So you have made the decision that you want to become a fitness instructor and so now is the time to find the right provider and qualification for your needs. There are as many variables in this decision as there are smarties in a tube and so it’s important to ensure that you have all of the facts before you commit yourself to any one qualification or provider.
First of all, when deciding which fitness course, or more importantly ‘qualification’, is right for you, be sure to choose a specialist awarding body. What we mean by ‘specialist’ here, is an awarding body that deals exclusively with health and fitness industry qualifications, like Active IQ and CYQ. This will ensure that not only does your fitness course lead to an internationally recognised qualification, it will also maximise your potential for employment upon certification. Other ‘jack of all trade’ awarding bodies may offer fitness instructor and personal trainer qualifications, but their executive team lack the specialist and precise technical knowledge and skill requirements to make their qualifications truly relevant to the industry. The health and fitness industry is a niche market which necessitates a niche awarding body that has inside knowledge on what components make a remarkable fitness professional.
Don’t be fooled into believing that because a course is endorsed or recognised by the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) that it is a qualification. REPs are not an awarding body, and as such do not have the authority or freedom to certificate qualifications. While they do regulate professional development and various elements of professionalism within the fitness profession, do not be duped by the training companies selling only REPs accredited/endorsed courses under the guise of qualifications. If you fall victim to such predators, not only are you likely to get an inferior training experience, the likelihood is that you will also find gaining employment and insurance in the absence of a ‘qualification’ incredibly difficult.
For more information on which fitness courses lead to recognised qualifications, please feel free to call one of our careers advisors on 01257 475 789.
