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Level 2 Gym Instructor Course in Darlington

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyACTIVEIQ awarding body
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About this course

Level 2 Gym Instructor Course in Darlington. Classes run at Darlington College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you are 16 to 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply, though help may be available.

You'll study anatomy, physiology and nutrition and how they relate to exercise and fitness. The course also teaches you how to plan, deliver and supervise safe exercise programmes in a gym or health club. Entry typically requires 4 GCSEs at grade D or above, including English and maths, or a Level 1 Sport qualification. The course runs over 34 weeks.

You'll finish with a Technical Occupational Entry in Fitness Coaching Certificate at Level 2.

Who this course is for

The purpose of this qualification is to provide you with the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in fitness coaching. You are provided with an understanding of anatomy, physiology and nutrition and how they relate to exercise and fitness. You are also provided with the knowledge and skills to be able to plan, deliver and supervise safe and effective exercise programmes within a gym or health club environment.

Entry requirements

You can progress from a Level 1 qualification in Sport, or you will require 4 GCSEs at grade 2/3 or D/E and above, including English and maths.

If you do not have a grade 9-4 or A-C in English and/or maths, you will be required to continue studying these subjects as part of your study programme.

Some experience of gym based exercise is recommended.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the fundamentals of anatomy and physiology as they apply to exercise.
  • You'll study nutrition and how it supports fitness and performance.
  • You'll develop the skills to plan safe and effective exercise programmes.
  • You'll practise delivering gym-based exercise sessions for clients.
  • You'll learn how to supervise clients safely in a gym or health club environment.
  • You'll build knowledge of health and safety practices relevant to fitness coaching.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Darlington College, covering theory and practical gym-based work. Assessment includes written tasks and practical observations of your coaching skills. If you don't already hold a GCSE at grade 4 or above in English or maths, you'll study those subjects alongside the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start. Comfortable gym kit and trainers are likely to be useful for practical sessions.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Gym instructor, plans and supervises exercise sessions for gym members.
  • Fitness instructor, supports clients with safe and effective workouts.
  • Group exercise instructor, leads fitness classes such as circuits or aerobics.
  • Personal trainer assistant, supports qualified trainers in a gym setting.
  • Leisure centre fitness assistant, helps members use equipment safely.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training, the next step toward working as a self-employed personal trainer.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Fitness Instructing and Personal Training, a broader qualification covering advanced coaching and programme design.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training, useful if you want to teach fitness or coach groups professionally.
Apply on darlington.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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