Exercise to Music Course

  • CIMSPA – approved course, delivered 100% online in the UK and worldwide
  • Learn the key skills to become a modern ETM Instructor
  • Teach pre-choreographed programmes (Les Mills, Zumba) or your own style – No entry requirements
Exercise to Music Course
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Flexible online study
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Sale ends soon
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From £490 £600
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Proven global standard

25+ years of training

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14 day money back guarantee

No questions asked

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Dedicated
tutor

Unlimited 1-to-1 support

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Guaranteed interview

Career support

ENDORSED BY
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REGULATED BY
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AWARDED BY
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Industry-leading exercise to music instructor course

The Fitness Circle have 26 years of experience in qualifying Personal Trainers and fitness professionals. Enrolling on our CIMSPA-endorsed course means you’ll be working with a serviced-focused, experienced provider that continues to keep up with the latest sports science research.

GYMS EMPLOYING OUR GRADUATES

Anytime Fitness
Virgin Active
Puregym
Nuffield Health
David Lloyd Clubs
City St George's University of London
Outcomes and content

What Will I Learn?

Level 2 – Principles of Anatomy, Physiology and Fitness

Understanding anatomy and physiology in relation to exercise is essential foundation knowledge for all fitness professionals. Understanding the body’s benefits and demands will help with programme writing.

  • Skeletal and Neuromuscular system and the effects of exercise
  • Cardiovascular and respiratory systems
  • Energy production and the effects of exercise
  • Components of fitness and its effects on the body
  • Special populations

Level 2 - Professionalism for group training

An understanding of the legal and professional requirements of an ETM instructor, how to manage a range of different experiences with customers and identify the main types of group sessions.

  • Legal and professional requirements
  • Positive experiences for customers
  • Identify the main types of group fitness sessions

Level 2 – Health and safety in a group training environment

Health and safety are of prime importance in every industry. In this unit, you’ll understand your responsibilities and limitations regarding duty of care.

  • Health and safety in workplace
  • Hazards and risks in a fitness environment
  • Emergency operating procedures

Level 2 - Supporting behaviour change and healthy lifestyles

Understand behaviour changes to exercise and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

  • Know how to consult and support clients to change their exercise behaviour
  • Understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle

Level 2 - Planning and instructing group training to music sessions

Know how to plan safe & effective group training sessions

  • Programming group training sessions

Pricing

We are uniquely positioned to offer high-quality courses at affordable rates, without compromising on quality. This is made even easier for you with our 0% finance options, meaning that you can spread the cost of the course over several months.

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£460

Prompt payment

Pay for the course in full and an added discount will be applied
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Flexible

Flexible Monthly Payment

Spread the cost of the course over several months with 0% interest and no credit checks

*You can either select your payment option on the website after adding the course to checkout, or through a member of our enrolments team (0800 677 1175).

The process is very simple

How to Get Qualified?

This pathway offers a well-structured, supported route to becoming a confident Exercise to music instructor – ideal for those building a career in gyms, leisure centres, or launching their own businesses.

Upon enrolment, you’ll receive a personal tutor plus access to our brand new e-learning platform which contains: video lectures, learner manuals, study guides, case‑study templates, and mock-exams.

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Download the brochure

Leave your name, email, and phone. The pricing guide will be sent to you the same day. If you know the course you can skip to step 2.

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Choose your course

A member of our team will help you choose the most suitable course for you. If you already know which course you need, you can enroll directly through the website or a member of our team can also help.

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Select payment plan

Choose 0% interest payment plans or pay upfront for an extra discount

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Get started

Get ready to kick-start your journey! Your e-learning access will be sent within 1-2 working days, and then you’re all set to dive in and start learning.

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Qualified

Once you pass, you earn the Active IQ Level 2 certificate in Group Training (Exercise to music discipline), allowing you to deliver group sessions in gyms or independently.

Premium learning materials
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The Fitness Circle

Support Team & Materials

With a personal tutor on hand to help you learn with us, we ensure that you are not alone during your studies.

Tutors with industry experience

Our tutors are dedicated, knowledgeable and best of all,
have personal training experience.

Industry-leading learning materials

  • Online video lectures and practical training videos
  • Premium learner manuals
  • Dedicated support tutor
  • Simplified study guide that is easy to follow
  • Customisable templates for case studies
  • Mock paper practice
10 CIMSPA CPD Points

There are also some bonuses:

  • All our courses are also worth CIMSPA points.
  • By taking our courses you also get over 15 free CPD courses!
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Top quality education

Why Our Graduates Are Thriving?

We are uniquely positioned to offer high-quality courses at affordable rates, without compromising on quality. This is made even easier for you with our 0% finance options, meaning that you can spread the costs of the course up to 12 months depending on the course price.

TheFitnessCircle graduates holding their course completion certificates
If you need more
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Course Packages

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ETM: Pre and Postnatal Specialist

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Was £760
  • Level 2 Group Training (ETM)
  • Level 3 Pre and postnatal
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
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ETM: Children’s Fitness Specialist

Now £650
Was £760
  • Level 2 Group Training (ETM)
  • Level 2 Children’s Fitness
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
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ETM: Nutrition Specialist

Now £950
Was £1,080
  • Level 2 Group Training (ETM)
  • Level 4 Nutrition
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
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Turn your passion into a profession

Course Overview

The Fitness course is a popular entry level qualification for anybody who wants to become a Gym Instructor. Upon successful completion of the course you will be authorised to work in the health & fitness industry as a Gym Instructor or set up your own business.

This course consists of the Active IQ level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing which has been developed over the 20 years we have been in business, aligned with the standards of the current fitness industry.

Why train with The Fitness Circle?

We train you for a sustainable career as a Gym Instructor, not just a fitness qualification. We impart experience and actionable knowledge. It is a fact the health and fitness industry is booming in response to the general decline in the health of the population. On the upside, there is an immense opportunity and increased demand for fitness professionals. Training with us gives you a strong foundation and competitive edge for a job in the fitness industry.

Still have doubts?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does ETM mean in fitness training?

ETM stands for exercise to music – a popular way of helping people build their fitness and lose weight. Many people enjoy exercising to music, as it motivates them and makes sessions more engaging. 

An ETM instructor understands how to choose the right music for sessions and motivates participants.

What qualifications do I need to become a group fitness instructor?

You’ll need a Level 2 Gym Instructor or Exercise to Music (ETM) qualification, both CIMSPA-accredited. These courses provide foundational knowledge in fitness principles and allow you to work in gyms and studios.

Is there a difference between an Exercise to Music instructor and a group exercise instructor?

An Exercise to Music (ETM) instructor leads fitness classes that are choreographed to music, including aerobics and dance fitness. As an ETM specialist, you’ll be able to match music to classes and ensure your clients remain motivated.

In contrast, group exercise instructors take a broader focus, including running HIIT classes, bootcamps, and indoor cycling classes. While these instructors may incorporate music into their sessions, it’s not always necessary.

Both work with groups, but in different capacities. If you love music and want to motivate your clients, becoming an ETM instructor lets you thrive in a high-energy environment.

What skills does an ETM instructor need?

Becoming a successful ETM instructor requires a range of skills. Luckily, you can learn them, and our course ensures you’re fully prepared:

  • Musicality & Choreography: You’ll need to be able to understand beat and tempo because ETM instructors need to create routines that match music to the intensity.

  • Instruction & Communication: Instructors must also communicate moves to their participants, which means you’ll need to provide effective demonstrations while motivating people.

  • Anatomy & Exercise Science: The course will teach anatomy and exercise science principles, enabling you to create safe and effective training sessions.

  • Professionalism: Punctuality, safety, and timekeeping are vital for ETM instructors.

  • Personal Qualities: You’ll teach students of all capabilities, and providing a positive and inclusive environment is essential. You’ll also need to be creative when developing sessions and open to constructive criticism.

What careers or roles can I pursue after completing an ETM course?

After qualifying, you can lead music-based group fitness sessions. Many instructors go on to become personal trainers with a Level 3 qualification and work independently or in gyms.

What’s the typical salary or pay rate for ETM instructors in the UK?

The average salary for a fitness instructor is £22,617 (Glassdoor). However, many ETM instructors choose to be self-employed and work in a range of settings. Their rates often range from £10 to £30 hourly, depending on experience and work setting. 

There are plenty of opportunities to build a successful career, from supporting elderly individuals in residential homes to going to workplaces and schools.

Is an online ETM course as effective as in-person training?

Yes, a well-designed online (ETM) exercise to music course can be just as effective as in-person training. It includes interactive videos, practical demonstrations, study guides, and tutor support to ensure you gain the same skills and knowledge. Plus, it offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace without compromising on quality.

How many hours or weeks does it take to finish the ETM course?

The course is flexible. Some learners finish in a few weeks, while others take a few months depending on study pace. It’s designed to fit around work and life commitments.

What tutor or mentor support is included in the course?

You’ll receive full support from experienced fitness tutors throughout the course. They provide guidance via email and online platforms, answer questions, review progress, and help you prepare for assessments. Support is available whenever you need it to ensure a smooth learning experience.

Can I deliver Step classes with the ETM qualification?

Yes, this falls under the group exercise category and this qualification will enable you to teach step aerobics