What qualifications does a personal trainer need in the UK?

Most gyms ask for a Level 3 Personal Training qualification, often after a Level 2 Gym Instructing course, plus a first aid certificate. Check the advert for anything else.

Should I include client results?

Yes, in general terms, such as how many clients you train and how long they stay. Do not name clients or share private details.

Is it worth adding CIMSPA to my CV?

If you are a member, yes. Many employers recognise it, so list it alongside your qualification.

I am newly qualified. What can I put?

Include your course, any shadowing or work experience and people you have coached informally. Say what kind of client you want to work with.

Personal trainer CV example

A strong personal trainer CV shows your Level 3 qualification, the clients you work with and the progress they make. It should also show that you plan sessions safely, keep records and help a gym keep its members coming back.

Marcus Hill

Personal trainer

marcus@example.com · 07700 900187 · Leicester

Profile

Motivating personal trainer with a Level 3 Personal Training qualification, CIMSPA membership and two years of experience coaching clients one-to-one and in small groups. Builds safe, realistic programmes for beginners, older adults and people returning to exercise after a break. Holds a current first aid certificate and keeps clear records of each client's goals and progress.

Experience

Personal Trainer

a health club

Coached around 12 one-to-one clients a week, building programmes around each person's goals and fitness level

Carried out consultations and health questionnaires before every new client's first session

Led a weekly small-group strength class for up to eight members

Recorded weights, measurements and feedback every four weeks and adjusted programmes to match

Helped members who were new to the gym settle in and use equipment safely

Gym Instructor

a council leisure centre

Completed a Level 2 Gym Instructing qualification, then progressed to a Level 3 Personal Training course

Gave new members inductions and showed them how to use machines and free weights safely

Walked the gym floor each shift, corrected technique and reported broken equipment

Cleaned and reset equipment and kept the gym tidy and safe

Key skills

One-to-one coachingProgramme designGym inductionsSmall-group sessionsClient consultationsProgress trackingHealthy eating guidanceFirst aid and CPRMotivating clients

Example · fictional candidate · Bloom design · Use this design

Tips for a personal trainer CV

Put your Level 3 Personal Training qualification, any CIMSPA membership and your first aid certificate near the top
Say who you train, such as beginners, older adults or people returning to exercise, because gyms look for trainers who fit their members
Describe client progress in plain terms where you can, such as sessions a week or how long clients stayed with you, without naming anyone
Mention how you plan and record sessions, because it shows you work safely and professionally
If you are self-employed, add your insurance and how you find clients
Keep any social media links to professional posts, and do not use before-and-after photos without permission

Applying with a cover letter? See our personal trainer cover letter example.