New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 4)

Learn how to teach functional exercise movements while gaining a clear understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Discover how behavioural change can lead to lasting results for your clients. With hands-on teaching in our purpose-built gym and real industry work experience, you will gain the skills and knowledge to become a first-class exercise professional.

About the programme

Start on your path to becoming a Personal Trainer with this exciting new programme.

Learn how to teach exercise, gain an understanding of human anatomy and physiology, and discover how the role of behaviour change can lead to lasting results for your clients. 

With hands-on teaching in our purpose-built gym, Tapuae, and real world experiences out in industry, gain the skills and knowledge you need to become a first-class exercise professional. You could work with others to provide exercise advice or become a Gym Instructor.      

Successful completion of this Level 4 Certificate will enable you to apply for registration as a Gym Instructor with REPs NZ (Register of Exercise Professionals New Zealand). Alternatively, you may choose to continue your study with our Level 5 programme which will fully prepare you for the role of a Personal Trainer. 

Courses

Course name Description Level Credits
Human Anatomy and Physiology

Gain knowledge of the basic concepts of anatomy and physiology and how they relate to exercise programmes. 

  • Describe the basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology in the context of exercise programmes. 
  • Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to identify safe and effective exercise programmes. 
4 15
Exercise Programming

Develop knowledge, skills and attributes to adapt and deliver exercise programmes. 

  • Assess individuals' fitness levels and ability through consultation and measurement. 
  • Adapt and facilitate effective exercise programmes to meet needs and fitness goals for a diverse range of individuals. 
  • Use a Māori Health Model to explain the benefits of effective exercise programmes for a diverse range of individuals. 
4 15
Nutrition and Lifestyle

Develop knowledge of nutrition as it relates to exercise training and healthy lifestyles. 

  • Describe basic nutrition principles to support healthy lifestyles and training for a diverse range of individuals. 
  • Apply basic knowledge of healthy lifestyle behaviour change for a diverse range of individuals. 
4 15
Exercise Professional Practice

Develop cultural competency, knowledge, skills and attributes to use business tools to practice as an exercise professional. 

  • Apply principles of Manaakitanga (hosting), Tūturutanga (being real and genuine), and Tūhonotanga (connectedness), when working with a range of culturally diverse clientele as an exercise professional. 
  • Use appropriate business tools and techniques to operate effectively as an exercise professional. 
  • Explain scope of practice as an exercise professional in Aotearoa New Zealand context. 
4 15

Further study options

To become a Personal Trainer, you will need to complete the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise (Level 5). Our Bachelor of Applied Science degree will then enable you to advance your learning further and explore the areas of Exercise, Sport and Health to expand your career prospects.