Thinking about becoming a personal trainer? This is your definitive guide to getting into the fitness industry.

Why Become a Personal Trainer in 2025?

The fitness industry in the UK is booming right now. In 2024–25 alone, gyms welcomed 600,000 new members, pushing the market value to £6.5 billion. With 11.5 million gym-goers nationwide, demand for qualified personal trainers is higher than ever.

Whether you want to switch careers, earn extra income, or turn your passion for health into a profession, now is the perfect time to qualify as a personal trainer. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — from qualifications and costs to earning potential and whether you’re ever “too old” to start.

What Do You Need to Qualify as a Personal Trainer in the UK?

To become a personal trainer in the UK, you’ll need:

1. Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instructing – the entry requirement for working in gyms.
2. Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training – the gold standard qualification that allows you to train clients 1:1, freelance, or start your own business.

Make sure your course is accredited by a recognised awarding body such as Active IQ (like ours at Make Me A PT). Without these qualifications, you cannot legally work as a personal trainer in the UK.

How Long Does It Take to Qualify as a Personal Trainer?

The time it takes depends on your chosen route:

• Full-time courses: 6–10 weeks
• Part-time courses: 12–24 weeks
• Online/blended learning: Flexible, but usually 8–16 weeks

At Make Me A PT, you can qualify in as little as 8 weeks with our blended programme — making it one of the fastest ways to enter the industry and start earning money.For a detailed breakdown of how long it takes, read our in-depth guide: How Long Does It Take to Qualify as a Personal Trainer?

Do You Need Qualifications to Be a Personal Trainer in the UK?

Yes. Without a Level 3 Personal Training qualification, you cannot work in a commercial gym or get insured as a trainer. Attempting to work without a qualification not only risks legal issues but also puts clients at risk.

Am I Too Old to Become a Personal Trainer? (30, 40, 50+)

Absolutely not. Many people become personal trainers later in life — some even in their 50s and 60s. In fact, mature trainers often attract clients their own age who value their life experience.

If you’re passionate about health and helping others, age is an advantage, not a barrier. Its about you, your journey and how people can relate.

Is Being a Personal Trainer Worth It?

Being a PT is more than a job — it’s a lifestyle. You get to:

• Help people transform their health and confidence.
• Enjoy flexible working hours.
• Be part of a growing £805 million UK personal training market.

For many, the reward of seeing clients succeed outweighs the financial side. But let’s talk about money…

How Much Can a Personal Trainer Earn in the UK?

Earnings vary depending on your setup:

• Gym-employed PTs: £18k–£25k annually.
• Self-employed PTs: £25k–£40k (depending on clients/hours).
• Premium/specialist PTs: £50k+ with experience.

On average, PTs charge £30–£50 per hour. At PureGym, PTs typically earn between £20–£35 per session.

How Much Does a PT Course Cost in the UK?

The cost of qualifying as a PT depends on the provider:

• Level 2 + Level 3 combined courses: £1,500–£3,000 on average.
• At Make Me A PT: Our Active IQ Diploma is competitively priced and can be completed in just 8 weeks.

Funding options may also be available (e.g. interest free payments, job centre support, advanced learner loans, or employer sponsorship).

Can You Qualify as a PT Online?

Yes — but with a catch. While much of the coursework can be completed online, you’ll still need to do practical assessments in person. With us, this can be done via a video recording OR you can invite us down to your gym to watch your practical session in person!

What Can and Can’t Personal Trainers Do?

Personal trainers can:

• Design fitness programmes.
• Provide nutritional guidance (within scope).
• Coach 1:1 or in small groups.

They cannot:

• Prescribe medical diets or give medical advice.
• Diagnose injuries or health conditions.
• Act as physiotherapists without extra qualifications.

Depending on where you work, a DBS check may also be required, especially if you work with vulnerable adults or young people.

Step-by-Step: How to Become a Personal Trainer in the UK (2025)

1. Choose a recognised course provider (Active IQ accredited) like us at Make Me A PT.
2. Complete your Level 2 + Level 3 Diploma.
3. Get insured and register with REPs or CIMSPA.
4. Apply for gym roles, freelance, or start your own PT business. – We show you how to earn money when qualified.
5. Continue professional development (specialist courses in nutrition, strength, or online coaching). – Keep the learning journey going with us!

Your Next Step

The demand for personal trainers has never been higher. With millions more people joining gyms every year, and health and fitness now central to lifestyle choices, this is your chance to enter a fast-growing, rewarding career.

If you want to qualify as a personal trainer and turn your passion into a profession, our Active IQ Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training is the perfect starting point. You can qualify in just 8 weeks with expert tutors, full support, and flexible learning.

👉 Enrol now with Make Me A PT and start your journey today.