Are you passionate about fitness and want to turn it into a full-time career? Becoming a personal trainer in the UK offers freedom, flexibility, and purpose. At ICEPs, we provide Focus Awards-accredited Level 3 Personal Trainer courses that are CIMSPA-endorsed and nationally recognised.
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Why Become a Personal Trainer?
If you’re looking for a meaningful, active job with earning potential and variety, becoming a personal trainer is a smart move.
Top benefits of becoming a personal trainer:
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Work for yourself or in gyms and studios.
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Choose your own hours.
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Earn £25–£55 per hour (or more with online coaching).
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Help others transform their health and confidence.
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Work in gyms, online, at home or outdoors.
According to Glassdoor, the average UK PT salary ranges from £16,000 to over £55,000 per year.
What Qualification Do You Need to Be a Personal Trainer in the UK?
To become a qualified personal trainer, you must complete:
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Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing
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Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training
At ICEPs, you can study both together in our combined Level 3 Diploma Practitioner in Personal Training, saving you time and money.
About Our Personal Trainer Course (Focus Awards Accredited)
Our Level 3 Personal Trainer Course is:
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Accredited by Focus Awards
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Regulated by Ofqual
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Endorsed by CIMSPA
It is accepted by leading gyms, studios, and insurers across the UK.
Course Content: What You’ll Learn
Our curriculum provides the essential knowledge and skills to thrive as a professional personal trainer.
Key Modules:
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Anatomy and physiology
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Principles of exercise and fitness
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Client consultations and goal setting
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Programme design for personal training
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Nutrition for performance and body composition
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Health and safety
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Behaviour change and motivation strategies
Study Options: Flexible Learning That Works for You
Choose the study format that fits your lifestyle:
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Blended Learning – Online study with in-person practical workshops.
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Online Only – 100% remote learning with tutor support.
Practical training is available at multiple UK locations.
Explore study options
Career Paths After Qualifying
After qualification, choose from these exciting roles:
Employed Personal Trainer
Work in a commercial gym or fitness facility. Great for beginners building confidence.
Freelance PT
Rent space and run your own sessions. You set the hours and pricing.
Online Coach
Offer virtual coaching and programmes via apps or video. Expand your reach.
PT Business Owner
Build a brand, launch your own studio, or scale an online service. Business and marketing training included.
Read: PT vs Gym Instructor – Which is Best?
Do I Need Insurance as a Personal Trainer?
Once you’re qualified and ready to start training clients, personal trainer insurance is essential. It not only protects you from legal and financial consequences, but it also builds trust with potential clients.
As a personal trainer in the UK, the minimum insurance cover you need includes:
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Public Liability Insurance – protects you if a client is injured or suffers a loss as a result of your training sessions.
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Professional Indemnity Insurance – covers you if a client claims that your advice or training caused harm or was negligent.
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Personal Accident Cover – ensures you’re protected if you're injured while delivering sessions.
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Equipment Cover – useful if you own or transport fitness equipment as part of your work.
Even if you’re employed by a gym, it’s common for personal trainers to need their own policy, especially if delivering freelance or online sessions.
At ICEPs, we can refer you to our trusted insurance partners who specialise in cover for fitness professionals. We recommend seeking professional advice to ensure you're appropriately protected for the type of services you offer, especially if you're working independently or offering online programmes.
Ready to Start Your Personal Training Career?
Here’s how to take the next step:
FAQs
How long does the course take?
You can complete it in as little as 6–12 weeks. Flexible part-time options available.
How much does it cost?
£1,600 with 0% interest instalments available. Sign up to our mailing list for 10% off!
Do I need experience?
No prior experience needed. The combined course includes Level 2 and Level 3 content.
Is the course recognised in the UK?
Yes – it’s Focus Awards accredited, Ofqual-regulated, and CIMSPA endorsed.