Combined Level 2 & Level 3 Diploma in Exercise & Fitness

Overview

This comprehensive programme combines both the YMCA Level 2 Diploma in Exercise and Fitness: Gym Instructor and the YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Exercise and Fitness: Personal Trainer qualifications, enabling learners to progress from entry-level gym instruction to advanced personal training.

By completing this course, learners will:

• Meet CIMSPA professional standards for both Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer roles.
• Build a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and principles of exercise.
• Develop the skills to supervise clients in a gym-based environment.
• Learn to consult, assess, and support clients towards achieving their fitness goals.
• Plan, deliver, and evaluate individual and group training sessions, both indoors and outdoors.
• Gain essential business and marketing skills to promote personal training services.
• Understand health, safety, risk assessment, and lifestyle management strategies for clients.

Key Units Covered

• Fundamentals of anatomy and physiology for exercise and fitness professionals
• Nutrition for physical activity and exercise
• Health screening, consultation and assessment processes
• Supporting clients in a gym environment
• Principles of physical activity, training methods and programme design
• Planning, delivering and evaluating gym-based and personal training sessions
• Outdoor training delivery and evaluation
• Business acumen and customer service for health and fitness professionals

Assessment Methods

Learners will be assessed through a mix of:

• Written questions and worksheets
• Case studies and information resources
• Client consultations and progressive programme design
• Observations of practical delivery in both gym and outdoor environments
• Nutrition case studies
• Session planning and evaluation documents
• Showcase presentation and professional discussion

Accreditation

CIMSPA Endorsed – providing industry-recognised status to work as both a Gym Instructor and a Personal Trainer.

Entry Requirements

Aged 16+ with no prior fitness qualifications required (Level 2 provides entry to Level 3).

Delivery

Delivered through blended learning over multiple weekends (face-to-face teaching once per month). Learners progress seamlessly from Level 2 to Level 3 over the course duration.

Career Pathways

• Work as Gym Instructors in health clubs, leisure centres, and gyms.
• Progress to Personal Trainer roles, working one-to-one or with small groups indoors and outdoors.
• Build their own fitness business or work freelance using the business and marketing skills developed.