FAQ

[learn_more caption="Do I need to be super fit to do a S.F.Q course?"]NO! The course is split evenly between practical and theoretical work so during your day you can expect be active for at least a couple of hours however the practical elements are non-competitive and tailored to meet the fitness levels of the individual. It would be a good idea to have some familiarity with some basic gym exercises by either employing a personal trainer or using the internet.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="I haven’t sat in a class room for years…how do I know I will be able keep up with the younger students?"] Jim and Pat have taught students from 16 to 60+ and have many years of teaching experience between them. The information presented within lectures is delivered in a logical manner and at a pace that will suit most students regardless of academic background or age. Subjects are not taught once and then discarded but revisited often to ensure absorption of the necessary information. Each morning begins with 30 minutes of revision on the previous days topics and evening guided learning tasks are set which are designed to consolidate the days theory lectures.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="Will I have time to do my own training or will I be too busy studying?"]As an S.F.Q student you will have access to numerous training facilities so, while you will be kept fairly active throughout the week, you will still have plenty of time to pursue your on training during the evenings and weekends. We strongly recommend that the practical aspects of the course are practiced not just during lessons but during your own time and this may have an impact on your personal training routine however we have had students who have managed to successfully train for bodybuilding competitions, triathlons and team sports while maintaining their studies.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="How will I be assessed during the course?"]We will assess you in a number of ways:- There will be theory exams which are multiple choice, written case studies, practical gym-based assessments and practical consultation assessments. All assessments are designed to be as straightforward as possible and to put the minimum amount of stress possible on the student. Different assessment methods are possible in the case of learning difficulties and physical limitations. Please contact us if you have any queries regarding our assessment policies.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="What if I don’t pass an assessment?"]Firstly, don’t worry! In the event of an unsuccessful assessment, extra revision and guidance will be provided and re-assessment will only take place once both the trainer and the student are confident of a successful outcome. All assessments are preceded by a mock which gives both the trainer and the student the opportunity to assess areas of strength and weakness and revise accordingly. Remember, we want you to pass![/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="I have a bad back/knee/shoulder – what if I can’t do some of the practical elements of the course?"]S.F.Q is not assessing the fitness level of the student, but their ability to lead a client through a safe and effective workout. Because of this, where possible, we will make adjustments to the assessment procedure to allow for individuals with physical limitations. As an example, if the student was suffering with a sore lower back during a practical assessment, the assessment can be re-scheduled to suit the students’ needs or the assessment process can be modified to cater for the injury. [/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="Will I have lots of homework to do in the evenings and at the weekends?"]There will be some evening work, ranging from revision to tasks set by your trainer to preparation for practical assessments. In addition to your daily lessons, you will be expected to spend 1-2 hours each evening doing work unsupervised. Many students find this the ideal opportunity to work with other members of the group by doing revision in pairs and small groups which, for many, is a great way to go over the information of the day. Some additional work may be set for weekends but, where possible, this will be kept to a minimum so students can enjoy some well deserved time off.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="What is a typical day like on an S.F.Q course?"]Our working day starts at 8.30am. The day will normally start with 30 minutes of revision, led by the trainer. This will normally consist of informal Q & A or tasks set by the trainers which are often done in pairs or small groups. On completion of revision there is usually a short break before the first lecture of the day begins. The lectures are presented on power point and will follow the student course manuals to minimise the need for excessive note taking. During the lectures, work may be set which will help the student consolidate the information within the lesson. At around 10.30am there will be a 20 minute coffee break before lectures resume. Lunch is normally at around midday and last an hour. The afternoons are predominately practical and will usually lead on from the theory delivered in the morning and are another opportunity to ensure the information delivered in the morning is fully understood. There will be a 20 minute mid afternoon break at around 3pm. The day ends at around 5 – 5.30pm and students are then free to do their own training in the gym or surrounding areas. On return to the student accommodation it’s time eat, before hitting the books and revising or completing the guided learning tasks set by your trainer.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="What clothing will I need while I am attending the course?"]There is no set uniform for S.F.Q courses, but we do require that students wear clothing that presents a professional image. For theory lessons shorts, t-shirts, track suits or similar are acceptable (no jeans) and for practical sessions normal exercise clothing is required. Students should ensure that they have adequate supplies of exercise clothing and that footwear is appropriate i.e. running shoes not “fashion” trainers. Sandals or flip flops are quite acceptable footwear for theory lessons but for health and safety reasons must not be worn for practicals. When being assessed it is essential students “look the part” and present as professional an image as possible. [/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="Do I need to do lots of reading or pre-course learning before I attend the course?"]S.F.Q lectures begin with the assumption that students have no previous knowledge of the subject matter, outside of a general interest in health & fitness. However, to make the first few days of the course a little less daunting we have provided you with a small amount of pre-course information. Students will benefit from spending some time becoming familiar with this material but this is not essential as this information will be revisited by the trainers during the early part of the course. Follow this link to download the pre-course learning material.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="What help do I get in securing employment once the course has finished?"]During the course, you will receive help and guidance in selecting the right career path for you. This will include CV writing, interview skills, presentation techniques and individual guidance to help you make a smooth transition into the health & fitness industry. Both Jim & Pat have extensive knowledge of the worldwide fitness industry and will endeavour to help you secure employment on successful completion of the course. Additionally, once you are an S.F.Q graduate, you will still have unrestricted access to your course trainers who are committed to help you secure the employment position you seek.[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="Can friends and family come and visit me while I am on the course?"]Of course! We can even help you arrange flights and discounted accommodation for your visitors as well as access to many of our affiliated leisure facilities. [/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="I see there is an end of course graduation…What’s that?"]On the final Thursday of your course, S.F.Q. will help you celebrate your achievement by taking you out for dinner and drinks at a local restaurant. This is an opportunity for your trainers (Jim & Pat) to spend time with you in an informal atmosphere and for the whole group to let it’s hair down and relax!
[/learn_more]

[learn_more caption="I don’t live very close to Heathrow – can I arrange my own flights?"]You may arrange your own flights to and from Cyprus, but please be aware we will be unable to transfer you to the accommodation or back to the airport if your flight times are very different from Cyprus Airways. If you arrange a flight to Paphos, transfer by taxi will cost you £15.00 Cypriot (17.50 sterling). Transfers from Larnaca to Paphos are in the region of £60.00 Cypriot (69.00 sterling).

[/learn_more]

Latest from the blog

The F Word

by amichae on April 27, 2012 in Nutrition

No – not an article on swearing, but an introduction into the importance of dietary fibre! So what is fibre? Fibre is indigestible plant material ...

Massage – an introduction

by amichae on April 27, 2012 in Massage and Sports Injuries

Massage is the oldest and simplest form of medical care, outdating even Chinese acupuncture. In Eastern cultures, massage has been practiced continually since ancient times. ...

An Introduction to Core Training

by Patrick on April 27, 2012 in training

Your abs, along with your obliques, erector spinea and transverse abdominus, make up the muscle group often referred to as your core. Your core is ...

Feedback

Anyone who wants to be the best they can be should train with these Guys! Pat and Jim’s knowledge is worthy of the trip alone. I currently work alongside numerous Personal Trainers and for some reason they just don’t seem to know as much as I do! I solely put these down to Pat and Jim’s teaching methods and absolutely vast subject knowledge. Just watching they guys working out will give you hundreds of training ideas, and then when you add the class work to it you just keep picking their brains and discovering more things. They teach you how to break everything down to its basics – even things that seem complex at first. The course is a challenging, but it is hugely enjoyable and within minutes of arriving at the airport you felt like you knew them both. The night life is just a 5 minute walk down the road, all the bars soon get to know you are there for a while so they look after you, but don’t forget your class work you only do that once!

Having been a dancer all my life and perused my career on the stage I decided to change direction and enrol on a personal training and sports massage course. I had heard lots of good things about REPs courses from my brother who had also attended a similar qualification in the UK. Rather than doing a course in England, I decided to go to Cyprus as it seemed like an ideal opportunity to experience a new country while gaining the qualification I wanted. It was a little scary going back into the classroom after not having sat in a lesson since school but Pat & Jim explained everything so clearly and enthusiastically it made learning much easier and very enjoyable. While in Cyprus, I found that everyone supported each other and even though they came from different walks of life they had the same goal of passing the course. I made life long friends during my time in Cyprus and enjoyed a great life experience as well as gaining the qualifications I wanted. Since passing my course I have based my self in Devon and set up my own business – Lightning Fitness. I am involved in G.P referral schemes, teaching dance & aerobics classes as well as personal training and massage.

Last summer (2006) I spent 3 months in Cyprus studying for my personal training diploma, and in all honesty I had the best time of my life out there! The course was interesting, well delivered and directed and there was a willingness and keen interest among all who attend. Any time there was a problem, it was dealt with the minimum of fuss and maximum efficiency. Course aside, the working environment is second to none. I personally have been all over the world and can happily report that this destination and course is both unparalleled and unique.

As an ex student I was more than happy to write a testimonial for Patrick and James when they approached me. Both Pat & Jim helped to get me started in the fitness industry feeling very well prepared and inspired! I have been doing really well ever since the course and have had many different experiences including going straight into Fitness First as a PT the very week that I returned from my course! Since that time I have worked in the USA in Louisiana and have now been back in England with Fitness First for a year working as a regional Fitness Manager and Trainer to new Personal Trainers and fitness managers that join the company. I have certainly been very busy and have been lucky enough to be with the largest fitness chain in the world and also have been recognized by the Fitness director as a future leader within the company.

I worked as a PA in London for years until I decided to change my career. I wanted to make a difference to people’s health and wellbeing, so I left my job and took time out to train and qualify in Cyprus. Having compared costs for the UK course, it worked out around the same price as studying in Cyprus, it wasn’t a difficult decision as the sunny weather was just too tempting! I studied in Cyprus from July-Sept 2006 and was taught by both Pat and Jim whilst on my course. I couldn’t have asked for better tutors as they really inspired and motivated the whole group, making the learning experience fun and enjoyable. I specialize in Personal Training for women now and enjoy running my own business. Pat and Jim helped me achieve my goal!

Whenever I tell people I became a qualified Personal Trainer in Cyprus I always get the same reaction… their jaw drops, and a confused “Why?” comes slurring out. I answer by asking them if they would prefer spend 8 weeks in England or in Cyprus and it seems the answer suddenly becomes very obvious and a big grin comes over their faces! My time in Cyprus was one of the best experiences I have had and I have memories that will last forever; from the glorious weather enjoyed all year round to the relative cheapness of living. Also because you are away from home, you spend your time training and living with like minded individuals who make the whole experience that much better (that and the cheap drinks you don’t tell anyone about on a Friday nights!). The lecturers are first class, both of whom have outstanding knowledge in their fields and are simply great to be around. I would advise anyone taking a Personal Training course to take it in Cyprus.

I first became interested in health & fitness at the age of 14, from leaving school I went on to spend 3 years at college to do an AS in sport & leisure & also a BTEC National Diploma in Sports Science. After qualifying I went on to work full time in a gymnasium where I put myself through various fitness courses, which made me more & more interested about health & fitness. My passion grew for the industry so I decided I wanted to gain the highest qualification possible. After doing some research came across a course that would allow me to study abroad and signed up straight away! I loved every minute of my Cyprus experience and if I could I would go back every year. The course was excellent! The tutors were always there if you needed help or guidance – I couldn’t have asked for more. Just imagine studying through the week, relaxing on the beach after class & weekends – it was bliss. I think it was the best three months of my life so if you’re thinking about it, go for it!!! I remember at the end of the course when I passed my exam I sat on the beach thinking that one of my life long dreams had come true & I know that I would not have been able to do it without the constant help & reassurance of Pat & Jim. Since qualifying I have gone on to be successfully self employed and offering Personal Training at various gyms & peoples homes, I am also able to offer nutrition guidance & also Sports Massage. So thank you Pat & Jim.

FAQ

Subscribe

Latest from the blog

Feedback