A Different Way
As part of our commitment to trauma-sensitive practices, and in recognition of the need for new ways of working, we have launched our very own Training Centre.
We work with small cohorts of students, in an individualised, flexible and responsive manner. We are particularly focused on lived experience leadership, offering opportunities for students who would not otherwise be able to access fitness education.
As an Active IQ approved centre, we offer a range of Active IQ qualifications and include longer-term support through a community of practice for all students. Your qualification is just the beginning.
Qualifications Available
Level 2 Gym Instructing
This is your starting point. Learn the basics of anatomy and physiology, group exercise instruction and professional practice. Attend in-house placements on our adaptive physical activity programmes and learn from our experienced and approachable instructors.
Level 3 Personal Training
This is your next step. Learn advanced anatomy and physiology, nutrition and training techniques. Create a business plan for your future and learn from in-house placements and an on-going community of practice for all graduates.
Level 3 Exercise Referral
Expand your scope of practice to include a range of health conditions – hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, mental health and more. Work with real participants in our in-house placements and learn how to tailor physical activity programming for individual and specialist needs.
With a mix of online learning and in-person sessions at our gym, you will be guided through the learning materials at a pace that suits you. We can offer adaptions, within the Active IQ guidelines, to suit any particular learning or health needs. Just drop us a message.
Coming Soon…
Level 4 Specialisms
We are in talks with Transcend Awards, to deliver their Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity Programming for People with Long-term Conditions. An Ofqual registered awarding body, Transcend Awards were the only provider we could find that offers actual qualifications, rather than CPD, in this field
Level 3 Counselling Skills
The person-centred foundation of counselling skills provides an excellent foundation for the professional development of a physical activity instructor. Through the practice of attuned, attentive and responsive interaction, physical activity instructors can learn to bridge an empathetic relationship with their participants.
CPD courses
We are delighted to announce three years of funding from The Fore, to develop a range of CPD courses for the fitness industry. These will cover trauma-sensitive approaches to physical activity, person-centred and constructivist approaches to coaching, and women’s health. More information will be shared soon.
Until September 2025, we are delivering Active IQ qualifications through a National Lottery Community Fund project. We are offering physical activity qualifications to community organisations across Lincolnshire who would like to upskill their staff and volunteers to deliver physical activity to their participants. This could be organisations who work in befriending, mental health, care homes, day centres and more.
After September 2025, we will be offering these qualifications to members of the public. As a Community Interest Company, all profits from this trading activity will be reinvested into our community work.
For more information, please email Belle at projects@darksiderising.co.uk. You can also sign up to our newsletter at the bottom of this page, or check out our Facebook page.
