Job Description

A fitness instructor will lead and organise fitness routines and exercise programmes to help people to improve their health and fitness. This could include Zumba, aerobics, aqua aerobics, yoga, pilates to name but a few or it could be giving fitness assessments, showing people how to use equipment, creating a personal exercise programme or giving advice on healthy eating and lifestyle. Fitness instructors will often work early mornings, evening and weekends and are often self employed therefore salaries can vary hugely.

Entry Requirements

You can get into this job through:

College

You can do a recognised qualification like:

Sport (Development, Coaching And Fitness) BTEC
Diploma Level 3 - Sport Extended Certificate
Fitness Services in Sport, Extended Certificate Level 3

You'll usually need:

2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

The following local colleges offer courses in Sport:

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course

Apprenticeship

You could get into this career through an intermediate apprenticeship in exercise and fitness or as a leisure team member.

You'll usually need:

some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

Click here to find an apprenticeship.

Working towards this role

You could work as a leisure centre assistant and do part-time qualifications on the job, which would allow you to apply for jobs as an instructor.

Restrictions and requirements

You'll need to:

have insurance
have a first aid certificate
pass enhanced background checks

You'll usually need public indemnity and professional liability insurance, if you're self-employed.

Career Path and Progression

You could take further training to become a personal trainer or teach extra activities.

With experience and qualifications, you could become a senior instructor or manager. You could also start your own fitness club.

Related careers you may be interested in:

PE teacher
Personal trainer
Health trainer
Leisure centre assistant
Outdoor activities instructor

Required Skills

The ability to motivate and inspire others
An excellent level of fitness
Friendly and outgoing manner
A responsible attitude
A good knowledge of the anatomy to ensure clients do not injure themselves
The ability to create and deliver your own exercise routines

Salary Range

£14,000 to £30,000

Fitness Instructor