The programme, which aims to reach 500 qualified people by 2027, is available in over 240 gyms around the country, with potential candidates able to apply via in-gym QR codes or through its website.

The Gym Group Academy is a programme working with sports and physical activity institute CIMSPA-enhanced training providers to deliver Level 2 and Level 3 PT qualifications. Participants will get face-to-face support via its highly trained in-house PT mentors throughout the course at their local Gym Group, making it the only PT course in the UK offering this service, according to the company.

After completing the programme, the fully qualified PTs will have the opportunity for permanent employment with The Gym Group.

The Gym Group aims to support 500 people to become PT L3 qualified by 2027, bolstering the industry’s talent pool. The programme is designed to fit around a busy lifestyle and appeal to many people – whether a candidate is embarking on their first job after education, switching careers to fulfil a passion for exercise or looking to upskill in a thriving fitness sector.

Ruth Jackson, chief people officer at The Gym Group, said: “It’s our founding mission to break down barriers to fitness for all and The Gym Group Academy is another way we can support breaking down barriers – this time to careers in fitness. We are incredibly excited to offer this opportunity to both members and non-members, to turn their fitness passion into a career, with a level of personalised in-gym training and support that isn’t available elsewhere.”

“It is great to see that some of our members have already taken advantage of our new initiative and are now fully qualified personal trainers in our gyms with a growing base of clients. I am encouraging anyone who is interested in a career in fitness to apply to The Gym Group Academy, be trained by our qualified PT mentors, and make your passion a career.”

Although there are no specific application requirements for The Gym Group Academy, the gym operator said candidates must finance their qualification independently, costing between £1.2k-£2.2k depending on what support package is chosen.

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