What is the Exercise & Fitness Leadership course?

The Level 6 Exercise & Fitness Leadership course is designed for learners who want to take their passion for health and fitness further by developing the skills to lead and inspire others. It combines practical leadership experience with theoretical knowledge, preparing you for roles in the fitness industry or progression into higher study.

You’ll explore topics such as:

• Planning and delivering fitness sessions
• Exercise programming and leadership skills
• Anatomy and physiology for fitness professionals
• Attitudes and behaviours of a Personal Trainer – professionalism, motivation, and ethical practice
• Safe use of gym equipment – correct technique, safety checks, and risk awareness
• Health, safety, and wellbeing in fitness environments

This qualification is widely recognised in the fitness industry and provides a strong foundation for progression into employment or further study.

What skills are developed?

By completing this course, you’ll gain:

• Leadership and coaching skills – learn how to guide and motivate individuals and groups.
• Programme design and planning – develop the ability to create safe and effective fitness sessions.
• Professional attitudes and behaviours – understand the standards expected of Personal Trainers.
• Safe practice with gym equipment – ensure sessions are effective and injury‑free.
• Organisation and time‑management – essential for managing sessions and responsibilities.
• Problem‑solving and adaptability – respond effectively to challenges in dynamic fitness environments.
• Independent working skills – take initiative and manage your own responsibilities.

What kind of person does it take?

This course is perfect if you:

• Are passionate about health, fitness, and wellbeing.
• Enjoy helping others achieve their goals.
• Bring energy and enthusiasm to practical and classroom learning.
• Value teamwork and respect in group settings.
• Want to develop professional behaviours and leadership skills that can be applied in sport, fitness, and beyond.

Horizons – where can this subject take you?

The health and fitness industry is one of the fastest‑growing sectors worldwide. Completing this course can lead to opportunities such as:

• Personal Training
• Fitness Instruction
• Group Exercise Leadership
• Sports Coaching
• Leisure Management

It also provides a strong foundation for further study in areas like sport science, physiotherapy, or exercise prescription.

Pathways – how can I make progression?

College

Progression routes include advanced courses such as:

• HNC/D Fitness, Health & Exercise
• Personal Training qualifications
• Sport & Fitness programmes

Employment

This qualification is valued by employers in roles such as:

• Fitness Instructor
• Personal Trainer
• Leisure Attendant
• Group Exercise Leader

University

The course can support entry into higher education programmes such as:

• Applied Sports Science
• Physiotherapy
• Exercise & Health Science
  At universities including Edinburgh and Robert Gordon.

Related subjects – what works well with Exercise & Fitness Leadership?

This course complements subjects that explore health, performance, and behaviour, such as:

• Human Biology
• Psychology
• Physical Education
• Dance