About this qualification 

This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in fitness coaching. Learners are provided with an understanding of anatomy, physiology and nutrition and how they relate to exercise and fitness. Learners are also provided with the knowledge and skills to be able to plan, deliver and supervise safe and effective exercise programmes within a gym or health club environment. 

This qualification has been designed in partnership with employers and covers the knowledge and skills identified in the industry as essential for the fitness coach role, covering the planning and instructing of safe and effective exercise sessions as well as conducting small group sessions and supporting clients’ exercise adherence and a healthy lifestyle. The qualification also provides the learner with an understanding of professionalism, personal development and how to deliver exceptional customer service. 

This qualification includes the essential knowledge and skills that are needed to meet the requirements of the physical activity sector’s minimum standards for deployment. 

Who is it suitable for? 

This qualification is for learners aged 16 and above who are wishing to pursue a career in the health and fitness sector as gym-based fitness coaches. 

What are the entry requirements? 

Learners must be aged 16 or over.  

There are no specific prior skills/knowledge a learner must have for this qualification. 

How is this qualification structured? 

To be awarded this qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 7 units from the mandatory units. 

For centres and learners wishing to evidence full alignment with the CIMSPA Gym Instructor Professional Standard associated with this qualification, learners must also achieve the 1 optional unit (Unit 08). 

How is it assessed? 

Internally assessed and externally quality assured portfolio of evidence. 

How many credits are required to complete it? 

To be awarded this qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 20 credits from 7 mandatory units. 

For centres and learners wishing to evidence full alignment with the CIMSPA Gym Instructor Professional Standard associated with this qualification, learners are required to successfully achieve 1 credit from the optional Unit 08. 

Is employment or completion of work/industry placement required for this qualification? 

Work/industry placement experience is not required for this qualification.  

What related qualifications can you progress to? 

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following: 

• further education: 

• • Level 2 Award in Instructing Circuit Training 

• • Level 2 Award in Instructing Studio Cycling 

• • Level 2 Award in Instructing Kettlebell Training 

• • Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training 

• • Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy 

• • apprenticeship in personal training. 

Funding for our qualifications 

Find out more about funding for this and other qualifications on our funding page.

Useful links  

Mandatory policies and fees | NCFE