Further Learning Opportunities for Fitness Instructors
In the dynamic world of personal training, staying current and credible is crucial. After gaining a Level 3 Personal Training qualification, UK-based trainers are required to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain and update their skills.
CPD typically involves taking industry-recognised courses or workshops that allow trainers to earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) or units, which are necessary periodically to keep their professional status valid and insured.
The Basics of CPD for UK Personal Trainers
The baseline qualification to work as a personal trainer is a Level 3 Personal Training qualification, which allows you to train clients one-to-one or in groups. After qualifying, to stay current and credible, personal trainers must complete ongoing CPD. This often involves taking CIMSPA-endorsed or REPs-endorsed CPD courses that cover new skills, specialisations, or updated industry knowledge.
A Wide Range of CPD Courses
These courses can cover various advanced topics, such as strength training, nutrition, exercise referral, pre- and postnatal training, or working with special populations. They are usually delivered online or in person, providing flexibility to complete training at the trainer’s own pace.
Examples of popular CPD courses include Kettlebells, Circuit Training, Suspension Training, Boxing & Pad-work, Strength & Conditioning, and Group Training. Some courses, such as Diabetes Management Control and Obesity & Weight Management Control, focus on specific client needs, while others, like Advanced Sports Nutrition, provide trainers with the knowledge to design specialized nutrition plans.
The Benefits of CPD for Personal Trainers
Regularly completing accredited continuing education courses not only renews certification but also improves professional skills and complies with industry standards. Strength & Conditioning CEUs, for instance, can help personal trainers design and deliver programs for athletes of various abilities, potentially increasing earnings and employability.
Resources for UK Personal Trainers
Online resources like Core provide free access to open access research papers from journals and repositories, offering valuable industry insights. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can help reach a wider audience and offer services to more people once a following is established. Seminars & Workshops offer effective continued education for PTs, allowing learning from industry experts and building meaningful industry connections.
In the US, PT courses require renewal and recertification every year or so, while in the UK, CECs aren't compulsory. However, completing regular CIMSPA or REPs-recognised CPD is standard practice to remain active as a personal trainer in the UK.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving fitness industry, staying informed and updated is key. By regularly completing accredited continuing education courses, UK personal trainers can renew their certification, improve their professional skills, and comply with industry standards, ensuring they continue to provide their clients with the best possible service.
- To remain credible and stay current in the dynamic personal training industry, UK-based trainers must engage in continuing professional development (CPD), which typically involves taking industry-recognised courses or workshops.
- After qualifying as a personal trainer, completing ongoing CPD is essential for UK trainers, often through CIMSPA-endorsed or REPs-endorsed CPD courses on topics like strength training, nutrition, exercise referral, or working with special populations.
- Completing accredited continuing education courses not only renews certification but also improves professional skills and complies with industry standards, allowing personal trainers to design specialized nutrition plans or programs for athletes of various abilities.
- Online resources like Core, seminars & workshops, and social media platforms can help UK personal trainers gain valuable industry insights, reach a wider audience, and learn from industry experts, fostering personal growth and self-development.
- While yearly renewal and recertification might not be mandatory in the US compared to the UK, completing regular CIMSPA or REPs-recognised CPD is considered standard practice for active personal trainers in the UK to stay updated and provide the best possible service to clients.
