To become a personal trainer in the UK, there are two qualifications you need:

• Level 2 Fitness Instructor Qualification
• Level 3 Personal Training Qualification

The Level 2 qualification is an entry-level course that qualifies you to work as a fitness instructor. You must complete this course before moving onto the Level 3 course, which will qualify you to work as a certified personal trainer!

Both of these qualifications must be regulated by Ofqual, accredited by an awarding body (such as Focus Awards), and endorsed by CIMSPA.

The fastest and most affordable way to gain both of these essential qualifications is by completing an accredited Personal Training Diploma.

Here are some things to consider when comparing providers:

Tutor Support – Check what support is offered and when it’s available. Many providers only offer support during office hours, which isn’t helpful if you plan to study on evenings or weekends.

Study Options – PT courses are delivered via 3 methods: online, part-time (online + practical workshops), or full-time (4-week in-person). Ask what options they offer and choose what suits your learning style.

Career Support – Look for a provider that offers free career support as this will make it much easier to get started in the industry. For example, at OriGym we provide guaranteed job interviews!

Industry Awards – Establish the quality of their training by asking what industry awards they have won or are nominated for. The biggest awards are the BFA’s, UKactive awards, and National Fitness Awards.

Student Reviews – Check out independent review sites like TrustPilot to see what past students have to say about their experience. Look at their rating and how many reviews they have!

Once you’ve decided on a provider, it’s time to get qualified! You’ll need to complete both the Level 2 & 3 courses to become a personal trainer.

You’ll start with your Level 2 Gym Instructing Course (there is no Level 1), which provides the skills and knowledge you need to work as a fitness instructor and most importantly – progress onto Level 3.

Next, you’ll complete your Level 3 PT course which will teach you how to fulfil exciting roles such as planning and delivering 1-1 training programmes.

As long as you’ve chosen a reputable provider, completing this step should be a stress-free, exciting process that opens doors to endless opportunities in the industry!

Next, it’s time to think about your personal training career options. Here’s an overview of your options once you qualify as a personal trainer:

Working for a Gym – With this option, you’ll be employed by the gym with a fixed wage and a pre-existing client base, made up of gym members. This is a great option when you first qualify as it provides you with a fixed income while you gain experience and grow your reputation.

Freelancing in a Gym – Looking for more freedom and a higher earning potential? As a freelancer, you’ll pay rent to a gym in exchange for using their facilities to train your clients. This is a great option to pursue once you have your own client base.

Starting Your Own Business – As an independent PT, you can choose where and when you work. You could offer sessions at private studios, train clients at home, run group PT sessions – or do a combination of these! With your Level 3 qualification, you could even start an online business or open your own gym.

All personal trainers are legally required to have the following policies:

• Public liability insurance
• Professional indemnity insurance

Never assume that being employed means you don’t need insurance! If you land an employed role in a gym, be sure to ask whether you’re insured through them and exactly what you’re covered for.

If you’re working as a freelance personal trainer, you will absolutely need to take out both of the above policies. Failing to do so could have significant legal and financial consequences.

Starting your own business? You might need additional cover, especially if you buy your own equipment or hire staff! Check out our full guide to personal trainer insurance for more details.

Once you become a certified personal trainer, expanding your client list will be one of your main priorities. After all, the more clients you have, the more money you make!

Some of the most effective marketing strategies for personal trainers include:

• Establishing a social media presence
• Setting up a client referral scheme
• Building your own website
• Creating a Google My Business page
• Utilising paid ads on social media

Want more useful tips on this topic? Check out our expert guide: how to get personal training clients.