Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing

Regulated by OFQUAL and recognised by REPs and CIMPSA, The Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing (Gym-Based Exercise) is aimed at those learners looking to gain entry onto the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) as a Level 2 Fitness Instructor. 

The aim of this qualification is to provide learners with the skills and knowledge to a professionally competent level enabling them to plan, deliver and evaluate safe and effective fitness instruction sessions unsupervised via the context of gym-based exercise.

The Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing is worth 20 CIMPSA CPD points.

In order to achieve the Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing (Gym-Based Exercise) learners must complete the below mandatory units:

• Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise
• Health, Safety and Welfare in a Fitness Environment
• Principles of Exercise Fitness and Health
• Know How to Support Clients Who Take Part in Exercise and Physical Activity
• Planning Gym-Based Exercise
• Instructing Gym-Based Exercise

These units will be assessed through a range of methods, including a portfolio (workbook), online multiple choice exam and practical assessment

The online Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing is a self-paced course, meaning learners can complete as quickly or as long as they'd like. We estimate a 6-8 week completion for those who can commit to an hours study time across 3-4 days a week.

This qualification is fully endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA). Learners who achieve this qualification are eligible to become a fitness instructor and register to become a member of the chartered institute for the management of sport and physical activity (CIMSPA). As a fitness instructor, learners could progress directly into employment in a variety of contexts, which include: 

• Commercial gyms
• Public leisure centres
• Private health and fitness clubs
• Armed forces
• HM prison service
• Cruise liners


• Whilst the primary purpose of this qualification is to prepare learners for employment, learners may choose to develop their knowledge and skills further by completing additional qualifications at level 3 in the following areas:


• Personal training
• Exercise referral
• Exercise to music
• Physical activity programmes for antenatal and postnatal clients
• Physical activity programmes for older adults
• Mat-based Pilates