The Life-Changing Power of Regulated Qualifications

Employing certified fitness professionals was recently named as one of the top 10 fitness trends for 2023 based on the annual ACSM Health and Fitness Journal’s worldwide survey. This comes as no surprise considering the unfortunate rise of low-cost, low-quality training that grew throughout the pandemic. Choosing regulated qualifications not only stands for credibility, but it ensures that learners are highly employable and well equipped to help and coach a wide range of clients. For many people, this helps forge a new, potentially life-changing career path.

RACHEL’s STORY

When Rachel was just 18 months old, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. In 2018, she underwent a life-changing spinal operation to correct a curve and help her mobility.

“I was in a lot of pain after the surgery,” explains Rachel. “I was extremely weak and couldn’t get up. The recovery was quite intense.”

To help her regain her mobility, Rachel did physiotherapy and pool exercise, but it wasn’t until she returned to the gym, one year after her operation, that she started to make real gains in her abilities.

In 2018, Rachel reached out to a trainer to help her build her strength up. “I started going to the gym 2-3 times a week, eventually adding weight training to my routine. Every week, I could see improvement and mentally, I started to feel like myself again. My trainer helped me massively.”

The experience in the gym was so profound that Rachel decided she wanted to help people like herself and become a qualified personal trainer. She reached out to The Fitness Group, a leading UK fitness education provider to start her journey to become a fitness professional.

Working with Active IQ as their awarding organisation, The Fitness Group offers a tailored education experience for students. Originally a local provider in Glasgow, The Fitness Group is now one of the UKs leading training providers offering a range of full-time, part-time or online courses to students across the UK in everything from gym and PT courses to nutrition and sports massage.

Today, Rachel has successfully completed her Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification and is working toward obtaining her Level 3 personal trainer.

“Training has changed my life so much,” she said. “It’s opened my eye up to possibilities.”

Since working with her trainer, Rachel has made massive gains in her fitness. She can lift 90kgs on her back, has completed a 10km race and even did a fitness photoshoot where she felt strong and confident.

She also has big plans for the future. Rachel recently launched her own online coaching business with her first sessions set to start in March. All 12 spots have been filled, three of which are with clients with cerebral palsy.

“My coach was amazing. He knew what cerebral palsy was and he was able to help me, but he didn’t have firsthand experience like I do,” said Rachel. “I know I can help people like me and inspire them.”

As a dedicated Stevenage Leisure Limited (SLL) centre, Ascent Training offers a variety of fitness, health and leisure courses enabling learners both internally and commercially to improve their skills or develop new ones. A large priority for the centre is ensuring that the professionals delivering their qualifications have access to a range of resources that, not only further their expertise, but also protect their wellbeing. Learning and development is at the heart of what Ascent Training Centre do, ensuring that all decisions made are in the best interest of students and the wider community.

Training Today’s Professionals

Ascent Training Centre is one of the many centres operating within Stevenage Leisure Limited (SLL), one of the UK’s most respected charitable leisure management trusts. All the courses Ascent deliver are designed to help learners develop a successful career in a number of fields, from gym instructors to lifeguards. It is rare for leisure centres to prioritise learning and development like Ascent Training Centre does; their system of simultaneously offering internal/commercial education alongside day-to-day leisure operations allows them to go above and beyond what is expected of a leisure centre. Ascent Leisure Centre makes the education and wellbeing of their tutors a priority by releasing the dates of their courses internally to staff, offering a chance for progression and upskilling which effectively translates over to their students. Ascent Leisure offers subsidised learning opportunities for SLL staff on certain courses to help more people develop their skills, helping more staff members to gain access to new career pathways, which helps to increase staff retention and loyalty.

Learning Together

Ascent Leisure has been working with Active IQ since 2016, offering a number of their market-leading fitness qualifications to people internally and commercially. Ascent Training Centre ensured trainers were upskilled in the Active IQ qualifications so they would be able to efficiently deliver the qualification to learners as well as other trainers. As Corporate Training Manager Sharon Hunter explains,

“Allowing our trainers to have first dibs on the courses helps with staff progression and employee development far more than if we were reliant on an external provider.”

With learners at the heart of what they do, Ascent Leisure and Active IQ are able to adjust the courses offered to meet demands.

“We introduced the Level 2 Swimming Teacher and Level 2 Gym Instructor courses because demand internally was very high” says Sharon.

Since working with Active IQ, Ascent Training Centre has been able to offer a diverse range of qualifications that extend beyond the leisure industry, for example the Health and Safety courses that go out to businesses across the UK allow them to educate and train a number of industries in important sectors.

Active IQ also offers a range of resources and guidance which allows Ascent Leisure to constantly improve on what they deliver. As Sharon Hunter explains,

“We’ve always had a good relationship with Active IQ – they’re always forthcoming with new ideas, help and guidance. We want to expand on the fitness side of our offering and they are helping us to plan and move forward with this.”

A key resource provided by Active IQ is Talent Match whereby you can search for relevant trainers through the qualification you are looking for. To run a course, Ascent Leisure requires a trainer, assessor and IQA so this resource helps them to upskill their staff to be able to deliver the training to more centres.

Mental Health Awareness Training

The most recent Active IQ qualification that has proven popular at Ascent Training Centre is the Level 2 Award in Mental Health Awareness. After a staff member won an Active IQ award, they were given one of three spaces available on the qualification and after realising the impact it could have on staff, Ascent Leisure decided to put most managers and safeguarding officers through the qualification. Sharon Hunter explained,

“The reason we did it was that we noticed after COVID, more people than ever were suffering from mental ill-health. We want to be able to support our staff the best we can, and we felt as though the understanding surrounding mental health was not as good as we’d like it to be.”

The qualification allowed senior staff to be more aware of the signs of mental ill health. It also provided them with resources to offer to their team who were struggling. With the awareness of where to direct people as well as the vocabulary to respond, the managers at Ascent Leisure are now fully equipped to respond to mental health issues which is important as they are the ones most likely to have a member of staff approach them when they are in distress.

“The course was amazing – all of us were so impressed with the quality of the course and how the content was delivered. We now have a great understanding of how we should deliver it going forward” says Sharon.

Ascent Leisure has confirmed they will continue to encourage their trainers across all levels to speak openly about their mental health and seek help if they’re struggling,

“We will be putting a notice up in the staffroom with who has taken the course so trainers know who they can approach if they need to talk” says Sharon.

They will be encouraging trainers across all levels to pursue the qualification so everyone can widen their understanding of mental health and know the resources available for themselves as well as their colleagues.

BodyHack is an award-winning education provider of Active IQ Fitness Qualifications, delivering training in the UAE, Oman and Egypt. Founders Heba Abdel and Yousef ElFakhri used to teach for Active IQ centres in the UK before moving to Dubai in 2012 to set up their own academy.

Being a training provider of Active IQ qualifications for over eight years, both Heba and Yousef have learned a lot over the years that has helped them to grow their academy.

“We have found that learners in this region need deadlines and need to be entertained during lectures to say focused – we like to call it ‘edutainment’. Learners seem to get the most out of face-to-face training, so we always try and make this a priority where possible,” says Heba.

“Pre-enrollment screening is a must to ensure learners that enrol for our classes have actually been training in a gym.”

When choosing an awarding organisation for their academy, Active IQ was an easy decision.

“One of the reasons we chose Active IQ is that we know first-hand from when we were teaching in the UK that their support and quality assurance is second to none,” explains Heba.

“Every year we get inspected and are held accountable which keeps us on our toes and ensures that the students are getting the best possible experience. We receive regular support and contact from the team at Active IQ, and any questions we have are answered within 24 hours.”

The new International Diploma offered by Active IQ will open up many opportunities for students looking to get their diploma.

“For students whose first language isn’t English, the number of assignments and worksheets with UK-specific answers, and require answers to be filled out in English are normally difficult. The International Diploma will incorporate more interactive assessments on the Active IQ platform that will make the training more accessible.”

BodyHack has major plans for the future to continue their expansion and offer a wider range of qualifications.

“Our plan for the next five years is to expand to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, South Korea and South Africa as well as offer more CPDs and Level 4 qualifications.”

The leading awarding organisation for the physical activity sector, Active IQ, is urging social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram to take greater responsibility for the role they play in shaping public health behaviours.

Part of the Trust Your Trainer campaign, its manifesto calls for social media companies to introduce a trust mark to help consumers understand that the advice they’re given by an influencer or content creator comes from someone with a professional qualification. 

Recent insights surrounding ‘fitspiration’ videos on TikTok found most of the videos containing diet and exercise information are misleading or harmful. Studies show just how deep the issue goes, with the majority of diet and exercise advice shared by influencers being classed as either misleading or portraying an unbalanced view.

Jenny Patrickson, managing director of Active IQ, said: "Social media can and should be a force for good in supporting healthier lifestyles, but without stronger safeguarding, it risks undermining public health and professional expertise.

“From dangerous weight loss hacks to unqualified influencers pushing extreme training routines or unregulated supplements, the content flooding feeds is not just misleading, but putting people at risk.

“We’re calling on industry colleagues and organisations to stand with us in urging platforms to take meaningful action to protect people from harm and champion evidence-led, ethical advice."

A recent study has revealed that nearly 90 per cent of health and nutrition influencers on TikTok and Instagram do not highlight the potential risks of the advice they share. This open failure to disclose has led to growing concerns regarding the spread of misleading and potentially dangerous health and fitness content on social media.

Championing the campaign is Robyn Drummond, a personal trainer with her own experience of the dangers misinformation on social media can pose. Aged 18, she became heavily influenced by bikini bodybuilding models online, deciding that if she could look like them, she would be successful, as they had thousands of followers.

After embarking on a diet that was extremely restrictive, Robyn worked with unqualified coaches who didn’t take her wellbeing seriously. After becoming very unwell, she developed an eating disorder and couldn’t eat without feeling guilty. Robyn didn’t receive any support afterwards, with nobody identifying that something was seriously wrong.

She said: “Conflicting, inaccurate and unregulated content online is actually making weight management harder and harming mental wellbeing in the process, creating even more guilt and confusion. I know this because I was the person looking for advice on social media and this is the reason why I do the job I do now.

“Too often advice is shared without consideration for safety or scientific backing and I can’t emphasise enough that a sizeable following doesn’t qualify you as an expert. This manifesto is an important step towards tackling misinformation and ensuring those seeking guidance can trust the information they’re getting."

Unlike certified and regulated professionals who have trained and committed to recognised industry standards, many influencers operate without qualifications or accountability, yet their content reaches millions. In a world where more than half of Gen Z alone are turning to TikTok for fitness advice, the gap between professional expertise and social media influence is only widening, raising concerns on both physical and mental health.

Active IQ is calling for all operators, training providers, fitness professionals and wider industry stakeholders to sign the manifesto and put pressure on social media companies to make changes.

 

 

To find out more and sign the manifesto, visit: www.activeiq.co.uk/trust-your-trainer

Active IQ, the UK’s leading Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation for the physical activity sector, has launched a suite of newly reformed qualifications, designed to equip the next generation of fitness professionals with the targeted skills and knowledge to meet the evolving needs of the industry.

This includes the rollout of 11 updated qualifications that reflect current employer demands and future-proof the skillsets of personal trainers, instructors and specialists. Areas covered range from working with adolescents and older adults to antenatal and postnatal fitness, all carefully aligned to modern industry needs and seeking to plug gaps identified in Active IQ’s 2024 Skills Gap Report.

The areas of focus were identified through a combination of stakeholder interviews and employer feedback, demonstrating Active IQ’s desire to maintain the relevance of its qualifications. The approved technical qualifications, all eligible for government funding, ensure accessibility and relevance for training providers, employers and learners.

Lee Buck, Head of Product Development at Active IQ, said: “This launch is a significant step forward for our sector. These reformed qualifications have been designed with real purpose; they’re approved technical qualifications, eligible for funding and developed to reflect what today’s employers and learners truly need.

“What sets Active IQ apart is our ability to offer a comprehensive suite of approved qualifications, giving centres the flexibility to build programmes that truly reflect the priorities of their local communities. It’s about creating meaningful pathways into the industry and making sure learners are equipped not just for today, but for the future.”

Active IQ is currently the only awarding organisation offering a full suite of approved qualifications in the sector, enabling centres to design tailored programmes that reflect community needs and employer priorities.

To further support providers and learners, Active IQ has streamlined its offer to simplify choices and create clear, recognised pathways to employment to help address confusion in the job market and ensure learners can focus on gaining the most relevant credentials.

Each qualification is supported by enhanced digital learning resources, including a flexible e-learning platform and interactive digital assessments, making it easier for learners to access and engage with content at their own pace.

Training providers can now explore the full breakdown of the reformed qualifications, including content themes, delivery support and progression pathways, in Active IQ’s detailed provider guide. A demo version of the learner platform is also available here.

Active IQ, the UK's leading Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation for the physical activity sector, has introduced its 2025 Quality Charter, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in education and training.

2025 Quality Charter

Setting out a clear framework for professional and ethical standards, the Charter ensures consistency and integrity across all providers delivering Active IQ qualifications.

Lisa Skelton, head of business development at Active IQ, said: “Active IQ isn’t just another awarding body; it’s a benchmark of excellence.

“Our qualifications are designed to meet industry needs while upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.

“The newly launched Active IQ Quality Charter ensures that approved training providers maintain these standards, helping learners and professionals gain real credibility in the sector and beyond.”

The Charter establishes fundamental principles that underpin Active IQ’s dedication to raising industry standards. It mandates a commitment to promoting and upholding the following key areas:

• Ethical standards and integrity.
• Professional competence and behaviour.
• Professional status.
• Health, safety, education and training.
• Marketing, publicity and fair trading.
• Learners as customers.

For those looking to enhance their career, choosing a qualification backed by Active IQ gives you a distinct advantage. Whether you’re working in a gym, running your own fitness business or delivering educational programmes, an Active IQ qualification ensures you can stand out to employers, gain client trust, stay ahead of industry changes and have access to top-tier education and training.

Active IQ-approved centres looking to showcase their commitment to excellence can now request a Quality Charter badge and highlight their high standards in training and assessment.

To learn more visit Active IQ’s official website.

David Stalker, President of EuropeActive and a CIMSPA chartered fellow is joining Active IQ from July 2024. As an independent advisor, David will provide strategic consultancy, support Active IQ’s growth plans, and represent Active IQ within external industry engagement.

David’s guidance and consultancy will be driven particularly through the lens of improving quality standards in the fitness sector, a space that he is highly passionate about.

David Stalker comments: “I have advocated for Active IQ for many years and highly valued its contributions and work within the fitness sector. As our industry gains momentum in becoming a recognised solution to public health problems, driving standards is more important than ever. Active IQ plays a core role in this mission and I’m thrilled to work alongside the organisation to support our collective mission of improving the quality of education and standards in the industry.”

“I look forward to contributing to AIQ’s growth and encouraging fitness professionals to engage in further education to advance their careers."

Commenting on David’s appointment, Managing Director of Active IQ, Jenny Patrickson says: “David’s unwavering commitment to promoting active lifestyles and high-quality education in the fitness and leisure sector aligns with Active IQ’s goals. The synergy of the partnership, David’s deep-rooted passion, and his drive to make a positive change make him an invaluable asset to Active IQ. We are incredibly excited to work with him to further promote a high standard of qualification for fitness professionals and drive collective industry-wide change. ”

David Stalker has long advocated for promoting healthy lifestyles across the UK. His deep experience and strategic expertise will be instrumental in supporting Active IQ’s commitment to developing the skills and careers of professionals within the active leisure and wellbeing sector.

For more information about Active IQ and its initiatives, please visit www.activeiq.co.uk

Active IQ, the UK’s leading Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation for the physical activity sector, has announced the launch of four new technical qualifications with approved funding from the Department of Education:

• Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Personal Training

• Level 3 Technical Specialist in Sports Massage Therapy

• Level 3 Technical Specialist in Optimising Training for the Ageing Client

• Level 3 Technical Specialist in Adapting Physical Activity for Antenatal and Postnatal Clients

The Department of Education’s approval and funding of these brand-new courses reflect Active IQ’s ongoing commitment to delivering qualifications that meet the dynamic needs of the fitness industry, while maintaining the highest educational standards.

The development of these qualifications is crucial for addressing growing needs within the industry and the changing profile of the population. The number of people aged 60 or over is expected to pass the 20 million mark by 2030[1]. In addition, recent statistics show that 64% of pregnant women or women with children under one year have experienced nervousness or anxiety related to physical activity.[2] These areas require specialised skills to ensure that professionals are well-equipped to provide essential and tailored services.

The funding approved by the Department of Education showcases the importance of these qualifications in fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce, recognising the need for industry-relevant training that supports both current demands and future trends within the fitness industry.

Active IQ’s robust Employer Engagement Strategy has been instrumental to the ongoing development and review of their qualifications and a key driver for the introduction of the new technical qualifications. Through a variety of channels, Active IQ is consistently gathering valuable feedback and insights from industry stakeholders, ensuring that qualifications are not only current but aligned with the evolving nature of the fitness sector.

“Collaborating with Active IQ on these qualification reforms has been a truly insightful process and has given us more of an appreciation and understanding of what’s involved when it comes to developing or reforming qualifications,” explains Aaron McCulloch, Co-Owner and Director at Your Personal Training. “Their commitment to engaging with industry stakeholders is second to none and has been a key factor in ensuring the qualifications meet the real-world needs of the fitness sector. We are proud to be involved in shaping these programs, which will undoubtedly equip future fitness professionals with the essential skills to thrive and adapt in our ever-evolving industry.”

“Our industry is constantly evolving and adapting, and it’s our responsibility to ensure that our qualifications are forward-thinking to anticipate the skills and knowledge that will be in demand,” explains Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director at Active IQ. “We are always talking with employers and professionals in the industry which has allowed us to create qualifications that exceed industry standards, and we believe these new qualifications will equip our learners with the essential tools they need to succeed in their careers."

Lee Buck, Head of Product Development at Active IQ, adds: “These new qualifications we’ve introduced are a testament to the valuable insights we receive from the industry. This collaborative approach was instrumental in securing funding and approval from the Department for Education and their support underscores the relevance of our qualifications in preparing a skilled workforce for the evolving fitness landscape."