Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training
Transform Lives. Including Your Own.
Become a qualified Personal Trainer and start building a career in fitness, health, and wellbeing.
This nationally recognised qualification gives you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work as a Personal Trainer in gyms, studios, outdoors, or self-employed.
Aligned to CIMSPA Professional Standards
UCAS points awarded (ideal if you’re considering university)
Combines anatomy, nutrition, training delivery, and business skills
Designed to make you work-ready from day one
Level:
3 (Diploma)
Total Hours:
495 (295 guided)
UCAS Points:
Yes
Assessment:
Portfolio-based
Mode:
Practical + theory
Progression:
Employment or higher-level study
Who Is It For?
Anyone with a Level 2 Gym Instructing qualification
who wants to progressAspiring Personal Trainers looking for self-employmentor gym roles
People aiming to build careers in health, wellbeing,
and fitness coaching
Course Content
Delivered through 6 mandatory units, taught through practical workshops, online learning, and real-world assessments.
1. Applied Anatomy & Physiology
Understand the body’s systems and how they respond to exercise.
2. Client Motivation & Lifestyle Management
Learn how to coach clients, build habits, and encourage lasting change.
3. Programming Personal Training Sessions
Design, manage, and adapt effective training plans.
4. Delivering Personal Training Sessions
Gain the practical skills to deliver safe and motivating workouts.
5. Nutrition for Physical Activity
Explore how diet fuels health, fitness, and performance.
6. Business Acumen for Personal Trainers
Learn how to market yourself, manage clients, and grow your PT business.
How You’ll Be Assessed
This is a portfolio-based qualification — no big exams. You’ll be assessed through:
Practical observations with clients
Assignments and
case studies
Worksheets and
session plans
Presentations and
discussions
Your Path to Becoming a Personal Trainer
Progression & Careers
After qualifying, you can work as:
- Personal Trainer
- Gym Instructor
- Nutrition Advisor
- Sports Coach
- Gym Manager or Owner
Progression routes include:
- Level 3 Exercise Referral
- Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy
- Higher education with UCAS points
Entry Requirements
- A Level 2 Fitness or Gym Instructing qualification
- Aged 16+
- Good literacy and numeracy skills
- A passion for health, fitness, and supporting others
Why Choose Accacia Training?
- Learn from industry-experienced trainers
- Mix of classroom, online, and practical learning
- Real-world experience with client scenarios
- Support to progress into employment or self-employment
Support Hub
How long does the course take?
Around 12 months part-time (can be flexible depending on delivery).
Do I need to be fit myself?
You should be enthusiastic about fitness and leading by example, but this is about coaching others too.
Can I get funding?
This qualification may be eligible for funding – check with our team for the latest guidance.
Will I be ready to work straight away?
Yes – this qualification is designed to get you job-ready in gyms, studios, or as a freelance PT.
