The Advanced Health and Fitness Coach (Level 5) is a higher-level vocational qualification designed to take your personal training skills beyond the basics. It gives you in-depth exercise science, advanced programming and nutrition, plus the ability to work with a range of clients — including those with specialised training or health needs. This course is part of the NZIS personal training pathway and is ideal if you want to progress your fitness career, work with advanced clients, or specialize further in the industry.

 

As a recognised NZQA qualification, it’s also internationally respected and can help you work or continue study overseas thanks to NZIS’s recognition agreements through the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) and international partners.

 

Why Study This Course?

• Advance your technical skills in exercise science, personalised programming and nutrition.
• Learn to train clients with specialist needs, including complex health and fitness goals.
• Gain hands-on experience in real gym environments with small class sizes.
• Increase your career opportunities in roles such as advanced personal trainer, fitness consultant, strength coach and more.
• Boost your industry credibility with a Level 5 qualification recognised in many countries.

 

Programme Structure / Subjects Covered

The course blends theory and practical learning. Core areas include:

Technical Knowledge

• Advanced exercise science – deeper understanding of anatomy, physiology and movement.

• Nutrition science – advanced nutrition principles for performance and health.

• Program design – crafting safe, effective and science-based training plans.

Client-focused Skills

• Training special populations (e.g., athletes, seniors, those with health challenges).

• Personalised exercise prescriptions and follow-up strategies.

• Collaboration with other health professionals.

Professional Practice

• Fitness industry ethics and professional conduct.

• Designing and running coaching sessions at a high level.

Work Placement / Practical Experience (where included)

• Some versions include practical placements or gym work to help you apply skills in real work settings.

 

Disciplines & Specialisations

At Level 5 you focus on advanced personal training, exercise science and specialist client work, including:

• Advanced fitness coaching
• Performance programming
• Special population training
• Nutrition integration
• Professional fitness consultancy

 

Highlights & Benefits

• Learn from industry-experienced tutors in small class settings.
• Hands-on practical training in real gym environments.
• Opportunity for international placements or experiences (e.g., resorts abroad).
• Builds strong foundation for business ownership or independent coaching.
• Prepares you for leadership roles or further study in Level 6 diplomas.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates are well-positioned for various fitness careers, such as:

• Advanced Personal Trainer
• Exercise Consultant
• Health and Fitness Coach
• Strength & Conditioning Assistant
• Group Fitness Instructor
• Fitness Business Owner or Manager
• Gym or Sport Facility Specialist

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

If you enrol in this programme full-time and on-campus, you must:

• Apply for a New Zealand Student Visa after receiving your Offer Letter.
• Provide proof of English proficiency, sufficient funds, and health insurance.
• Meet NZ Immigration requirements for study and stay.
• Have a valid passport and supporting education documents.

 

Important Notes & Latest Updates

• NZIS welcomes international students into this Level 5 course and actively promotes its fitness qualifications globally.
• The qualification is internationally recognised with pathways to work or further study worldwide.
• Practical gym components and industry experiences are core parts of the qualification — not just classroom theory