Free Level 3 Personal Trainer Course in Sheffield. Classes run at The Sheffield College Hillsborough Campus, part-time during the day. The course takes one year to complete, giving you time to build your knowledge and skills alongside other commitments. You'll cover anatomy and physiology, fitness assessment, exercise programming, and how to work safely with clients. Functional Skills Maths and English may also be included if you need them. This level 3 personal trainer qualification is recognised by employers in gyms, leisure centres, and private fitness settings.
Who this course is for
The Sheffield College is a thriving further education college situated in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. We have 4 main campuses across the city, including our City Campus, Hillsborough Campus, Olive Grove Campus and Peaks Campus. We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, vocational courses, A Levels, professional courses and university level courses. Please go to our website www.sheffcol.ac.uk for full details.
Entry requirements
Please check our website for the most up-to-date entry requirement for this course.
What you will learn
You'll learn how the human body works, including muscles, bones, and how they respond to exercise.
You'll develop skills in assessing a client's fitness levels and health history.
You'll design safe and effective exercise programmes for different clients and goals.
You'll learn how to instruct gym-based exercise, including resistance and cardiovascular training.
You'll understand nutrition principles and how diet supports fitness goals.
You'll practise motivating and communicating with clients in a professional way.
You'll learn how to work safely, including health and safety responsibilities in a fitness environment.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions at Hillsborough Campus, combining theory with practical exercise instruction. Assessment includes practical observations, written assignments, and knowledge tests. You'll be assessed on your ability to plan and deliver exercise sessions with real clients. The course is delivered part-time during the day over one year.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Sheffield College Hillsborough Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for physical activity, as sessions include practical exercise instruction.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Personal Trainer: self-employed or gym-based one-to-one coaching
Gym Instructor: leading group and floor sessions at leisure centres
Fitness Coach: working with clients on strength and conditioning
Health and Wellbeing Coach: supporting clients with lifestyle and activity goals
Exercise Referral Instructor: working with GP-referred clients on managed programmes
Sports Centre Assistant: supporting fitness operations and member services
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Personal Training: deepen your expertise and work with specialist populations such as older adults or pre- and post-natal clients.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: qualify to teach fitness and health subjects in colleges or community settings.
Level 4 Award in Strength and Conditioning: move into performance coaching for sport and athletic development.
Apprenticeship in Fitness Instructing: combine work and study to gain on-the-job experience while earning.