Qualifications:

 

Qualifications will vary greatly from country to country and mean different things to different associations. It is up to you to ask as many directed questions as possible to ensure that you select the correct trainer.

There are many basic qualifications out there, but find out whether your trainer has

  • Studied a specific method?
  • Tried & tested it?
  • Do they believe in it whole-heartedly?

I am of the impression that a trainer cannot specialise in all aspects of fitness unless they have been in the game for a very long time.

Personal training courses can be very specific in nature, focusing on Core Strength, Aerobics, Strength and Conditioning, or Re-ability. It could also focus on sports-specific skills, such as running, rugby, golf etc. For example, someone training to improve their golf skills might need a golf coach, or a Core Strength specialist to improve their flexibility and range of movement.

The following are recommended courses I have come across and looked into in my experience as a trainer:

South Africa:

  • Exercise Teacher’s Academy PT Diploma
  • Reebok Personal Trainer Diploma

London:

REPs