Do you need a qualification to personal train?
Christopher Ramos
Updated on March 24, 2026
To work as a personal trainer you’ll need a Level 3 personal training qualification, ideally one accredited by a reputable organisation such as the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) or the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).
What are minimum requirements to become a personal trainer?
You may also work as a Personal Trainer if you have a Diploma of Fitness (SIS50215), Complete Personal Trainer qualification, or a degree in exercise science or human movement. Complete a Certificate IV in Fitness (SIS40215). You may be able to complete the course through a combination of in class and online study.
What qualifications do I need to be a personal trainer in Australia?
How to become a personal trainer in Australia
- Get qualified with a Certificate IV in Fitness or above.
- Register with industry bodies, like Physical Activity Australia or Fitness Australia.
- Get a First Aid Certificate.
- Get a job at a gym or sports centre, or start your own business.
How long does it take to become a certified personal?
To receive a personal trainer certificate through bodies like ISSA, NASM or ACE and work in a globo gym takes on average 3-6 months to study the course materials and pass the test. To study and pass the OPEX Coaching Certificate Program quizzes and case studies takes most fitness coaches 6-12 months.
Can you be a personal trainer without qualifications?
Laws do not currently require trainers to be certified, but that may change. Even without regulations in place, trying to work as a personal trainer without certification is risky. You risk hurting a client, big legal fees, and simply not being able to find work. Get certified.
Why I quit being a personal trainer?
The average personal trainer quits within the first year they qualify. The most common reasons for leaving are low income, long hours and boredom in their career. There is also an often unexpected level of competition and expensive gym rent that creates high levels of stress.
Can you be a personal trainer without a degree?
It is typically not a requirement that you have a college or advanced degree to become a personal trainer. Many colleges offer degrees in Exercise Science or Kinesiology. In almost all cases, a national personal training certification can be substituted.
Do personal trainers make good money?
Yes, making good money as a personal trainer is very viable. Even entry-level personal trainers can make upwards of $25 an hour, and easily up to $100 an hour if they are experienced. Private personal trainers can make even more per hour, charging up top $100 an hour.
Who is the richest personal trainer?
The Richest Personal Trainers in the World
- Tony Little – $200 million.
- Jane Fonda – $120 million.
- Tracy Anderson – $110 Million.
- Billy Blanks – $30 million.
- Chuck Norris – $26 Million. Chuck Norris is widely known for his role on Walker, Texas Ranger but has also been the face of Total Gym.
Can you work in a gym without qualifications?
Accredited memberships If you are going to work in a Gym without qualifications then progression will be limited. In Gym Management you will most likely need a degree in a sports related science or some vocational management experience. This coupled to some experience as a trainer would certainly help.
What kind of qualifications do you need to be a personal trainer?
To work as an accredited Personal Trainer you will need a level 3 Personal Trainer qualification. A prerequisite to studying for your level 3 is to hold a level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification.
Can you become a personal trainer with a NASM certification?
Plus, employers agree that NASM Certified Personal Trainers (NASM-CPTS) are better prepared to actively start their fitness career. Interested in becoming a personal trainer? Good for you! It’s one of the most exciting and satisfying careers you can have. A good first step is earning a personal training certification.
Do you have to pick a date to become a personal trainer?
Picking an exam date is the first major step towards seeing your personal trainer dreams through. Put it off and you may end up backburnering your goal indefinitely. That’s why certain programs have you set a date right away for this very reason. Keep in mind, you should be realistic with your date.
Where can I find a personal trainer course?
Fitness instructor and personal trainer courses are widely available through colleges and private training providers.