Group Fitness Instructor Course
National Certificate in Group Fitness Instruction

Course Type:

Location:

Kildare

Duration:

3 Months

Accreditation:

NSC, Focus Awards

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.

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 ([email protected]) 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.

Course Start Date: September 1st, 2024 – 2 Courses are Available

Theory/online modules are released on September 1st, 2024, followed by practical sessions starting October 2nd, 2024.  Practical contact days are:

Weekday Course Option:
Wednesdays - 9:30am to 4:30pm.  Dates: October 2, 16 & 30, November 13 & 27.

Weekend Course Option:
Sundays - 9:30am to 4:30pm.  Dates: October 6 & 20, November 3, 17, December 1.

Course Tuition Fee: From €795 

Course tuition fee includes access to our online classroom, course notes, online teaching materials, e-books and access to equipment and materials for college practical sessions.  International Learner Registration, Assessment and Certification Fee: €100 

€795 is our early bird option (€100 discount) which must be paid in full prior to the course start date.  The regular course fee of €895 can be paid over 3 instalments during the programme.  Course tuition fees and external registration/examination fees must be paid in full prior to final assessments and grading of assignments.
A refundable course deposit of €195 must be paid to reserve a student place on this programme.

 

Course Fee Option 1: Early Bird Tuition Fee = €795 (€100 discount).

Deposit = €195 (refundable up until August 1st, 2024).

Final Tuition Payment of €600 paid before your course start date of September 1st, 2024.

International Learner Registration and Assessment Fee of €100 due October 1st, 2024.

 

Course Fee Option 2: Standard Tuition Fee = €895.

Deposit = €195 (Refundable up until August 1st, 2024).

3 Payments of €233 due September 1st to November 1st, 2024.

International Learner Registration and Assessment Fee of €100 due October 1st, 2024.

 
Eligibility

The National Certificate in Group Fitness Instruction is open to applicants who have a keen interest in working with the general public in gyms and health clubs across the active leisure industry.  This primary programme of education is suitable for individuals with or without prior qualifications. Course content is delivered to facilitate adult learners of mixed ability.  Course learners must be computer literate and have access to a computer with broadband availability.  Course notes, power-points, video tutorials, e-books and assignments are only available online. Completed assignments are also required to be uploaded online.

  • National Certificate in Group Fitness Instruction (NSC)
  • UKL2/IRL4 Certificate in Fitness Instruction – Exercise to Music (Focus Awards - RQF/OFQUAL Registered Awarding Body)
  • CPD Award in Aerobics Instruction (NSC)
  • CPD Award in Bootcamp Instruction (NSC)
  • CPD Award in Step Aerobics Instruction (NSC)
  • CPD Award in Kettlebell Instruction (NSC)
  • CPD Award in Cardio-Kickboxing & Box-Fit Instruction (NSC)

The Focus Awards qualification is comparable to Level 4 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.  

The National Certificate in Group Fitness Instruction consists of 6 modules, taught part-time through blended learning and completed over a 3 month period (September 2024 to November 2024).  This is a blended learning programme which involves online lectures, video tutorials and written assignments, coupled with practical in-person sessions.

KildareWeekday CourseStarting September

8 PLACES LEFT

KildareWeekend CourseStarting September

7 PLACES LEFT

DublinWeekday CourseStarting September

FULL!

BOOK YOUR PLACE BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!

Meet Your Instructor

George Martin, BSc. PGDip. MSc. MTEd.

Founder, Academic Director & Lecturer

Call at 085 800 1221 or email [email protected].

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
See what our students say!

Recently finished a course at NSC and was super impressed by how thorough it was. George and Allison were amazing and there to answer questions and give practical advice that really helped me out. They really know their stuff and are always ready to help!

Sarah D.
Previous Student

I had a fantastic experience at NSC. The course was top-notch, but what really stood out was the support I received outside the classroom. George and Allison were always there to help with any questions I had about notes and exams. Their willingness to provide extra assistance made a huge difference, helping me understand the material better and feel more prepared for exams.

Eamonn O'C.
Previous Student

My time at the National Sports College was great. The course quality was excellent. What I appreciated most was the support from George and Allison outside of class. They were always available to answer questions about the notes and exams. Their dedication made the learning experience smooth and stress-free. For anyone looking for a course with exceptional support, I highly recommend NSC. They truly care about their students' success.

Collin Byrne
Previous Student

Career Progression Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions aboutour courses. For more information, feel free to email us at [email protected], or call/Whatsapp us at 085 800 1221.

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Do I need a qualification to participate on this course?

No. This primary programme of education is suitable for individuals with or without prior qualifications.

What will I be qualified to do when I complete the course?

uccessful course participants will be qualified to provide group training sessions such as aerobics, step aerobics, kettlebell classes, cardio-kickboxing, general group fitness classes & more.

Is this qualification accredited?

Yes. This qualification is accredited by Ireland’s Nationally accredited body, Focus Awards.

Is this qualification accepted internationally?

Yes. This qualification can be used internationally.

Will I be able to get a job in a fitness centre or health club?

Yes. Group Fitness Instructors commonly work in such places.

Can I pay for the course in 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 long does this group fitness instructor course last?

The course lasts 10 weeks with the Gym Instructor course.

Where is this course available?

We currently offer this course in Dublin & Kildare.

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 exam success rate of students?

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.

Special Offer

3 in 1 Plus+

Gym Instructor

Group Fitness Instructor

Personal Trainer

$
Gym Instructor
$
Group Fitness Instructor
$
Personal Trainer
$
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Special Offer

Dual Bundle

Sports Massage Therapy

Orthopaedic Sports Massage

+ CPD Awards

$
Sports Massage Therapy
$
Orthopaedic Sports Massage
$
Sports Dry Cupping
$
Kinesiology Taping

- Aerobics Instruction

- Step Aerobics Instruction

- Bootcamp Instruction

- Kettlebell Instruction

- Bootcamp Kids Instruction

- Sports Nutrition

- Sports Taping & Strapping

- Sports Dry Cupping

- Cardio Kickboxing & Boxfit Instruction

- Coaching Spped, Agility, Quickness

- Functional Movement Screening

- Sports Dry Needling

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