Certificate in Exercise (Advanced Personal Trainer) (Level 5)

Christchurch - 20 July 2026

New Zealand Institute of Sport

Fees Free!
NZQA Level: 5
NZQA Credits: 60
Learning Style: In-Person Learning
Duration:
18 weeks
Campus:
Start Date:
End Date:
27 November 2026

The aim of this programme is to equip students with the advanced knowledge, skills and techniques to be able to work in the exercise industry across a variety of exercise environments with a range of clients. This programme provides practical experience of working in the industry through industry work experience in a gym or exercise facility. The programme develops concepts and application of theories from the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) to give learners advanced knowledge to deliver technical and personalised exercise programmes with competencies to help people improve the physical wellbeing of New Zealand, the exercise industry, their clients and communities

Take your fitness skills to the next level and become an Advanced Health and Fitness Coach in just 16 weeks. Work placement included.

Work placements: Up to 4 weeks of work placement in gyms and exercise environments to get you work ready to join the sports industry.
Dedicated industry tutors: Learning is supported by a dedicated academic, experienced and qualified team.
Meet demand: Expand your knowledge and insights into helping specialist needs and at risk clients with complex issues with health and fitness requirements.
Pathway: Differentiate yourself in the market with a higher qualification or pathway into an New Zealand Institute of Sport Diploma.
Unique internships: Exclusive opportunities for internships with Disney, Broadmoor Resort, resorts on Hamilton Island or in New Zealand’s best gyms.

85 Peterborough Street, Christchurch Central, Christchurch 8013

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New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 5)

Ākonga must:  

  • Completed NZ Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) or be able to demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge.  

International Students must:  

  • Be at least 18 years of age on day 1 of the course  

  • Completed NZ Certificate in Exercise (Level 4), and  

  • IELTS 5.5 Academic with no band below 5.0 or TOEFL 550 (PBT), 60(IBT) or NZQA-approved equivalent  

For practical assessments requiring observation NZMA will require online students to:  

  • Either attend practical assessments on campus, or  

  • Use video evidence 

Students who enrol in the online programme will also need:   

  • Access to a gym for the duration of your studies to allow for your own personal physical training and practice using the equipment. 

  • Have access to a computer, a microphone, and a reliable internet connection. 

- Course costs for New Zealand domestic students are available here

- Course costs for international students are available here

FEES FREE 

If you’re planning to start tertiary study or training for the first time you may be eligible for fees-free. Ask one of our course advisors to help or visit the Fees Free website. 

STUDENT LOANS 

If you meet certain conditions, you may be eligible for a student loan and allowances. 

Find out if you meet the conditions by calling StudyLink on Freephone 0800 88 99 00 or visit www.studylink.govt.nz 

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