Become a fitness instructor
SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness

Are you wanting to teach group fitness in a gym or controlled setting, or just get started in the fitness industry? The new Certificate III in Fitness is the course for you. The course was written by our inhouse sports scientists to prepare individuals to plan and deliver gym-based programs.
This entry-level qualification is the starting point to a career as a personal trainer. If you’re interested in the full pathway view the entry requirements for the Certificate IV in Fitness.
FIT College is committed to developing high-calibre fitness professionals. Which means in the development of the new SIS30321, our in house sports scientists write, and curate the course to ensure our students get the most up-to-date principles in the industry. Topics covered include: anatomy, healthy eating, and delivering safe-effective group exercise programs. For a full list of the topics, download the course guide.
Study online or on campus. FIT College has campuses 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.
Industry ready training
With a dedicated classroom in leading gyms around Australia FIT College’s fitness course program is the premier RTO to study group fitness courses. Learn your theory in a distraction free classroom, then apply what you learn on the gym-floor.
In addition to our immersive learning model we also:
- Bring the industry to you
- Have class excursions
- Free gym memberships in select campuses
- Pathways in disability support to supplement your income
- Discounts on FIT College Courses for CECs and professional development.
To learn more about studying with FIT College chat with a Career Advisor today.
Experienced Educators
Be taught by FIT College educators who bring a wealth of grass-roots knowledge about the fitness industry. Our educators are also highly rated on trust pilot, have a Cert IV in training and assessment as well as having years of experience as personal trainers in the industry.
FIT College is keeping the FIT movement alive by delivering a true on campus experience for immersive learning. We believe that if you apply what you learn in a gym-based environment, you’ll graduate with greater confidence, have peers to learn with, and learn from the best personal trainers in the industry.
Flexible on campus & online fitness courses study options
What you will study
Check the units you'll study to become a gym instructor.
First Aid
HLTAID011 - Provide First Aid
Included in face-to-face study only. Please be aware that online students will need to source HLTAID011 Provide First Aid from an independent supplier and provide the Certificate as competency in this topic.
Exercise Anatomy & Physiology
SISFFIT047 - Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise
This topic covers the basics of the systems of the human body and the structures required for movement. You will learn how to use anatomy and physiology in fitness instruction and programs, select effective exercise activities for participants with a broad range of capabilities, support participants to exercise safely and effectively by providing clear explanations and demonstrating proper exercise techniques
Screening & Customer Service
SISFFIT032 - Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation
SISXIND009 - Respond to interpersonal conflict
SIRXSLS001 - Sell to the retail customer
This topic covers the pre-exercise screening and service orientation for new clients. You will learn how to screen and evaluate clients for participation in exercise programs, establish customer needs and provide advice on products and services, provide exercise service information and referrals when required Prevent or manage interpersonal conflict situations, and reflect on your response to conflict resolutions
Healthy Nutrition & Service
SISFFIT052 - Provide healthy eating information
BSBOPS304 - Deliver and monitor a service to customers
This topic covers the basics of healthy eating, scope of nutrition practice for fitness professionals and the experts you can use for referrals. You will learn how to source information about healthy eating from the national dietary guidelines that apply to healthy people, advise on recommended daily serves of the five food groups outlined in national dietary guidelines, provide clear information about discretionary foods and inform clients about limiting daily intake, explain the benefits of healthy food and beverage choices, and impact of poor choices on health and wellbeing, identify characteristics of clients who require nutrition advice beyond scope of practice and recognise risks of providing information to those clients and provide information about types of health professionals with required expertise to clients who require nutritional advice outside scope of practice
Conduct Fitness Assessments
SISFFIT033 - Complete client fitness assessments
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to assess current fitness capabilities of clients and deliver and monitor customer service. You will learn how to Prepare for fitness assessments using the pre-exercise screening documentation, consult with client to identify their goals and preferences, assess a clients fitness and evaluate the results to determine capability, explain the results to the client and discuss the outcomes
Design and Deliver Sessions
HLTWHS001 - Participate in workplace health and safety
SISFFIT040 - Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to identify client needs, develop program and session structure, and provide initial instruction and advice while providing ongoing service to clients.
Deliver Group Exercise
SISFFIT035 - Plan group exercise sessions
SISFFIT036 - Instruct group exercise sessions
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to plan and deliver group exercise sessions designed for participation by mixed ability groups. You will learn how to identify diverse reasons and goals for participation in group exercise sessions and evaluate how these can be accommodated in a group setting, plan sessions and select exercises, training techniques and exercise equipment that target identified fitness goals and suit the group profile, prepare and check the required environment and physical resources for safety and serviceability, provide clear safety information and explain participant responsibility to work within their capability, deliver the group exercise session using clear verbal instructions and communication to motivate and encourage participants
Professional Development & Reflection
BSBPEF301 - Organise personal work priorities
BSBCRT311 - Apply critical thinking skills in a team environment
CHCPRP003 - Reflect on and improve own professional practice
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to plan and deliver group exercise sessions designed for participation by mixed ability groups. You will learn how to identify diverse reasons and goals for participation in group exercise sessions and evaluate how these can be accommodated in a group setting, plan sessions and select exercises, training techniques and exercise equipment that target identified fitness goals and suit the group profile, prepare and check the required environment and physical resources for safety and serviceability, provide clear safety information and explain participant responsibility to work within their capability, deliver the group exercise session using clear verbal instructions and communication to motivate and encourage participants
FAQs
Outcomes & Job Opportunities
When you graduate and become a Fitness Instructor with a SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness from FIT College, you can register as a Gym Instructor, Group Fitness Instructor or Outdoor Group Fitness Instructor with AUSActive, the National Register for Industry Professionals. Once qualified, you will be involved in the assessment, training and supervision of various demographics in health and fitness centres, gyms, sports centres and community organisations.
Fitness Instructors are trained in Fitness activity-specific competencies to instruct individuals and group clients in specified work environments under predictable circumstances. They can work under the guidance of a highly qualified professional.
Contact FIT College today to discuss your on-campus or online fitness course options and opportunities in the Fitness and Personal Training Industry. FIT College has a selection of NRT approved vocational on campus and online fitness courses to choose from.
What CAREER oPPORTUNITIES FOLLOWING COMPLETION OF THE SIS30321 Certificate III IN Fitness will get you:
Gym Instructor
You will be providing clients with excellent customer service within the fitness industry scope and conducting tasks such as, but not limited to:
- Client Fitness Assessments
- Provide individually tailored client assessments, program development, program demonstration and client reviews
- Providing technique correction as needed,
- Work within predictable settings such as a fitness facility, recreation or community facility
- Provide supervision of a facility or service (i.e. observing client use of facilities)
Group Fitness Instructor
You will be delivering freestyle, pre-choreographed or tailored circuit-style exercise sessions designed for participation by a group of clients of different ages and fitness levels. Work as a group fitness instructor across a multitude of a fitness facilities, recreation or community facility across Australia.
You can gain work as A:
- Gym Instructor
- Group fitness instructor
- Outdoor group instructor
COURSE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
There are no entry requirements for the SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness. However, applicants will be required to meet the course LLN requirements.
Topics and Competencies covered in FIT College SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness
FIRST AID
- HLTAID011 - PROVIDE FIRST AID*
*Included in face-to-face study only. Please be aware that online students will need to source HLTAID011 Provide First Aid from an independent supplier and provide the Certificate as competency in this topic.
EXERCISE ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
This topic covers the basics of the systems of the human body and the structures required for movement. You will learn how to use anatomy and physiology in fitness instruction and programs, select effective exercise activities for participants with a broad range of capabilities, support participants to exercise safely and effectively by providing clear explanations and demonstrating proper exercise techniques
- SISFFIT047 - Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise
SCREENING & CUSTOMER SERVICE
This topic covers the pre-exercise screening and service orientation for new clients. You will learn how to screen and evaluate clients for participation in exercise programs, establish customer needs and provide advice on products and services, provide exercise service information and referrals when required Prevent or manage interpersonal conflict situations, and reflect on your response to conflict resolutions
- SISFFIT032 - Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation
- SISXIND009 - Respond to interpersonal conflict
- SIRXSLS001 - Sell to the retail customer
HEALTHY NUTRITION & SERVICE
This topic covers the basics of healthy eating, scope of nutrition practice for fitness professionals and the experts you can use for referrals. You will learn how to source information about healthy eating from the national dietary guidelines that apply to healthy people, advise on recommended daily serves of the five food groups outlined in national dietary guidelines, provide clear information about discretionary foods and inform clients about limiting daily intake, explain the benefits of healthy food and beverage choices, and impact of poor choices on health and wellbeing, identify characteristics of clients who require nutrition advice beyond scope of practice and recognise risks of providing information to those clients and provide information about types of health professionals with required expertise to clients who require nutritional advice outside scope of practice
- SISFFIT052 - Provide healthy eating information
- BSBOPS304 - Deliver and monitor a service to customers
CONDUCT FITNESS ASSESSMENTS
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to assess current fitness capabilities of clients and deliver and monitor customer service. You will learn how to Prepare for fitness assessments using the pre-exercise screening documentation, consult with client to identify their goals and preferences, assess a clients fitness and evaluate the results to determine capability, explain the results to the client and discuss the outcomes
- SISFFIT033 - Complete client fitness assessments
DESIGN AND DELIVER SESSIONS
This topic covers the skills and knowledge to develop tailored gym-based exercise sessions for individuals where the level of personalised instruction, ongoing client monitoring and program evaluation is limited. You will learn how to consult with client to identify their goals and preferences, review outcomes of client pre-exercise screening and fitness assessment and identify relevant information for program design, discuss exercise preferences and consult with client to identify their short- and long-term fitness goals to inform program design, develop the program and session structure that target the client’s fitness goals, provide clear and accurate exercise technique instruction and demonstration to ensure safe and effective corrective instruction based on observations, follow and contribute to safe work practices
- HLTWHS001- Participate in workplace health and safety
- SISFFIT040 - Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients
DELIVER GROUP EXERCISE
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to plan and deliver group exercise sessions designed for participation by mixed ability groups. You will learn how to identify diverse reasons and goals for participation in group exercise sessions and evaluate how these can be accommodated in a group setting, plan sessions and select exercises, training techniques and exercise equipment that target identified fitness goals and suit the group profile, prepare and check the required environment and physical resources for safety and serviceability, provide clear safety information and explain participant responsibility to work within their capability, deliver the group exercise session using clear verbal instructions and communication to motivate and encourage participants
- SISFFIT035 - Plan group exercise sessions
- SISFFIT036 - Instruct group exercise sessions
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & REFLECTION
This topic covers the skills and knowledge required to organise personal work schedules, maintain required levels of competence through self-reflection and development, and apply critical thinking skills to workplace problems. You will learn how to organise and complete a work schedule and evaluate your performance through self-reflection, identify personal and professional development needs for job role and facilitate these opportunities, address workplace problems with a team and create and evaluate solutions
- BSBPEF301 - Organise personal work priorities
- BSBCRT311 - Apply critical thinking skills in a team environment
- CHCPRP003 - Reflect on and improve own professional practice
What qualifications do I need to be a fitness instructor Australia?
When pursuing a Certificate III in Fitness qualification in Australia, it is crucial to obtain it from a recognized Registered Training Organization (RTO). Here's why:
- Accreditation and Recognition: RTOs that offer nationally recognized qualifications, such as the Certificate III in Fitness, have gone through a rigorous accreditation process. This ensures that the training provided meets the industry standards and requirements set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
- Industry Relevance: RTOs with a good reputation often have strong connections with the fitness industry. They stay updated with current industry trends, practices, and requirements. As a result, the training you receive will be relevant and aligned with the needs of employers and clients.
- Quality Training Delivery: Recognized RTOs employ qualified trainers who possess industry experience and expertise. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality training, provide guidance, and answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout your course.
- Access to Support and Resources: RTOs typically provide comprehensive learning resources, such as textbooks, online materials, and practical tools. Additionally, they offer student support services, including academic assistance and guidance in completing assessments or navigating the course.
- Recognition by Employers: Employers in the fitness industry often prioritize candidates who have obtained their qualifications from recognized RTOs. Having a certificate from an accredited provider enhances your employability and demonstrates your commitment to professional standards.
To identify recognised RTOs, you can visit the official websites of industry bodies and regulatory authorities like AUS Active or ASQA. These organizations provide directories or lists of approved training providers offering the Certificate III in Fitness. When selecting an RTO, consider factors such as the reputation of the organization, the duration and flexibility of the course, cost, student support services, and opportunities for practical experience or work placements. By choosing a recognized RTO to pursue your Certificate III in Fitness, you can ensure that you receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards, increasing your chances of success as a fitness instructor in Australia.
How long does it take to qualify as a gym instructor?
When considering the duration of a gym instructor course, it's important to prioritize the quality of training and the immersive learning experience rather than solely focusing on the time it takes to complete the program. While FIT College offers a 12-month gym instructor course, they also provide options for accelerated learning that can be completed in 7 weeks full-time or 14 weeks part-time.
Choosing a longer duration for the course allows for a more in-depth exploration of the curriculum. It provides additional time to delve into the theoretical concepts, practical skills, and industry knowledge necessary to excel as a gym instructor. A longer duration also allows for ample practice, hands-on training, and opportunities for real-world application of the learned material.
On the other hand, accelerated learning options, like the 7-week full-time or 14-week part-time formats, provide an intensive and immersive learning experience. These condensed timeframes require a focused and dedicated approach to studying and mastering the course material. The emphasis is on concentrated learning, active participation, and efficient completion of assessments.
While completing the course quickly may be appealing, it's essential to consider your own learning style, prior knowledge, and ability to absorb and apply information effectively. Immersive learning experiences, whether in an accelerated or extended timeframe, can provide valuable opportunities for practical application, mentorship, and feedback, which contribute to a well-rounded education.
Ultimately, the quality of the training and the immersive learning experience should be prioritized over the duration of the course. Choosing a reputable training provider like FIT College ensures that you receive comprehensive instruction, access to experienced trainers, practical training opportunities, and ongoing support to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a competent and confident gym instructor.
How much does a level 2 gym instructor course cost?
The cost of a Level 2 gym instructor course, also known as Certificate III in Fitness (code: SIS30321), in Australia can vary significantly. While the average price mentioned earlier was around $4,600, it's important to note that prices can range from approximately $1,300 to $8,150 or even higher. These figures are estimates and are subject to change depending on factors such as location, training provider, course duration, and additional resources included.
When considering the cost of the course, it is essential to research different training providers and compare their offerings. Take into account factors such as the quality of the course, the reputation of the training provider, the level of support provided, and any additional certifications or resources included in the package. Some providers may offer flexible payment options or discounts, so it's worth exploring those possibilities as well.
Remember that investing in a comprehensive and reputable Level 2 gym instructor course is crucial for your career development. While the cost is a significant consideration, prioritize the quality of education and the practical skills you will acquire to ensure you are well-prepared for a successful career as a gym instructor.
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 center, 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 individualized attention, offering comprehensive assessments, developing personalized workout plans, monitoring progress, and providing ongoing guidance and support. Personal trainers often have a deeper understanding of nutrition, injury prevention, and corrective exercises, allowing them to address a wider range of fitness concerns and provide 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 personalized 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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