How much time does the PFCA CPT course take?

The course runs for 11 weeks with a live Zoom session every Monday evening from 18:30 to 21:30 UK time. On top of that, we recommend around 4 to 5 hours of self-study per week. That's as little as 40 minutes per day.

What if I miss a live Monday session?

Every session is recorded and uploaded to the learning platform straight after. If you miss one, watch it back and send your notes to confirm you've covered it. We've had coaches in Australia, shift workers, and cabin crew complete the course without missing a beat.

Are there any prerequisites for the Certified Personal Trainer Course?

You need to be over 16 years old and have a good grasp of English. No other qualifications are required.

Are there any in-person assessments?

No. The PFCA uses an innovative hybrid learning model which means you can qualify without attending in-person assessment days. Practical assessments are completed by recording yourself and uploading the footage to the course platform.

How do I find clients and get work after qualifying?

The final module of the course is dedicated to building a sustainable career in fitness — including how to find your first clients, how to transition out of your current job without financial risk, and how to set up online coaching. The PFCA is also connected to the Gym Owners Network, covering over 150 gyms across the UK. When those gyms are hiring, PFCA coaches get first access.

UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS

Connect with like-minded professionals as we tackle common concerns and share our insights and proven practical solutions, through our in-person workshops, seminars and PT Clubs.

View Events

SEMINARS & EVENTS

Connect with like-minded professionals as we tackle common concerns and share our insights and proven practical solutions, through our in-person workshops, seminars and PT Clubs.

View Events

Applied Coaching Masterclass - Scotland (Single Day)

📍Elysium Edinburgh

📆 7th March 2026

⏰ 11am - 4pm

I'M INTERESTED

SHOULDER WORKSHOP

A complete assessment and programming framework for coaching clients with shoulder pain, injury, or dysfunction.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 Thursday 14th May 2026

⏰ 10am - 3pm

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TECHNIQUE CLINIC

Learn how to select, progress, and coach squat and lunge patterns based on the individual, not guesswork.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 Wednesday 20th May 2026

⏰ 10am - 3pm

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ATHX PROGRAMMING

Learn how to confidently programme and coach clients through structured ATHX competition preparation.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 Thursday 21st May 2026

⏰ 10am - 3pm

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WOMENS HEALTH L1

Build a female-specific lens and coach women with real intention.

With industry experts Laura Cullen & Colette Pryer.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 Tuesday 15th & Wednesday 16th September

⏰ 9am - 5pm

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COACH DEVELOPMENT

They walk in with instinct. They walk out with authority.

With Craig Massey, Head of Education at The PFCA.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 Thursday 24th & Friday 25th September

⏰ 9am - 5pm

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PT CLUB

Train and connect with like minded coaches, followed by a campfire style chat with Craig Massey, Head of Education at The PFCA.

📍MARCHON Victoria

📆 Tuesday 29th September

⏰ 2pm-4pm

🎟️ Free to attend

SGPT Masterclass

Learn the proven principles behind world-class SGPT and large group coaching, how they differ, and how to execute both at the highest level - from program design that fits your clients and brand, to delivery that meets every client where they're at and drives real results.

📍MARCHON Harpenden

📆 Sunday 18th October

⏰ 10am-4pm

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NUTRITION COACHING L1

Learn how to coach nutrition through behaviour change rather than macros and meal plans.

📍PFCA HQ, Manchester

📆 22nd & 23rd October 2026

⏰ 9am - 5pm (both days)

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UPCOMING SEMINARS & EVENTS

SEMINARS & EVENTS

Applied Coaching Masterclass - Scotland (Single Day)

SHOULDER WORKSHOP

TECHNIQUE CLINIC

ATHX PROGRAMMING

WOMENS HEALTH L1

COACH DEVELOPMENT

PT CLUB

SGPT Masterclass

NUTRITION COACHING L1

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