There are loads of personal trainer courses on the market, but of the hundreds out there how do you find providers that you can trust?
The first thing to check is the qualification being offered. For a personal trainer course to be worth anything, it should qualify you to be registered with the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).
REPs are recognized throughout the industry as the principal governing body for fitness professionals, and many employers and clients will not even consider working with anyone who is not registered with REPs.
REPs ensure that all their members work to strict and recognised standards for training, qualifications, and conduct. To qualify, you need a Level 3 qualification, such as:
- NVQ Level 3 in Instructing Physical Activity and Exercise (awarded by City and Guilds, Active IQ, OCR, VTCT and CYQ)
- Level 3 Certificate in Advanced Fitness Instructing (awarded by Active IQ, City & Guilds, CYQ, NCFE, VTCT and OCR)
- Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training (awarded by Active IQ and CYQ)
Although REPs does not actually offer training, if you check out the REPs website you will find details of qualifications and training providers that are recommended. Sticking with these tried and trusted providers ensures that the effort you put into learning is rewarded with a nationally recognised qualification.
Once you are qualified, you will need to work for at least 12 months before you can be recognised by REPs.
