Sport and Fitness - Introduction to: NQ (Level 4)
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Course overview
Ready to take your passion for fitness to the next level?
The Diploma in Personal Training (Level 3) at Glasgow Kelvin College is a nationally accredited qualification designed for those who want to build a successful career as a personal trainer.
Building on your existing gym instruction experience, you’ll develop advanced knowledge in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, client consultation, programme design, and business management. You’ll learn how to plan, deliver, and evaluate safe, effective, and engaging personal training sessions that help clients achieve real, lasting results.
The course also covers lifestyle and behaviour change, allowing you to support clients in developing sustainable fitness habits. With a strong focus on professionalism and business acumen, you’ll be equipped to work independently, within gyms, or as part of a fitness team.
This course is ideal if you:
- Already hold a Level 2 Gym Instructing qualification or equivalent experience.
- Want to progress into a career as a Personal Trainer or freelance fitness professional.
- Enjoy motivating others and helping clients reach their health and fitness goals.
- Plan to work in gyms, leisure centres, private studios, or run your own business.
- Are looking to expand your knowledge of anatomy, nutrition, and client programming.
It’s perfect for those who are passionate about fitness, enjoy working with people, and are ready to take the next step towards becoming a fully qualified Personal Trainer
What you will learn
You’ll complete six mandatory units designed to give you the advanced knowledge, skills, and confidence to work professionally as a Personal Trainer:
- Applied Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise, Health and Fitness
- Principles of Nutrition and Their Application to Exercise and Health
- Understanding Lifestyle, Health, Wellbeing and Common Medical Conditions
- Encouraging Positive Health and Fitness Behaviours in Client
- Programme Design and Delivery for Personal Training
- Professionalism and Business Acumen for Personal Trainers
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, you will:
- Develop an advanced understanding of how the body responds to exercise.
- Apply nutritional principles to support client health and performance goals.
- Use behaviour change and consultation strategies to motivate clients.
- Design, deliver, and evaluate tailored personal training programmes.
- Understand legal, professional, and business responsibilities in the fitness industry.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take additional “bolt-on” qualifications such as Kettlebells and Indoor Cycling (Spin) to further enhance your professional profile.
Entry requirements
To apply for the Diploma in Personal Training (Level 3), you must have:
✅ A recognised Level 2 qualification in Gym Instructing (or equivalent).
✅ A reasonable level of physical fitness, as the course includes a strong practical component.
Applicants should be comfortable working independently and with clients in a gym or fitness environment.
ℹ️ Applicants must be at least 16 years old at the start of the course.
Please note: learners aged 16–18 may require supervision in a workplace environment.
ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language
- you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
- If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.
Career Opportunities
Students of the Diploma in Personal Training (Level 3) can work in a variety of roles within the health, fitness, and wellbeing industry, including:
🏋️♀️ Personal Trainer – delivering tailored one-to-one and small-group training sessions.
🌿 Health and Wellness Coach – supporting clients in building sustainable lifestyle habits.
💼 Fitness Consultant – advising on exercise, nutrition, and wellbeing programmes.
🚀 Self-Employed Personal Trainer – managing your own client base or independent business.
🧠 Specialist Trainer – focusing on areas such as nutrition, rehabilitation, or functional fitness.
This qualification is recognised by employers across the UK and aligns with the CIMSPA professional standards for Personal Training, ensuring your skills meet current industry expectations.
Future prospects
After completing the Diploma in Personal Training (Level 3), you’ll be ready to take your next step into higher education or employment.
Many learners progress to the HNC/HND in Fitness, Health & Exercise at Glasgow Kelvin College, where they can develop advanced coaching, programming, and sports science knowledge.
Real Industry Connections
At Glasgow Kelvin College, we work closely with local gyms, health clubs, and wellness centres to provide learners with valuable hands-on experience and real-world insight.
You’ll benefit from:
- Guest speakers from across the fitness and wellbeing sector
- Live client interactions and case studies
- Business planning and professional development workshops
These experiences help you build confidence, industry awareness, and the professional network you’ll need to succeed as a Personal Trainer.
Our Environment
We offer a dynamic and supportive learning environment where you can develop both professionally and personally.
With access to modern gym and fitness facilities, expert tutors, and a culture that values inclusion, professionalism, and wellbeing, you’ll be empowered to reach your full potential and prepare for a successful career in the health and fitness industry.
