Health and fitness go hand in hand, and among the many ways in which we can maintain healthy lifestyles is by being physically active and eating well. Many people go to the gym and set fitness goals, but it is not an easy process. Staying disciplined and finding a type of exercise that you enjoy can be tough, which is why the role of a personal trainer is so important.
If you already have a passion for exercise and well-being and would like to channel this interest into a profession, then consider taking an online personal trainer course. You will be able to acquire a strong knowledge of fitness, nutrition, and exercise, as well as how to deliver tailored fitness programmes to clients.
Continue reading to learn about how you can embark on a journey towards becoming a qualified personal trainer.
The Importance of Fitness and Health
In a world where so many elements of our daily lives are fast paced, it can be difficult to look after our bodies and minds. It is imperative, though, that we pay attention to our health so that we enjoy a good quality of life. Physical activity not only keeps the heart pumping, but it is also good for our mental health.
Through personal trainer courses, UK learners will gain an in-depth knowledge about the importance of fitness and this information can be used to inspire and motivate future clients. Physical activity comes in many forms, and the misconception is that you can only reach your fitness goals by committing hours to the gym.
While some thrive in fitness classes and clocking miles on a treadmill, others prefer long leisurely walks or low impact yoga sessions. It is about finding what works for you, and with the knowledge you will gain from your Level 3 personal trainer course, you can advise your clients.
While there may be different types of physical activity to explore, the fundamentals of health and fitness remain the same. By prioritising your fitness, you will experience the following benefits:
- Increase your life expectancy
- Improve your quality of life
- Reduce the risk of contracting illness
- Improve your health
What is a Personal Trainer?
The purpose of a personal trainer is to help someone achieve their fitness goals through a variety of fitness programmes and support. As a professional, you will be required to create fitness programmes that are tailored to each individual client. Some people hire personal trainers to help them lose weight or build muscle, while others seek their guidance as a way to improve their mental well-being.
A Level 3 personal trainer course will enable you to work professionally, giving you an opportunity to devise fitness plans for each client you work with. As well as teach various exercises and how to use exercise equipment, you will provide nutritional advice and guidance. A big part of your job will be to motivate and inspire your client so that they reach their targets.
Given that each client has their own personalised plan, daily tasks and responsibilities differ when working as a personal trainer. However, during your online personal trainer course, you will learn that there are several general duties that you are expected to carry out, including:
- Putting together fitness plans for clients
- Running sessions with clients, both individually and in groups
- Monitoring the progress of clients
- Conducting fitness assessments
- Providing advice on nutrition and lifestyle
- Building trust with clients
- Motivating and inspiring clients to meet their goals
Do All Gyms have Personal Trainers?
Most gyms across the country will have qualified personal trainers as part of their staff. For an additional rate, gym-goers can get personal training alongside the benefits they get from their gym subscription.
If you are considering personal trainer courses, UK professionals should know that there tends to be frequent availability for these roles. This is not your only option, though. If you don’t want to work for a gym, you could provide personal training services independently and work as your own boss!
What Courses Do You Need to Become a Personal Trainer?
There are four levels of qualifications within the personal training sector. If you are considering taking an online personal trainer course, then it is important to be aware of what you need to study to qualify in the role you want. The levels are as follows:
- Level 1 Fitness and Physical Activity (Award)
- Level 2 Gym Instructor (Certificate)
- Level 3 Personal Trainer (Diploma)
- Level 4 Advanced/Specialist Personal Trainer (Certificate)
If you are mulling over the idea of becoming a personal trainer, then a Level 1 Award will give you a taste of what to expect. Having an opportunity to learn foundational knowledge about fitness, nutrition, exercise, and health will allow you to decide whether or not this path is for you.
To work as a fitness instructor, you will need a Level 2 Certificate, but if you want to become a personal trainer, then you will need to progress to a Level 3 personal trainer course. Keep in mind that you will need the Level 2 certification in order to get on the Level 3 course.
If you already have the prerequisites, then you will be able to study the Gym Instructing and Personal Training Practitioner (RQF) Level 3 Diploma with learndirect. This nationally recognised qualification will enable you to apply for a personal training role at most gyms, but please research any prerequisites beforehand.
This Level 3 personal trainer course is made up of 12 units, and you will begin with:
- Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise
- Maximising the Customer Experience in the Exercise Environment
- Client Consultation and Lifestyle Management
- Planning and Delivering Gym-Based Exercise Programmes
- Cleaning and Maintenance within a Gym Environment
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology
Once completed, you will progress on to the following units:
- Lifestyle Management and Motivation for Personal Training
- Consultation, Assessment and Programme Design for Personal Training
- Planning and Delivering Personal Training Programmes
- Nutrition for Physical Activity
- Business Acumen for Personal Trainers
- Safeguarding Adults and Adults at Risk in a Fitness Environment
To pass this Level 3 personal trainer course, you will need to provide a portfolio of evidence and pass a multiple-choice exam that is based around two of the course units covered. As well as receiving an accredited qualification, you will also meet the criteria to apply for membership with the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).
How Much is a Level 3 Personal Trainer Course?
There is not one set cost for a Level 3 personal trainer course, but by learning with learndirect, you will be offered flexible payment options to suit you and your circumstances.
Benefits of Studying a Level 3 Personal Trainer Course Online
Unlike traditional learning, you will not be confined to a classroom or term times when you undertake an online personal trainer course. learndirect is the UK’s leading online learning provider, helping more than 4 million students achieve qualifications in a range of subjects. Our seamless courses will enable you to embark on a new career or expand your existing one.
With your course materials being online, you will be able to access everything you need as long as you have a computer/laptop and stable internet connection. You will gain full support from a personal tutor and Student Support Officers, and as soon as you enrol, you can get started straight away!
Get Started Today!
If you have ambitions of becoming a personal trainer, then you can undertake a Level 3 personal trainer course with learndirect. If you have any queries about enrolling or want more details about the courses available, call our Course Advisors on 01202 006 464 or find out more by downloading our FREE health and fitness course brochure below.
