Build the skills, confidence and qualification to start working in gyms and leisure centres, in just 12 weeks, training in elite-level facilities at Robin Park.
This course is your first step into the fitness industry. It provides the knowledge, experience and recognised qualification to work as a gym instructor in commercial or community settings. You’ll learn in a professional training environment with expert tutors and access to outstanding facilities.
You’ll develop a deep understanding of anatomy and physiology, principles of exercise, and safe programming for a range of client needs. You’ll also learn how to deliver gym inductions, support client motivation and supervise use of equipment confidently and professionally.
Once qualified, you’ll be ready to apply for employment in gyms, leisure centres or fitness clubs. This course also forms the foundation for progressing to Level 3 Personal Trainer or other specialist fitness qualifications.
The course is delivered part-time with a blend of classroom study, practical sessions and independent learning. You’ll complete theory units, observed practical assessments, and a portfolio of work, all supported by our experienced team.
Delivered part-time over 12 weeks, blending practical sessions at Robin Park with guided online learning.
Competence Development Academy holds an exclusive training partnership with Wigan Warriors Rugby League Club, and you'll be training in the same Wigan Warriors RL Performance Gym used by the first team. That's not just a selling point - it shapes how you learn. The standards, the equipment, the culture of the space all raise the bar for what you expect from yourself as a fitness professional. Our tutors are working industry professionals who've coached in commercial gyms, leisure centres and performance environments - so what they teach is grounded in what actually happens in the job, not just what's in a textbook.
Many learners are able to take this course completely free of charge through funding from the Greater Manchester Adult Skills Fund. Whether you qualify depends on your age, where you live and your current circumstances - the funded option below sets out what's needed. If you don't meet the criteria, you're still welcome to join as a self-funded learner for a single, straightforward fee.
If you're not sure whether you'd qualify for a funded place, it's worth checking - many people are surprised to find they're eligible. And if you do need to self-fund, it's a modest one-off cost: gym instructor roles typically start from £11-£13 per hour, so many learners cover the cost of this course within their first few weeks of paid work.