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Higher Certificate of Personal Training

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Higher Certificate of Personal Training

Course Description

Kickstart your career in the fitness industry with the Higher Certificate in Personal Training (NQF Level 5) from Trifocus Fitness Academy—South Africa’s leading fitness education provider. This nationally recognised, industry-aligned course is perfect for anyone wanting to become a certified personal trainer, whether you’re a school leaver, fitness enthusiast, or wellness professional looking to upskill.

Accredited by the Council on Higher Education (CHE) and registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), this qualification gives you the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to work in commercial gyms, start your own fitness business, or advance into further study.

Entry Requirements

  • National Senior Certificate (Matric) or Equivalent 
  • No prior work experience needed
  • Ideal for school leavers, career changers, and fitness enthusiasts
  • No fitness background required—just a passion for health and exercise

Programme Duration & Mode of Delivery

  • Duration: 12 months
  • Delivery Mode: Blended / Hybrid Learning

 

Ready to become a certified personal trainer?

Enrol today in the Higher Certificate in Personal Training and transform your passion for fitness into a lifelong career.

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Modules

  • Learn key muscles and bones of the body
  • Understand anatomical terms and joint classifications
  • Explore the skeletal system, bone types, and structure
  • Identify planes of motion and joint actions
  • Apply anatomical concepts to postural alignment and movement

  • Study the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
  • Understand energy systems (ATP-PC, glycolytic, oxidative)
  • Explore how exercise influences body systems
  • Learn the structure and function of the muscular system
  • Prepare for assessments with physiological understanding

  • Understand foundational movement sequences
  • Identify postural and stability imbalances
  • Apply open vs. closed kinetic chain concepts
  • Use regressions and progressions in training
  • Integrate biomechanical principles into exercise design

  • Understand macro- and micronutrient functions
  • Apply hydration and diet planning principles
  • Read and interpret food labels effectively
  • Explore South African Food-Based Dietary Guidelines
  • Support healthy weight control and performance goals

  • Perform passive and dynamic screening assessments
  • Use BMI, cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility tests
  • Identify risks and apply referral procedures
  • Interpret screening results for programme design
  • Promote client safety through structured protocols

  • Apply SMART goal-setting techniques
  • Use motivational interviewing and behaviour coaching
  • Define clear short- and long-term fitness goals
  • Adapt and reframe goals as clients progress
  • Foster adherence through personalised plans

  • Design safe and effective exercise programmes
  • Apply overload, specificity, progression, and periodisation
  • Combine strength, cardio, flexibility, and mobility work
  • Tailor plans to suit individuals and groups
  • Deliver and adapt programmes based on feedback

  • Identify and reduce injury and health risk
  • Learn basic first aid and emergency procedures
  • Understand legal responsibilities and duty of care
  • Promote safe use of equipment and gym layout
  • Develop emergency action and safety plans

  • Understand fitness facility operations and logistics
  • Use booking systems and manage client interactions
  • Maintain clean, safe, and functional workout space
  • Deliver high-quality customer service experiences
  • Uphold professional standards and gym etiquette

  • Learn to plan and grow a fitness business
  • Understand marketing, branding, and client outreach
  • Draft a business and financial plan
  • Ensure compliance with legal and REPSSA requirements
  • Promote services using digital and social media strategies

Register this October and receive a 15% Discount with an upfront payment
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How to Study

Our online personal training course is designed for flexibility and career-readiness:

  • Online learning: Study at your own pace via video lectures, and downloadable study guide.
  • Live contact support: Optional online Q&A and tutor check-ins

Learning Resources

  • Prescribed Textbook: Foundations of Professional Personal Training
  • Additional Resources:
    • ACE Fitness
    • Human Kinetics
    • South African Food-Based Guidelines
  • E-Learning Tools:
    • Video tutorials
    • Quizzes and assessments
    • Online study guides

Study Support

  • Weekly tutor check-ins and live Q&A sessions
  • Access to lecturers and academic mentors via online platforms
  • Assignment support and learning guidance
  • Study groups and online fitness community
  • Exam preparation and feedback

Certification

Upon completion, you’ll earn the Higher Certificate in Personal Training (NQF Level 5). This recognised personal training qualification allows you to:

  • Register with REPSSA (Register of Exercise Professionals South Africa)
  • Work locally or internationally as a certified personal trainer
  • Start your own business in the health and wellness industry
  • Apply for advanced fitness and health qualifications

 

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    You can work in commercial gyms, wellness centres, cruise ships, or run your own personal training business.

    Yes, it’s accredited by the CHE, registered with DHET, and allows registration with REPSSA.

    Yes! The flexible hybrid delivery is perfect for working adults or busy students.

    No—you just need to be passionate about fitness and helping others.

    You can progress to a Diploma in Personal Training or other advanced fitness, nutrition, or sports science qualifications.

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