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The Global Insight

What subjects do you need to become a fitness instructor?

Author

Sarah Garza

Updated on March 29, 2026

To become a personal trainer you would normally be an experienced fitness instructor with a recognised qualification, such as:

  • Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing – Gym.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Health, Fitness, and Exercise Instruction.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Instructing Exercise and Fitness.

    Which course is best for fitness trainer?

    The 5 Best Personal Trainer Certifications

    • International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
    • The National Council on Strength & Fitness (NCSF)
    • Fitness Mentors – Personal Training and Online Personal Training Certifications.
    • American Council on Exercise (ACE)
    • National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)

      Do fitness instructors make good money?

      The median wage for fitness instructors is about $18 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics — which means half of them make more than that. You’ll save money on your own fitness. You’ll probably get free membership to the gyms where you teach. “I can take other classes for free,” said Walsh.

      How long does it take to become a fitness trainer?

      If your goal is to become a personal athletic trainer, you have the option of earning a certification, a two-year associate’s degree or a four-year degree. You should base this choice on how much time you want to spend in school, cost and what you want to do with your education.

      Which course is best for bodybuilding?

      10 Best Body Building Courses, Training, Classes & Tutorials Online

      Course NameEnrolled Students (Count)
      2. Body building : guideline to build bigger muscles&burn fat 11090+
      3. Bodybuilding the Complete Guide36+
      4. BodyWeight: Chest & Abs/Core Workout1322+
      5. HIIT and Body weight exercises with a US Marine96+

      Is fitness trainer a good career?

      Pros & Cons of a Career in Fitness Training One of the biggest positive point of being a fitness trainer is that you will get the knowledge of the healthy lifestyle, exercises, nutrition, etc. You will meet people on daily basis. Gym trainers have flexible timings, with less working hours.

      Can you make a living as a group fitness instructor?

      Group Fitness Instructor Salary According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual income for group fitness instructors in 2019 was just over $40,000 per year (1). There are, however, instructors who make much more than this and there are instructors who make less than this.

      What qualifications do you need to work at gym?

      A high school diploma is the main qualification. First-line supervisors coordinate the activities of trainers, assign them activities and determine their schedules. Experience as a fitness worker is usually required, and many have at least an associate’s degree.

      What qualifications do you need to run a gym?

      What qualifications do I need when opening a gym? The first step to becoming a fitness trainer is the Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing, to be followed by the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training. These can be completed in the gym, perhaps as part of an NVQ to allow you to learn on the job, or from home.

      How to become a fitness instructor with qualifications?

      There’s no one better to train with than the national governing body for group exercise. All our qualifications are nationally recognised, REPs accredited and include a year’s instructor insurance once you qualify. Hear from previous students and learn how EMD UK supported them throughout and beyond their instructor training.

      What can you do after a gym instructor course?

      After one of our courses you can go straight to work in a health and fitness club or continue your development with a personal training course. Our Gym Instructor course is your very first step into the fitness industry. It will give you the skills, knowledge and confidence you need to begin your fitness career.

      How to become an AFAA certified group fitness instructor?

      How It Works. 1 Step 1: Study Your Online Course Material. 2 Step 2: Pass Your Proctored, NCCA-Accredited Exam. 3 Step 3: Become an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor!

      Where can I find a fitness and sports course?

      Whether you’re a current fitness and sports instructor or looking to start out your career in the fitness sector, find a fitness and sports course to suit you. Find anything from personal training courses, to sports coaching courses, all at different levels to suit you. Know which course you are interested in?