Introduction
Learn more about CIMSPA endorsement and additional requirements >
The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in fitness coaching. Learners are provided with an understanding of anatomy, physiology and nutrition and how they relate to exercise and fitness. Learners are also provided with the knowledge and skills to be able to plan, deliver and supervise safe and effective exercise programmes within a gym or health club environment.
This qualification has been designed in partnership with employers and covers the knowledge and skills identified in the industry as essential for the fitness coach role, covering the planning and instructing of safe and effective exercise sessions as well conducting small group sessions and supporting clients’ exercise adherence and a healthy lifestyle. The qualification also provides the learner with an understanding of professionalism, personal development and how to deliver exceptional customer service.
This qualification includes the essential knowledge and skills that are needed to meet the requirements of the physical activity sector’s minimum standards for deployment.
Entry requirements
- Some experience of gym-based exercises, including free weights, is highly recommended.
- The course requires physical exertion and individual participation is essential, therefore a degree of physical fitness is necessary.
- There is an element of communication (discussing, presenting, reading and writing) involved and learners should have basic skills in communication pitched at level 2.
Qualification structure
Learners must complete the mandatory seven units.
Qualification Specification - Active IQ Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Coaching
Assessment
- Internally assessed and externally quality assured portfolio of evidence.
Fees breakdown
£77 Registration / Certification fee
£30 Manual fee
£19 eManual fee
£75 eLearning fee
£120 Registration / Certification & eLearning fee (combined)
Career progression
This qualification provides progression onto:
- Active IQ Level 2 Award in Instructing Circuit Training.
- Active IQ Level 2 Award in Instructing Studio Cycling.
- Active IQ Level 2 Award in Instructing Kettlebell Training.
- Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training.
- Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy.
- Apprenticeship in Personal Training.
To achieve full alignment with the CIMSPA Gym Instructor Professional Standard, some additional requirements have been identified for the Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Coaching. These requirements sit outside of the qualification assessment criteria and only apply to centres and learners wishing to evidence full alignment with the CIMSPA professional standard.
Learners who don't require CIMSPA endorsement don't need to complete or evidence these requirements to achieve the qualification.
To support delivery and assessment of these requirements, Active IQ has developed an optional unit - Unit 08: Digestion, movement and gym induction.
This unit covers the additional knowledge and skills required for full alignment with the CIMSPA Gym Instructor Professional Standard, including:
- the digestive system
- anatomical planes of movement
- anatomical terms of location
- gym induction and orientation.
Active IQ has developed free, optional learning resources to support the delivery and evidence of these additional CIMSPA requirements. These resources are available to centres approved to offer the qualification via Active Intel and the Learning Management System (LMS).
Centres wishing to evidence full alignment with the CIMSPA Gym Instructor Professional Standard should ensure learners achieve Unit 08 alongside the mandatory qualification units.