Fitness Instructor (SA)

Education and Training:

To become a fitness instructor you usually have to complete a VET qualification in fitness. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.

You can also become a fitness instructor through a traineeship in Fitness. Entry requirements may vary but employers usually require Year 10. Ask your career adviser about the possibility of starting some of this training in school.

Additional Information:

Registration by Fitness Australia or Kinect Australia is generally accepted as the minimum requirement to work as an instructor in the health and fitness industry. Registration requires a current Senior First Aid Certificate and a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Certificate.

The registration category depends on your qualification and level of experience. Those who have obtained a Certificate III in Fitness can register as an Exercise Instructor and are eligible to register as a Specialised Trainer, Gym Instructor, Children's Instructor, Older Adults Instructor, Aqua Instructor or Yoga Teacher. Those who have obtained a Certificate IV in Fitness can register as an Exercise Trainer and are eligible to become a Personal Trainer, Children's Trainer, Older Adults Trainer or Aqua Trainer.

Fitness Australia and Kinect Australia are responsible for all aspects of assessing and registering fitness instructors in Australia. Registration is valid Australia-wide.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Fitness Instructors can expect to find employment instructing individuals or groups in traditional settings, such as fitness centres or studios. However, more recently, a large number of roles in an expanded range of settings have emerged. These include assessment, consulting, health promotion and management roles across settings such as community, sport, workplace, clinical, outdoor and mobile services.

A high proportion of fitness instructors are employed on a part-time or casual basis, however an increasing number of full-time positions are becoming available within the industry.