Cert4Fitness (Level 4)

Program Overview

The Cert4Fitness program offers a comprehensive one-year course leading to two nationally recognized fitness qualifications. It emphasizes hands-on learning in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, and business skills, preparing students for diverse careers in the fitness industry, including exercise consulting, personal training, and group exercise instruction. Upon completion, students receive the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise and Freestyle Group Exercise.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The "Cert4Fitness" is a one-year, full-time course that offers two nationally recognized qualifications:

• New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)
• New Zealand Certificate in Freestyle Group Exercise (Level 4)
This program aligns with REPS accreditation (Register of Exercise Professionals). It is described as "the best year of my life" and provides life-changing experiences through the use of exercise. The course emphasizes the importance of nutrition, anatomy, physiology, client connection, marketing, and understanding the successful elements of a fitness business. Learning is hands-on and caters to visual and kinesthetic learners. The curriculum includes opportunities for field trips, applied exercise workloads, and memorable experiences.

Outline:

The program covers a comprehensive range of topics related to fitness and group exercise instruction. These include:

• Physiology: Focuses on how the body functions during exercise, including energy systems, and exercise analysis.
• Exercise Prescription: This module teaches students how to create tailored exercise plans for clients based on their individual needs and goals.
• Nutrition: Explores the role of nutrition in fitness and health.
• First Aid: Students are required to complete a First Aid Certificate, equipping them with essential safety and emergency response skills.
• Business Skills: Includes marketing, client development, and building a successful fitness business.
• Choreography: The Freestyle Group Exercise qualification includes instruction on designing and leading group exercise classes.
• Program Delivery: Students learn how to deliver effective and engaging group exercise classes, incorporating various modalities.
• Exercise Abilities: Focuses on understanding different fitness levels and how to work with diverse client populations.
• Health and Wellbeing: Examines the broader context of health and wellbeing, including cultural considerations.
• Movement Patterns: Provides students with a deep understanding of proper movement mechanics and biomechanics.

Teaching:

The program employs a hands-on learning approach, emphasizing practical skills and real-world application. The course is described as being based on "doing."

Careers:

The Cert4Fitness program prepares students for a variety of careers in the fitness and exercise industry. Potential career paths include:

• Exercise Consultant
• Community Exercise Instructor
• Team Training Instructor
• Personal Trainer
• Freestyle Group Exercise Instructor
• Group or Small Team Training Instructor
• Upon successful completion of the course, students will receive the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4) and the New Zealand Certificate in Freestyle Group Exercise (Level 4).
• The course includes an applied exercise workload, field trips, and opportunities to create lasting memories.