We frequently get asked more specific questions about the qualifications that you expect to find in a personal trainers portfolio, or how you can recognise which ones are bonefide. However, it's also important to know what trainers are doing to keep their qualifications up-to-date and why they need to have adequate liability insurance.
- How will I know if my trainer is properly qualified?
Always ask to see copies of their qualifications and ask direct questions such as when was the last time they took a qualification and which awarding body presented their certificate. Any bonefide trainer will be more than happy to show you copies of certificates and qualifications - so don't be afraid to ask.
All NRPT members are fully checked for their qualifications and insurance so you can search our directory in the knowledge we've checked them out.
Click here to search the directory for a trainer.
- Why do trainers need to continue to gain qualifications?
As well as basic fitness programmes and exercise plans, there are a wide range of areas where trainers specialise, called "Special Population groups". This includes areas such as pre and post-natal fitness; cardiac rehab; obesity; Fitness 50+; asthma; arthritis; eating disorders and many more.
The skills and knowledge required for these areas is vastly different from the basics and so most trainers attend further courses throughout their working life to develop their particular interest of training.
- How does a trainer keep their knowledge up to date?
With the exercise industry changing all the time, Personal Trainers should have up-to-date knowledge. This ensures they are able to provide you with the latest thinking about exercise and fitness.
Typically, personal trainers attend conferences every year and seminars on the latest advances in training techniques. Some undertake weekend courses in specific areas such as GP referral or Pre & Post Natal. We always suggest you ask your trainer when they last updated their qualifications and whether it was practical or theoretical based.
Why does a trainer need professional insurance?
With the emphasis on getting fit (the whole reason for getting a trainer?) you will often be gently 'pushed' to work your body a little harder than you may do without a trainer. What happens if you become injured due to negligence on the trainer's part or simply because you slip whilst following instructions?
Civil Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance means that NRPT members are covered in the case of any eventuality.
Do trainers need a current CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or first aid certificate?
Yes we require this as part of their membership to the NRPT. This will ensure that if any accident or emergency arises, your trainer will be competent in assessing what to do and how to respond.
Which qualifications are recognised in the UK?
We recognise only accredited qualifications and relevant experience. The qualification structure in the UK is fairly straight-forward, however we obviously take recognised qualifications from countries such as Australia, America, Canada, South Africa and Europe. These qualifications are run through our qualified personal trainers to check the relevancy and achievement level prior to us granting them membership.
Examples of UK held qualifications:- Future Fit Training
- YMCA Personal Trainer Diploma
- Lifetime HF Personal Trainer
- FIE Certified Personal Trainer
- Premier Training Diploma
- ACE Personal Trainer Certificate (American Council on Exercise)
- ACSM HFI (American College of Sports Medicine).
In essence we look for qualifications that are equivalent to the Government NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) system, some of which are 'mapped' to the new Government-backed Exercise Register providing even more assurance for you the public.
All NRPT members must have at least 6 months practical experience and must hold current Civil Liability & Professional Indemnity insurance and a current first aid / CPR certificate.
