Location:
Kildare
Duration:
Accreditation:
ABOUT THIS COURSE
This Level 5 training programme will prepare you for a career in the sport and active leisure industry as a Personal Trainer – either as a self-employed professional or as part of a health fitness team in clubs around Ireland and internationally. Throughout this programme you will develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a competent personal trainer and fitness instructor, dealing with adults of all ages who wish to participate in exercise and physical activity.
Our comprehensive 2-in-1 training program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in the sport and active leisure industry. You’ll gain qualifications as a Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer. Equipping you to work as a self-employed professional or as part of a fitness team in clubs across Ireland and internationally. Training teaches a variety of knowldege and skills needed - dealing with adults of all ages who wish to participate in exercise and physical activity.
Beware: Many of our competitors offer similar courses with no framework alignment - ensure you have a QQI or an OFQUAL stamp on your certificate! EQF is NOT an awarding body, it is a mapping system which should only be used by National Awarding Bodies such as QQI/NFQ and OFQUAL/RCF.
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 the structure and functions of the digestive system.
- Understand energy systems and their relation to exercise.
- Understand the endocrine system and its relation to exercise.
- Understand the nervous system and its relation to exercise.
- Postural and core stability.
Principles of Nutrition for Physical Activity
- Key nutritional terms.
- Function of the metabolism.
- Main food groups.
- Body composition analysis.
- Calculating caloric intake / percentage nutrient breakdown.
- Nutritional goal setting.
- Pre and post event supplementation.
Planning & Instructing Personal Training Programmes
- Resources required to deliver a personal training session.
- Approaching consultations/health screening/record keeping.
- Interpreting health history.
- Conditions requiring medical clearance.
- Goal setting and follow-up assessments.
- Advanced resistance (weight) training.
- Advanced flexibility training
- Client Data Records.
Instructing Gym Based Exercise / Resistance (Weight) Training)
- Professionalism in Fitness Instruction.
- Preparing gym equipment for use.
- Instructing gym-based exercise.
- Supervising, supporting and motivating clients.
- Machine weight and free weight training programmes.
- Exercise progressions and variations.
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)
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.