Placement Overview

Responsible for the safety and enjoyment of users of the fitness room. Involves instructing in the use of the machines and advising customers.

Generic Job Description for a Fitness Consultant

Fitness Consultants provide advice and assistance on health and fitness. They work in Leisure Centres, Health Clubs and gyms showing people how to exercise safely, properly and to their full potential.

They sometimes plan fitness regimes for people who are new to exercise or have a health or weight target to meet. This can include carrying out inductions and fitness assessments.

Some fitness Consultants work on a Freelance basis.

Skills:

• Physical fitness
• Good communication skills
• The ability to motivate people
• Enthusiasm
• Good organisation skills
• Basic IT skills

Pay:

• Entry £10,000
• £12,000 - £14,000 with experience
• Some Fitness Consultants earn £17,000 or more at management level

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Typically 40 hours a week
• Evening and weekend work is likely to fit in with clients schedules

Environment:

• Typically indoors work
• Work can be strenuous and physically demanding

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• An A-Level in a sport related subject is useful
• Degree courses in health, fitness and sports science are available and normally require five GCSE’s grades A-C and two A-Levels 

Training:

• Training is available at most colleges or on-the-job through an apprenticeship
• NVQ training in health and fitness is available at three levels

Opportunities:

• There are over 3000 private health and fitness clubs in the UK, all of which will employ fitness consultants
• Opportunities exist in Health Clubs, Fitness Centres, hotels and cruise ships
• Employment prospects are good, as the fitness industry has been growing rapidly in recent years 

Links:

www.exerciseregister.org - Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs)

www.skillsactive.org.uk - SkillsActive, Castlewood House