This is a blended learning course which allows you the flexibility to study theory elements online at a time convenient to you using comprehensive e-resources.
There will be four days of face-to-face workshops covering the practical components.
This course is a prerequisite for the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training qualification. Both courses can be taken independently or as the combined Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training.
Dates and times
The dates and times of the four face-to-face practical October 2025 workshops are 9am-5pm on:
- Saturday 11th October 2025
- Sunday 12th October 2025
- Saturday 25th October 2025
- Sunday 26th October 2025
The examination will be held on Saturday 8th November 2025.
The dates and times of the four face-to-face practical February 2026 workshops are 9am-5pm on:
- Saturday 14th February 2026
- Sunday 15th February 2026
- Saturday 21st February 2026
- Sunday 22nd February 2026
The examination will be held on Sunday 1st March 2026.
Location
This course will be held at our main campus, Twickenham.
Price
The full cost is £855. The deposit cost is £150.
St Mary's University staff and students can receive a 10% discount. Please use the booking link on the Discounted short courses page (St Mary's login required).
Content
Whilst enrolled on the Level 2 Gym Instructor course you will develop your knowledge and the skills needed to plan and instruct gym-based exercise programmes for adults. You will also learn how to effectively support clients who take part in exercise and physical activity.
The e-learning components will cover:
- principles of anatomy and physiology for exercise
- professionalism and customer care for fitness instructors
- health and safety in the fitness environment
- principles of exercise, fitness and health.
You will be given access to the e-learning resources before your taught sessions so you can study these in advance of the practical sessions, which will take place on our campus in Twickenham.
The face-to-face sessions are delivered over four days and cover:
- exercise and physical activity client support
- gym-based exercise planning
- gym-based exercise instructing.
During these sessions you will also revise the topics you learnt via the e-learning resources.
Assessment
This course is assessed via:
- a practical examination
- a theory examination
- portfolio of evidence including worksheets and assignments.
Requirements
To enrol on this course you must be 18-years-old or over. It is recommended that learners should have achieved a level of education equivalent to five GCSEs at grades A*-C, however, exemptions may be made for adult returners with relevant experience.
Award
Upon successful completion of all units set by the external body, Active IQ, you will be awarded the Active IQ Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing (RQF).
This course is a prerequisite for the Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training qualification and allows students to join CIMSPA as a Level 2 practitioner.
Select a course
Please select which course you would like to book on to:
For more information about this course please contact the Short Courses team: