Course Overview

Aimed at those aspiring to become professional personal trainers, this course provides the CIMSPA-endorsed Level 3 Certificate in Planning and Delivering Personal Training — the next step after your Level 2 gym instructor qualification.

Our Level 3 Personal Training course, endorsed by CIMSPA and regulated by Ofqual, deepens your knowledge and skills to confidently design, deliver, and evaluate personalised training sessions. You will study advanced anatomy and physiology, nutrition, client assessments, behaviour change strategies, exercise programming, and business skills essential to succeed as a personal trainer.

The course combines online learning, webinars, practical workshops, and tutor support, allowing you to train flexibly while gaining the expertise to work independently or within gyms.

Suitability & Prerequisites

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Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for you if you want to become a fully qualified personal trainer. It builds on your existing knowledge and skills, preparing you to plan, deliver, and evaluate personalised training sessions for clients of varying needs. You’ll deepen your understanding of anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and client motivation, and gain the confidence to work one-on-one or with small groups. Whether your goal is to work independently, join a gym, or start your own business, this qualification provides the essential skills and knowledge to succeed in the fitness industry.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for the Level 3 Diploma in Planning and Delivering Personal Training Sessions are generally:

You must hold a suitable Level 2 qualification in Gym Instructing.
A basic level of physical fitness is necessary since the course requires physical exertion and active participation.
Basic communication and numeracy skills, equivalent to Level 2 standard, are needed for effective learning and assessment.

Learning Experience

Join thousands of successful graduates who transformed their careers with our award-winning training programs.

Flexible Blended Learning

A combination of online study and practical experience.
Interactive e-learning platform with engaging video lessons, interactive quizzes, and digital manuals.
You can study at your own pace – some students fast-track in ~4 months, while others spread learning over 6-12 months.

Interactive Content & Support

Support of webinars and/or workshops led by expert tutors.
Get one-on-one tutorial support via phone/teams and email whenever you need it.
Our system keeps track of your progress and is accessible 24/7, so you can train whenever it suits you.

What You'll Learn

Advanced anatomy, physiology, and nutrition principles relevant to personal training.
How to design, plan, and deliver personalised training programmes tailored to individual client goals and needs.
Essential skills for client consultation, behaviour change support, and managing a successful personal training business.

Frequently asked questions

How long is access for?

You’ll have 12 months of access starting from when you enrol, and if you’d like more time, you can extend it for a small additional fee.

What qualification will I receive?

You will receive the Level 3 Certificate in Planning and Delivering Personal Training, awarded by Focus Awards and endorsed by CIMSPA, with 10 CPD points.

Who is this course for?

It is designed for those who already hold a Level 2 Gym Instructor or Fitness Instructor qualification and want to become a fully qualified personal trainer.

What topics are covered?

The course covers advanced anatomy and physiology, nutrition principles, planning and delivering personal training sessions, client communication, leadership skills, and business aspects of personal training.

How is the course delivered?

Flexible blended learning options including home study, e-learning, webinars, video tutorials, live practical workshops, and tutor support.

How long will the course take?

The time taken to complete our Personal trainer course is largely up to you. Some people complete the Gym Instructor & PT course “fast track” in as little as five weeks whilst others may take several months of part-time study – it is absolutely dependent on things like previous fitness knowledge and the weekly study hours that you can commit to. Most of our Gym & PT student study part time.

How is the course assessed?

Assessment includes coursework, practical assessments, case studies, and exams.

Is this qualification recognised?

Yes, it is internationally recognised, Ofqual regulated, and CIMSPA endorsed, accepted by UK fitness employers.

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