Location:
Kildare
Duration:
Accreditation:
ABOUT THIS COURSE
This training programme will prepare you for a career in the sport and active leisure industry as a fitness instructor – teaching the most popular group fitness classes, including Exercise to Music (Aerobics), Bootcamp Circuits, Step Aerobics, Kettlebells and Cardio-Kickboxing. Throughout this programme you will develop an understanding of anatomy, physiology, the principles of exercise, fitness and health, and relevant health, safety and welfare in the fitness environment. You will develop the knowledge and skills needed to plan and instruct group fitness exercise programmes for healthy adults of all ages. You will also learn how to effectively support clients who take part in exercise and physical activity.
This qualification is mapped to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RCF) UK and, through the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), recognised by Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) and comparable to Level 4 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Ireland. This qualification is also endorsed by the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMPSA) UK.
Why Study with us?
The National Sports College is one of Ireland’s leading providers of professional qualifications in fitness, coaching, and massage therapy. Known for our high-quality, practical training and industry-recognised certifications.
Experience
Established in 2000, NSC has over 25 years of experience delivering fitness courses, earning a reputation as industry leaders committed to excellence in education within the sports, fitness and massage therapy industry.
Accreditation
Our courses are internationally accredited by Focus Awards and recognised by OFQUAL. They are also aligned with the NFQ and EQF Frameworks. Additionally, our programs are proudly endorsed by CIMSPA (Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity), Sports Therapy Ireland, and Coaching Ireland.
Support
We are dedicated to providing ongoing support throughout your journy. Our tutors are always available to answer questions, clarify concepts, and offer guidance. We provide expert advice to help you succeed.
What our students say
Don’t just take our word! Hear what our students have to say about our courses!
I honestly didn’t think I’d ever go back to studying, but it was actually very manageable. George and Allison know their stuff inside out. Now I'm working part-time in a local gym and starting to build my own client base. The confidence it gave me was great.
Emma K.
Took the Strength & Conditioning course after qualifying as a PT, and it was a serious step up. Covered way more detail than I expected, especially around periodisation and coaching. Was able to apply it straight away with the lads I train.
Collin Byrne
I already had a sports science degree but needed a specific massage qualification to get insured and start seeing clients properly. The course was exactly what I needed. Honestly, it filled gaps I didn’t realise were missing from my degree. Delighted I did it.
James D.
Course Information
Find all the information you need on this course. For questions, please contact us at info@nsc.ie .
Anatomy & Physiology for Exercise & Health
- Understand the structure and functions of the skeletal system and joints.
- Understand the structure and functions of the muscular system.
- Understand the structure and functions of the cardio-respiratory system.
- Understand energy systems and their relation to exercise.
Principles of Exercise, Fitness & Health
- Understand the benefits of an active and healthy lifestyle.
- Understand the effects of exercise on the body.
- Know the components of fitness and principles of training.
- Applying the principles of fitness to an exercise programme.
- Contraindications and key safety guidelines for special populations.
- Monitoring exercise intensity.
- Understand the importance of healthy eating.
Planning Group Exercise to Music & Circuit Training Classes
- Client Health Screening & Data Record Keeping.
- Planning Safe & Effective Group Exercise and Circuit Training Classes.
- See our CPD Course Brochure for more information on Group Fitness Instructor Training.
Instructing Group Exercise & Circuit Training Classes
- Professionalism in Fitness Instruction.
- Preparing the fitness studio/training area for use.
- Instructing Exercise to Music (Aerobic) Classes
- Instructing Bootcamp Circuits
- Instructing Step Aerobics Classes
- Instructing Kettlebell Fitness Classes
- Instructing Cardio-Kickboxing & Box-Fit Classes
- Supervising, supporting and motivating clients.
- Exercise progressions and variations.
Request our CPD Course Brochure (info@nsc.ie) for more information on Group Fitness Instructor Training.
Supporting Clients who Partake in Physical Activity
- Building effective working relationships with clients.
- Addressing barriers to exercise/physical activity that clients experience.
- Supporting clients participating in exercise/physical activity.
- Providing ongoing customer service.
Health, Safety and Welfare in the Fitness Environment
- Emergency procedures in a fitness environment.
- Health and safety procedures in a fitness environment.
- Controlling risks in a fitness environment.
- Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.
Major Qualifications Awarded:
- National Diploma in Personal Training (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- UKL3/IRL5 Certificate in Personal Training (RQF/OFQUAL/CIMSPA)
- National Certificate in Gym Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- UKL2/IRL4 Certificate in Fitness Instruction – Gym Based Exercise (RQF/OFQUAL)
- National Certificate in Group Fitness Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- UKL2/IRL4 Certificate in Fitness Instruction – Exercise to Music (RQF/OFQUAL)
CPD Qualifications Awarded:
- CPD Award in Sports Nutrition (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- CPD Award in Aerobics Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- CPD Award in Bootcamp Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- CPD Award in Step Aerobics Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- CPD Award in Kettlebell Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
- CPD Award in Cardio-Kickboxing & Box-Fit Instruction (NSC/Coaching Ireland)
The Focus Awards qualifications are comparable to Level 4, 5 and 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) Ireland and has international recognition. NSC/Focus Awards qualifications allow graduates to obtain professional indemnity insurance to practice in Ireland, the UK and internationally.
Meet the Head Instructor
George Martin, BSc. PGDip. MSc. MTEd.
Founder, Academic Director & Lecturer
Call at 085 800 1221 or email info@nsc.ie.
George Martin oversees all academic qualifications offered through the National Sports College. He also lectures in Anatomy & Physiology, Sport Science, Strength & Conditioning, Personal Training, Gym Instruction, Exercise to Music, Sports Massage and Business Management. George has over 25 years experience in the sport/health fitness industry as an instructor, coach, tutor, therapist and manager.
Education:
- BSc. (Hons) in Sport Science (QQI Level 8)
- Post Graduate Diploma in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- MSc. in Strength & Conditioning (QQI Level 9)
- Master of Arts in Training & Education (QQI Level 9)
- International Certificate in Exercise & Health Studies
- National Qualification in Sport & Remedial Massage Therapy
- Certified Tutor Coach (Coaching Ireland)
- Train the Trainer Certified (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Management Processes (QQI Level 6)
- Certificate in Information Technology & Computer Studies
- Registered Sport & Active Leisure Assessor
Frequently Asked Fitness Course Questions
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Is this qualification accredited?
Yes. This course is accredited by Focus Awards (who are regulated by OFQUAL). This course is also endorsed by CIMSPA and Coaching Ireland. Lastly, it is recognised by QQI (Quality Qualifications Ireland) and comparable to Level on the National Framework of Qualifications (Ireland).
Is this qualification accepted internationally?
Yes. Due to it’s high accreditation, this qualification can be used internationally.
Can I pay by instalments?
Yes. We offer multiple payment options.
Can I get a grant for course fees?
Yes. Some participants on our courses can avail of government grants when applying for our courses. We can assist in this process.
How will I be assessed?
Students are assessed with practical work along with a written exam.
What do I have to do outside class times?
Work outside class consists of studying and completing course assignments.
What is the success rate?
The vast majority of our students pass all examinations first time with few needing to repeat the exam.
What age group participates in this course?
The age range of members on our courses ranges from 18 to 55 years old. Anyone can do it!
Will I need to get insurance?
We strongly recommend all students hold a professional indemnity insurance policy. This covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was caused by following the student’s professional advice.