Becoming a Fitness Instructor in the UK: A Beginner’s Guide

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summary

• Fitness instructors in the UK require a Level 2 qualification.
• Flexible scheduling offers the ability to balance other work/family commitments.
• Potential earnings vary, average £15-£20 per hour.
  

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Transcript available below.

Are you passionate about fitness and eager to inspire others on their health journey? Imagine turning your fitness enthusiasm into a rewarding full or part-time business. This isn't just a dream – it's a tangible opportunity waiting for you in the dynamic world of fitness instructing in the UK.

Becoming a fitness instructor can be your gateway to not only maintaining your own fitness but also empowering others to achieve their wellness goals. It's a path that blends passion with purpose and offers lucrative financial rewards. This comprehensive beginner's guide is tailored for fitness enthusiasts like you, looking to embark on a fulfilling career as a fitness instructor in the UK. We'll walk you through the essentials, from understanding the role to mastering the steps towards certification.

Dive into the world of fitness instruction with us, where your love for health and fitness can evolve into a thriving career, packed with opportunities for growth and personal satisfaction. Let's explore how your fitness journey can lead to a rewarding profession, one step at a time.

As defined by the UK National Careers’ Service, a fitness instructor is someone who organises exercise programmes that help people improve their health and fitness. These people usually work in a gym, offering support to the members by showing them how to use equipment and proper forms. Fitness instructors are usually the ones that work on new members, inducting them into the gym and teaching basic training programmes. A fitness instructor also provides ongoing support and conducts workout classes.

To become a fitness instructor, you need to finish a Level 2 Fitness Instructor course. Your course and trainer should be approved by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

Fitness instructors and personal trainers are often lumped together, creating confusion among regular gym goers and people who want to enter gym-related jobs. Still, these two titles are different, each one having distinct roles and prerequisites.

Fitness Instructor

• Teaches basic workout programs and workout classes
• Focuses on beginners and new gym members
• Induction sessions
• Works on gym maintenance, such as cleaning equipment and closing lights when the gym is closed
• Level 2 Fitness Instructor Course

Personal Trainer

• Designs and executes more advanced exercise programmes, which are usually customised per individual
• May provide nutritional advice and create bespoke meal plans for specific clients
• One-on-one classes or small group exercises, allowing the personal trainer to closely monitor a person’s form, progress, and goals
• Can charge their own rates, provided that the gym allows so
• Level 3 Personal Training Course



In summary, personal trainers need higher qualifications and have more specific responsibilities than fitness instructors. If you’re the latter, your focus is on new gym members and basic routines, helping the users build foundational skills before moving to more intense or personalised fitness programmes.

As we mentioned above, the minimum requirement you need to have to become a fitness instructor is to pass a Level 2 Fitness Instructor class and earn your certification. There are plenty of establishments accredited by The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity CIMSPA that hold fitness instructor classes — just make a quick search online and find the one that fits your needs.

You will find that the courses have various names, such as “Gym Instructor” or “Health and Fitness Instructor.” These are the same, so long as Level 2 is mentioned in the title. To be sure, ask the organisation or company offering the course.

Now that you have an in-depth idea of what a fitness instructor role entails, it’s time to learn the steps to becoming one — here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Researching Available Roles

Many fitness instructors eventually become freelance, but you will need to build a foundation of clients before you can level up and become a freelance personal trainer. This requirement means you’ll need to work for a gym, starting out as a fitness instructor before moving on to higher levels.

You’ll need to find a gym offering the role you want to take. We also recommend learning in-depth about the differences between personal trainers and fitness instructors so you have a better understanding of your role and what your employer might expect from you. If you’re just starting out, we suggest that you take on the fitness instructor role instead of jumping to a personal trainer job. That way, you can ease into this career path and gain confidence as you progress.

Step 2: Selecting the Appropriate Level 2 Fitness Instructor Course

When you’ve determined the role you want to take, it’s time to get qualified. Many fitness organisations and companies in the UK offer Level 2 Fitness Instructor courses, so it will be up to you to do the right research and find one that fits your needs.

We recommend enrolling in one that offers both theoretical and practical knowledge of your role. The programme should also help you understand how the industry works, at least on a basic level. That way, you can start projecting how your career will go, especially if you eventually plan to become a personal trainer.

Step 3: Learning and Passing the Course

Once you’ve chosen a course, you need to focus on reaching the qualifications that will get you your certificate. These courses usually last an average of six weeks. There are online courses you can take, which help you take classes in your own time, wherever you are. If you want more structure, in-person classes are available.

Before you get certified, you will need to pass an assessment, which shows that you have the required skills and knowledge to become a full-fledged fitness instructor. So, during the classes, make sure to pay attention and focus on the modules.

Step 4: Working as a Fitness Instructor

Finally, you’ve passed your Level 2 Fitness Instructor course. Now, you’re ready to find a job if you haven’t already. Look up nearby gyms, local health centres, or recreational facilities that need additional fitness instructors.

Some people may opt for employment with a single gym, becoming a full-time employee. Other fitness instructors work for several gyms at once, serving as a freelance instructor. This practice is more common for personal trainers, but you’re welcome to try being freelance if that’s what you prefer. If you do go freelance, you will be in charge of matters like your taxes and insurance, which we’ll discuss later.

Being a fitness instructor provides a competitive salary that makes it a worthwhile side hustle or full-time job. According to Indeed UK, the average hourly rate for this role is £15.27, which is above the national minimum wage. However, a few top companies offer higher rates — more than £20 an hour. Gyms and similar facilities located in large cities also offer higher rates but expect busier days and a more demanding role.

One perk you’ll enjoy is that gyms usually offer free memberships to their employees, even ones that work on a part-time basis. Gym memberships can take a huge chunk of your monthly income, so this reduction is a welcome perk.

Becoming an official gym employee means the gym owner handles matters like your taxes or insurance. However, freelancers won’t get the same privilege. So, if you choose to become a part-time, independent contractor for several gyms, you need to consider the following requirements.

Registering for Self-Assessment

Once you earn above £1,000 in yearly income, you’ll need to register with HMRC for self-assessment. You’ll have to pay your taxes on your own, so make sure to keep accurate financial records and find an accountant, if necessary.

Fitness Instructor Liability Insurance

While not required, we highly recommend getting this type of policy. Fitness instructor liability insurance can help cover costs if someone holds you liable for an injury or other type of damage.

Other Initial Expenses



It goes without saying, but enrolling in a Level 2 Fitness Instructor course will require tuition. If you choose online assessment, you may also need to purchase additional gym equipment to perform the exercises or routine at home.

For many, becoming a fitness instructor in the UK is an attractive side hustle, complementing a primary job or other commitments. The key to successfully balancing this role lies in effective time management and setting realistic expectations.

Flexible Scheduling

Fitness instruction offers flexible hours, making it ideal for fitting around a full-time job. Many classes are in the early morning, evening, or weekends, times when typical 9-5 workers are available. Utilise these off-peak hours to conduct classes without conflicting with your primary job.

Prioritise and Plan

Assess your weekly commitments and identify time slots that can be dedicated to fitness instructing. Use digital tools or planners to schedule your classes, ensuring they don't overlap with your primary job responsibilities.

Set Boundaries

It's crucial to establish clear boundaries between your roles. Inform your gym and clients of your availability, and avoid overcommitting. Remember, quality is key in fitness instruction, and overworking can lead to burnout.

Leverage Skills for Efficiency

Use skills from your primary job to enhance your instructing role. For instance, time management, communication, and organisational skills are transferable and can improve your efficiency as an instructor.

Embrace Digital Platforms

Consider offering online classes or creating fitness content. This can provide flexibility, allowing you to reach clients without being physically present in a gym. Consider setting up your own website or blog to showcase your fitness journey and connect with clients.

Balancing fitness instruction with other commitments is challenging but rewarding. It offers not only financial benefits but also personal satisfaction in promoting health and wellness.

As we conclude our guide on embarking on a career as a fitness instructor in the UK, it's clear that the primary hurdle is successfully completing the Level 2 Fitness Instructor course. While this may seem daunting at first, it's a journey well worth embarking on. Within just a few weeks, you could be holding your certification, a testament to your dedication and passion for fitness and health.

Embarking on this path opens up a world of possibilities. Not only will you be stepping into an exciting and rewarding career, but you'll also be in the privileged position of guiding others towards healthier, happier lives. Whether you're seeking to complement your existing job with this fulfilling side hustle or looking to dive into the fitness industry full-time, the steps outlined in this guide are your blueprint for success.

Remember, the journey to becoming a fitness instructor is as rewarding as the destination itself. You'll gain not just a certificate, but invaluable skills, experiences, and the opportunity to make a positive impact on others' lives. If you're driven by a passion for fitness and a desire to inspire, then take these steps to heart, and begin your journey towards a fulfilling career in fitness instruction.

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🎧 Listen Now: Sidehustles.co.uk One-Minute Podcast

 Becoming a Fitness Instructor in the UK: A Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to the Sidehustles.co.uk One Minute Podcast. In the next 60 seconds, we're sharing a real-world insight from our network of seasoned side hustlers. This quick tip is designed to offer you practical advice that you can apply immediately in your side hustle journey.

Today we're exploring How to Become a Fitness Instructor in the UK. Even if you don't delve into the entire article, here's a valuable takeaway: The key to success in fitness instructing isn't just about having a passion for fitness; it's about flexibility and adaptability. In today's fast-paced world, where people juggle multiple roles, offering flexible fitness sessions can be a game-changer. Whether it’s early morning classes, evening sessions, or weekend workshops, tailoring your schedule to fit around the busy lives of your clients can set you apart. This approach not only broadens your client base but also allows you to manage your own work-life balance effectively. Remember, in a field as dynamic as fitness, understanding and adapting to your clients' needs is just as crucial as your training.

That's your one-minute real-world insight. Stay tuned for more!

https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/fitness-instructor

https://www.cimspa.co.uk/

https://educatefitness.co.uk/kickstart-your-fitness-career-a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-level-2-gym-instructor-course-online/

https://www.sidehustles.co.uk/side-hustles

https://uk.indeed.com/career/fitness-instructor/salaries/England

https://www.futurefit.co.uk/getting-started/become-a-fitness-instructor/#row-32-5