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Jenny Patrickson Commercial director of awarding organisation Active IQ


“Tere’s no doubt the role of the personal trainer will change significantly in the next 12 to 18 months and as an awarding organisation Active IQ is work- ing closely with employers to get their views on the design of qualifications moving forwards. In its current form, the qual-


ifications provide learners with all the required technical information but increasingly, employer feedback tells us there is not enough emphasis placed on developing soſter skills. It’s understandable that not all learners


naturally possess these skills but personal trainers can be taught to engage more


effectively with various audi- ences. Good communication skills should be an integral element, especially when deliv- ering motivational counselling, influencing behaviour change and most importantly building empathy with clients. To sup- port the public health agenda, personal trainer qualifica-


tions should have the breadth and scope to give learners the tools to engage with a wide cross-section of the public and help remove the barriers to exercise. From employer discussions, we also rec-


ognise that the qualifications need to place more emphasis on developing effective


commercial and entrepreneurial skills. Personal trainers are increasingly taking a more professional approach in how they sell themselves or the company they repre- sent. For those coming into the profession, it is essential that they are equipped with the necessary personal sales skills which allow them to be more enterprising. Te qualification should no longer be


restricted to gym-based activity as it needs to be applied to a broader spectrum. Tis should ideally encompass more community- based programmes and work with special populations for example. With appropri- ately trained individuals and equally suitable qualifications, our sector can truly impact on the health of the nation.”


For those coming into the profession, it is essential that they are equipped with the necessary personal sales skills which allow them to be more enterprising


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