To become an exercise referral specialist in the UK, there are two qualifications you need:

• Level 2 Fitness Instructor Qualification
• Level 3 Exercise Referral Qualification

The Level 2 Fitness Instructor Qualification is your entry level qualification. Completing this course is essential before progressing to the exercise-referral qualification.

The Level 3 Exercise Referral Qualification is the key requirement for this career. It qualifies you to design and deliver safe, effective workout programmes for clients referred by healthcare professionals.

Both qualifications need to be regulated by Ofqual, endorsed by CIMSPA and be accredited by an awarding body such as Focus Awards.

What to keep in mind when choosing between training providers:

Tutor Support – Check when support is available. If you study evenings or weekends, avoid providers that only offer help during office hours.

Learning Methods – Choose a training provider that offers flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit learning around your commitments.

Career Support – Look for extras like free CV help or having your CV sent to local employers. This can make entering the industry much easier.

Industry Recognition – Check for industry recognition in the form of awards like the BFAs, UKactive Awards and National Fitness Awards. These acknowledgements reflect quality and credibility.

Student Reviews – Read independent reviews from previous students on sites like TrustPilot and check what ratings they have.

Once you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to get qualified! To become an exercise referral specialist in the UK, you’ll need to complete both the Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.

You’ll start with your Level 2 Fitness Instructor Qualification, which is your entry point into the industry. This gives you the knowledge and skills to work as a fitness professional and, most importantly, progress onto Level 3.

Next, you’ll complete your Level 3 Exercise Referral Qualification, which is the key requirement for this career. This course teaches you how to create and deliver safe, effective exercise programmes for clients referred by healthcare professionals.

As long as your qualifications are Ofqual regulated, CIMSPA endorsed, and accredited by an awarding body like Focus Awards, this step will be an enjoyable, rewarding process that sets you up for a fulfilling career helping others improve their health and wellbeing!

Once you’re qualified, the next step is choosing the setting that suits your career goals. Exercise referral specialists can work in a variety of environments, each offering different opportunities:

• Sports & Leisure Centres – Often entry-level roles where you’ll deliver both one-to-one and group sessions for GP-referred clients. These positions are varied and a great way to gain experience.

• NHS Roles – Clinical settings such as treatment centres or in-patient facilities, usually focusing on specific conditions. These roles often require prior experience and can offer higher salaries.

• Private Clinics or Organisations – Typically higher-paying roles where you may specialise in supporting particular conditions or offer tailored rehabilitation services.

Where you choose to work will shape your career progression, so consider whether you’d prefer varied, entry-level experience, clinical specialism, or private sector flexibility and higher earning potential.

Once you’re qualified, the next step is to make sure you’re legally covered with the right insurance.

All exercise referral specialists should have two core policies:

• Public Liability Insurance – Protects you if a client is injured or equipment is damaged during a session.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance – Covers you if a client claims they’ve suffered illness, injury, or poor results because of your advice.

If you work within the NHS you may already be covered under their policy. Be sure to check with your employer, never just assume this protection exists.

However, if you’re self-employed or starting your own business, you’ll need to secure your own exercise referral insurance.

Once you’re qualified and working, marketing is key to attracting new clients and building your reputation. This is especially important if you’re self-employed or combining exercise referral with personal training.

Some of the most effective strategies include:

• Organic social media content
• Paid social media ads
• Google ads
• Setting up a Google My Business page
• Launching your own website

By combining these strategies, you can raise awareness of your services, attract more referrals, and grow your client base.