Contributors
Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and mov...
Mandy has been with Starpeak Insurance Solutions since 2018, starting in sales in the consumer department and moved to underwriting in early 2022. Prior to this her insurance journey started in 2001 with equine insurance in sales and latterly as a claims assessor. She gained her Cert CII qualification in late 2022.
Making the decision to become a Personal Trainer represents an exciting time, as a career in the fitness industry is certainly one which can be both rewarding and profitable. Indeed, the sector is steadily growing an, according to Ibis World, there are almost 25,000 personal trainer businesses in the UK. Nevertheless, to be able to get started as a PT you will need to make sure you are fully qualified to offer your fitness activities. Without the proper qualifications you could find yourself invalidating your insurance.
So, the next question is “what qualification do I need to become a Personal Trainer?”. This article will look at some key considerations.
Industry regulation
While there is no legal requirement to hold a qualification to call yourself a personal trainer, the fitness industry in the UK is regulated to ensure safe practice. Most employers, gyms, and insurers require personal trainers to hold accredited certifications. The key regulatory bodies in the fitness industry include:
CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity) – The professional body for the UK’s sport and physical activity sector, ensuring trainers meet professional standards.
Ofqual (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) – Regulates qualifications, exams, and assessments in England to ensure their validity.
UK Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) – Though now replaced by CIMSPA, many still use REPs as a benchmark for professional credibility.
How do I know who is endorsed?
To do this you need to use a useful tool on the CIMSPA website. This tool will allow you to check if any provider you are looking at is genuinely endorsed by CIMSPA. (Tip: just because a provider chooses to display the CIMSPA logo does not necessarily mean that they are endorsed – always do this check).
Awarding bodies for personal training qualifications
If you are looking to become a personal trainer, it is crucial to select a qualification from an accredited awarding body. The most recognised awarding bodies include:
These organisations ensure that your certification meets industry standards and is widely accepted by gyms and fitness establishments.
What personal trainer course to choose?
Depending on your level of experience and career goals, there are different types of personal training qualifications available.
To be a qualified Personal Trainer, you need to look for a CIMSPA endorsed Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training. Before you do this, you will also need to complete a Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing – however most providers will offer these two as one course. It is important to note that all CIMSPA PT qualifications have Level 3 Nutrition automatically embedded.
Beginner Level
Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing – This is an entry-level qualification that allows individuals to work as a gym instructor but not as a personal trainer.
Intermediate Level
Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training – This is the minimum requirement to work as a fully qualified personal trainer in the UK. It covers anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and program design.
Advanced Level
Level 4 Specialist Personal Trainer Certifications – These qualifications allow trainers to specialise in areas such as lower back pain management, obesity and diabetes, or strength and conditioning.
Highest Level
Degree in Sports Science or Strength & Conditioning – A university degree is not required to become a personal trainer, but it can provide advanced knowledge and open doors to elite sports coaching and research roles.
How long does it take to get qualified?
The time required to become a personal trainer varies depending on the chosen study method:
- Full-time courses – Typically take between 6-12 weeks.
- Part-time courses – Can take 6-12 months, depending on flexibility and study commitment.
- Online or blended learning – Usually self-paced, allowing students to qualify within 3-12 months.
Routes into personal training
There are several pathways to becoming a personal trainer:
University Degree
A BSc in Sports Science, Strength & Conditioning, or Exercise Physiology can provide in-depth knowledge, but it is not a necessity to work as a PT.
Apprenticeship
A Level 3 Personal Trainer Apprenticeship allows individuals to learn on the job while earning a wage, making it a viable alternative to traditional courses.
Vocational Courses
Private training providers offer Level 3 Personal Training Diplomas in flexible formats, making them the most common route into the industry.
Additional Skills and Certifications
While a Level 3 qualification is the minimum requirement, additional skills and certifications can enhance career prospects, including:
- First Aid & CPR Certification – Often required by employers and insurance providers.
- Nutrition & Weight Management Certifications – Helps expand service offerings.
- Specialist Training (e.g., kettlebells, HIIT, pre/post-natal fitness) – Enables trainers to work with a wider client base.
- Business & Marketing Skills – Essential for personal trainers looking to start their own business or work as a freelancer.
To finish…
As you embark on your PT career, you should now have a better idea of choosing the best Personal Trainer course for you and getting started in the fitness sector.
Once you have those qualifications in place, make sure you’re covered with our specialist Personal Trainer Insurance.
Affordable Personal Trainer Insurance from Protectivity
Personal trainer cover from as little as £3.86 a month, get a quote today!
At Protectivity, we can cover you for a wide range of training activities, from traditional PT, yoga or aerobics instructors and many more. Simply choose a personal trainer insurance policy, select your activities and you’ll be protected as a personal trainer in minutes.
You’ll find public liability insurance from £1 million included as standard, professional indemnity cover and £500 worth of equipment cover. To reinforce your policy, you can increase your cover or include optional extras, employers’ liability, personal accident and overseas extension.
Please note, you are expected to hold a certified qualification in the activity you are instructing. In the event of a claim, failure to disclose this may invalidate your insurance.
*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date.
Specialist personal trainer insurance
Last updated by
My main focus is managing the blog and product content for the Protectivity website ensuring everything aligns with the brand’s voice and strategy.
For the small businesses we support, insurance and financial protection can sometimes seem complicated, especially when getting started. That’s why our content is designed to be clear and practical—providing helpful guidance and ensuring our customers not only find the specialist cover they require but are confident it will do the job they need.