Level 3 Personal Trainer Course in Eastbourne. Classes run at East Sussex College Eastbourne Campus, part-time during the day, over one year. You start by completing a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification in the first half of the year, then progress to the Level 3 personal trainer qualification. Lessons take place in the gym at Eastbourne Sports Park, where you use Technogym equipment and free weights. You'll cover anatomy and physiology, nutrition, fitness testing, and how to plan and deliver training programmes for clients. Entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 to 9, including English or maths at grade 4.
Who this course is for
During this one-year course you will learn a range of skills and exercise techniques that will enable you to start a career or own your own business in personal training. Learners will study the level 2 Gym Instructor qualification for the first half of the year before studying the level 3 Diploma in Personal training. Learners will have lessons based within the gym at Eastbourne sports park where they will make full use of the Technogym equipment and free weights available. The gym at the Sports park is part of Wave Lesure and is one of the best gyms at any college in the South East.
Entry requirements
Minimum five grade 4-9 at GCSE or successful completion of the Level 2 course, and English or maths at grade 4.
What you will learn
You'll study anatomy and physiology and how the body responds to exercise.
You'll learn how to conduct fitness testing with clients.
You'll develop advanced exercise techniques using free weights and gym equipment.
You'll plan and deliver personal training sessions tailored to individual client goals.
You'll apply principles of nutrition and physical activity to client programmes.
You'll practise consulting with clients about their fitness goals and progress.
You'll build English, maths, and IT skills alongside your fitness training.
How you will learn
Assessment is split across three methods: 25% practical tasks, 50% written coursework, and 25% exams. Theory and practical sessions both take place in a fully equipped gym. You'll work with clients directly as part of your training, planning and delivering real fitness programmes. The course runs part-time during the day over one year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will confirm materials before you start. You should budget around £100 for uniform, as East Sussex College Eastbourne Campus expects learners to dress professionally throughout the course.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Personal trainer. Work one-to-one with clients in a gym or independently.
Gym instructor. Lead group or floor-based sessions at a leisure centre.
Fitness coach. Support clients with structured training plans and goal-setting.
Self-employed personal trainer. Run your own personal training business.
Sports centre fitness adviser. Advise members on exercise programmes and equipment.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Personal Training. Deepen your expertise in specialist areas such as strength and conditioning or nutrition coaching.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training. Useful if you want to teach fitness or coach others in a more formal setting.
Specialist fitness qualifications (for example, pre and postnatal exercise, or GP referral). These add specific client groups to your scope of practice and can broaden your client base.
