Ready to become a personal trainer but not sure whether to study online or in person? Both routes can lead to the same goal: a recognised qualification and a rewarding career. The question is, which one fits your life best?

In this guide, we’ll break down both options so you can choose the path that sets you up for a strong, successful career in fitness.

What is a Personal Training Diploma?

A Level 3 Personal Training Diploma is a specialist qualification that lets you support clients with their fitness and nutrition goals.

You can progress to more advanced courses and diversify your career if you already have an accredited certification, like the Level 2 Gym Instructor.

Becoming a qualified personal trainer lets you:

• Support clients one-to-one, helping them lose weight, build muscle, and improve athletic performance.
• Create bespoke fitness plans using your knowledge of advanced anatomy and physiology principles.
• Consider health and safety, taking steps to prevent injuries in clients.
• Work in some of the UK’s most established gyms or health centres, or start a business.
• Specialise and work with different groups. For example, some trainers support general clients, while others might work with athletes or obese individuals.

Key Differences Between Online and In-Person PT Courses

Online Personal Trainer Courses

If you’d like to diversify your skills and build a successful career but have work and family commitments, opting for an online PT course can be beneficial.

We offer both the Level 3 Personal Training Diploma and the complete PT Course, which covers both the Level 2 Fitness Instructor and Level 3 qualification.

Both courses are endorsed by CIMSPA and awarded by Active iQ, giving you a recognised qualification that employers and clients respect.

These courses are ideal if you’re a self-motivated learner who prefers online learning or has other commitments that mean you can’t commit to an in-person course.

Pros:

• Flexibility: You can study in your spare time without worrying about changing work or family commitments.
• Affordability: In most cases, distance learning is cheaper than classroom-based PT courses, because you don’t need to factor in travel and accommodation costs.
• Support: When you opt for a reputable online course provider like The Fitness Circle, you can benefit from an expert team of tutors and learning materials like quizzes, case studies, and workbooks.

Cons:

• Practical Lessons: If you opt for the combined Level 2 and Level 3 course, you won’t have much experience in a gym environment. However, as the standalone Level 3 PT course requires a Gym Instructor certification, you probably have some practical experience.
• Self-discipline: Many people thrive with distance learning, but others might struggle to stay motivated.

In-Person Personal Training Diplomas

In-person PT diplomas take place in a classroom environment or training centre with a qualified tutor guiding the course. Depending on availability, you may need to travel.

Awarding bodies, including Active IQ, NCFE, and YMCA, depend on the training provider.

Some courses also include guaranteed employment in a gym upon completion, but candidates typically have to go through an application process to secure a place in the course.

You’ll also find full-time, part-time, and intensive options.

Pros:

• Practical Learning: If you learn best in a classroom setting and prefer a social learning experience, in-person PT courses can be beneficial.
• Structure: As in-person classes have a set timetable, they offer a more structured experience. Some people prefer this as it lets them plan their learning in advance.
• Networking: If accepted onto a course with guaranteed employment opportunities, you can go straight into work.

Cons:

• Costs: In-person courses are usually more expensive, and you’ll need to factor in meals, travel, and accommodation.
• Limited Flexibility: You can’t customise your learning as the classes have a set timetable. If you have work or family commitments, you might find that in-person classes lack accessibility.
• Pace: You’ll need to learn at the same pace as everyone else, meaning some people might get left behind. If you’re a fast learner, the course’s pace might be too slow.

Things to Consider When Choosing Between Online and In-Person Diplomas

As you can see, both online and in-person PT diplomas offer a range of benefits – but the right choice for you depends on numerous factors. Let’s take a look at them now.

Your Availability

If you have limited time or other commitments, you’ll find that an online course is a more practical decision. You can design your own learning schedule without worrying about fitting your learning in with work and family life.

Career Goals

While some in-person courses offer guaranteed employment, you’ll only be able to work in a participating gym. Online course providers like The Fitness Circle can help you find employment opportunities once you complete the course.

Many of our students have progressed to working at gyms, including Virgin Active, Nuffield Health, and David Lloyd Clubs.

Budget

In-person courses are usually more expensive than online courses, because of the classroom experience. However, professional online courses will still provide access to a team of tutors and learning materials to ensure a supportive experience.

Motivation

Becoming a personal trainer requires motivation, as you’ll need to maintain a high-energy environment for clients and ensure they reach their fitness goals. An in-person course might be best if you struggle to concentrate and motivate yourself to learn.

However, an online course can help you learn how to manage your time and stay motivated, which prepares you for life as a personal trainer.

The Bottom Line

Becoming a personal trainer allows you to develop a successful career and start your own business. Most importantly, it enables you to play an active role in helping your clients lead healthier and more active lifestyles.

If you’d like to begin your online learning journey, The Fitness Circle offers flexible payments and a team of specialist tutors, ready to support you. Please book a free call today.