Are you passionate about health and fitness and you are thinking about becoming a personal trainer?
There are lots of personal training courses available so how do you pick the right one?
In our ultimate guide, we will explore some key areas to help you choose the best personal training course for your needs. We will explore course accreditation, how much you can expect to pay, course content, and career opportunities. We hope this supports you to gain a clear understanding of what to look for in a personal training course!
Benefits of Becoming a Personal Trainer
Pursuing a personal training course can be an exciting and fulfilling career path.
You can help people achieve their fitness goals, improve their health, and there are huge business opportunities out there to earn a great salary doing something you love!
But beyond the satisfaction of helping others, there are numerous benefits to pursuing a personal training course and starting a new career as a PT.
Increased knowledge and expertise
A comprehensive Level 3 personal training course will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to design and implement effective fitness programs for individuals or groups. You’ll learn about anatomy and physiology, nutrition, injury prevention, and exercise science, amongst other topics.
Flexibility
As a Personal Trainer it can lead to a good level of flexibility on what hours you work. Many personal trainers work in gyms, fitness centres, or studios, but you can also choose to work independently or remotely. Although a word of caution many personal trainers can also end up working early mornings and late evenings – ie the popular times for client demand. Its therefore important that you manage your schedule in line with your work / life balance.
Career growth opportunities
A personal training course can also open up numerous career opportunities. Once you’ve completed the course, you can work as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, or specialise in a specific area like Pre and Post Natal Client support or Strength and Conditioning. Additionally, you can progress to management roles or even start your own fitness business such as your own gym or personal training business.
Types of personal training courses available
There are various types of personal training courses available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The type of course you choose will depend on your goals, interests, and learning style. Here are some of the most common types of personal training courses:
Online courses
Online personal training courses are becoming increasingly popular due to their flexibility and convenience. These courses are typically self-paced, meaning that you can complete the coursework at your own speed. They may also offer webinars or online forums for collaboration and discussion. However, online courses may not be suitable for those who prefer a structured classroom setting.
Classroom courses
Classroom-based personal training courses provide a more structured learning environment. These courses are led by experienced tutors and offer hands-on training and practical experience. They may also offer networking opportunities with other students and industry professionals. However, classroom courses can be more expensive and may require you to take time off work or rearrange your schedule.
Hybrid courses
Hybrid personal training courses combine the best of both worlds, offering a mix of online and classroom-based learning. These courses may offer online coursework followed by in-person practical training and assessments. They are often less expensive than traditional classroom courses and offer greater flexibility than online courses. However, they may require more travel and time commitment than fully online courses.
Factors to consider before choosing a personal training course
Choosing the right personal training course can be a daunting task. There are numerous factors to consider, including accreditation, cost, course content, and delivery format.
Accreditation and certification of personal training courses
It’s essential that you complete a personal training course that is accredited and will be recognised by employers. Accreditation ensures that the course meets industry standards and is recognised by employers and certification bodies. Look for courses that are accredited by reputable organisations, such Active IQ, who are the UK’s leading Awarding Body for the Health and Fitness sector. You also want to check who recognises the course, there are lots of courses available that claim to be accredited are not themselves recognised! It is therefore important to check that the course appears on the Ofqual Framework. Additionally, look for courses that offer certification exams upon completion, as this will demonstrate your competence and professionalism to potential employers.
Cost of personal training courses
The cost of personal training courses can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand pounds. Consider your budget and financial goals when choosing a course. Keep in mind that if a level 3 personal training course is less than £1000 the chances are that it may not be sufficiently recognised or the quality may be sub standard.
Delivery mode of personal training courses
Consider the delivery mode of the personal training course. Do you prefer a classroom-based course or an online course? Are you willing to travel for in-person training? Do you have the time and resources to commit to a fully online course? Choose a delivery mode that suits your learning style and lifestyle.
Course content and duration
Consider the course content and duration when choosing a personal training course. Look for courses that cover topics such as anatomy and physiology, exercise science, nutrition, and how to successfully build a personal training business. Additionally, consider the duration of the course. Choose a course that offers comprehensive content and a duration that suits your goals and schedule.
Reviews and ratings of personal training courses
Finally, consider the reviews and ratings of personal training courses. Look for courses that have positive reviews from past students and industry professionals. Additionally, check if the course offers job placement or networking opportunities, as this can be a valuable asset when starting your career as a personal trainer.
Job opportunities after completing a personal training course
Completing a personal training course can open up numerous job opportunities. As a personal trainer, you can work in a variety of settings, including:
Gyms and fitness centres
Many personal trainers work in gyms or fitness centres, where they provide one-on-one training or group fitness classes. This is a great way to gain practical experience and build a client base. UK gyms such as JD Gyms or The Gym Group typically offer self employed style personal training roles.
Health clubs and spas
Health clubs and spas often offer personal training services to their clients. This is a great option if you prefer a more relaxed work environment or enjoy working with individuals who are interested in wellness and self-care.
Corporate wellness programmes
Corporate wellness programmes are becoming increasingly popular, as companies recognise the benefits of promoting employee health and wellness. As a personal trainer, you can work with companies to design and implement fitness programs for their employees.
Online coaching
Online coaching is a great option if you prefer to work independently or remotely. Many personal trainers offer online coaching services, where they provide customised fitness programs and nutrition plans to clients via email or video chat.
Conclusion
Choosing the right personal training course is an important step in achieving your goals in the health and fitness industry. Consider factors such as accreditation, cost, course content, and delivery format when making a decision. Additionally, remember that completing a personal training course can open up numerous job opportunities, including working in gyms, health clubs, or corporate wellness programs, or offering online coaching services. With the right training and certification, you can become a valuable asset to your clients and help them achieve their fitness goals.
