16-18? Want excellent job prospects in the fitness and leisure industry and industry recognised qualifications? In only 15 weeks you can achieve all this.

Sounds too good to be true, right? It's not. With our government funded training, your prospects of getting your dream job as a Fitness Instructor just got a whole lot easier. So if you have always dreamed of going to work in your trainers, look no further...

What will I learn?

You will complete a 3 week full-time (Mon-Fri 9-5) classroom based course giving you all the skills and knowledge required to work as a Fitness Instructor. You'll be taught about anatomy and physiology and how to exercise safely and effectively using a wide range of gym equipment. You will then learn how to motivate others to enjoy exercise and achieve their fitness goals. You'll also learn about first aid, health and safety and customer service and you'll get to know loads about the industry.

When can I start work?

As soon as you've completed the 3 week classroom course you can work as a trainee Fitness Instructor in a leisure centre or health club. We will support you in finding this first job and by visiting you to complete your training within your work place. You may also take up paid or voluntary work experience where employed roles are not yet available. This is a great way to get your foot in the door and show your potential employer just how good you are. And Lifetime will be with you every step of the way.

What would I earn?

Your starting salary as a Fitness Instructor would range between £10,000 and £14,000. Your 12 week work experience placement is sometimes on a lower apprenticeship wage or sometimes voluntary, but as soon as you are qualified you can get paid the full wage.

How long is the working day?

Fitness Instructors usually work 40 hours a week or part time as required. It is typically shift work, for example 6am-2pm, 11am-7pm or 2pm-10pm.

What's involved?

The majority of Fitness Instructors' time is spent on the gym floor talking to gym goers or club members. You will be responsible for performing health screening and initial induction sessions. You will often have the opportunity to learn to teach groups on the gym floor and, in cases, circuits and indoor cycling.

What are the benefits?

Ongoing you will benefit from opportunities such as free training courses for continued professional development, attendance at workshops and industry conferences keeping yourself up to date with all the latest information, as well as free use of the facilities. You will have the opportunity to meet lots of people from a variety of backgrounds and help them achieve their fitness goals.

What qualifications do I need?

To become a Fitness Instructor you will need a REPs Level 2 gym instruction qualification. The Lifetime Fitness Instructor Apprenticeship, funded by the government, and delivered at Centre of Excellence for Fitness venues, is recognised by REPs. Alternatively, you could qualify via our Professional Fitness Instructor, Fastrack Fitness Instructor or Fitness Instructor Awards, which are self-funded, flexible distance learning courses - perfect for those who wish to study at their own pace.

What are the career opportunities?

There are a wide range of routes you can take within a health club, gym or leisure centre. You could train to become an advanced Fitness Instructor or personal trainer, or train to run the facilities by becoming a duty manager or fitness manager.