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  • 5 Gift Ideas For Personal Trainers

    5 Gift Ideas For Personal Trainers

    As fitness enthusiasts, we appreciate the hard work and dedication that personal trainers put into helping others achieve their fitness goals.

    Personal trainers motivate, guide, and push clients to new limits.

    But it can be daunting as a client, employer or colleague when thinking about the best gift for personal trainers to show them your gratitude.

    That’s why we’ve come up with a list of gifts you can get for that special personal trainer in your life.

    Fitness Tracker

    A great gift idea for personal trainers is a fitness tracker. These devices keep track can help keep track of their own fitness goals as well as monitor their progress when training. They can also track their clients’ progress, which can be an extremely helpful gift!

    Here is a list of some of the best fitness trackers in the market.

    Resistance Bands

    Another awesome gift idea is a set of resistance bands. These always come in handy for a personal trainer.

    These lightweight and portable bands are perfect to add something different to a client’s workout programme. They can also be used for a wide range of exercises and are excellent for strength building and endurance.

    Wireless Headphones

    Are you looking for something extra special? Consider getting your personal trainer a set of wireless headphones. These types of headphones are ideal for trainers who listen to music while they work out. No cables, no aux connections and freedom to perform any exercise without disruption.

    Additionally, they can also be used to make phone calls or listen to podcasts or audiobooks.

    Take a look at some great wireless headphones deals.

    Custom Clothing

    Looking for a more personalized gift? Then get your personal trainer a custom workout shirt or hoodie. You can have their name or logo printed on the shirt, which will make them feel special and appreciated.

    Design their personalised gym wear today.

    Branded Clothing

    ‘I have too many gym clothes’, said no personal trainer, ever.

    If you don’t want to get personal, gift them with their favourite branded gym clothes.

    From Nike to Addidas or even Gym Shark, there are a tonne of name brands out there that are favourites.

    Personal trainers are an important part of many people’s lives, and they deserve to be recognised for all the hard work they do.

    By giving them a thoughtful and useful gift, you can show them just how much you appreciate them and all they do to help you achieve your fitness goals.

  • Everything You Need To Know About Bootcamp Training.

    Everything You Need To Know About Bootcamp Training.

    Spring time calls for taking training outdoors.

    And boot camp training is one of the best outdoor exercises you can do.

    The word ‘boot camp’ might sound extremely challenging for some. That’s because the term “boot camp” comes from the military, where new recruits undergo rigorous training to prepare them for service.

    But the truth it, it’s not exactly like the intense military training programmes but it does follow the same technique.

    Boot camp training is an intense type of group physical training designed to improve fitness and strength in a short period of time.

    The workouts typically involve a combination of high-intensity cardio exercises, strength training, and interval training.

    It’s no wonder is it’s a popular group workout. It’s a full body workout that is fun, gets your heart-rate really high and requires little to no equipment.

    A boot camp simply put is similar to a HIIT workout, where you will get bursts of intense exercises, followed by lighter exercises and resting periods.

    Most of the time, you’ll be doing a range of callisthenics, which are crunches, sit ups, squats, pushups, pullups and lunges.

    But what are the benefits of boot camp training?

    The benefits of boot camp training include improved cardiovascular fitness, increased strength and endurance, weight loss, and improved mental health.

    If you’re struggling to enjoy your current fitness routine, then boot camp training is a great way to challenge yourself to new level of fitness.

    However, boot camp training can be very intense and physically demanding.

    It is important to start at a level that works with your fitness level. More importantly, you need to work with a qualified fitness instructor who can guide you through the workouts to avoid any possible injury.

    If you are considering boot camp training, do your research and find a program that is right for you. Look for programs that are led by qualified fitness instructors or personal trainers and offer a variety of exercises to suit your physical fitness level.

    And remember to listen to your body and take rest days as needed to avoid burnout and injury.

    The beauty of boot camp training is not only the transformational fitness journey it can set you on, but the flexibility of where it can be done. It’s mostly a popular outdoor exercise activity, but it can also be done indoors and requires little to no equipment! Which is perfect now that it’s Spring and we’re heading into Summer days.

    For personal trainers, this is a fun skill set to add to your service offering, allowing you to broaden your horizons and recruit more clients.

    For more information on how to Boot Camp training for personal trainers, read more here or contact us today!

  • How To Become A Personal Trainer.

    How To Become A Personal Trainer.

    Becoming a personal trainer is a rewarding career path, especially if you are passionate about fitness and enjoy helping others achieve their goals.

    The personal training industry is growing rapidly. According to Statista, there are over 25,000 registered PTs in the UK.

    The reality is that people are becoming more aware of their health needs, but lack the knowledge and experience to execute training properly.

    That’s where you can step in.

    Here are some simple steps you follow to become a personal trainer:

    1.Get Certified

    The first step to becoming a personal trainer is to get qualified. You’ll need a certification from a reputable organisation, that is regulated by OFQUAL, REPS, and Cimpsa.

    Fitness and personal training courses cover key topics such as the science behind exercise, human anatomy, and nutrition. This will give you fundamental knowledge to inform others about the best fitness practices suited to their needs.

    Don’t forget to make sure that you choose a certification that is recognised by the gym you’d wish to work at.

    2.Gain experience

    While you’re working on your certification to become a qualified personal trainer, it’s a good idea to gain experience. Start by working at your local gym or fitness centre.

    If you’re pushed for time, you can also offer your fitness services and family and friends at a reduced hourly rate or for free to build on your experience.

    3.Specialise

    Once you’ve completed your certification and gained experience, consider specialising in a specific area of fitness. CPD courses are a great way to get started.

    Plus, there are tonnes of CPD courses out there, such as boot camp, combined boxing, indoor cycling and much more.

    Specializing can help you stand out from other personal trainers and attract clients who have specific fitness goals.

    4. Build your network

    Networking is important in any career, and personal training is no exception.

    By attending fitness events and conferences, you’ll start to connect with other fitness professionals in your area.

    Social media is also a powerful tool used to build your network and attract clients. Ensure that you have a favourable online presence and consistently connect to grow your network of possibilities.

    5.Keep up to date

    Our world is constantly changing and the fitness industry evolves around that. That’s why it’s so important to stay up to date on the latest fitness research and trends.

    To stay on top of the latest developments in the fitness industry, follow professionals leading in personal training online to keep in touch with what they are up to.

    Keep your education flowing. Knowledge is power, and can’t be stripped away from you.
    Plus, every client is different. That’s why knowing various types of fitness practices can only benefit you in becoming a successful personal trainer.

    Reading fitness blogs and magazines will also keep you in the loop. Sign up for reminders and newsletters surrounding fitness from various gyms, fitness professionals and organisations.

    Finally, once you’re certified and have some experience under your belt, market yourself! Create a website and social media presence where you can offer free consultations and provide outstanding customer service to attract and retain clients.

    Starting your personal training career is hard work that will pay off. At PT Academy, we can make it a smooth journey. As UK’s leading provider, you can start the new career your want with our New Career PT Bundle.

  • The benefits of personal training online.

    The benefits of personal training online.

    Are you ready to dive into the world of personal training but wish to take it up online?

    You’re not alone.

    Since the pandemic, personal trainers have had to take up the online world in order to survive. But now, according to My PT Hub, after the pandemic, 21% of personal trainers planned to stay online, 62% will incorporate a hybrid model, and only 14% actually planned to go back to face-to-face sessions.

    It’s safe to say that the pandemic made one thing clear. You don’t need to be bound to a location to take on specific careers, especially personal training.

    But you do, however, need a few things to get started.

    Here are simple steps to becoming a personal trainer online:

    You need the right qualifications.

    Having the right qualifications as a personal trainer will ensure that you’re equipped with the knowledge and skills to instruct fitness safely.

    In the UK, you have to have the following two qualifications:
    Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing
    Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training

    These are available together as a part of a personal training diploma. And considering you wish to take up personal training online, you’d be delighted to find out that you can complete a personal training diploma online as well.

    Create a PT Bundle

    Firstly, you’ll need to create a website. Include a section about yourself and what qualifications you have as a personal trainer. Then, you’ll need to decide on what services you’re going to offer as a PT and how much that will cost.

    Typically, online personal trainers will follow this structure:

    Onboarding

    This is where you’ll get to know your potential client to suggest an effective training and nutritional programme. Normally find out what their fitness goals are, when they’d like to achieve them and how frequently they would like to train with you.

    Pro Tip: Try to get them to sign up for a 3-month programme. This allows both yourself and your client enough time to achieve fitness goals.

    Training & Nutritional Plan

    A bespoke physical training plan based on a client’s needs plus a nutritional plan based on their dietary requirements.

    Weekly & Monthly Checkups

    Weekly checkups online will ensure that your client is on track to achieving their fitness goals. Monthly checkups will evaluate where your client is on the road to fitness and helps you understand if there are any changes necessary to keep them motivated.

    Unlimited Support

    Keep the lines of communication open when becoming a personal trainer online to make sure they get as much value from your expertise as possible.

    Use PT Management Software

    There is personal training management software out there to get you starting and keep you going as an online PT. They are tailored specifically for qualified personal trainers who want to start their own businesses.

    These are our top 5 PT management software:

    PT Distinction
    My PT Hub
    Trainerize
    True Coach
    Gymvio

    Set up shop online

    SuperProf

    A fantastic online portal where you can advertise your personal training services, not just in the UK but across the globe! You’ll join a community of 7 million people who offer the same and other services.

    Bark

    Set up a Bark profile to help people find you online within their local area. The platform will help you generate leads, find new clients and grow your business.

    Social Media

    Social media is an excellent, free tool that can be used to connect with your network and branch out to potential clients. You never know which family or friend may know someone looking for your personal training services. Put yourself out there! Share value and tips to generate interest in your business. Additionally, on Facebook and LinkedIn, you can join groups within your local community and more!

    There is no limit on how much you can earn when becoming an online personal trainer. You get in what you put out.

    Start today!

  • Can CPD Courses Benefit My Personal Training Career?

    Can CPD Courses Benefit My Personal Training Career?

    If you’re a personal trainer or a fitness instructor, then you’ve probably heard about CPD Courses in fitness.

    Continual Professional Development courses (CPD) is an opportunity for qualified personal trainers to build on their skills and learn new training techniques to scale their career.

    Perhaps you want a refresher course, specialise in a specific area of fitness or assist all types of clients in different areas, then a CPD Course is a perfect choice since they are all OFQUAL regulated and, in turn, recognised by REPS, Cimspa and the Fitness Register.

    Let’s look at what the benefits of CPD courses are for personal training in more detail:

    Increase your earning potential.

    Personal trainers see a return on investment from their training. CPD courses provide more opportunities, more clients and more money due to increased skill and knowledge.

    For example, if you took on an indoor cycling CPD course, you could offer this as an added session to a client or take up cycling classes at your local gym.

    Develop your knowledge and skills.

    Since you started personal training, what has been the one exercise you enjoy doing the most? Or is there a specific training exercise that your clients asked about or could benefit from, but you don’t have a background in?

    A CPD course is an opportunity to focus on your skills development that meets industry standards, follows health and safety measures and showcases your commitment to learning to better your clients’ fitness.

    For example, if you enjoy suspension training, you could take on a CPD course and specialise in that area. This way, if you have a client that wishes to focus on enhancing their core and strength, you could incorporate this into their exercise regime and ultimately meet their goals!

    Improved Client Confidence.

    Having the knowledge and skills to confidently talk about training techniques of interest can only help grow your reputation as a professional personal trainer, which in turn will most likely lead to more referrals.

    More importantly, if you’re able to help motivate your clients to reach their goals in a way that’s more enjoyable for them, you will keep them loyal and ongoing.

    As a personal trainer, you need to stay relevant and up-to-date. Even though you’ve got the fundamentals of fitness training down, information about health and fitness is constantly updating due to our ever-changing world.

    If you don’t adapt and upskill, you’re chances of falling behind, missing promotion and earning opportunities is higher.

    More skills and knowledge can only mean more chances to grow and help clients with a variety of different needs. Not to mention the fact that upskilling will making your day to day more exciting!

    If you’re on the hunt for a CPD course that will level up your career as a personal trainer, why not start today, online? We have a wide range of courses available in specialised areas of training. In the mean time, you can grab our Programme Design course for FREE.

  • What Is Interval Training?

    What Is Interval Training?

    Want to get fitter, faster? Or simply bored with your usual workout routine?

    As you dive into fitness, you’ll most likely hear about interval training.

    What is interval training?

    Interval training involves a series of workouts that trains your body to work harder and faster in short intervals – ranging from a couple of minutes to seconds.

    With set intensities, times or distances paired with rest periods, interval training improves your cardiovascular fitness whilst adding a fun element to your fitness training.

    Examples of interval training

    • High-intensity interval training, also known as HIIT, is a type of interval training that incorporates short periods of intense exercises and periods of rest.

      It’s one of the most popular training exercises for people who find training routines monotonous yet want to challenge their fitness quickly.

      Here’s an example of a 15-minute HIIT workout.

    • Fartlek training is when you vary your run in speed or intensity. It usually consists of walking, running or sprinting.

      This type of interval training spices up this basic cardio exercise. The time duration of this workout is usually 45 minutes.

      The beauty of this training is that it can be done both indoors and outdoors. So if you don’t like having the same routine, this training can make running more exciting.

    • Sprint interval training

      As a high-calorie burner and strength builder, sprint interval training, also known as SIT, is a series of intense exercises done within 10 minutes of drills (including recovery).

      Here’s an example of sprint interval training.

      This type of interval training will help you improve your speed mechanics. But don’t forget that warm-ups are essential, especially if you’re new!

    Why should I do it?

    Why wouldn’t you want to spend less time to achieve a massive change in your fitness level?

    You’ll quickly and easily burn more fat whilst boosting your endurance. According to a research study, people who do four weeks of HIIT training burnt more body fat than traditional rowing exercises.

    But the beauty of this type of training is that it can be used across various forms of exercise – meaning you can adapt it to what you enjoy the most!

    And lastly and most importantly, interval training increases your heart’s health by improving your arteries’ flexibility and elasticity. It basically gives your blood vessels a workout too.

    Keen to learn more about fitness? As aUK’s leading provider of personal training certificates, we can take you from beginner to expert in no time. Simply get in touch with us today to find out more.

  • 5 Kettlebells Exercises Your Clients Will Love

    5 Kettlebells Exercises Your Clients Will Love

    Kettle training is a reliable strength-building exercise that aims to develop your fitness faster.

    Just like interval training, this type of weight training will not only increase your heart rate but will also boost your endurance.

    It’s a great fitness tool that can’t go unnoticed. So if you’re a personal trainer looking for exercises your clients will love or looking for a new exercise to spice up your routine, then you need to take a look at these five kettlebell exercises:

    1. Kettlebell Deadlift

    If you’ve picked something up off the floor or lifted a heavy box, then you’ve already practised the deadlift movement pattern – all you need now is a kettlebell.

    The kettlebell deadlift is a complete lower-body exercise created to build stronger hamstrings and glutes.

    How to do a kettlebell deadlift:

    1. Place the kettlebell between your feet
    2. Stand with your feet apart at hip-width.
    3. Bend your knees and hold onto the kettlebell in a squat position with both hands.
    4. Ensure your back is straight or flat at all times

    5. Squeeze your glutes as you begin to stand. Ensure the kettlebell is being lifted rather than raised.

      Example of a Kettlebell Deadlift.

    2. Kettlebell Swing

    The kettlebell swing is a full-body exercise that builds strength, improves cardiovascular health and is light on your joints. More specifically, the kettlebell swing will work on your core, back, shoulders, hamstrings, quads and glutes.

    Here’s an example of How to do a Kettlebell Swing.

    How to do a kettlebell swing:

    1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the kettlebell with both hands in front of you.
    2. Bend your knees and swing it behind your bottom, then pull it back up between your thighs into a position that’s level with your chest.
    3. Kettlebell Lunge

    Time for a bit of leg action using kettlebells. Kettlebell lunges are a fantastic workout to strengthen your glutes, hamstrings and quads.

    How to do a kettlebell lunge:

    1. Hold two kettlebells down with your arms extended.
    2. Alternate each leg by placing it forward, backwards or walk by putting one leg forward and bending the other leg behind as far down as you can go.

    Here’s an example of how to do a kettlebell lunge.

    4. Kettlebell Thruster

    The kettlebell thruster works over 600 muscles, making this an excellent full-body workout. This also makes it a cardiovascular exercise – a perfect addition to interval training.

    How to do a kettlebell thruster:

    1. Place your feet in a squat position, within shoulder width.
    2. Hold the kettlebell with both hands and lift it from the floor in a squat position.
    3. As you lift up the kettlebell, get into a squat position again, holding the kettlebell near your chest.
    4. From there, stand up and lift the kettlebell above your head.

    Here’s an example of a Kettlebell Thruster.

    5. Kettlebell Halo

    Want to build triceps, shoulders and upper back? Then the kettlebell halo is a great workout.

    How to do a kettlebell halo:

    1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
    2. Hold the kettlebell with both hands in front of your face.
    3. Orbit the kettlebell around your head, clockwise and counterclockwise.

    Here’s an example of a Kettlebell Halo.

    Want to take your kettlebell skills from novice to master? Enrol in our enhanced kettlebell CPD course today.

  • Myths About Personal Training Busted

    Myths About Personal Training Busted

    Personal trainers have picked up quite a few misconceptions over the years.

    One thing for sure is that it’s not lavish. Just like any job, it comes with its pros and cons. So to give you a clearer view, here are 5 personal training myths busted.

    1.Personal trainers work out all day.

    This is not true. Personal trainers will have a set time to work out, whether in the morning, between clients or in the evening. They dedicate at least an hour to their fitness routine, just like anyone else would. Perhaps within sessions, they will demonstrate to a client how to perform an exercise, but that’s it!

    2.Trainers only offer fitness routines.

    Personal trainers provide more than just a tailored workout routine. They are there as your mentor – to support and guide you. Here are some more benefits of personal training:

    -You’ll learn about your body, health and fitness
    -Increase your accountability and consistency
    -It helps you set SMART goals
    -Get a bespoke fitness plan
    -Receive nutritional advice

    3.All trainers are ripped.

    While some trainers are in a ‘ripped’ shape, this does not mean that every personal trainer will be this way. There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to personal trainers. Everyone is different.

    A personal trainer will use exercises to achieve different goals. For example, some may train to enhance their core or practise a sport, like boxing.

    4.Personal trainers will guarantee my fitness goals.

    While this is true, it’s still all up to you. Even though personal trainers are trained and qualified to push you to new limits, ultimately, it’s you that needs to put the work in.

    Sure, personal trainers have the personal and professional skills to guide people in the right direction. But if you’re not willing to follow their path, you cannot expect to get to your destination. A qualified personal trainer will design a workout program that suits you. All you need to do is follow it to reach your fitness goals.

    Personal training is expensive.

    The average cost for a personal trainer per hour is between £30 – £60. The price they charge also depends on their personal training qualifications. Most trainers and gyms will offer a free trial workout session before agreeing to a schedule. Personal training should rather be seen as an investment rather than an expense.

    Have we cleared up these personal training myths? If you’d like to know more about how to become a personal trainer, then get in touch today.

  • Everything You Need To Know About Fitness Holidays.

    Everything You Need To Know About Fitness Holidays.

    As a lover of fitness and travel, what could be more tempting than a fitness holiday?

    You can share your passion across borders with like-minded people – what a treat!

    Here, we’ll dive into what you need to know and the types of fitness holidays you can venture into.

    What is a fitness holiday?

    A fitness holiday is a retreat designed to incorporate fitness in a fun, new way. How do I plan a fitness holiday?

    Research is essential. You need to figure out the following:

    -Where do you want to go?
    -What fitness exercises do you want to do?
    -What goals do you want to achieve?
    -What is my budget?
    -Are you going alone, with a partner or group of friends?

    This will guide you towards the proper active holiday!

    What can I expect from a fitness holiday?

    If you’re a single traveller, then a singles fitness holiday is the perfect escape whilst meeting new people and focusing on your fitness goals.

    Unless you’re looking for a group retreat? Then a fitness boot camp is a perfect choice. Bootcamps are conducted by personal trainers to boost strength and interval training.

    Where are the best fitness holidays?

    There are so many options available whether you want to go abroad or local. It’s truly up to where you want to go and what you want to do! But here is some inspiration:

    -You could learn how to surf in the Algarve. Surfing Camp teaches you everything about surfing. They also instruct a fitness boot camp offering intense training on and off the beach, yoga, healthy breakfasts, and massages.

    -The Beach Bootcamp in Marabella is a luxury fitness holiday that is intensive and result-driven. From nutritional advice to obstacle courses and more, you’ll embark on a revitalising fitness journey along the coast.

    -Want to keep it more local? Then Centerparcs Nottingham offers amazing adventure-seeking outdoor activities. Watersports, nature walks and adrenaline activities, there’s nothing that won’t challenge your fitness.

    -If you’re looking to embark on a weight loss journey, Body Camp in Spain will take you. Located between beautiful mountains, you’ll join fitness instructors and other visitors in learning new fitness techniques and nutritional diets.

    –Sun Fun For You holidays sail you around the Mediterranean whilst going on active experiences. You’ll join certified fitness instructors who offer unique programs whilst you explore, eat and relax.

    So, are you ready to take your fitness journey on a trip? Or are you prepared to take your fitness passion to the next level? Talk to us, and we can help you start your journey in personal training today.

  • Are you looking for a fun way to increase your fitness?

    Are you looking for a fun way to increase your fitness?

    The Nintendo Switch offers the option to increase your fitness level whilst having fun!

    Here is a list of Nintendo Switch Fitness games that will break a sweat:

    Just Dance 2022

    Just Dance 2022 is great fun for anyone who loves to dance. With a list of hot and trending music, you’ll follow dance routines that increase your heart rate! And if you want to turn up the heat, there is a sweat mode to track all the calories you’re burning whilst dancing. Or invite your friends and dance along with them.

    Let’s Get Fit

    Let’s Get Fit is a fitness game with a wide range of exercises, but most importantly, it helps you track your progress with the in-game calendar. You can set yourself a challenge or design a custom workout that works for you. Either way, you’ll get a full-body workout in this game.

    Fitness Boxing

    Bring a boxing instructor to your space with the Fitness Boxing game on Nintendo Switch. From jabs, hooks and uppercuts, you’ll get an enjoyable way to learn how to pack a punch and break a sweat. Your boxing instructor will keep you motivated and teach you how to perform specific movements and exercises.

    Zumba Burn It Up

    Ring Fit Adventure is a game that keeps you moving while discovering a fantastical adventure. You’ll forget that you’re even exercising! With over 100 levels to conquer, from beating mystical creatures through various exercises, you’ll level up both in the game and your fitness.

    Sports Party

    If you like the beach and virtual sports, then Sports Party is the game for you. From basketball and jet skiing to beach tennis, golfing, and frisbee, you can challenge yourself or a friend with a local game.

    Switch fitness games are a smart way to start your fitness journey or make it more enjoyable. Either way, it’s another thing that can keep you active whilst having fun. It’s not something for everyone, but if you’re an avid gamer or want to find a fun way to incorporate more activities into your lifestyle, then fitness games on Nintendo Switch could be it!

    Alternatively, personal training could work if you’re looking to improve your fitness game. Personal trainers qualify to help people reach their personal fitness goals aligned with their abilities!