I took the NTC PT course and am now coaching in Cork. The course was key to my success. I’d be happy to give references or advice to students anytime.
We're holding an Open Evening at NTC Head Office in Dublin city centre for this course on Wednesday January 29th from 6pm to 9pm
Meet team members, view our facilities and have any questions you might have answered. You can also book your place on this course at the open evening if you wish.
Accredited at the highest European Standard for fitness instructors, EQF Level 4.
We know that there are many courses for you to choose from out there but we guarantee that you will not find another course that exceeds the minimum required standards, only uses fully qualified tutors, and delivers everything you need to hit the ground running.
As Ireland’s longest-established health fitness training provider, the NTC has a well-established reputation for training the top instructors and personal trainers across the nation since 1985.
Only fully qualified tutors deliver the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.
Thinking of going abroad? Through its accreditation standards the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is accepted around the world.
Some of the many unsolicited testimonials we have received from graduates of the NTC's courses
(Remember there's even more info in the FAQ section below)
Information about schedules, locations and start dates for the course
Only fully qualified tutors deliver the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.
Barry is a versatile professional in the field of sports and fitness, holding roles as a Sport Scientist, Academic Lecturer, and certified Personal Trainer. He began his fitness journey with a strong foundation, earning a National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training from the National Training Centre (NTC). Building on this, Barry achieved an MSc in Sports Performance from the University of Limerick in 2017, enhancing his expertise in optimising athletic potential.
Barry’s commitment to growth is evident in his pursuit of additional qualifications through continuing professional development courses. He specialises in exercise science and advanced fitness training programs, staying updated on industry trends and innovations.
As an educator, Barry shares his knowledge by lecturing in various Sport, Health, and Fitness programs. He has made a notable impact in the health and fitness industry since 2014, and his practical experience informs his teaching and guidance.
Barry’s dedication extends to his successful personal training business, where he applies his academic knowledge and hands-on experience to help clients reach their fitness goals. His multifaceted career exemplifies his passion for enhancing the well-being of others.
John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.
John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.
John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.
Larry is a highly experienced NTC tutor who has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of resistance training and strength and conditioning. He holds the National University of Ireland’s Diploma in Training and Continuing Education, which is a highly respected qualification in the field of training and education. Larry’s expertise in resistance training is an invaluable asset to our fitness programmes, where he teaches students the most effective techniques to build strength, power, and endurance. Additionally, Larry heads up the strength and conditioning course, where he imparts his extensive knowledge and experience to aspiring fitness professionals.
Larry is also a tutor on the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy. This qualification focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions using a combination of manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise, and postural and movement education. Larry’s expertise in this area is highly sought after, and he is widely recognised as an authority in the field of neuromuscular therapy.
In addition to his teaching work, Larry runs his own successful private practice for the treatment of pain, injury, and dysfunction. His experience and expertise in the field of neuromuscular therapy have made him highly effective in helping patients recover from a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Larry’s passion for helping people achieve their physical goals and improve their overall quality of life is evident in both his teaching and his private practice. He is a highly respected figure in the fitness and wellness community, and his contributions to the field have been instrumental in advancing the science of resistance training and neuromuscular therapy.
Daniel is a highly skilled fitness professional with a passion for martial arts and strength training. He has an extensive educational background in sports and fitness, having earned a Higher National Diploma in Sports and Leisure Management, Sports Recreation Level 5, and his Masters in Strength and Conditioning.
With his background in martial arts, Daniel has a wealth of knowledge and experience in resistance training. He is a resistance training tutor for the National Training Centre (NTC), where he teaches on various programmes. His expertise in kettlebell and suspension training, as well as strength and conditioning, has been invaluable to the NTC, and to the many students he has taught.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Daniel is also an accomplished Brazilian jiu jitsu competitor. He trains regularly and competes at a high level, using his martial arts experience to inform his teaching and training methods. His commitment to his own training and competition helps him stay up to date with the latest techniques and strategies, which he then shares with his students at the NTC.
As a resistance training tutor for the NTC, Daniel is committed to helping his students reach their fitness goals. He is known for his hands-on teaching style, and his ability to create challenging, yet fun, workouts that keep his students engaged and motivated. His classes are highly sought after, and his students consistently report improvements in their strength, endurance, and overall fitness.
Overall, Daniel is a highly skilled and passionate fitness professional with a dedication to martial arts and strength training. His educational background and experience have made him an invaluable member of the NTC faculty, and his commitment to his own training and competition ensures that his teaching methods are always up to date and effective.
Mairead is an experienced and dedicated fitness professional with over a decade of experience in the health and fitness industry. She has a passion for helping her clients achieve their health and fitness goals through a holistic approach to wellness. Mairead’s clients appreciate her caring and motivational style, which has earned her a reputation as one of the most effective trainers in the industry.
As a lifelong learner, Mairead is committed to continually improving her knowledge and skills. She holds numerous fitness and personal training qualifications, including yoga instruction, powerlifting coaching, and a range of Les Mills group fitness classes. Her diverse skill set allows her to work with clients of all fitness levels and provide personalized training plans that are tailored to their individual needs and goals.
Mairead’s approach to fitness is focused on a holistic view of health and wellness, which encompasses not just physical fitness, but also mental and emotional well-being. Her dedication to this approach has made her a popular choice among her clients, who appreciate the individual attention she provides and the positive results they achieve under her guidance.
In addition to her work with individual clients, Mairead is also a valued member of the National Training Centre (NTC) faculty. Her expertise in yoga, powerlifting, and group fitness instruction make her an invaluable resource for the NTC’s students. Her approachable manner and supportive teaching style create a positive and engaging learning environment, which helps her students achieve their qualifications with confidence and success.
Overall, Mairead’s passion for health and fitness, combined with her dedication to continued learning and development, has made her a highly effective and respected fitness professional. Her ability to inspire and motivate her clients and students is a testament to her caring and motivational approach, and her expertise in a wide range of fitness disciplines has made her a valuable asset to the NTC faculty.
With more than three decades of experience in the health and fitness industry, Noel has developed a wealth of knowledge and expertise in various roles as a fitness instructor, personal trainer, and manager. His vast experience has seen him manage several fitness facilities over the years.
Noel’s impressive credentials include a range of qualifications, including a graduate of several National Training Centre (NTC) courses. These include Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training, Pilates, Indoor Cycling, Suspension Training, Kettlebell Training. In addition, he is committed to keeping up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices, frequently participating in continuing professional development programmes.
As a testament to his passion for fitness and training, Noel still teaches a variety of fitness classes, even while serving as the Gym Manager at the Boyne Valley Hotel & Country Club. He also shares his expertise by teaching on the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training course. Noel takes great pride in mentoring and supporting new students entering the health and fitness industry, ensuring that they get off to the best possible start in their careers.
Meet Brighid, a passionate and enthusiastic fitness instructor who possesses a wealth of knowledge in the field of health and fitness. She strongly believes in practicing what she preaches, and that’s evident in her healthy and active lifestyle.
Brighid’s passion for running is palpable, and she’s a regular participant in the BHAA (Business Houses Athletic Association) races. Not only does she enjoy running as a recreational activity, but she also uses it as a means to maintain her fitness levels and challenge herself both physically and mentally.
Apart from her love for running, Brighid is a certified Pilates instructor and conducts her own Sports Pilates Classes at LesiureWorld. Her expertise in Pilates has helped her clients improve their flexibility, core strength, and balance, ultimately leading to better overall fitness. Her classes are tailored to suit the individual needs of her clients, and she provides personalised attention to ensure they achieve their fitness goals.
Brighid is also a seasoned Aqua Aerobics instructor and conducts regular classes. Her Aqua Aerobics classes are a fun and effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and endurance. She combines a variety of exercises to make the classes both enjoyable and challenging.
Overall, Brighid is an energetic and knowledgeable instructor who strives to inspire and motivate her clients to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
Craig’s passion for fitness and dedication to his profession is reflected in his impressive array of qualifications and certifications. In 2011, he completed the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies, and Personal Training, laying a strong foundation for his career.
But Craig didn’t stop there. He has since pursued further education, earning certifications in various fitness specialties. He’s completed advanced programs in Kettlebells, Step Aerobics, Suspension Training, and Strength and Conditioning with the National Training Center (NTC). His commitment to ongoing education allows him to stay current with the latest industry trends and best practices.
Using his extensive knowledge and expertise, Craig established his own thriving fitness facility and Personal Training business. He’s built a strong reputation for himself and has attracted a loyal following of clients who trust his guidance and expertise.
Craig’s primary focus as a tutor is on Resistance Training, Fitness Assessment, and Exercise Principles. He believes in taking a holistic approach to fitness, understanding that physical activity is just one aspect of leading a healthy lifestyle. Through careful assessment, he tailors his programs to meet the specific needs and goals of each individual client. His supportive and encouraging style helps both clients and students achieve their goals, while also making fitness a fun and enjoyable part of their daily routine.
Overall, Craig is an exceptional trainer and tutor who truly cares about his clients’ wellbeing. His impressive credentials and experience speak to his commitment to the fitness industry, and his clients’ and students’ results speak to his effectiveness as a trainer and educator.
Michelle is an accomplished and dedicated NTC tutor with over 20 years of experience in delivering educational excellence to students. Her passion for fitness and health is evident in her teaching, and she is committed to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their full potential. Michelle’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of fitness and nutrition are supported by her Masters Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science from the University of Chester.
As a tutor, Michelle teaches a range of subjects on our primary health fitness programmes, including exercise to music, anatomy and physiology, fitness assessment, and exercise physiology. She also teaches extensively on our Neuromuscular Therapy and Holistic Massage courses. Michelle has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms, making her teaching accessible to students of all levels. Michelle’s engaging and interactive teaching style keeps students motivated and focused, and she is always available to offer guidance and support when needed.
In addition to her primary teaching responsibilities, Michelle also delivers specialised courses in suspension training and indoor cycling. These courses are designed to provide students with advanced skills and knowledge in these popular and effective fitness techniques.
Beyond her work at NTC, Michelle is a passionate advocate for health and wellness. She is actively involved in local fitness and nutrition initiatives and is committed to promoting the benefits of healthy living in her community. Michelle’s dedication to her students and her profession has made her a valued member of the NTC team, and her contributions have helped to establish NTC as a leader in fitness education.
The National Training Centre have been delivering respected educational programmes since 1985 and during that time we have had many questions asked by potential students before registration. Here you can find the answers to the questions we receive most often.
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No. The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training course is open to all individuals.
On successful completion you will be able to teach group exercise classes, work as a gym instructor and/or work independently as a Personal Trainer.
Some other qualifications require that graduates complete an additional course of study to qualify as a personal trainer.
The standard of examination given by the NTC ensures that any individual who achieves the minimum pass mark is qualified to offer safe and effective exercise prescription to all, whether individually or in a group.
Yes. The National Qualification in Exercise Health Studies and Personal Training is fully accredited by the REPs Ireland, Ireland’s professional fitness register, at EQF Level 4 which is the highest European standard for fitness instructors.
REPs Ireland operates independently of all Education Providers and facilities and works to maintain professional standards in the industry.
All approved REPs Ireland Education Providers are independently audited every 2 years and adhere to agreed terms and standards.
Yes. The National Qualification in Exercise Health Studies and Personal Training is fully accredited by REPs Ireland which allows for international recognition via the International Confederation of Registers for Exercise Professionals (ICREPS) which is an international partnership between bodies around the world that register exercise professionals.
The health fitness industry continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors in Ireland with many new health fitness clubs and gyms opening up nationwide. As a result, there is excellent job availability for NTC graduates. Many of our graduates choose to work independently as personal trainers either in gyms or they may set up their own private PT studio.
Yes. NTC graduates are highly sought after by employers for their knowledge and skills and it is through our graduates excellent work in the industry that has enhanced the reputation of NTC.
Many graduates also opt to work abroad as once they have their NTC qualification they can join REPS Ireland which will give them the portability to work throughout Europe and worldwide.
The starting pay rate for fitness instructors is around €13.50 per hour depending on location.
Instructors may also generate additional income through specialist areas of qualification such as Indoor Cycling, Stability Ball, Pilates etc. whereby employers may enter into a separate arrangement for payment for additional classes.
Individuals who choose to follow a career in Personal Training can earn an average of €50.00 per hour. Personal Trainers success will be dependent on the results they achieve for their clients and it will be a benefit having an extrovert personality.
Graduates can also operate as sole traders by offering fitness classes in parish halls, community centres etc. Again success will be based on the instructor’s personality and motivational skills plus results achieved.
It is not unusual for instructors working in this sector to turnover in excess of €1,000.00 per week for part-time evening work.
Yes. Places can be booked by paying the deposit required and there are options listed above for the payment of the balance. There are discounts available where fees have been fully paid at least one month before the course start date.
Students of the National Training Centre regularly receive part funding through the Department of Social Protection’s Technical Employment Support Grant (TESG) scheme.
Individual students will need to contact their Local Employment Services (LES) facilitator to establish their eligibility.
For those who hold a recognised fitness instructor qualification which is recognised by REPs Ireland are eligible for up to 25% funding through the Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet. For more information contact Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet.
For assistance please contact the NTC office of administration on 01 882 7777.
The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is an eighteen-week programme of education. Final examination usually commences during week eighteen and may continue into week nineteen or twenty depending on exam scheduling. The weeks of attendance are generally consecutive but sometimes break for bank holidays and Christmas etc. Classes do not break for summer or Easter.
We also offer an intensive course in Dublin. The intensive course has the same amount of tutorials but delivered over a shorter time-frame.
The National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training is available at the National Training Centre in Dublin and the Mardyke Arena, University College Cork.
No. As the structuring of tutorial schedules sometimes contains differences between day and evening courses it is not possible to interchange. The exact same content is covered by both programmes although, not necessarily on the same days.
Additionally, as courses are frequently oversubscribed there may not be space available to offer the opportunity to interchange.
If a student enrolled in any course discovers that their circumstances have changed and it would be more suitable to move from day to evening or vice-versa, this may be allowed by the Educational Committee of the National Training Centre if there is space available.
Application must be made in writing to the Educational Committee and they will give an official written response.
It may, subject to availability, be possible to move between courses in Dublin and Cork.
Students of the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training are assessed through both written and practical examination.
Students must also complete and submit a Learner Workbook throughout the course. Students cannot graduate without successfully completing all written and practical exams and having submitted, in full, their Learner Workbook.
You will need to complete your Learner Workbook and study the various modules outside of face to face tutorial hours.
You will need to complete about 8 hours per week of independent study and practice.
Work experience is not compulsory on the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training.
Students who do wish to participate in work experience are actively encouraged and supported administratively as much as possible.
NTC graduates are highly sought after by employers and many gyms offer internship programmes to students whilst they are on the course. If you are interested in getting a work placement please contact our support team once you have commenced the course.
80% – to 90% of students participating on the course will successfully complete all of their final examinations on the first attempt. Of the remainder most will need to repeat one exam with a small number having to repeat more than one exam.
Every individual’s ability to succeed will be in direct proportion to the number of tutorials attended and the commitment and time and effort they are prepared to commit to their studies.
Students of all ages participate on the course. The minimum age for registration is 18 years old.
The National Training Centre’s code of ethics requires that all NTC graduates who are actively working with the public, hold a professional indemnity insurance policy which covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was received by following the graduate’s professional advice. Graduates who are working on private premises may also need to hold public liability insurance if such cover is not held by the owners of the premises.
The National Training Centre have a customised insurance scheme with discounted rates available exclusively to those who have qualified with NTC. The policy is one of the broadest available including many important features that other policies may not offer.
The policy has been arranged through Balens Ltd and the insurer for the scheme is the Zurich and DAS Legal Expenses.
Balens are a very well established, fourth generation family-run business dedicated to looking after health professionals. They are built on solid roots going back to 1950 and are pioneers in the development of top quality cover for all types of health professionals with special rates and industry leading cover that has been developing and improving over 22 years in this speciality.
The scheme will cover thousands of other therapies/activities you may require cover for and many at no extra premium subject to suitable qualification held.
Some of the features covered in the policy consist of Medical Malpractice, Professional Indemnity, Public Liability, Product Liability, Loss of Reputation, Breach of Intellectual Property, Client Confidentiality Protection, Loss of Documents cover, First Aid cover as well as Good Samaritan Acts.
The indemnity limit is €4,000,000 per claim for the Republic of Ireland.
Unlike some other policies on the market, an unlimited number of claims may be made for any year and unlimited legal defence costs are also included.
Also included, at no extra charge, is retroactive cover to pick up any previous insured work.
Temporary cover abroad (excluding USA/Canada which is available on request) is available with no time restrictions and at no additional premium as long as you are a UK/Ireland resident.
If you cease to practice Balens include unlimited run off cover which means the policy will always be in place if a claim was made after you stop the policy running and this is also free of charge.
For further information or proposal form, please contact Balens directly on 00441684 580771 or e-mail- info@balens.co.uk
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ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
October 2024 –  12th♦, 19th, 26th
November 2024 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
December 2024 – 7th, 14th
January 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
February 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦
ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)
October 2024 –  15th, 17th, 22nd, 29th, 31st
November 2024 – 5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
December 2024 – 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th
January 2025 – 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th
PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES
February 2025 – 23rd March 2025 – 1st, 2nd
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
January 19th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00
ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place primarily at NTC and occasionally at SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
February 2025 –  22nd♦
March 2025 – 1st, 8th, 22nd, 29th
April 2025 – 5th, 12th, 26th
May 2025 – 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th♦
June 2025 – 7th, 14th♦, 21st, 28th
July 2025 – 5th, 12th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦
ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)
February 2025 –  25th, 27th
March 2025 – 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, 25th, 27th
April 2025 – 1st, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th, 17th, 22nd, 24th, 29th
May 2025 – 1st, 6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd
PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES
July 2025 – 13th, 19th, 20th
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
June 22nd, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00
ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place at Mardyke Arena, UCC
Sunday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
February 2025 –  23rd♦
March 2025 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
April 2025 – 6th, 13th, 27th
May 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
June 2025 – 8th, 15th♦, 22nd, 29th
July 2025 – 6th, 13th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦
ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)
February 2025 –  25th, 27th
March 2025 – 4th, 6th, 11th, 13th, 18th, 20th, 25th, 27th
April 2025 – 1st, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th, 17th, 22nd, 24th, 29th
May 2025 – 1st, 6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd
PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES
July 2025 – 12th, 19th, 20th
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
June 28th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00