New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Te Mahi Ako
A 60-credit, NZQA Level 4 qualification for those wanting to deliver exercise instruction in settings such as personal training, community exercise, or team training. Integrates workplace-based and online learning.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
It will take a total of 9 months
Core skills this course teaches
Deliver and adapt exercise instruction
Develop and deliver safe, effective exercise sessions tailored to a range of clients.
Apply exercise science knowledge
Explain and apply anatomy, physiology, and body system responses relevant to exercise programming.
Promote health and wellbeing
Incorporate nutrition and wellness frameworks into client support.
What You're Signing Up For
This programme is designed for individuals looking to become qualified exercise professionals, such as personal trainers, exercise consultants, community exercise instructors, or team training instructors. The certificate covers fundamental exercise science, nutrition, professional practice, exercise delivery, behaviour support, and basic business skills. Students combine online learning modules with hands-on, mentored experience in exercise facilities. Graduates are eligible to register with the NZ Register of Exercise Professionals.
Course Content
- Exercise fundamentals: anatomy, physiology, body systems, physical responses to exercise
- Nutrition and wellbeing: nutrients, body health, wellness frameworks
- Professional practice: role of instructor, exercise delivery, principles of exercise
- Exercise behaviour: practical tasks, programme review, client support
- Business skills: planning, business tools, marketing
What you need to know first
Working (paid, self-employed, or volunteer) in an exercise facility/organisation with regular shifts.
Access to an appropriate exercise facility and a qualified workplace mentor (REPs NZ-recognised).
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport & Recreation
Health & Fitness
Future employment opportunities might be
Personal trainer
Exercise consultant
Community exercise instructor
Team training instructor