Personal Training - Level 3
Summary
Are you looking to launch a career in the health and fitness industry as a personal trainer? The Active IQ Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Personal Training (Diploma) is a nationally recognised qualification (approved by IfATE, Ofqual and the DfE, and aligned with the CIMSPA professional standards) which opens up career opportunities in the personal fitness arena.
This blended learning course combines Active IQ eLearning with B&FC tutor-led lectures and workshops, equipping you with the essential knowledge, skills and behaviours to work confidently as a personal trainer. You’ll learn how to coach clients towards their health and fitness goals, design safe and effective programmes, and build a sustainable business.
All students who complete the course are guaranteed an interview with JD Gym Blackpool, who endorse our programme. While most of the course is delivered online, you will be required to attend college for lectures, practical workshops and assessments.
Entry Requirements
To be considered for this course, you must:
- Be aged 19 or over
- Hold a Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing (or complete it at the start of this course)
- Have a Functional Skills qualification in maths and English (or higher)
- Possess basic digital literacy skills
- Maintain a good level of personal fitness
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
On successful completion, you’ll be qualified to work as a personal trainer in a variety of settings, including:
- Gyms, leisure centres and sports clubs
- Hotels and spas
- Self-employed, mobile or home-based environments
You’ll also be eligible to progress to:
- Level 3 Technical Specialist qualifications (e.g. Sports Massage Therapy, Antenatal/Postnatal Training, Ageing Client Training)
- Personal Training Apprenticeships
- Degree programmes in Sports, fitness nutrition and health at B&FC’s University Centre
This course carries 32 UCAS points.
Next steps at B&FC
Level 4 Advanced Personal Trainer
HNC Community Sport
Level 4 Nutrition
Level 3 Massage and Therapy
Key information
Qualification obtained
Technical Occupational Entry in Personal Training (Diploma)Fees and funding
This course is available through the Adult Skills Fund (ASF) and Adult Learner Loans (ALL).Please refer to our tuition fees guide for full details.
Extra costs and equipment
While not essential, access to a laptop or PC is recommended. College facilities are available if needed.
What will I learn?
You will complete six mandatory units:
1. Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise and Fitness
2. Principles of Nutrition for Exercise and Health
3. Understanding Lifestyle, Wellbeing and Common Medical Conditions
4. Encouraging Positive Health and Fitness Behaviours
5. Programme Design and Delivery for Personal Training
6. Professionalism and Business Acumen for Personal Trainers
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
Whilst a work placement is not mandatory for this qualification, it is highy recommended as the combination of , but is highly recommended. You’ll also have opportunities to visit local gyms and meet industry professionals. A small charge may apply for participation in fitness sessions.
How will I learn?
The course is delivered through a blended learning approach, incorporating over 100 hours of independent study via the Active IQ online platform. In addition, you will attend scheduled lectures and hands-on practical workshops held on Wednesday evenings over a 16-week period. Alongside these sessions, learners should expect to dedicate approximately 4 to 6 hours per week to home-based coursework and assessment preparation. We use a variety of tools including CANVAS and other online apps to support your learning. Our tutors are experienced professionals who will guide you through both the academic and practical elements of the course.
You’ll also benefit from guest talks and visits from local gym managers and fitness professionals.
Expert tutors
Neil Salanki is a dedicated sports and exercise science professional with a distinguished academic background, including a BASES-endorsed MSc degree in Sports and exercise science. Over the past decade, Neil has held various roles in higher education and the sports industry, notably as a Programme Leader and Lecturer at Blackpool and The Fylde College and other higher education institutions. He has coached world record holders and managed extensive sports programmes.
Outside of his professional life, Neil enjoys running, hiking and travelling and is passionate about promoting a healthy lifestyle. He aims to further his career in academia and research, with aspirations to complete a PhD and contribute to the field of sports and exercise science.
Areas of expertise: Sport and exercise science (exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition), Sports voaching and skill acquisition, Performance analysis, Research and dissertation.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment methods include:
- Knowledge assessments (multiple choice, short answer, scenario-based)
- Assignments and case studies
- Practical observations and questioning
- Observations (e.g. consultations, training sessions)
All assessments must be passed to achieve the qualification. The overall grade is Pass/Refer.