Become a personal trainer with YMCAfit

YOUR CAREER IN PERSONAL TRAINING

WORLD CLASS TRAINING

SINCE 1984

CE N E I R E EXP NCE E R E F F I THE D MA DIPLO D E ING C A D VA N O N A L T R A I N S IN PER

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR EDUCATION, IT’S THE EXPERIENCE THAT COUNTS.

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OVER RECENT YEARS PERSONAL TRAINING HAS PROVEN TO BE THE FITNESS INDUSTRY’S MOST LUCRATIVE CAREER CHOICE AND, IN TODAY’S TOUGH ECONOMIC TIMES, IT’S EASY TO SEE WHY. Few other professions offer such a degree of personal and professional flexibility, and even fewer are able to prosper in such a diverse range of environments, with the park, the studio, the gym and even the beach offering ideal working conditions and opportunities for good personal trainers.

Furthermore, once you are qualified, personal training becomes an occupation that you can fit around your out-of-work commitments. Whether you are available at regular times throughout the week, or if you need to chop and change your hours around your family, a personal training career allows you to work as flexibly as you wish.

YMCAfit has been leading the way with this career revolution and has been developing and delivering quality personal training courses in the UK for the past three decades. We are the UK’s most experienced training provider of fitness qualifications and we regularly liaise with industry experts, major gym chains, employers and awarding organisations to ensure that ours is the most fit-for-purpose Advanced Diploma in Personal Training available.

Just like the fitness industry itself, we never stand still.

YMCAfit’s offering has consequently evolved to ensure that our students are fully prepared to hit the ground running in their new careers. We’re also aware of how important it is for today’s aspiring personal trainers to see a return on their investment as soon as possible, which is why we’ve developed an industry-leading seven modules in seven weeks express course.

This may be our quickest course to date, but, far from sacrificing quality for speed, the Advanced Diploma maintains YMCAfit’s enviable levels of quality.

We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Indeed, because our students invest their time and money in our experience and expertise, we constantly strive to offer them the best value possible, hence the fact that you’ll be tutored by a variety of passionate and knowledgeable industry experts, across a diverse range of specialist fields. The result, we hope, is that every one of our students enjoys a truly unique learning experience from start to finish.

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“YMCAfit is more like a family than a business and this is evident in our course delivery. The level of support and guidance that we offer to students and our staff is second to none.”

DEBORAH BEARD, TUTOR

MEET THE TUTORS

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n the first day of your YMCAfit course you’ll be met by a friendly and welcoming member of our outstanding tutor team, instantly dispelling any apprehension you may have had about walking into a classroom environment.

Aside from their wealth of experience, our tutors are all teacher-trained, having gained either a Certificate in Education or PGCE. Their breadth of experience stands them in good stead when delivering sessions that cater brilliantly for different students. Whether you excel in practical sessions or stand out with your theory knowledge, our tutor team is skilled at designing and delivering sessions to suit everyone.

Also, our tutors continue to work in the industry – teaching classes or training clients – guaranteeing that the information you receive is fresh, first-hand and has more than likely been tried out on real clients.

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“ I enjoy having to perform to my best every day. I’ve tutored for a long time, but I still have to be on my toes because the fitness industry is continually evolving.”

TREVOR CLARKE, TUTOR

We believe that our industry-leading courses thoroughly prepare our graduates for an exciting and rewarding career.

However, why take our word for it? We’ve asked some of our previous students for their views and, throughout the coming pages, you’ll hear what they thought of their YMCAfit experiences.

As you’ll discover, our students come from a broad range of backgrounds and all have different reasons for wanting to begin a career in the fitness industry. Be it launching a career, changing a career or transforming a hobby into a career, our former students all have a unique story to tell.

“The fitness industry is so fast paced, and it’s fantastic to share my knowledge and experience with those who want to learn and be inspired.”

JUSTIN BAILLY, TUTOR

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INTENSIVE ROUTE Face-to-face option Duration: seven weeks (35 days) The fastest way to gain your Advanced Diploma in Personal Training is to undertake the intensive route. This format involves completing seven modules in just seven weeks at one venue.

This is the perfect choice for those who are determined to become personal trainers and are keen to hit the ground running as soon as possible.

DIPLOMA IN PERSONAL TRAINING 30 DAYS (INCLUDES GYM INSTRUCTOR AND SUSPENSION FITNESS)

GYM INSTRUCTOR 11 DAYS

SUSPENSION FITNESS 1 DAY PADWORK FOR PTs 1 DAY EMERGENCY FIRST AID 1 DAY BUSINESS PRINCIPLES 1 DAY HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING 2 DAYS

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MODULAR ROUTE Part-time option Duration: 7-12 months (longer routes are available)

Designed with busy schedules in mind, this modular route will allow you to complete your training around work or family commitments.

The Gym Instructor course is the starting point for this route, teaching you the fundamentals which will form the base for the remainder of the course. Following this, you can complete the remaining modules in any order that you wish. With a mix of home study and face-to-face training, this route is perfect for those looking to complete the Advanced Diploma on a part-time basis.

Our team of training advisors are on hand to help you to come up with the route that suits you best.

PA D W O R K F O R P Ts 1 DAY BUSINESS PRINCIPLES

DIPLOMA IN PERSONAL TRAINING

1 DAY

18 DAYS AND HOME STUDY (INCLUDES GYM INSTRUCTOR AND SUSPENSION FITNESS)

HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING 2 DAYS

GYM INSTRUCTOR 11 DAYS OR 6 DAYS AND HOME STUDY

SUSPENSION FITNESS 1 DAY

EMERGENCY FIRST AID 1 DAY

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GYM INSTRUCTOR Intensive: 11 days Modular: 6 days face-to-face and home study

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HE GYM INSTRUCTOR COURSE IS THE STARTING POINT to becoming a Personal Trainer.

Lay the foundations for a successful career by gaining a thorough knowledge of the essential anatomy and physiology of the human body and how this forms the basis for all practical sessions.

Having an understanding of the correct technique on all gym equipment is important, but being able to impart this wisdom onto others is vital. Following this opening module you’ll be confident in providing full gym inductions and setting short-term training plans.

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CAREER W ORKS AS A WRITER AND INST , E D U C AT O RUCTOR I N THE FIT R NESS IND USTRY

I did my first course with YMCAfit in 2007 and finished my last one – the Personal Training – last year.

“You know what you’re getting with YMCAfit. You go in knowing what your aims are and come out having achieved them. All of the tutors are always really helpful and friendly and having YMCAfit on my CV makes me stand out as a candidate.

“The route I took was modular, which meant I was able to study whilst keeping my full-time job and building experience along the way. So now I’ve finished my training, I’m already experienced.

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DANIELLE LINTON

“A lot of people see their personal trainer as someone they can’t really connect with, but I want to show that we are real people too and we have our own issues. Exercise has helped me through a lot of things and sharing my story hopefully lets other women know that they’re not alone. I don’t think there’s anything better than helping other people reach their goals.”

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I was a d an at colleg ce student teach m e and y classes straight and if an needs an after tha yon y advice t I started afterward e I can giv doing m e s then th y a E t too. No xercise to (ETM) qu classes a w, I teac Music alificatio t one ve h nue and n. enjoyed a Person work as teaching I’ve always al Traine r an love doin at anoth er. g my ow d dancing. I n choreo and the “ A

ll th e g ETM cou staff help raphy rse gave you to a opportu your goa me the chie nity to d ls. Witho o what I ut their h ve a n d support, loved. elp I don’t k “People have be now if I’d were ask en able ing advic to do it. about lo were fan They e sin tastic.” a particu g weight or tack ling lar area; th would b “Becaus e covere ings that e I’m d in a on session. th e paperw dyslexic, I thou e-to-one I though ght t if as a pers hard. Bu ork would be re all t the tuto onal train I also qualify rs were a y er then I and eve mazing ryo can was grea ne at head offic e t.

“Seeing all the e qu looking at the am ipment and azing ve thinking nue – that I ca n be wo a facility rking in like this one day really ins – wa pir it then tr ing. If your heart s aining w is in ith YMC definitely Afit is the way to go.”

Y M C A f i t G R A D U A T E s t o r y

megan o’neill

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DIPLOMA IN PERSONAL TRAINING Intensive: 30 days Modular: 18 days and home study

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“ If your trainin heart is in it definit g with YMCAf then ely the way toit is g o. ”

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HIS MODULE IS THE BIG ONE. Together all of the modules will make you a top personal trainer, but this integral part of the course will form the heart of your working knowledge.

Having established an effective base, you will now add to this by developing a set of health and fitness tests aimed at understanding your clients’ current status. You’ll then be able to create long-term periodised training plans incorporating a variety of mixed and innovative approaches. You’ll also establish a thorough awareness of nutritional guidelines, allowing you to offer appropriate advice and guidance.

What’s more, this module will give you the skills to adapt your sessions, no matter what the environment.

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SUSPENSION FITNESS Duration: 1 day

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ITH MANY FITNESS FACILITIES NOW incorporating suspension fitness equipment into their functional training zones, gaining knowledge and competence on such equipment has become beneficial for any personal trainer. The increasingly popular kit allows you to provide a full body resistance workout at homes, in the park or in studios making this module a must-have for many.

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ACK A PUNCH IN YOUR SESSIONS by including padwork.

Whether it is in a studio or outdoors, the portable nature of this training approach and the popularity of padwork amongst clients make it an extremely attractive offering for personal trainers to have. This module will cover the skills you need to design and deliver combinations of jabs, hooks and knees to create an action-packed workout.

PA D W O R K F O R P T s Duration: 1 day

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I previously worked in social care with young offenders, but I’ve been training all my life and that’s what gives me a real buzz.

Changing career is not something I jumped into lightly: I did my research and I could see that YMCAfit was head and shoulders above other providers in terms of course content.”

sonam

“It’s not just about the technical aspects of anatomy and fitness, but also the nuts and bolts of teaching.

You gain a lot of practical skills – suspension training, padwork, group work – all the fundamental things a PT needs.

“The facilities are top-notch too, you have the latest equipment and the staff are really friendly. You’re not

spoon-fed – it takes a lot of work – but it’s well-structured and backed up by online facilities and support.

“This new career is a way for me to stay true to myself and keep helping people, but in a different way. You have to be 100% passionate and the YMCAfit course really is a test, but if you come through it, it’s a great start to your career.”

Y M C A f i t G R A D U A T E s t o r y

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includes “ The course and bolts all the nuts ental – the fundam personal things that a d need in trainer woul .” their kit bag

EMERGENCY FIRST AID Duration: 1 day

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OST GYMS WILL REQUIRE YOU TO have knowledge of first aid and if you want to operate as a freelance personal trainer then it’s a must. This module ensures that you will be ready to handle any emergency that may arise during the course of your working day, including being able to administer CPR. All of your clients can then rest assured that, with you, they are in safe hands.

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CE SIN S A H NT AND GEME N A O AN AT I FIC GHT M I L EI UA 4 Q AT W L E D E EV A L SS AIM D E N NE GAI BUSI R E A E CAR ET UP S “After leaving university, I went into teaching for just over 10 years, but I got to my mid-30s and wanted a job that was more flexible. I’ve always been interested in health and fitness, and personal training linked nicely to my previous life as a teacher.

“I’m mainly interested in a lifestyle approach to fitness and I felt that I could branch out and work in that area. I researched the course well and considered other places, but I went with YMCAfit because people in the industry recognise it as the top training provider. It proved to be value for money.

“I was worried the course would be full of people in their teens and early 20s, but it wasn’t like that at all. It was a nice group, which made the course really fun. The facilities were fantastic – the equipment, changing rooms, coffee shop – and you couldn’t ask for a better location.

natalie

Y M C A f i t G R A D U A T E s t o r y

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“I’m really happy with how things are going. YMCAfit prepared me well and I felt completely prepared for my new career. Life is short: it’s such a good industry to work in, so you’ve just got to go for it!”

30s t d i my m job tha o t t a e” “I go anted lexibl f w and s more wa

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BUSINESS PRINCIPLES Duration: 1 day

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ONVERT YOUR TRAINING EXPERTISE INTO A PROFITABLE and successful business with invaluable advice on how to sell your service. Whether it is putting together a business plan, developing an effective marketing strategy, or utilising social media to best effect, this module will help you to stand out from the crowd and plan ahead to ensure that yours is a profitable and successful business.

HIGH INTENSITY TRAINING Duration: 2 days

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ITH A GROWING FOLLOWING AFTER THE SUCCESS OF CROSSFIT, Insanity and P90x, high intensity training is key for a modern PT. This module utilises free weights, bodyweight and cardio exercises to create a high-energy, challenging session guaranteed to get results. Develop workouts to boost power, speed, strength and endurance in a group or one-to-one setting.

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I chose the YMCAfit Advanced Diploma in Personal Training because I wanted to become the best personal trainer I could be.

I’ve been into fitness for a long time and it’s helped me in my life, so I wanted to pass that on to others.

“I chose the intensive course; it was very in-depth and well structured, so I could build it up easily. The facilities are really great – there’s a big, spacious gym and it’s a good environment to learn in.

“YMCAfit has played a huge part in my life, because without it I wouldn’t be where I am. It’s provided me with all the experience and expertise I’ve needed.

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NATHAN howes

“Today I work with disadvantaged young people and some of them have never thought about health and fitness. A lot of them have learned about life through being in the gym and working out. They see me as one of them, and it feels good that I’ve inspired people.”

“ The course is inte me with all rnationally recognised the experien .. ce and exper .and It’s provided tise I’ve need ed...”

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FIND US

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ITH THE RISING DEMAND FOR PERSONAL TRAINERS now stretching the length and breadth of the country, YMCAfit offers courses throughout England, guaranteeing that you are never too far away from a YMCAfit training centre.

All of our venues are working gyms.

This allows you to learn in an environment that you will ultimately work in. What’s more, by interacting with the public, you’ll be networking with prospective clients whilst you’re still training. All venues have optimal learning environments, making it easy to achieve the ideal balance of theory and practical training throughout the day.

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LEEDS

MANCHESTER SHEFFIELD

CHESTER

LEICESTER

BIRMINGHAM

COLCHESTER

LONDON

BRISTOL

BRIGHTON

YMCAfit is regularly expanding into new areas across the UK. Visit ymcafit.org.uk/courses/locations for up-to-date information.

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You’ve heard from some of our successful graduates, but now is the perfect time to follow your own passion and pursue a career in fitness.

With interest-free payment plans available, choosing to train with YMCAfit has never been so simple. You can book by simply giving us a call, sending us an email or starting your application online.

Get in touch today Call 020 7343 1850 ymcafit.org.uk

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Publisher’s note: This brochure describes the training programmes currently offered by YMCA Fitness Industry Training.

Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy but changes may occur after publication.

London Central Young Men’s Christian Association Ltd trading as YMCA Fitness Industry Training, 111 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3NP

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ymcafit.org.uk YMCAfit 111 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3NP t. 020 7343 1850 e. bookings@ymcafit.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1001043 | Registered in England and Wales No. 2551972