Become a personal trainer
Certificate Iv in Fitness SIS40221

Do you see yourself living a more balanced lifestyle, having a passion for fitness, or wanting to run your own personal training studio? The new SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness will give you the foundational skill set to be a fully qualified personal trainer.
This personal trainer course was developed in-house by our sports scientists to graduate high-calibre personal trainers. Personal trainers typically work independently, either as self-employed individuals or as employees, and provide training programs, exercise feedback, and general healthy eating discussions to help people achieve their health or lifestyle goals. New industry sectors are rapidly emerging in the Online PT space.
As a personal trainer, you will often be the first point of contact when people seek to make changes to their lifestyle. Whether that be someone looking to lose weight, run their first marathon, or get big and strong. This means studying a personal training course you can trust is paramount to your success in the industry.
So, if you want to become a PT, chat with a FIT College career advisor today.
Study to become a personal trainer online or on campus. With campuses located across the country, FIT College teaches PT training courses Australia-wide with three intakes a year. We are one of the last true on-campus delivery of fitness courses in the country. Or, if you don’t want to wait look at our online study options for maximum flexibility, and premium support.
The FIt College Difference
20 Years of Evolution
The Certificate III and IV in Fitness have been the specialty of FIT College since its inception. Our fitness courses contain no 'off the shelf' purchased elements and have been updated and developed with every training package change in the last two decades. This course is what made FIT College the #1 institution.
Multiple Modes | Face-to-Face and Virtual
Complete the personal trainer course online through our Virtual Campus or attend F2F Classes, on campus at multiple locations around Australia. Campus delivery is disappearing from the industry education scene as companies hide cost cuts behind the virtual boom. FIT College continues to offer both Virtual and Face-to-Face in every state to ensure that you receive every kind of support, regardless of your location or study mode.
To learn more about how to become a PT with FIT College, chat with a Career Advisor today.
Industry Affiliated
FIT College doesn't just have gym logos on our page; we have real and tangible affiliations for you to use to find employment and support while you study to become a PT. FIT College have a team of Careers Liaisons whose job is to maintain industry relationships and help you find your place in the fitness industry! Enquire today about affiliates looking for PTs and where you can train for free as a FIT College Student.
#1 For Support and Quality
- If you need help, any student can organise to come to a campus and receive support.
- 12 months per Certificate allowable time to complete qualifications.
- Download all base and additional content and resources to keep.
- Tailored Study Plans to fit your schedule with a 5-day marking turnaround.
- 24/7 Help Requests on the Digital Learning Platform (Virtual Classroom) are available to all students.
- No mandatory placement hours; all assessments are tailored to the task.
- All students receive access to 12 hours of scheduled and staffed Virtual Support.
- All students receive access to scheduled, campus-based face-to-face (F2F) support on Fridays.
- Interest-free and flexible payment plans, allowing you to pay off your fitness course at your own pace.
- International portability within the ICREP's network.
Study Options for PERSONAL TRAINING COURSES are Flexible
Course guide
SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness
Topic 1 - Movement Assessment & Prescription
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Four interactive online tasks
- Three hands-on, practical assessments:
- You will complete a static alignment screen on three people
- You will assess movement patterns (dynamic posture) across key movement types—squat, lunge, hinge, horizontal push and pull, vertical push and pull, and rotation—on three people.
- Deliver corrective exercises based on your movement assessment findings, focusing on improving posture, balance, and technique.
Topic 2 - Effective Personal Training
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Five interactive online tasks
- One hands-on, practical assessment:
- You will deliver six exercise sessions that you have designed, explaining session objectives, demonstrating correct technique, providing cues, monitoring and modifying exercises as needed, and using communication techniques to support and encourage participants.
Topic 3 - Nutrition &Behaviour Change
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Three interactive online tasks
- Three hands-on, practical assessments:
- You will provide feedback and healthy eating recommendations to one person based on their daily eating pattern
- You will conduct three 15-minute interviews to assess each individual's readiness and motivation for behaviour change, including their current exercise habits, attitudes, motivation, and perceived barriers
- You will meet with the same three people to plan their behaviour change. In each session, you will propose two techniques to overcome barriers, discuss the pros and cons of each, and support them in choosing one technique to act on
- SISFFIT053 - Support healthy eating for individual fitness clients
- SISFFIT050 - Support exercise behaviour change
- HLTPOP014 - Assess readiness for and effect behaviour change
*As part of this qualification, students will be required to complete a four (4) week Behaviour Project Report and submit it before the end of the course
Topic 4 - Body Composition Training
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Four interactive online tasks
- One hands-on, practical assessment:
- You will deliver four personalised exercise sessions that you have designed. In each session, you will explain the objectives, demonstrate correct technique, provide cues, and monitor performance, adjusting as needed.
- You will use a combination of verbal, visual, and tactile methods tailored to each person, employing positive communication to motivate and reinforce progress. Throughout, you will explain how the exercises relate to body composition and the person's individual goals, while also highlighting strengths, encouraging questions, and responding to any feedback or challenges
Topic 5 - Training Adolescent Clients
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Four interactive online tasks
- Three hands-on, practical assessments:
- You will conduct pre-exercise health screens for three adolescents, which will include a health and fitness consultation and a pre-exercise questionnaire. For each person, you will document your findings in a clear and easy-to-understand consultation summary
- You will conduct a series of five fitness tests (cardiovascular, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and functional motor skills ) on three adolescents, then evaluate and rate each result
- You will deliver five exercise sessions (two in-person and three online) that you have designed. In each session, explain the objectives, demonstrate and cue each activity, monitor performance, and make adjustments as needed using age-appropriate communication strategies.
Topic 6 - Training Older Clients
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Five interactive online tasks
- One hands-on, practical assessment:
- You will deliver four 30-minute exercise sessions that you have designed. In each session, you will explain objectives, demonstrate correct technique, monitor performance, and adjust as needed.
- You will use verbal, visual, and tactile cues suited to the participant, apply positive communication, highlight strengths, explain progress, and respond professionally to questions or challenges..'009
Topic 7 - Develop Business Proposals
- Five short knowledge quizzes
- Four interactive online tasks
- One hands-on, practical assessment:
- You will identify a business opportunity that aligns with your future role in the fitness industry and develop a detailed proposal.
- You will then present your idea in a 10–15-minute session, showcasing its value and potential
Topic 8 - BEHAVIOUR CHANGE PROJECT
- Combined interactive online tasks and hands-on, practical assessments:
- You will implement two behaviour change plans and support each person over a period of four weeks. Each week, you will meet with the individual and relevant stakeholders (e.g. family, partner, manager) for a minimum of 20 minutes to review progress, update goals, and record outcomes in a logbook.
- During these sessions, you will document techniques used to support adherence, track completed activities, and note any contingencies applied. You will also maintain detailed records outlining goals, strategies, and progress. At the end of the project, you will conduct a follow-up review with each person to evaluate their progress, discuss changing needs, and recommend strategies to sustain their achievements.
Topic 9 - PROVIDE CPR
Study modes, duration & Support
All Modes of Study
Allowable time | 12 months |
Virtual Support | 12 hours/week scheduled virtual class access (optional) |
Phone Support | 8 am - 6 pm, Mon - Fri | 1300887017 |
Online Support | 24/7 communication log support through a virtual education platform |
Virtual Classroom (Online/Blended)
Intakes | Enrol at any time and start studying within 72 hours |
Common Completion Time | 6 months |
ESOS/CRICOS | Not suitable for international students on a student visa |
Virtual Delivery Locations | Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, others on assessment |
Nominal Hours | 1242 |
Study Volume | 27 hours/week |
Virtual Classes | 12 hours/ week |
Campus Classes | ~NA~ |
Online/Self-Study | 15 hours/week |
Face-to-Face Classrooms (Campus-Based)
Full Time (mornings) | 12 hours/week for 7 weeks | Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, 10 am-1 pm |
Intakes | February | May | September |
Common Completion Time | 8 weeks |
ESOS/CRICOS | Not suitable for international students on a student visa |
Domestic Delivery Locations | |
Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane-Fortitude Valley, Brisbane-Carseldine, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Newcastle, Sydney CBD, Parramatta, Penrith, Melbourne-Prahran, Melbourne-Wantirna, South Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth-Joondalup, Perth-Bibra Lake, Canberra, Hobart, Fiji | |
Nominal Hours | 1242 |
Study Volume | 27 hours/week |
Virtual Classes | 12 hours/week |
Campus Classes | 12 hours/week |
Online/Self-Study | 15 hours/week |
Part-time (evenings) | 6 hours/week for 14 weeks | Mon/Wed or Tue/Thu, 6 pm-9 pm |
Intakes | February | May | September |
Common Completion Time | 15 weeks |
ESOS/CRICOS | Not suitable for international students on a student visa |
Domestic Delivery Locations | |
Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane-Fortitude Valley, Brisbane-Carseldine, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Newcastle, Sydney CBD, Parramatta, Penrith, Melbourne-Prahran, Melbourne-Wantirna, South Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth-Joondalup, Perth-Bibra Lake, Canberra, Hobart, Fiji | |
Nominal Hours | 1242 |
Study Volume | 27 hours/week |
Virtual Classes | 12 hours/week |
Campus Classes | 12 hours/week |
Online/Self-Study | 15 hours/week |
Student Visa Course | 25 hours/week Blended Study | 6 Month Student Visa Eligible |
Intakes | January | April | July | October |
Common Completion Time | 6 months |
ESOS/CRICOS | CRICOS:110301E | Suitable for international students on a student visa |
ESOS Delivery Locations | |
Cairns, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney | |
Nominal Hours | 555 |
Study Volume | 25 hours/week |
Virtual Classes | 9 hours/week |
Campus Classes | 10 hours/week |
Online/Self-Study | 6 hours/week |
Qualification Outcomes
Certification & Registration
SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness is Nationally Recognised Training (NRT). For more information on this training package, visit training.gov.au.
FIT College RTO Code: 31903 CRICOS Code: 03926G
Upon successful completion of this course, you will receive:
- Certificate: SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness
- Academic Transcript: Listing all completed units of competency (17 in total)
Relevant Registration Pathways:
Graduates may be eligible for registration with key industry bodies, including:
- Australian Register of Exercise Professionals (AusREPs) via AusActive (Fitness industry peak body)
- International Confederation for the Register of Exercise Professionals (ICREPs)
- Sports Management Association of Australia and New Zealand (SMAANZ)
Education Pathways
Vocational Education & Training (VET)
Certificate IV in Fitness builds on foundational knowledge from the Certificate III in Fitness and provides the competencies required to become a qualified personal trainer. Students often complete both qualifications together through the FIT Elite Course, which combines both levels and adds further industry-ready content and support.
University & Higher Education
For those wishing to progress academically, the most common university pathway from Certificate IV is a Bachelor of Exercise Science or related field. These higher education programs focus on more clinical and research-based aspects of physical activity and performance. Other aligned study areas may include:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sport Coaching
- Sports Management
- Sports Nutrition
- Human Movement Science
Industry RelevanceM
As a qualified personal trainer, you are encouraged to pursue continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain your industry registration and stay current with evolving practices. FIT College offers a range of short courses, each approved for continuing education credits (CECs) with AusActive, including:
- Boxing for Fitness (10 CECs)
- Suspension Training (10 CECs)
- Kettlebell Training (10 CECs)
These courses are ideal for broadening your skill set and enhancing employability in the fitness industry.
Career Opportunities
The Certificate IV in Fitness qualifies you to work as a personal trainer, with employment opportunities in:
- Commercial gyms and fitness centres
- Personal training studios
- Outdoor group training
- Online and virtual coaching platforms
- Corporate wellness programs
- Sports and recreation centres
The fitness industry continues to evolve, particularly with the rise of online and hybrid training models. For career support and job listings, explore the FIT College Careers HUB or contact our team directly for personalised guidance.
Course Requirements
General requirements for entry into the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness:
General needs for entry into the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness required by the student:
- Access to the general resources listed previously in this document
- Working with Children positive letter of notification
- Have been recognised as competent through a recognised training program or recognition process against the following units of competency:
- HLTAID011 Provide First Aid (or a unit that supersedes this unit)
- HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety
- SISFFIT032 Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation
- SISFFIT033 Complete client fitness assessments
- SISFFIT035 Plan group exercise sessions
- SISFFIT036 Instruct group exercise sessions
- SISFFIT040 Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients
- SISFFIT047 Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise
- SISFFIT052 Provide healthy eating information
To successfully complete the course, students must have access to the following:
- A computer or device capable of accessing the internet
- A reliable internet connection with a broadband plan suitable for online study
- A smartphone, camera, or other device capable of recording video and taking photos (used for assessment evidence)
Assessment for the Certificate IV in Fitness includes both written and practical tasks. These assessments are designed to measure your ability to meet all elements and performance criteria outlined in each unit of competency.
Assessment types may include:
- Knowledge-based quizzes and short-answer questions
- Practical demonstrations (in person or via video submission)
- Simulated workplace tasks and case studies
- Project-based assignments
To be deemed competent, you must demonstrate that you can safely and effectively apply your knowledge and skills in line with industry expectations.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) Requirements
All domestic students must demonstrate core competency in English language, literacy and numeracy as part of the pre-enrolment process. This may be assessed via an LLN test administered by FIT College or through existing qualifications.
International Students (ESOS/CRICOS)
In accordance with CRICOS and ESOS requirements, international students must also meet specific English language standards prior to enrolment. Acceptable minimum test scores include:
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic:
- 5.5 overall score with no band scoring less than 5.0
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-Based Test:
- 50 overall score with a minimum score of 5 in Reading, 5 in Listening, 14 in Speaking and 15 in Writing
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Paper-Based Test:
- 530 minimum test result
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE):
- 162 overall score with no less than 154 in any component
Pearson Test of English: Academic (PTE:A):
- 42 overall score with no less than 36 in the communication band
Payment & Funding
Payment Options
Interest-free payment plans and full payment options are available. Course costs can be reduced with promotions and on short-term plans. Courses must be paid in full before the certificate is issued.
ESOS/CRICOS Additional International Student Payments
International Students are required to pay for their course in advance, before the course commences. Payment can be made in full, or before each Semester or Term.
Skillsets & Sub-Qualifications
There are no NRT Skillsets within this qualification that are offered for individual sale.
FAQs
Outcomes & Job Opportunities
Upon graduating with the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness from FIT College, you will be qualified to work as a Personal Trainer and can register with AusActive. This registration recognises your competence to work independently in a variety of fitness and health settings.
As a Personal Trainer, you will be equipped to:
- Design, deliver and monitor personalised exercise programs
- Conduct fitness assessments and provide tailored client support
- Work autonomously with individuals or small groups across diverse populations
- Operate within gyms, fitness centres, private studios, outdoor environments, or digital coaching platforms
Certificate IV in Fitness graduates are recognised for their ability to manage clients' health and fitness needs with a higher level of expertise. This includes working with clients who present with specific goals such as weight management, performance improvement, or lifestyle-related health changes.
You may also choose to specialise further through continuing education or grow your career in areas such as:
- Business ownership or freelance personal training
- Strength and conditioning
- Sports coaching and athletic development
- Group functional training
- Corporate and workplace wellness programs
With the fitness industry continually expanding, particularly in the areas of digital coaching and evidence-based practice, Certificate IV graduates are well-positioned to lead, innovate, and influence client outcomes in a professional setting.
Career Opportunities Following Completion of the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness
Graduating with the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness qualifies you to work as a Personal Trainer, which allows you to operate independently and provide specialised training services to a wide range of clients. You may also continue working in roles such as Gym Instructor or Group Fitness Instructor, but with added scope and responsibility.
You will be providing clients with excellent customer service within the fitness industry scope and conducting tasks such as, but not limited to:
Personal Trainer
As a qualified Personal Trainer, you will:
- Conduct comprehensive client fitness assessments and health screening
- Design and deliver individualised exercise programs based on client goals and needs
- Monitor client progress and adjust programming accordingly
- Apply advanced techniques in strength, endurance, flexibility, and functional training
- Work with clients across a variety of populations, including older adults, adolescents, and clients with specific fitness goals or lifestyle-related risk factors
- Operate independently in fitness centres, studios, outdoor settings, or offer mobile and online training services
- Run your own business or freelance services, including marketing and client management
Gym Instructor
Although commonly associated with Certificate III, many Certificate IV graduates also work in this role, often with expanded responsibilities such as:
- Conducting initial fitness consultations and screenings
- Delivering program induction sessions and providing general training advice
- Supervising clients in a gym environment to ensure safety and proper technique
- Supporting clients in achieving short- and long-term health and fitness goals
- Ensuring facility maintenance and customer service excellence
Group Fitness Instructor
With your advanced training, you can deliver a wide range of group fitness classes, including:
- Freestyle, circuit-style, or pre-choreographed group classes
- Small group personal training sessions with tailored programming
- Classes for special populations, such as older adults, youth, or beginner fitness clients
- Indoor or outdoor sessions in gyms, studios, community centres or corporate settings
Certificate IV in Fitness provides the foundation for an independent, professional career in the fitness industry. It opens pathways for specialisation in areas such as:
- Functional training
- Strength and conditioning
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Body composition management
- Lifestyle coaching and habit change
- Business development for personal trainers
What Qualifications Do I Need to Be a Personal Trainer in Australia?
To become a Personal Trainer in Australia, you must complete the SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness through a recognised Registered Training Organisation (RTO). This qualification is essential for anyone wanting to deliver one-on-one or small group personal training sessions and operate independently in the fitness industry.
Why Study Through a Recognised RTO?
Completing your Certificate IV through an RTO approved by ASQA ensures your qualification is nationally recognised and meets professional standards.
- Accreditation & Recognition: RTOs must meet national standards, ensuring your qualification is recognised and AusActive-compliant.
- Industry-Relevant Training: Courses reflect real-world industry practices.
- Qualified Trainers: Delivered by experts who blend theory and practical learning.
- Supportive Learning Environment: Access to resources, mentoring, and flexible delivery.
- Improved Employability: Employers value qualifications from reputable RTOs.
How to Choose the Right RTO
- Are they listed on training.gov.au?
- Registered with AusActive & compliant with ASQA?
- What support services are included?
- Does the course include practical placement?
- What’s their reputation in the fitness industry?
How Long Does it Take to Qualify as a Personal Trainer?
FIT College offers flexible learning pathways:
- Standard Duration: 12-month course for in-depth learning and application.
- Accelerated: 7 weeks full-time or 14 weeks part-time for an intensive experience.
The choice depends on your learning style, time availability, and need for hands-on training. Whichever option you choose, FIT College ensures an immersive, industry-ready experience with expert guidance and practical support.
How Much Does a Personal Trainer Course Cost?
Costs for the Certificate IV in Fitness vary, with most courses ranging between $1,200–$8,350. The average is around $4,500, depending on:
- Training provider reputation
- Location and delivery method
- Course inclusions like extra certifications or support
When choosing a provider, weigh up course quality, student support, and the long-term value of your qualification. Some offer flexible payment plans or discounts.
Gym Instructor vs Personal Trainer
A gym instructor and a personal trainer are both fitness professionals who play significant roles in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals. However, there are distinct differences between these two roles based on their scope, level of expertise, and the nature of their interactions with clients.
A gym instructor typically works in a gym or fitness centre, overseeing group fitness classes and providing general guidance on exercise routines and equipment usage. They focus on ensuring the safety of participants, maintaining a positive and motivating environment, and offering basic assistance and instructions on proper exercise techniques. Gym instructors often have certifications or qualifications in fitness instruction and may have expertise in specific exercise modalities.
On the other hand, a personal trainer works one-on-one with clients, tailoring exercise programs to meet their specific needs, goals, and abilities. Personal trainers typically have advanced certifications and extensive knowledge in exercise science, anatomy, and physiology. They provide individualised attention, offering comprehensive assessments, developing personalised workout plans, monitoring progress, and providing ongoing guidance and support. Personal trainers often possess a deeper understanding of nutrition, injury prevention, and corrective exercises, enabling them to address a broader range of fitness concerns and offer a higher level of expertise.
In summary, while gym instructors focus on providing general fitness guidance and overseeing group classes, personal trainers offer a more personalised and comprehensive approach, tailoring workouts to individual needs and providing in-depth expertise to help clients achieve their specific fitness objectives.
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