The Truth About Online Study: Busting the 3 Biggest Myths

Thinking about studying online - but not sure it’s for you? 

Online learning has opened the doors for thousands of people to retrain, upskill, and build new careers. This can often be while juggling work, family, and life commitments. Yet despite its growing popularity, online study is still surrounded by myths that can leave potential learners feeling uncertain. 

If you are one of these, you are not alone. It is easy to feel unsure, and with so many myths floating around, it’s no wonder people hesitate. 

At Study Active, we’ve helped thousands of people turn their passion for fitness into a fulfilling career through flexible, supported online learning. So, let’s clear things up. Here are three common myths about online learning, and the reality behind them. 

Myth 1: Studying online is harder than learning in a classroom 

The truth: Online learning gives you more control – provides flexibility (study-at-your-own-pace), structured and fully supported by tutor every step of the way. 

We hear this a lot, especially from people who haven’t studied in a while, it’s natural to feel nervous about studying again. But online learning doesn’t mean learning alone. In fact, many learners find it easier to stay on track when they can work at their own pace, with designed support system which fits around their busy life. 

With Study Active, you’ll get: 

In a 2022 survey by Statista, over 70% of students say online learning helped them better manage their time compared to in-person education. Additionally, research from the Open University found that online learners often become more independent, an essential skill for any career. 

You’ll still have to put in the work, but you can do it on your own terms, without the pressure of rigid deadlines or long commutes. It’s a different kind of learning, but it’s just as effective (if not more so) for many of our learners. 

“Having the option to do everything online and at a slower pace was perfect for me whilst juggling family life and a busy full-time job already.”  ~ Anna Law 

Myth 2: Online qualifications aren’t as respected 

The truth: It is the qualification that matters - not how you studied. 

Let’s be clear: a recognised qualification is a recognised qualification, whether you study in a classroom or online. 

This myth is one of the most common but easiest to bust. Employers care about whether your qualification is recognised and accredited. 

That means they’re trusted and accepted across the fitness industry. When you complete your course, you’ll hold the same nationally recognised certificate as someone who studied face-to-face. With the increasingly digital world, employers often view the ability to study independently as a valuable skill. Additional standouts are your passion, your knowledge, and your dedication. 

All Study Active qualifications are: 

“I recently decided to make a career change to become a PT and after some research chose Study Active as the provider... Overall a great provider and I would not hesitate to recommend if you are the sort of person who can self-motivate and manage remote learning.” ~ Jonathan Alexander 

Myth 3: Online study is lonely 

The truth: Online learning can be surprisingly social. 

It's easy to assume that online learning means going it alone, but that’s not the case. We do get it, when people picture online study, they sometimes imagine sitting by themselves staring at a screen with no support. This is far from the reality. In fact, many of learners tell us they feel more supported online than they ever did in a classroom. 

At Study Active, you’re never on your own. You’ll have: 

Studies have shown that students who receive regular tutor feedback and peer interaction in online learning are more likely to succeed and complete their course. Plus, you can ask questions privately without the pressure or fear of a classroom environment. 

We’re with you from enrolment to employment, whether that’s helping you master a tough topic or cheering you on when you qualify. 

“My tutor for L3 Rebecca was amazing, I phoned several times, and she was genuinely interested in helping me pass and has a wealth of knowledge. I can’t thank Rebecca enough.”  ~ Wasim Leeds 

So, is Online Study right for you? 

If you want to: 

Then yes, Online study could be the perfect fit. 

If you’re passionate about fitness and thinking about a career change but still unsure whether online learning is right for you – here's something you should know: 

You can do this. 

At Study Active, we combine the flexibility of online learning with the personal support of a real tutor team. You are ready to turn passion into a fulfilling career! 

Join thousands of learners changing their lives through fitness, at their own pace, in their own way. 

Explore our online personal training courses and take the first step towards a career you love. 

Online study isn’t second best. It’s smart, flexible, and made for real life.