Personal Trainer Courses & Qualifications
Begin your career with the UK’s leading fitness education provider. Fully accredited Level 3 Personal Trainer and Level 2 Gym Instructor qualifications, available online, face-to-face or through a fast-track intensive course.
- CIMSPA-endorsed qualifications
- Study online, blended or fast track
- Qualify in as little as 1 week
- 99.4% pass rate
- Unlimited tutor support
- 10 free CPD courses included
FROM
£649 finance - £13.52/monthly
- Unlimited Tutor Support
- 99.4% Pass Rate
- Flexible Finance Available
- Fully Accredited
Our graduates work at leading gyms and health clubs across the UK
Become a Fully Certified Personal Trainer
Our internationally recognised and accredited personal training courses give you the practical skills and confidence to succeed. Learn at your own pace through our bespoke e-learning platform, backed by expert tutor support every step of the way.
Diverse Trainers is here to help you develop your skills and boost your earning potential. Whether you are an experienced fitness professional looking to expand your offering or you are looking to get started in the fitness industry, speak to one of our career advisors today to kickstart the next step in your fitness journey.
Which Personal Trainer Course Is Right for Me?
New to the fitness industry?
Start from scratch with our Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training. It combines your Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications in one course, taking you from beginner to fully qualified PT.
Already a qualified gym instructor?
If you already hold a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification, our Level 3 Personal Trainer Course is your next step. Build on what you know and start coaching clients one-to-one.
Want to start on the gym floor first?
The Level 2 Gym Instructor course is the foundation of every PT career. Qualify in as little as one week, start working in a gym, then progress to Level 3 when you are ready.
Our Personal Trainer Courses
Every Diverse Trainers personal trainer course is CIMSPA-endorsed and comes with unlimited tutor support, 10 free CPD courses and up to two years to complete your studies. Choose the qualification that matches where you are today, from your first gym instructor course through to a full personal training diploma.
Level 2 Gym Instructor
Best for: beginners looking to start their career in the fitness industry.
- Online, blended or fast-track study
- Qualify in as little as 1 week
- No experience or qualifications needed
- 6 units from anatomy to gym instruction
Level 3 Personal Trainer Course
Best for: qualified gym instructors wanting to take themselves from foundational knowledge through to professional practice.
- Online, blended or fast-track study
- Qualify in as little as 1 week
- Level 2 Gym Instructor required
- Programming, nutrition and business skills
Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training
Best for: those looking to become a fully qualified gym instructor and personal trainer in one diploma.
- Level 2 and Level 3 in one course
- Online, blended or fast-track study
- Qualify in as little as 2 weeks
- No experience needed to start
Our Personal Trainer Packages
Maximise your budget and your career options. Our PT packages bundle the full Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma with specialist qualifications, so you can qualify, stand out and offer more services to clients from day one. Blended and fast-track study options apply to the Level 2 and Level 3 elements of each package.
PT Essentials Package
- Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training (Level 2 + Level 3)
- Level 4 Nutrition for Weight Management
Best for: Aspiring personal trainers and fitness instructors who want recognised qualifications in gym instruction, personal training and nutrition to launch or develop a career in the fitness industry.
Duration: Typically completed in 14 to 18 weeks, with up to 2 years to finish.
PT Ultimate Package
- Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training (Level 2 + Level 3)
- Level 3 Sports Massage
- Level 4 Nutrition for Weight Management
- Level 4 Strength and Conditioning
- Level 3 Exercise Referral
- Level 3 Online Coaching
Best for: Fitness enthusiasts looking to gain additional qualifications, expand their services, attract more clients and increase their earning potential while unlocking new career opportunities in the fitness industry.
Duration: Typically completed in 24 to 30 weeks, with up to 2 years to finish.
Compare Our Personal Trainer Courses
Not sure which option suits you? Compare our personal trainer courses and packages side by side. Our Level 2 & 3 Diploma gives you the core personal training qualifications you need, while our packages add specialist qualifications to help you stand out and increase your earning potential.
Level 2 Gym Instructor
- Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification
- No experience needed (age 16+)
- 4 to 6 weeks online, or 1 week fast track
- Online, blended or fast track
- 10 FREE CPD courses (worth £1,500)
Level 3 Personal Trainer
- Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification
- Requires Level 2 Gym Instructor
- 4 to 6 weeks online, or 1 week fast track
- Online, blended or fast track
- 10 FREE CPD courses (worth £1,500)
Level 2 & 3 Diploma
- Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification
- Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification
- No experience needed (age 16+)
- 8 to 12 weeks online, or 2 weeks fast track
- 10 FREE CPD courses (worth £1,500)
PT Essentials Package
- Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification
- Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification
- Level 4 Nutrition for Weight Management
- Typically 14 to 18 weeks
- 10 FREE CPD courses (worth £1,500)
PT Ultimate Package
- Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification
- Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification
- Level 3 Sports Massage
- Level 3 Exercise Referral
- Level 3 Online Coaching
- Level 4 Nutrition for Weight Management
- Level 4 Strength & Conditioning
- 10 FREE CPD courses (worth £1,500)
All courses and packages include unlimited tutor support, 10 free CPD courses and up to 2 years to complete. Monthly prices are based on our flexible finance plans; speak to our team for full details.
Internationally Recognised & Fully Accredited
Flexible Study Options
We offer flexible learning options that let you study at your own pace and fit your fitness qualification around your lifestyle. Diverse Trainers combines in-person and online training through our bespoke e-learning platform, so you can complete your course in a way that suits you. Looking to qualify quickly? Our fast-track option means you could be qualified in as little as 1 week for Level 2 or Level 3, or 2 weeks for the full Diploma.
Online Distance Learning
Study 100% online through our bespoke e-learning platform, with 24/7 access to course materials, live virtual clinic sessions and unlimited tutor support. Practical skills are assessed by video alongside 20 hours of industry experience. Ideal if you need to fit study around work and family.
Face-to-Face Blended Learning
Complete your theory online at your own pace, then join a qualified tutor for a practical weekend at a local venue to learn hands-on skills and complete your practical assessment. The best of both worlds.
Fast Track Intensive Learning
Learn theory and practical skills face-to-face in a classroom and gym environment, completing all coursework, exams and assessments during the course. Qualify in as little as 1 week and start personal training straight away.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in the UK
To work as a personal trainer in the UK, gyms, employers and insurance providers expect you to hold nationally recognised Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications. Here is the route most of our students follow.
Step 1: Choose your route
Decide whether to study Level 2 and Level 3 separately, or together in our Level 3 Diploma, and pick the study option that suits you best: online, blended or fast track.
Step 2: Qualify as a Level 2 Gym Instructor
Learn anatomy and physiology, health and safety, client consultations and how to plan and instruct safe, effective gym-based sessions. This is the foundation every personal trainer needs.
Step 3: Complete your Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification
Master programme design, nutrition, session delivery and the business skills you need to coach clients one-to-one and build your own client base.
Step 4: Get insured and start working
With a CIMSPA-endorsed qualification you can get fully insured and work in gyms, studios, hotels and leisure centres, freelance or online. Then specialise to grow your income.
Take Your Fitness Expertise to the Next Level
Expand your teaching skills and specialise in one of the fastest-growing areas of the fitness industry. A Diverse Trainers PT qualification gives you the knowledge, confidence and recognised certification to deliver professional sessions anywhere in the world.
Earning Potential
Personal trainers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced or freelance trainers often earning £45,000 or more. Specialising in areas such as strength, nutrition or rehabilitation can further increase your earning potential.
Where You Can Work
Work in gyms, health clubs, boutique fitness studios and hotels, or run your own personal training business. Deliver one-to-one or small group sessions, lead specialised classes or work with clients online. The choice is yours.
Career Opportunities
Our PT qualifications open doors to roles as a personal trainer, gym instructor, nutrition coach or freelance fitness professional, delivering one-to-one or group sessions, monitoring client progress and running multi-week programmes tailored to individual goals.
Flexible Schedule
Work full-time or part-time, freelance or for an employer. Many PT professionals enjoy flexible schedules, balancing group classes, private sessions and online work to build a working week that suits their lifestyle.
Why Choose Diverse Trainers?
For more than 25 years we have helped people turn a passion for fitness into a rewarding career. Here is why so many future personal trainers choose to qualify with us.
- Industry-leading pass rates (99.4%): unlimited, dedicated tutor support helps you pass with confidence.
- 25+ years of excellence: highly respected by gym managers and fitness studio owners across the UK.
- Fully accredited: CIMSPA-endorsed qualifications that allow you to get fully insured.
- Affordable finance: flexible finance plans starting from £13.52 per month.
- 10 free CPD courses worth £1,500 included with every personal trainer course and package.
- Study your way: online, blended or fast track, with practical training at venues across the UK.
10 Free CPD Courses
Qualify with more than the industry standard. Every Diverse Trainers personal trainer course and package includes 10 CPD courses at no extra cost, giving you specialist skills from day one so you can offer potential clients more as a newly qualified PT.
- Offer clients more than the industry standard
- Stand out to gyms and employers
- Add specialist sessions to grow your income
- Included at no extra cost
Suspension Training
Deliver effective suspension-based workouts to improve strength, stability and core control.
Kettlebell Training
Safely coach clients in building strength, power and endurance with kettlebells.
Circuit Training
Plan and lead dynamic circuit sessions for individuals and groups.
Functional Training
Coach movement-based training that improves real-life strength, mobility and fitness.
Advanced Recovery Techniques
Use key recovery strategies to support performance, reduce fatigue and minimise injury risk.
Nutrition & Hydration for Sport
Support clients with nutrition and hydration for performance and recovery.
Special Population Training
Work safely and effectively with clients who have specific conditions or needs.
Client Psychology & Motivation
Motivate clients, build adherence and support long-term results.
Social Media & Online Coaching
Attract clients, build your brand and deliver coaching services online.
CV & Interview Techniques
Create a professional CV and go into interviews with confidence.
Marcus’s Level 3 Personal Trainer Journey
Marcus wanted a qualification he could trust and a way of studying that fitted around his life. Here is how his Level 3 Personal Trainer course with Diverse Trainers went.
Choosing a credible provider
Before signing up, Marcus did his homework on training providers and chose Diverse Trainers as a credible, recognised option. He found the course genuinely great value, with a flexible range of learning methods to suit the way he likes to study.
Studying around his life
He chose blended learning, working through the written and theory elements online at his own pace and around his other commitments. He found our e-learning platform easier to use than other providers he had tried.
The practical weekend
His course finished with a practical weekend at our Preston venue, where he completed his in-person training and sat his practical assessment. Training in a real gym, getting a professional’s perspective and practising with peers before being assessed made it far more valuable to him than filming sessions at home.
Expert tutor support
Stepping into an unfamiliar gym for an assessment can be daunting, but his tutor put the whole group at ease straight away. Marcus described her as personable, welcoming and professional, with expertise and experience that proved invaluable.
“My advice is simple: just do it, and use a credible, recognised and proven provider like Diverse. You won’t regret it.”
What Our Students Say
Don’t just take our word for it, see what our students are saying.
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
Launch Your Career in the Fitness Industry
Everything you need to know before you start your personal trainer course, from the qualifications you need to what you could earn once you qualify.
Industry-Leading Personal Trainer Courses
The demand for qualified personal trainers in the UK is at an all-time high. People are investing in personal training, strength training, weight loss, muscle building and injury prevention to achieve lasting results and improve their overall health. By completing a personal trainer course with a recognised provider, you position yourself at the forefront of this booming sector.
How Do I Become a Personal Trainer in the UK?
To work safely and professionally as a personal trainer in the UK, you need nationally recognised qualifications. Our personal trainer courses are fully endorsed by CIMSPA, so you graduate with a certification that gym managers, fitness studio owners and insurance providers trust. Whether your goal is to become a part-time personal trainer or launch a full-time business, your journey starts with a Diverse Trainers PT qualification.
Online PT Courses vs Face-to-Face
We know our students have busy lives, which is why our PT courses are designed to be flexible. If you prefer to study from home, our online personal trainer courses let you master the theory through our interactive e-learning platform. For those who want hands-on experience, our blended learning options combine online study with practical weekend workshops across the UK, so you feel 100% confident stepping into the industry.
What Is the Difference Between Level 2 and Level 3?
A Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification lets you work on the gym floor, carrying out inductions, supervising members and delivering safe gym-based sessions. A Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification builds on this, teaching you to design personalised programmes, give nutritional guidance and coach clients one-to-one. You need both to work as a personal trainer, which is why many students choose our Level 3 Diploma to gain both in one course.
How Much Do Personal Trainers Earn in the UK?
Personal trainers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, while experienced and freelance trainers often earn £45,000 or more. Your income depends on where you work, how many clients you train and the services you offer. Adding specialist qualifications such as nutrition, strength and conditioning or sports massage lets you charge more and attract a wider range of clients.
What Can I Do After My Level 3 PT Qualification?
Qualifying as a personal trainer is just the beginning. Many of our graduates go on to specialise with qualifications such as Level 4 Nutrition for Weight Management, Level 4 Strength and Conditioning, Level 3 Sports Massage, Level 3 Exercise Referral and Level 3 Online Coaching. Our PT Essentials and PT Ultimate packages bundle these together, or you can explore all of our course packages.
Personal Trainer Courses Near You
Alongside our online personal training courses, our expert tutors deliver face-to-face and fast-track personal trainer courses at venues across the UK, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Cardiff and Belfast. Speak to one of our team to find your nearest venue and upcoming course dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a personal trainer with no experience?
You do not need any experience to start. To become a personal trainer in the UK you need a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification followed by a Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification. Our Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training combines both in one course, taking you from complete beginner to fully qualified PT.
Can I get a PT qualification online?
Yes. You can complete your full personal trainer course online through our interactive e-learning platform, with 24/7 access to course materials, live virtual clinic sessions and unlimited tutor support. Practical skills are assessed through video assessments, so you can qualify from anywhere in the UK.
What qualifications will I gain from the Level 3 Diploma?
You receive two nationally recognised, CIMSPA-endorsed qualifications: a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification and a Level 3 Personal Trainer qualification. Both are Ofqual-regulated, giving you the personal training qualifications employers require to work in gyms, studios and self-employment across the UK.
How long does a PT qualification take?
Fast-track students can complete the Level 2 or Level 3 course in just one week, or the full Diploma in around two weeks. Online and blended learners typically qualify in 4 to 6 weeks per level (8 to 12 weeks for the Diploma), studying at their own pace with up to two years to finish.
Can I do a Level 3 personal trainer course without a Level 2?
No. A recognised Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification is the entry requirement for any Level 3 Personal Trainer course. If you do not hold one yet, our Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training includes both qualifications in one course.
Are your personal trainer courses accredited?
Yes. Our personal trainer courses are CIMSPA-endorsed and nationally recognised, so your qualification is trusted by gym managers, employers and insurance providers across the UK.
How much does a personal trainer course cost?
Our Level 2 Gym Instructor course starts from £549, the Level 3 Personal Trainer Course from £699 and the Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training from £999. Our PT packages start from £1,399. Flexible finance is available from £13.52 per month.
Are there payment or finance options available?
Yes. We offer flexible payment plans and instalment options, making it easy to start your training without delay. Contact our team for current offers.
Do I need any qualifications or GCSEs to enrol?
No formal qualifications are needed for our Level 2 Gym Instructor course or the Level 3 Diploma. You just need to be at least 16 years old and bring enthusiasm for fitness, a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. For the standalone Level 3 Personal Trainer Course, you will need a Level 2 Gym Instructor qualification.
Can I study a personal trainer course around a full-time job?
Yes. Our online and blended courses are designed to fit around work and family. You study at your own pace, with up to two years to complete your course and tutor support whenever you need it.
Do you offer personal trainer courses near me?
Yes. As well as our online courses, we run face-to-face and fast-track personal trainer courses at venues across the UK, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Cardiff and Belfast. Contact our team to find your nearest venue and upcoming dates.
How much do personal trainers earn in the UK?
Personal trainers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced or freelance trainers often earning £45,000 or more. Specialising in areas such as nutrition, strength and conditioning or rehabilitation can increase your earning potential further.
What support will I get during my course?
Every student receives unlimited tutor support, 24/7 access to our e-learning platform and online student portal, and guidance from your first module through to your final assessment. Online learners also benefit from live virtual clinic sessions at flexible times.
What can I do after qualifying as a personal trainer?
You can work as a personal trainer in gyms, health clubs, studios and hotels, set up your own PT business or coach clients online. Many graduates go on to specialise in areas such as nutrition, strength and conditioning, sports massage or exercise referral to increase their income and career options.
Start Your Personal Trainer Career Today
Speak to one of our friendly career advisors to find the right personal trainer course for you, or download our prospectus to explore every course, package and study option.