The FLexercise Training Apprenticeship Scheme
Is there such thing as being too old for an apprenticeship?
Does the word ‘apprenticeship’ conjure up images of young school leavers taking their first steps into the working world?
One of the first questions people ask when enquiring about the FLexercise training apprenticeship scheme is “Am I too old?” “Do I have what it takes?” The answer is simple; apprenticeships can be a great fit for everyone, no matter your age!
You are never too old to learn a new skill, in fact, age can be an asset. Apprentices with more work and life experiences have a lot to offer to any sector, and plenty to gain from training too. The majority of people FLexercise train on the apprenticeship scheme are over 40, many with little or no prior fitness experience.
Is there no age limit to becoming an exercise teacher?
Interestingly, many fitness instructors start their careers later in life when considering a new profession post-retirement or undertaking a second career. As we know, work is an integral part of a person’s life. It gives us a feeling of purpose and fills our days with routine and structure. One day you are indispensable, the next at a complete loss how to fill your time. Many people want to remain active, relevant, stay healthy and be productive.
So, if contemplating retirement, how do you make the most of your retirement? What are the things you have always wanted to do? If it’s a passion for health and wellness, then starting a new career in teaching active elderly exercise classes can be both rewarding and fulfilling. You’d be amazed at how many transferable skills you can glean from your life experiences. With an ageing population, this is a market sector that is not only growing, but is likely to see a significant increase in the future. In a report by ukactive.com, by 2030 the number of people in the UK aged 60 or over is estimated to increase to 20 million, and expected to climb higher still in the years after.
Julia’s story
Read why Julia wanted to upskill and join the FLexercise apprentice scheme:
“Hello all, Julia here, I am in my 50s and am thrilled to share my experience of having the opportunity to become an apprentice!
A little bit about my journey:
In my mid 30s, and working a full-time finance role, which was largely office based, I wasn’t happy with my health and wellbeing. I took it upon myself to join a weight loss/exercise group, where, over a period of almost two years, I lost four and a half stone in weight. I was asked by the franchisee that ran the national organisation if I had ever considered training to become an instructor. At that time I hadn’t, but it didn’t take long for me to say yes. A year later I qualified to teach Exercise to Music. I began taking a twice weekly exercise class in my local community and I loved it! My confidence grew as did the great feeling of supporting other people, not only in their fitness journeys but by lifting their spirits and bringing a smile to their faces.
Fast forward almost 20 years and I started to think about exercise into my older age, how the body changes with age, and what I could do to increase my knowledge, and gain the skills to enable me to continue to teach with a more mature group. I was aware of other types of exercise, but wanted something that was a little more flexible and varied than, for example, yoga or Pilates. When FLexercise answered my general query on the Fitness Instructors UK Facebook page, I knew FLexercise and the Mary Bagot Stack Principles were everything I was looking for. The offer of the apprenticeship scheme was fabulous and the road to achieving this began without hesitation. I immediately felt supported by so many knowledgeable and long-standing teachers who were there to answer any questions and guide me throughout my journey. Never once did I feel too old, the scheme is open to all and I would strongly recommend anyone considering starting out, or adding to their fitness bow, the apprenticeship scheme. Apprenticeships are the perfect way to start your journey or upskill (as I did). Never be discouraged by age, it is just a number. If you have commitment and drive this is definitely the route for you and you will never look back!”
A few of the benefits of becoming a FLexercise teacher
The FLexercise System: Wins hands down! The system gives you the flexibility and freedom to create your own work whilst matching the ability, experience and preferences of those who come to class. You will never grow bored of teaching!
Job satisfaction: Teaching the Flexercise system enables you to make a real difference to people’s lives and to your own as well. Your enthusiasm for exercise, wellbeing and wanting to help others is a powerful motivator for your class participants. From a teacher’s point of view, it is wonderful to witness in a class improved posture, coordination, flexibility and growing confidence.
Supportive community: Completing the apprentice training and becoming a FLexercise teacher opens doors to a friendly and supportive community. A community of teachers who are keen to share their expertise and passion for healthy ageing.
Confidence: The training process can help build personal confidence and self-belief as Julia highlighted in her journey.
Job flexibility: Set your own hours. It enables you to work around a current job or enjoy retirement and still pursue other interests.
Practical training: FLexercise has years of experience training apprentices. The scheme offers internal ‘on the job’ practical training with a qualified class teacher. Working at your own pace, it is a truly a bespoke experience.
Theoretical knowledge: In addition, FLexercise offers an online course in physiology and anatomy, as well as a first aid course, essential for any fitness instructor.
Why choose FLexercise?
The health benefits of our exercise system are well documented and teaching FLexercise is an opportunity to share these advantages with others. It’s so much more than just fitness and fun. Almost every class becomes a social hub, where lasting friendships are made.
Most importantly we are a caring organisation.
So, are you ready to embrace an active lifestyle and make a positive impact to people’s wellbeing? If so, then follow your passion like Julia did. It’s never too late to do anything you want to do, even if it’s a complete career change.
Finally, never be put off by the word apprentice! If you want to exercise with a difference then FLexercise is for you!
Find out more about becoming a FLexercise teacher and our apprenticeship scheme.
Janice Gronow