How to become a fitness instructor
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- specialist courses run by private training organisations
College
You can do a recognised qualification like:
- Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing
- Level 2 Diploma in Fitness and Exercise Instruction
- Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could get into this career through an intermediate apprenticeship as a leisure team member.
You can train in a similar role as a physical training instructor in the armed forces. You can find out more at:
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Work
You could work as a leisure centre assistant and do part-time qualifications on the job, which would allow you to apply for jobs as an instructor.
Other Routes
You can do qualifications through private training companies who offer specialist courses like:
- fitness instruction
- personal training
- gym instructing
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Register of Exercise Professionals and the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity for professional development and to help with your career prospects.