Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training

  • CIMSPA-approved course, delivered 100% online in the UK and Worldwide
  • Learn essential Personal Trainer skills: exercise programme creation, nutrition, fitness psychology, marketing & more
  • Entry requirement: Level 2 Gym Instructing or equivalent
Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training
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Flexible online study
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Sale ends 31/10/2025. Enroll today!
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From £650 £850
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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 personal trainer course

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

Study at home, in your own time and enjoy support from a dedicated team of tutors. Our diploma is ideal if you’re a gym instructor but want to develop your career and specialise.

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 3 – Applied anatomy and physiology for exercise, health and fitness

Recognise and understand each of the anatomical systems and how they relate to the physiological functions associated with exercise health and fitness.

  • Function of the cardiovascular, skeletal and digestive systems in relation to fitness
  • Learn about the myofascial, nervous and endocrine systems and their application to fitness
  • Energy systems related to physical activity, health and fitness

Level 3 - Nutrition

Understand and apply the underpinning principles of nutrition, guidelines for eating a balanced and healthy diet and the additional nutrient requirements for active individuals

  • Understand how to access credible information about nutrition
  • Terminology, how nutrients fuel & recover after physical activity, and the risks of poor nutritional practices
  • Learn how to estimate daily energy and nutritional requirements for clients with different goals
  • Be able to analyse a client’s dietary habits and identify areas for improvement
  • Apply nutritional principles when developing exercise and lifestyle programmes for clients

Level 3 - Lifestyle, health and common medical conditions

Understand the different factors and common medical conditions that can affect a client’s health and wellbeing and the impact it may have on your programme.

  • Commonly occurring medical conditions
  • How lifestyle factor affects a client’s health and wellbeing
  • Know when to risk-stratify and when to refer clients

Level 3 - Encouraging positive health and fitness behaviours in clients

Utilise a range of methods that can encourage positive health and fitness behaviours

  • Learn the techniques use to effectively communicate with clients
  • Technology usage to increase client's physical activity
  • Create positive environments to empower clients to meet their goals
  • Goal setting

Level 3 - Programme design and delivery

Be able to create safe and effective progressive personal training sessions for a range of different clients.

  • Principles of personal training programme design
  • Learn about periodisation
  • Understand the boundaries of pre and postnatal women and older clients
  • Designing and adapting programmes
  • How to monitor your sessions

Level 3 - Business and Marketing

Get the business and marketing know-how, essential for Personal Trainers in an employed and self-employed role

  • Marketing techniques and tactics
  • How to close a sale
  • Legal and professional requirements
  • Plan and strategise to develop a successful personal training business

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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£650

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 fitness coach – 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 24–48 working hours, and then you’re all set to dive in and start learning.

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Qualified

Once you pass, you will achieve the Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training,  plus you’ll get some free CPD courses! This authorises you to work as a Personal Trainer in clubs 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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Expert PT

Now £1,300
Was £1,798
  • Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training
  • Level 3 Nutrition unit
  • Level 4 Personal Training
  • Level 4 Nutrition
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
View package
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Advanced PT

Now £1,000
Was £1,300
  • Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training
  • Level 3 Nutrition unit
  • Level 4 of your choice
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
View package
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Essential PT

Now £996
Was £1,400
  • Level 2 Gym Instructing
  • Level 3 Personal Training
  • Level 3 Nutrition unit
  • 15 FREE CPD courses
View package
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

Is the Level 3 Personal Training diploma an entry-level qualification?

No, it’s a specialist certification that gives you advanced skills as a personal trainer. Before taking the course, we recommend a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification, as it provides foundational knowledge.

What can I do with my career upon completing the personal training diploma?

When you complete our Level 3 Personal Trainer diploma, you’ll be able to work in various environments, including some of the UK’s most popular fitness centres and gyms.

As a Level 3 certification, it gives you an advanced knowledge of fitness principles and covers how to support clients in a fitness environment. Acquiring fitness qualifications showcases your knowledge to prospective employers and allows you to start a personal training business.

Why choose The Fitness Circle over other personal training courses?

Deciding to obtain a Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training is an excellent move if you want to enjoy a long and rewarding career – but the courses aren’t all made equally. The Fitness Circle provides specialist courses that fit around your busy schedule.

As a fully online training provider, each course has everything you need to succeed, including case studies, in-depth learning materials and real-world scenarios. All our students receive ongoing support from a dedicated tutor with years of experience in the industry.

There are also no practical assessments or exams – just assignments. You can fit your studying around work and family commitments while enjoying a supportive learning experience.

Our main objective is to provide a learning experience that ensures each student becomes a world-class personal trainer.

What skills does a successful personal trainer need?

To be a successful personal trainer, you must combine technical know-how with solid people skills and the right personal qualities.

It’s not just about showing someone how to exercise; it’s about guiding them in a way that’s motivating, safe, and tailored to their specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of the key skills:

  • Fitness Knowledge and Expertise: You need a solid understanding of exercise science, anatomy, nutrition, and fitness programming. This knowledge is vital for creating exercise plans for people of all experience levels.

  • Communication Skills: Every trainer must have excellent communication skills; you’ll need to explain information to clients and teach them the right techniques.

  • Motivation and Encouragement: Client motivation is essential to long-term fitness success. When clients hit a plateau, it’s your duty to push them forward and ensure they stay focused on their goals.

  • Adaptability: No two clients are the same. Some might have injuries, and others have different fitness levels or goals. The best trainers can adjust their programs and coaching styles to meet each client’s unique needs so everyone feels supported and challenged at the right level.

  • Patience and Empathy: Personal training sessions don’t always run smoothly, especially when you’re working with clients or children. It’s vital to keep a cool head and always display empathy. There’s a difference between motivating someone and pushing them too far.

  • Professionalism and Reliability: Clients expect their trainers to be reliable and professional. That means showing up on time, respecting confidentiality, and maintaining high standards in how you present yourself and your services.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Guess what? There are times when things don’t go to plan. From sudden injuries to changing client goals, you should be ready to make changes.

  • Business Acumen: If you want to run your own personal training business, you’ll need to understand how to market it. Some personal trainer courses give you basic knowledge, but our diploma goes much deeper.

All these skills contribute to becoming a successful personal trainer, which means you can enjoy a long and rewarding career.