UK health and fitness education provider Premier Global has partnered up with the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) to transform the education and training available to its fitness professionals.

The new ‘Premier Global NASM’ partnership was announced to the fitness industry at ukactive's 2017 Ignite, Flame Conference and Awards in Telford on June 28.

Premier global chief executive Nick Bradley said: “As the leisure industry continues to diversify and professionalise, training for fitness professionals has never been higher on the agenda. Fitness operators want the respect of the medical profession, as the entire sector seeks to play its part in turning the tide on inactivity which costs the NHS billions every year.

“Since 2010, the number of fitness trainers in the UK has increased significantly from 136,000 to 170,000 – representing 25 per cent growth. These fitness and wellness professionals are key to the overall success of our extraordinary industry and our vision for Premier Global NASM is to empower and support them in their goal of motivating clients to lead healthier lives.”

Laurie McCartney, president of Global Fitness and Wellness Solutions for Ascend Learning, the parent company of both NASM and Premier Global, added: “By empowering Premier Global with NASM’s proven and proprietary approach, we’re transforming the UK market with the most effective and trusted model for preparing personal trainers to drive results and excel in their careers.”