Turn your passion for fitness into a recognised qualification with QMU Sport & Fitness
People looking to build a career in the growing health and fitness sector can now enrol on two industry-recognised training programmes at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.
People looking to build a career in the growing health and fitness sector can now enrol on two industry-recognised training programmes at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.
QMU’s Sport & Fitness team is offering a Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Coaching and a Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training, providing learners with the practical skills, professional knowledge and nationally recognised qualifications needed to work in gyms, health clubs and community fitness settings, or to establish themselves as personal trainers.
Designed to fit around work and other commitments, both qualifications are delivered through a flexible blended-learning approach, combining online study with practical face-to-face workshop weekends at QMU's modern campus in Musselburgh.
The Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Coaching (formerly Gym Instructor) is an ideal starting point for anyone interested in fitness and wellbeing. No previous fitness qualification is required. Learners will develop knowledge and practical skills in areas including exercise instruction, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, client consultations and fitness coaching.
For those looking to advance their expertise, the Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training builds on Level 2 knowledge and equips learners with the skills to design tailored exercise programmes, support clients in achieving their health and fitness goals, and develop an understanding of the business aspects of personal training.
With small class sizes, experienced tutors and a strong emphasis on practical learning, QMU Sport & Fitness provides a supportive learning environment for people from all backgrounds, whether they are seeking a career change, looking to enhance their professional skills or pursuing a personal interest in health and fitness.
Sarah MacDonald of QMU Sport & Fitness
Our Level 2 Fitness Coaching and Level 3 Personal Training qualifications combine practical, hands-on learning with flexible online study, making them accessible for people with work or family commitments. Learners will gain the knowledge, confidence and industry-recognised qualifications needed to help them progress towards a rewarding career in fitness and wellbeing.
Our Level 2 Fitness Coaching and Level 3 Personal Training qualifications combine practical, hands-on learning with flexible online study, making them accessible for people with work or family commitments. Learners will gain the knowledge, confidence and industry-recognised qualifications needed to help them progress towards a rewarding career in fitness and wellbeing.
We're proud to offer small class sizes, experienced tutors and a welcoming learning environment that helps every learner reach their potential.
Course dates
Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Coaching
- Weekend 1: 31 October and 1 November 2026
- Weekend 2: 28 and 29 November 2026
- Weekend 3: 9 and 10 January 2027
- Weekend 4: 6 and 7 February 2027
- Assessment: 27 and 28 February 2027
Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training
- Weekend 1: 14 and 15 November 2026
- Weekend 2: 12 and 13 December 2026
- Weekend 3: 23 and 24 January 2027
- Weekend 4: 20 and 21 February 2027
- Assessment date - 10th & 11th April 2027
Both qualifications are CIMSPA-approved and combine flexible online learning with practical workshop sessions, giving learners the opportunity to gain industry-recognised skills while balancing study with work and other commitments.
For full course information and enrolment details, visit the Queen Margaret University Sport & Fitness.
For further media information contact Lynne Russell, Communications Manager, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, E: lrussell@qmu.ac.uk (copy to E: pressoffice@qmu.ac.uk).
