How to become a Personal Trainer in the UK: Your Complete Guide

August 28, 2025

If you’re passionate about health, fitness, and helping others achieve their goals, becoming a personal trainer could be the perfect career move. The fitness industry in the UK is growing rapidly, and there has never been a better time to qualify as a PT. Whether you want to work in a gym, become self-employed, or run your own fitness business, getting the right qualifications is the essential first step.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know — from the qualifications required, to choosing the right PT courses, and how our training programmes can help you kickstart your new career.

Do You Need a Degree to Become a Personal Trainer?

No — you don’t need a university degree to become a personal trainer in the UK. Instead, you need the right vocational qualifications:

- Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing: This is the entry-level qualification and provides the foundation you need to work in gyms, lead inductions, and supervise clients safely.
- Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training (essential): This qualification takes you to the next level and teaches you how to design personalised workout plans, deliver 1-to-1 training, and provide clients with nutritional guidance.

Important: You need a Level 3 qualification to get insured as a personal trainer — and without insurance, you cannot legally operate.

Why Combine Level 2 and Level 3 PT Courses

At Power Academy UK, we offer combinedLevel 2 and Level 3 PT courses. This is the fastest and most cost-effective wayto qualify. Instead of studying them separately, you complete both qualifications as part of one structured programme, saving time and money.

Benefits of a combined PT course:
- Get fully qualified faster
- Learn everything from gym instructing to advanced personal training in one course
- Become a CIMSPA-recognised personal trainer
- Access flexible online PT courses with tutor support

What You’ll Learn on Our PT Courses

Our Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the industry, including:
- Advanced anatomy and physiology
- Designing effective workout plans for different fitness levels
- Delivering personal and group training sessions
- Providing safe and practical nutrition advice
- Building your personal training business and finding clients

Whether you want to work in a gym or become self-employed, our courses give you the tools and confidence to succeed.

Why Choose Our Online PT Courses

We understand that many learners need flexibility. That’s why we offer blended learning, combining online study within-person practical workshops.

- Study anywhere, at your own pace
- Access interactive learning resources 24/7
- Get expert tutor support whenever you need it
- Join a CIMSPA-approved training provider trusted by hundreds of learners

Start Your Journey Today

Becoming a personal trainer can be life- changing — not just for you, but for the clients you’ll inspire and support. If you’re serious about starting a career in fitness, getting qualified is the first and most important step.

At Power Academy UK, we specialise in accredited PT courses that give you the qualifications, skills, and confidence to start working as a professional trainer — whether in gyms, studios, or online.

Ready to become a personal trainer?
Start your journey today with our Level 3 Personal Training Diploma or combinedLevel 2 & Level 3 PT courses. Flexible study options, full tutor support, and qualifications recognised by CIMSPA — everything you need to succeed.