New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
This certificate provides theoretical and practical knowledge for a career in the fitness industry, covering exercise professional practice, performance training, nutrition, anatomy and physiology. It prepares students for roles like personal trainer and gym instructor and pathways into related bachelor's degrees.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Madras Street Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 19 weeks
Core skills this course teaches
Exercise Professional Knowledge
Understand and apply principles of exercise professional practice in a fitness industry context.
Performance Training Skills
Design and implement performance training programs for clients.
Nutrition Knowledge
Demonstrate knowledge of nutrition and lifestyle impacts on exercise and health.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) offered by Ara Institute of Canterbury equips learners with a foundational theoretical and practical base for employment within the fitness industry. The program includes comprehensive study of exercise professional practice, performance training, nutrition, anatomy, and physiology. Small class sizes ensure individualized support. Practical gym-based learning is emphasized, and graduates can register with the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) to work as personal trainers. The qualification also provides academic credit transfer pathways to related undergraduate degrees in health promotion and sport and exercise science. It offers part-time study options up to three years, includes a range of core courses, and prepares students for careers such as personal and group exercise instruction and fitness industry sales and marketing.
Course Content
- Exercise Professional Practice
- Performance Training
- Nutrition
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Human Anatomy and Physiology (SPOR4001)
- Exercise Programming (SPOR4002)
- Nutrition and Lifestyle (SPOR4003)
- Exercise Professional Practice (SPOR4004)
What you need to know first
40 credits NCEA Level 1, including 10 literacy and 10 numeracy credits or equivalent qualification
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Fitness Industry
Health and Wellness
Future employment opportunities might be
Personal Trainer
Gym Trainer
Group Exercise Instructor
Sales and Marketing roles in Fitness Industry