New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
NorthTec
A nationally recognised qualification for personal trainers, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to begin a career in the exercise industry and deliver safe and effective exercise programmes.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 4 locations
It will take a total of 17 weeks


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Deliver safe and effective exercise programmes
Graduates can design and safely deliver exercise programmes, including pre-screening, within their scope of practice and according to industry code of ethics.

Adapt programmes using anatomy, physiology, and exercise science
Graduates can apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to adapt and deliver safe programmes to individuals, including healthy people and at-risk groups.

Enhance participant commitment
Apply motivational and communication techniques to support client adherence to personal exercise programmes.
What You're Signing Up For
This programme equips students to start their exercise industry career by covering industry knowledge, professional conduct, exercise programme development, gym practice, and support for a wide range of clients. It is delivered online with onsite or virtual workshops, in partnership with NorthTec and Open Polytechnic. Learners gain theory and practical experience, including 220 hours in a gym or gym-based workplace, and will become eligible to register with the New Zealand Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs). The programme provides pathways into diploma-level study and roles such as personal trainer and gym instructor.
Course Content
- Introduction to the exercise industry and professional practice
- Industry codes of ethics and exercise professional requirements
- Anatomy and physiology for exercise programming
- Programme adaptation for healthy and common at-risk populations
- Exercise science and testing
- Motivational and communication techniques
- Health and wellness frameworks
- Evidence-based nutrition principles
- Business, marketing tools and supporting business practice
- 220 hours practical gym-based workplace experience
What you need to know first
Minimum 16 years of age at programme commencement
Able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level
Physically able to complete programme outcomes
For applicants under 20 years: NCEA Level 2 or equivalent
Applicants 20 years or older without minimum entry requirements may be considered based on educational, work or life experience
IELTS General or Academic score of 5.5 with no band lower than 5, or accepted international equivalent for those whose first language is not English

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport & Recreation
Exercise Industry
Fitness

Future employment opportunities might be
Personal Trainer
Exercise Professional
Gym Instructor
Fitness Consultant
Outdoor Recreation Guide/Instructor
Recreation Coordinator
Sport Coordinator


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Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details