World Skills Fitness Trainer Competition returns in-person for 2021

The finalists of the World Skills UK Fitness Trainer Competition will come together for the National Finals at Loughborough College next week.

The Finals, sponsored by Active IQ, return to in-person delivery for the first time since 2019 and will take place from 12-14 November at the college instead of the NEC in Birmingham due to COVID-19 precautions.

In order to secure their place at the finals, the top eight competitors had to produce a promotional video and complete an online test. Ahead of the final, competitors have had access to training and development opportunities through Active IQ’s Skills Hub, as well as partners British Rowing.

The finalists are:

Matty Ferguson – Tyne Coast College

Jamie Tawse- City of Glasgow College

Jenni Waddington- Cheshire College South and West

Anna Crowley- City of Glasgow College

Shannon Greenway- Coleg Gwent

Amanda Hartshorn- Coleg Gwent

Rhys Edmunds- Coleg Gwent

Diana Williams- Coleg Gwent

Interviews with all the finalists can be found on the Active IQ YouTube channel.

Competitors will be assessed on elements such as taking a personal trainer session, demonstrating exercises, completing an industry based interview, fitness testing, small group classes and more.

On top of this, competitors will get the chance to speak to our headline sponsor Active IQ and be involved in various promotional activities throughout the competition.

Angus Milligan Competition Manager said: “The competition delivery team and judges are excited to welcome competitors to the first in-person competition since 2019. In 2020 we delivered a completely virtual competition, which was a great success, however, we feel it’s important to see competitors in person and interacting with their clients.

“Whilst the competition will have no crowds this year, competitors will still be stretched and pushed beyond their normal assessment. We wish everyone the best of luck in the final and we cannot wait to see you all perform!”

Jenny Patrickson, Managing Director of Active IQ said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring the World Skills AoC Sport Fitness Trainer Competition for our seventh year. The competition provides a fantastic and important opportunity for nearly and newly qualified personal trainers to learn and develop while also showcasing their skills.

“Whilst last year’s competition had to take place virtually, we are so pleased it can take place face-to-face this year at the new location of Loughborough College as nothing quite beats seeing people in action in person. I would like to thank AoC Sport and the judging team for their important work behind the scenes and wish all this year’s finalists the very best of luck!”

WSUK will be announcing all skills winners at the virtual awards ceremony on 26 November.