Let’s talk about exercise referral and why it’s an important qualification for any fitness professional. Around 26% of the UK population of the UK have at least one long-term or chronic condition (LTC) – and 20% of these have three or more! This makes it likely that as a PT or group exercise instructor, you will get new clients with an LTC, or existing clients may be diagnosed with one. In either case, you need to be able to plan and deliver safe and effective exercises or know your scope of practice so you can signpost to another instructor.
It used to be the case that the only opportunity for exercise referral instructors was to work in an exercise referral scheme. However, the landscape is changing, and more clients want to access mainstream activity but know they are in safe hands.
Gaining specialist qualifications will not only help you to attract and work with more clients, but you will also be meeting any continuing professional development requirements in the industry. This qualification gives you the underpinning knowledge and the practical skills to work with clients with long-term conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or obesity. Both aspects are important in designing and delivering safe and effective exercise programs tailored to individual health needs. With this specialised training, you can confidently address the challenges these clients face ensuring their workouts are effective, safe – and enjoyable. The qualification will boost your reputation and credibility in the fitness industry and give you more opportunities for work.
Looking at the bigger picture, fitness professionals with Exercise Referral qualifications play a vital role in promoting public health. By helping clients manage long-term conditions through exercise, they contribute to a reduction in the overall burden on the healthcare system. Preventative care, such as engaging in regular physical activity, can lead to fewer hospital visits and lower healthcare costs. You may also be able to engage in community health initiatives, spreading awareness about the importance of exercise and healthy living, and encouraging more people to adopt active lifestyles.
There are various exercise referral and similar courses available for you to choose from, but always check it is a recognised qualification and check who the awarding organisation is and what the qualification accreditation number is (and check against the Ofqual register).
And yes, I deliver this qualification! It is through Active IQ, and you get the benefit of my 22 years of experience in this field, from working on and managing schemes to designing, delivering and assessing this training to hundreds of fit pros.
Click here for details https://fabnewlous.thrivecart.com/q3der/ or if you want a chat about your options, email me at admin@sarahbolitho.com.
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