Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Clients with Long-Term Conditions

The Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Clients with Long-term Conditions is designed to give learners the knowledge and skills necessary to be able to support clients living with a range of one or more long-term condition(s), by encouraging them to lead healthier, more active lives to better manage their symptoms through effective behaviour-change techniques, lifestyle advice and safe and effective exercise prescription.

Delivered through flexible online learning, this qualification enables you to study at your own pace while gaining industry-recognised skills aligned with current professional standards.

Whether you are looking to expand your career opportunities or specialise in working with clinical populations, this course provides the foundation needed to work confidently within exercise referral schemes and healthcare environments.

This course is ideal for:

• Qualified fitness instructors or personal trainers looking to specialise
• Professionals working within health, wellbeing, or community fitness settings
• Individuals interested in supporting clients with medical conditions through exercise
• Those wishing to work alongside healthcare professionals within referral schemes

The course develops your understanding of safe and effective exercise programming for individuals with a range of health conditions.

Key topics include:

The qualification is delivered through structured online modules, allowing flexible study around your schedule.

Modules include:

The diploma is structured around five mandatory modules (units). These are the official Active IQ units that make up the qualification:

1. Applied anatomy and physiology for exercise, health and fitness
   You study:
   • body systems and exercise response
   • cardiovascular and respiratory function
   • musculoskeletal anatomy
   • energy systems and metabolism

   • how long-term conditions affect physical activity. 

      

2. The health landscape
   This module covers:
   • prevalence of chronic disease in the UK
   • public health priorities
   • health inequalities
   • safeguarding
   • referral pathways
   • professional responsibilities

   • the role of exercise in healthcare. 

      

3. Managing long-term conditions
   The main clinical module. It includes:
   • diabetes
   • hypertension
   • cardiovascular disease
   • COPD and respiratory conditions
   • arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders
   • obesity
   • cancer
   • mental health conditions
   • medications and contraindications

   • symptom monitoring and risk management. 

      

4. Behaviour change for clients with long-term conditions
   Focuses on coaching and psychology:
   • motivational interviewing
   • communication skills
   • behaviour change theories
   • barriers to exercise
   • adherence strategies

   • client-centred support and goal setting.

      

5. Planning and adapting physical activity for clients with long-term conditions
   Practical exercise programming module:
   • assessments and screening
   • programme design
   • adapting exercise safely
   • monitoring progress
   • progression/regression
   • evaluating outcomes
   • case-study based planning. 

The qualification is essentially a bridge between standard personal training and exercise referral/clinical exercise support. It’s designed for fitness professionals who want to work confidently with clients managing chronic health conditions.

Learning materials include:

• Online lessons and resources
• Guided study activities
• Case studies and practical scenarios
• Tutor support
• Assessments

This course is delivered fully online, giving you the flexibility to learn from anywhere.

You will receive access to:

• A dedicated online learning platform
• Structured course content and learning resources
• Tutor guidance and feedback
• Assessment support throughout your studies

Applicants should:

• Hold a suitable Level 2 qualification in Fitnes/gyms Instructing (or equivalent)
• Ideally hold or be working towards a Level 3 Personal Training qualification
• Have a good level of written English 
• Have good communication skills
• Be motivated to study independently in an online environment

Assessment methods may include:

• Multiple choice exam
• Case study analysis
• eAssessment
• Professional discussions (where applicable)

Upon successful completion, you will achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Clients with Long-Term Conditions, enabling you to support clients living with a range of one or more long-term condition(s), by encouraging them to lead healthier, more active lives to better manage their symptoms through effective behaviour-change techniques, lifestyle advice and safe and effective exercise prescription.

This qualification can support progression into roles such as:

• Exercise Referral Instructor
• Specialist Personal Trainer
• Community Health and Wellbeing Practitioner
• Gym or leisure centre referral specialist
• Work within NHS or local authority referral programmes

This qualification provides progression onto:

• Active IQ Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity and Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Low Back Pain.
• Active IQ Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity and Weight Management for Obese and Diabetic Clients.

Study duration is flexible depending on your pace. Most learners complete the course within:

16 weeks (typical completion timeframe)

We are committed to supporting you throughout your learning journey. You will have access to:

• Experienced tutors
• Structured guidance and feedback
• Online support resources
• Clear progression pathways

Start your journey today in supporting clients with long-term health conditions. Contact our team for more information about upcoming start dates, or complete an enquiry the enquiry form on our website and a member of the team will be in touch.