Personal Training Certificate Level 3

The YMCA Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training is an ideal qualification for those in the exercise and fitness sector who wish to develop and refine their existing skills. The qualification aims to provide students with the understanding and practical skills needed to work as a Personal Trainer in a variety of settings. This includes understanding health and safety in a fitness environment, customer service, anatomy and physiology, personal training programmes and sessions, and nutrition.

Units studied include:

• Applied Anatomy and Physiology
• Promoting Wellness through Client Motivation and Interaction
• Bespoke Exercise Programme Design
• Customised Exercise Programme Instruction and Communication Techniques
• Nutrition to Support Physical Activity
• Business Acumen for a Successful Personal Training Programme

You can re-sit GCSE Maths and/or English alongside this course.

Additional costs
All students are expected to purchase a practical kit. There is also a course contribution cost to support the trips and visits organised across the year to enhance students' learning. For further information please speak to our tutors at open events and guidance discussions.

The practical element of the course will involve working in the Athletic Suite. You’ll also study a range of theory sessions to develop your knowledge, skills and understanding of theories that underpin fitness. You will also take part in some client-facing sessions.

You will be assessed by one multiple choice theory exam on Anatomy and Nutrition. You will complete some workbooks and have one summative practical assessment.

You must have completed the Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing prior to starting this course and have a grade 4 in GCSE English and/or Maths.

You could enter employment (including self-employment) as a Personal Trainer or could combine this with another Level 3 qualification to enter higher education. On completion of the course, you will be CIMSPA accredited and be licensed to practice. You could become a self-employed Personal Trainer or work for a leisure centre or private gym. Some students move into more specialised personal training such as in the Armed Forces.