and motivational interviewing
Principles of sports and exercise nutrition
Developing advanced nutrition strategies for performance
Supplements and performance enhancing substances
Nutrition, health, and disease

Future employment:

Once you’ve completed your studies, you’ll be eligible to secure employment in any health, fitness, or personal training facility around the world. You’ll also be able to work for yourself as a self-employed trainer, either in a gym or online.

The advanced nutrition content will enable you to better understand performance needs of clients and athletes alike, so you will also be able to support a wider-range of clients/athletes with their sport and exercise nutrition needs.

At the end of your course, you’ll get exclusive access to CV Connect, allowing you to send your CV directly to all of the major gym chains and fitness brands in the UK. We literally have thousands of clubs to connect you with.

0% payment plans

Interest-free
payment plan
£105
per month
Get started with a deposit of £250
See Plans

5% discount
for prompt payment
save £75.50

Book Now Enquire

Master

^From £2240

Personal Trainer

Master the art and science of personal training with this fully immersive PT qualification. The Master pathway is perfect for PT’s wanting to specialise in working with clients with long-term health conditions and those that want to tailor their PT services for obese or diabetic clients.

Qualifications:

The Master package includes all of the qualifications featured below to give you the Level 4 Master Personal Trainer status. These qualifications are certificated by YMCA Awards and Active IQ, and are fully endorsed by CIMSPA.

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)
Level 3 Exercise Referral Diploma
Level 4 Nutrition for Sport and Exercise Performance
Level 4 Obesity and Diabetes Certificate
Level 3 Business Acumen for Personal Trainers

Key content:

Featured below are some of the key elements for this programme:

Planning and delivering personal training
Fitness assessment and consultation skills
Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness (level 2 and level 3)
Nutrition for exercise, health, and athletic performance
Understanding medical conditions for exercise referral
Exercise interventions to support long-term health conditions
Pathophysiology of obesity and diabetes
Planning and delivering exercise and activity for obesity and diabetes

Future employment:

Once you’ve attained Master status, you’ll be eligible for employment in any health, fitness, or personal training facility. You’ll also have the knowledge and skills to set yourself up as a self-employed PT if you’d prefer.

Given your ability to support special population groups, like those with long-term conditions, or who are obese or diabetic, you’ll also be able to secure work in exercise referral schemes, wellbeing programmes and community health initiatives.

Like all HFE graduates, you’ll also get access to CV Connect, allowing you to connect your CV directly with thousands of UK fitness clubs and employers.

0% payment plans

Interest-free
payment plan
£165
per month
Get started with a deposit of £250
See Plans

5% discount
for prompt payment
save £112

Book Now Enquire

Personal training extras and exclusives

Once your studies are over and you’ve completed all of your personal training courses, our service to you doesn't end there. We’ll continue to be here for you as and when you need us, providing ongoing support for your career as a professional personal trainer. Not only that, but you'll also unlock a range of exclusive offers and discounts to get your new career off to the best start.

CV Connect

Our game-changing recruitment solution instantly connects your CV with thousands of fitness and leisure operators in your area to ensure a smooth start to your personal training career.

Offers and discounts

We’ve negotiated on your behalf some huge offers and discounts with a variety of leading fitness brands, including:

You're in safe hands

Our 5-star learning support team will be on hand to guide you throughout your PT course and beyond. Whether you choose to complete your course online or face-to-face, you’ll always have access to support from a team of personal training experts. Typically, we provide support via:

Phone
Email
Webinars
Video calls

Got a Question?

HFE support tutor on phone in HFE head office

Individual personal training courses

If you didn’t find a career package that suits your needs, take a look at our range of individual PT courses, qualifications and CPD programmes below. If you want to build your own package, add these courses to your basket and we’ll automatically apply the multi-course discount (10%) for you when you checkout. Alternatively, if you're not sure which courses or packages are best for you, you can speak to a member of our friendly Careers Team who will be more than happy to help.

Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing

If you want to become a qualified gym instructor then this is the most recognised qualification in the industry and an absolute must-have. It's also the first stage of becoming a personal trainer.

View Course

Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training

Already qualified as a gym instructor and want to take the next step? The Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training is needed to attain that coveted personal trainer title and to secure employment.

View Course

Level 4 Diploma in Coaching Body Transformations

Advanced your PT career to the next level. Develop your knowledge in nutrition, training, and lifestyle practices to provide clients with evidence-based body transformation services.

View Course

Level 3 Nutrition to Support Physical Activity

Become a qualified nutrition advisor and discover how to guide your clients with evidence-based nutritional information. This is the ideal starter qualification for those interested in nutrition.

View Course

Level 3 GP Exercise Referral Diploma

Make a difference to the lives of clients with medical conditions including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, back pain and many more. This qualification is essential to progress to level 4.

View Course

Level 4 Sport and Exercise Nutrition Coach

Equip yourself with the latest evidence-based sport and exercise nutrition knowledge. This advanced nutrition course will teach you how to help your clients and athletes to achieve peak physical condition.

View Course

Learn from the best

They say that "you become what you are around" so naturally, if you want to be the best PT then you need to learn from the best. That’s why our personal training courses have been meticulously designed and delivered by leading exercise specialists, including doctors, Registered Dieticians, Registered Nutritionists, celebrity personal trainers and fitness educators.

Presented by experts

Online and face-to-face teaching by clinical and exercise subject specialists.
World-class learning resources

Captivating print and digital learning content to keep you engaged throughout.
Exceptional and unlimited support

Our friendly support team will be on hand throughout your studies and beyond.

Physiotherapist lecture content on iPhone screen

*Images and videos are for illustration purposes and may not depict specific course materials.

Don't just take our word for It

In the words of a few famous faces, discover why training with HFE is a five-star experience.

Read our 5-star reviews

We’re committed to ensuring that all of our students receive an exceptional fitness education that goes beyond simply getting a qualification. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our training service and you can see this in the hundreds of 5-star reviews we’ve collected over the years.

HFE.co.uk

1798 reviews |

4.9

out of 5

All Reviews

"HFE is the ultimate fitness training provider. Without a doubt their personal training courses are the best in the industry."

James Crossley

(Hunter from Gladiators)

"The course has really helped me to better understand yoga so that I can improve my performance and remain World No. 1."

Laura Massaro

(Former World #1 Squash Player)

"HFE have been fantastic and have produced some of the best materials I've seen in the fitness industry."

Holly Bradshaw

(Team GB Olympic Bronze Medalist Pole Vaulter, 2020 Olympic Games)

"HFE were understanding and the course is really flexible. I knew this would be perfect for me."

Louise Fiddes

(GB Paralympic Swimmer World Champion )

"I did my ETM and yoga teacher training with HFE and thoroughly enjoyed both... I highly recommend them."

Antonia Johnston

(Co-Founder of YogaFit Retreats)

"I've seen a lot of providers in my career and HFE are by far the most professional and committed provider I've seen."

Kardy Laguda

(International Fitness Presenter)

Frequently asked personal trainer questions

We've listed below some of the common questions we are asked by those who are considering becoming a personal trainer. Take a look at the questions and answers below and if you don't find specific information you are looking for, feel free to reach out to our friendly Careers Team on 0800 612 4067. They'd love to hear from you and will be more than happy to talk you through any queries that you may have.

How do I become a personal trainer?

While becoming a personal trainer is a fairly straightforward process, many underestimate the personal and professional qualities needed to truly succeed as a PT. You only have to look at some of the UK’s best personal trainers to understand that there is no one magic formula or blueprint. Instead, to become a personal trainer you need to have a burning desire to help people, great communication skills, a passion for self-improvement, and a client-focused attitude.

In terms of qualifications, enrolling onto the right personal training courses is a must. If you’re brand new to the fitness industry then your first port of call is the Level 2 Gym Instructor, this is followed by the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training. These courses can either be done individually or combined to form comprehensive career packages. Our career packages also unlock a range of extras and exclusives including video content from Matt Roberts and Ben Coomber, offers and discounts and exclusive job opportunities via CV Connect.

To explore what it truly takes to become a leading personal trainer in much more detail, we’ve created an in-depth and comprehensive article for you to read. Our Become a Personal Trainer career guide covers everything from the essential PT qualifications, insurance, career opportunities and much more.
How long will it take to get qualified as a personal trainer?

If you’re enrolled on to our Essentials career package, which combines the Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Training courses, we’d typically say you could be qualified in just 10-12 weeks. Our larger packages, Premium and Master, contain more courses so naturally, these will take a little longer to complete in their entirety.

If you’ve previously completed your Level 2 Gym qualification and are just studying Level 3 Personal Training then we usually advise it could take 8-12 weeks.

With that being said, those timescales are just guidelines. Each and every learner is unique and will approach their studies at a different pace. We know first-hand how exciting, rewarding and life-changing a career in personal training can be, when it comes to the all-important studies however, this isn’t something we like to rush. The more time, effort and attention you can invest in your personal training education, the better chance you have after qualifying of truly taking the industry by storm.

Our personal training courses utilise the blended learning model which involves practical weekend training and a period of home study. After speaking to thousands of students over the years, we’ve found that an hour’s study a day is more than enough to make steady progress with your course. To guide your learning, we’ve created comprehensive study guides for each of our courses which will really help you map out the learning journey ahead?
Do you offer guaranteed interviews?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions and the simple answer is ‘unfortunately not’. It continues to be incredibly concerning that time and time again we hear of other fitness training providers offering guaranteed interviews and jobs that simply turn out to be self-employed positions where the newly qualified PT actually has to pay the club to go to work. We believe this practice is immoral and misrepresents what the actual opportunity is.

Newly qualified personal trainers in these situations can often end up struggling to make ends meet because they’re paying considerable weekly or monthly rent to work in a club before they’ve even secured their first client.

To shed a bit more light on these practices, we’ve produced a guide to guaranteed interviews and jobs for personal trainers that is very much worth a read.

Instead of engaging in the practice of guaranteed interviews, we’ve created CV Connect. This is a game-changing new way to connect employers with newly qualified personal trainers. As soon as you complete your personal trainer course, a new section in LES (Learner Engagement System) is unlocked.

It’s here that you’re able to upload your CV (featuring your brand-new qualification, of course), search for employers in your area and apply directly. It really is that simple and straightforward. We’ve cut out recruitment agencies and any other hoops or barriers that could get in the way, nothing should stop you from securing your dream job.

To date, we’re closing in on nearly a thousand active vacancies from some of the UK’s biggest and most prestigious employers including UP Fitness, Pure Gym, Fitness First, Your Personal Training, DW and JD Gyms.

If you’re keen to take things into your own hands then we have resources available for starting a personal training business. This article features some exclusive insights from one of the UK’s most successful trainers, Matt Roberts. Matt has exclusive premises in London and he’s trained politicians, film stars, fashion designers and athletes. So, there’s no doubt he very much knows what he’s talking about.
Do you run personal training courses near me?

We’ve partnered with some of the country’s best-equipped and well-known gym chains, health clubs and leisure centres in the UK to deliver the practical elements of our personal trainer courses. Working with the likes of David Lloyd, Bannatyne and Village Hotels, just to name a few, we’re able to offer you maximum choice and flexibility when it comes to your studies.

Currently, we have over 20 venues across England, Scotland and Wales where we deliver our personal training courses and our most popular locations include London-Central, London-East, Manchester, Cardiff, York, Nottingham, Birmingham, Leeds and Bristol.

A full list of venues can be found personal trainer venues and locations page. It’s here you’ll be able to learn about each venue’s facilities, accessibility and any offers and discounts that are available, for example, discounts on hotels. We’ve also provided a route planner to help you comfortably get to your training via your preferred method of travel whether that’s walking, driving or public transport.
What learning resources are available while I study?

Our personal training courses and qualifications utilise the blended learning model and this means students will complete a period of home study and then attend a venue and take part in practical training. For those completely new to home study, it might seem a little daunting at first, but we can guarantee that you’ll receive all the learning resources and support you need. That’s not just when you enrol or before you take an assessment either, it’s every single step of the way.

From the moment you enrol you’ll be assigned a personal support tutor who is available Monday – Friday via phone or email. Your tutor is a qualified and experienced PT, they’ve been there and seen it all before, so no question is too big, small or complicated.

You’ll also receive 24/7 access to LES, the Learner Engagement System. This platform is where you’ll complete the majority of your home study learning. Practice quizzes, workbooks and hours of video lectures delivered by leading physiotherapists, doctors, nutritionists and dietitians are all available at your fingertips.

Alongside the online resources we provide, you’ll also receive print manuals that have been exclusively written and designed in-house by a team of experts. To get a sneak peek at the comprehensive resources we offer, we’ve prepared a sample of our Level 3 Personal Trainer Manual.
What payment options do you have?

You’ve chosen the individual personal training courses or PT Career Package that suits you best, you’ve found your nearest venue and you’re ready to go, why should anything, including money stand in your way? It’s our job to make your journey to personal training success as straightforward as possible and that’s why we have numerous payment options available to you.

If you’re keen to get everything sorted upfront, we’ll give you a 5% discount if you pay for your PT course or career package in full.

For those looking to spread the cost, we have 0% interest 6-month and 12-month payment plans. With both these options, you can secure your place on a PT course for as little as £100 or £250 if you’re booking a career package.

Read our Price Promise for more information on discounts and our pricing model.

Select personal training courses and packages have also been military approved. If you’re serving personnel or a service leaver, contact our Careers team on 0800 612 4067 for more information about the MOD’s Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELCAS).

Personal training course dates & locations

The practical elements of our personal training courses are delivered from high-quality gyms, health clubs and leisure facilities throughout the UK.

We have venues throughout England, Wales and Scotland, including most of the major cities, like London-Central, London-East, Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, Cardiff, Leeds and Bristol.

All Locations PT Locations

All Locations PT Locations

Bristol

Doubletree by Hilton Cadbury House, Frost Hill Congresbury BS49 5AD

Leeds – South

Morley Leisure Centre, Queensway, Morley Leeds LS27 9JP

London – Central

King's Sport & Wellness Strand Gym, Lower Ground, Aldwych London WC2B 6AN

London – East

Qmotion Sports and Fitness Centre, 15 Godward Square London E1 4FZ

Manchester – Hyde

Village Hotel Hyde, Captain Clarke Road Hyde SK14 4QG

York – Nether Poppleton

Bannatyne's Health Club, 1 White Rose Close, York Business Park Nether Poppleton YO26 6RL

Personal training articles and career guides

For everything you need to know about becoming a personal trainer, including the employment options open to you, the pitfalls to avoid, and what qualifications you actually need, check out our range of career guides and articles below.

Personal training is one of the most popular career pathways in the health, fitness, and wellbeing sector for those that are passionate about exercise and fitness training. Personal training provides a career without limits for ambitious individuals keen to help others on their health and fitness journey.

If you’re considering becoming a personal trainer, then it’s only natural that you’ll be curious to learn more about the role, the wider sector, and what you can expect from your future career as a PT. Our range of personal training articles and career guidelines have been created by a team of personal training experts to help give your career a head start.

Whether you’re looking for specific information on becoming a personal trainer, the employment opportunities open to you, or some of the common pitfalls to avoid, we’ve got you covered in these PT articles.

PT ARTICLES AND GUIDES

A personal training article on a computer.

Personal training courses with HFE

Fitness is mainstream, it’s the new black and it’s here to stay. In terms of value, figures suggest that the UK’s health and fitness industry is worth well over £5bn and greatly contributing to this is personal training, with revenues exceeding £650m a year.

Despite unprecedented levels of inactivity and sedentary behaviour, exercise participation is on the rise as more and more people are turning to fitness and specifically personal trainers to help them achieve their goals. With the number of gyms operating in the UK hitting 7,000 and 1 in 7 adults in the UK being a member of a gym, your time to become a personal trainer, secure your dream job and change lives is right now.

Personal trainers play a pivotal role in the fitness industry. On a daily basis, they are there for clients, whether that’s to be a confidant, a motivator or an expert delivering exercise and nutritional advice. It’s such an exciting and multifaceted job where no two days will ever be the same.

So where do you start if becoming a PT is for you? It’s a simple question and the answer is with our CIMSPA approved personal trainer courses. Regardless of your ambition and the success you’re looking to carve out for yourself, you need the right qualification to get you going. For newcomers, it all begins with the Level 2 Gym Instructor course and from here you’ll progress to the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training. These can either be completed with face-to-face training or from the comfort of your own home with an online personal trainer course.

It doesn’t stop here, however. While you can do each of our personal training courses separately, we’ve created our PT career packages with a view to really helping you set yourself up in the industry. With our Essentials, Premium and Master packages, you’re free to forge your own path and in the process benefit from extras and exclusives like video content from the likes of Matt Roberts and Ben Coomber, exclusive job opportunities via CV Connect and more.

If you’re looking for alternative specialisms, then our outdoor training courses and sports conditioning qualifications may also be of interest to you.

Personal training. Redefined.

Personal training courses and qualifications

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Entry-level Personal Training Courses

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Empowering your PT career: Free online CPD

Become an expert personal trainer

Specialist

From £1305

Personal Trainer

Qualifications:

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)

Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral

Level 3 Business Acumen for Personal Trainers

Key content:

Planning and delivering gym-based exercise

Principles of fitness training and programme design

Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness (level 2 and level 3)

Consultation skills and fitness assessment

Understanding medical conditions for exercise referral

Managing long-term health conditions

Therapeutic effects of exercise for long-term conditions

Planning and delivering exercise referral programs for clients

Future employment:

0% payment plans

Advanced

From £1510

Personal Trainer

Qualifications:

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)

Level 4 Nutrition for Sport and Exercise Performance

Level 3 Business Acumen for Personal Trainers

Key content:

Planning and delivering personal training sessions

Progressive programming for personal training

Anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness (level 2 and level 3)

Consultation skills and motivational interviewing

Principles of sports and exercise nutrition

Developing advanced nutrition strategies for performance

Supplements and performance enhancing substances

Nutrition, health, and disease

Future employment:

0% payment plans

Master

From £2240

Personal Trainer

Qualifications:

Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (Combines both the L2 gym instructor and L3 personal trainer certificates)

^From £1305

^From £1510

^From £2240