High performance sport individuals require a highly disciplined and structured training programme, as well as benefiting from a holistic coaching approach.
Whilst one aspect of training these individuals is the physical aspect, involving adaptive and science-informed strategies, the other aspect encompasses wellbeing such as mental health, resilience, recovery and lifestyle.
If you’re a personal trainer or coach looking to expand your client base, the world of performance sport and athletics can be an appealing option. Whether you’re already in the world of elite athletes or looking for a place to begin, we’ve featured five courses to support you in your career journey. These CPD opportunities comprise of in-person and online learning to help keep your development flexible. Plus, we’ve signposted further relevant resources to allow you to develop and apply your knowledge.
CPD
1. Certificate in Elite Athlete Wellbeing Management
Provided by Wellbeing Science Institute
10 CIMSPA CPD points
This course will equip you with the knowledge, skills and tools that will make you stand-out when working with elite athletes and sporting organisations. By focusing on wellbeing from a holistic, developmental and positive perspective, it will enable you to confidently take action to help people move towards their whole person potential.
What you’ll learn about:
- Health sciences
- Positive psychology
- Cross-cultural psychology
- Leadership
- Career development
- Personal coaching
- Development of customised wellbeing plans
2. BCAB Level 4 Performance Coach Award
Provided by British Canoeing Awarding Body
10 CIMSPA CPD points
The Performance Coach Award is an ideal programme for intrinsically driven, experienced coaches, who want to get better at coaching the paddlers they work with, and for those who seek recognition that their delivery meets enhanced levels of sophistication.
The learning journey is fluid and personalised to every coach who undertakes the programme. The key components of the award are the same but, as an experienced coach, you will steer the direction and focus of your learning in areas that are most relevant to you. The journey can be personalised every step of the way, by understanding the capabilities and skills you arrive with, you decide the skills, knowledge and experience you want to learn and develop.
3. Strongman Coaching Level 1
Provided by Mammoth Strength Club
10 CIMSPA CPD Points
This course offers an immersive, hands-on experience designed for aspiring coaches and strength enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a fitness trainer looking to expand your expertise or a Strongman competitor/coach aiming to hone your skills, the carefully curated curriculum covers the introductory principles of Strongman training, event-specific techniques, programme design, and athlete management.
What you’ll learn:
- How to present yourself in a professional and approachable manner.
- How to communicate and therefore retain clients.
- Event specifics, equipment types, muscle groups, programming.
- How to cater for athletes of all levels and make strongman an inclusive sport.
4. Moving Fascia® Teacher Training
Provided by Moving Fascia
10CIMSPA CPD Points
This in-depth certification course is designed to expand your teaching and deepen your embodied understanding.
You’ll explore a unique blend of anatomical insight, somatic exploration, and practical application, learning tools to support nervous system regulation, reduce tension, and restore fluid, resilient movement.
What you’ll learn:
- To transform your teaching practice with an advanced understanding of connective tissue theory.
- A broad repertoire of effective fascia focused techniques that integrate seamlessly into your existing movement practice.
- Recognising the root cause of movement restriction with an integrated ‘whole body’ approach that prioritises critical thinking.
- To make a difference with unique practical tools that create real change.
- Driving your understanding of fascia into practice through your own embodied experience.
5. S & C – Advanced Periodisation, Programming and Training Principles
Provided by Fitpro
1 CIMSPA CPD Point
If you’re a strength and conditioning coach who wants to take your training to the next level, this course is for you. You’ll cover some of the key areas of anatomy and physiology within the neuromuscular system, as well as gaining an understanding of Periodisation, Post-Activation Potentiation, ROM differentiation and exercise examples.
What you’ll learn about:
- Know the differences between strength and power.
- Understand how to implement linear and non-linear periodisation.
- Understand how to identify ROM as it relates to training modes.
- Understand the role of the nervous system in recruitment.
Discover more CPD
More endorsed courses – find training and CPD opportunities to support you throughout your career in sport and physical activity.
The Careers Hub – offering resources for anyone interested in pursuing or developing their career in the sport and physical activity sector.
*Only eligible membership categories.