Dan Rees, the former MD of Premier Global NASM – the training company which was closed by its US-based owner, Ascend Learning last year – has set up a new global fitness training company. Rees was widely expected to come back to the market with a new business once Premier Global NASM had been wound down.

The Health and Fitness Institute (THFI) is aiming to fill a gap in the market and train those seeking to forge a career in the health and fitness industry as personal trainers, nutrition transformation coaches, strength and conditioning coaches and wellbeing coaches.

According to Rees, THFI's aim is to make "world-class education affordable and accessible for would-be students worldwide".

THFI will base its programmes on a learning through digital technology approach, which provides learners dedicated 24/7 support and the ability to learn anywhere in the world. THFI will offer qualifications recognised by Ofqual, YMCA Awards, Transcend Awards, CIMSPA and Active IQ – which celebrates its 20th anniversary this month.

For those taking certified personal training qualifications, THFI guarantees to provide those completing its programmes with job interviews with operators such as Total Fitness, Ultimate Performance and Nuffield.

There's also a business accelerator programme intended to help and support new entrants and PTs to the sector establish themselves in the early stages of their career.

Rees, co-founder of THFI, said: “Operators across the industry are struggling to fill vacancies and we're positioned to bridge that gap. Made up of some of the most exceptional educators in the industry, we've forged partnerships we believe our competitors simply cannot match.

"The response to our vision has been overwhelmingly positive and we're excited to make a real impact in the health and fitness sector,” he said.

“Our learning materials are all backed by scientific research and created by highly qualified personal training professionals to help people learn everything they need.”

In addition to the qualifications, THFI will also offer a variety of professional development courses aimed at broadening knowledge.

Tara Dillon, CEO at CIMPSA said: “We're excited to see the launch of the new education provider.

"We've worked with the team behind THFI for several years. Dan is an industry veteran and with his experience, we know our visions for the future of the professional workforce and the continual improvement of educational standards, are aligned.

"We look forward to seeing their work and contribution to the good of the sports and physical activity sector.”

Ascend Learning exited the UK market last year, closing Premier Global NASM and selling its other operation – Active IQ – to NCFE, an educational charity for the vocational and technical learning sector.

NASM – the National Academy of Sports Medicine – continues to offer courses directly from its US base in Arizona.