Personnel get their Circuit Training Leader qualifications in Bahrain

PO Gareth Reid ran a Circuit Training Leaders course for Royal Navy personnel to gain the qualification at the UK Naval Support Facility, Bahrain.

The Circuit Training Leader course is a specific 5-day course that qualifies members from Royal Navy branches outside of the Physical Training sector, to formally conduct specific physical training lessons such as circuit training, group exercise classes and squad runs. 

The course requires individuals to learn about the human anatomy, correct methods of warming up, stretching, class taking and process of strength. Culminating in a theory and practical exam.

The purpose of the course is to qualify individuals to take Physical Development sessions for other members of the Royal Navy. PO Reid said, “A lot of our Ships and boats do not have the advantage of a Physical Trainer so these individuals can conduct circuit training for members of their units.”

Circuit training/Physical Development is one of the main contributing factors to individuals’ health and wellbeing within the military. Gareth commented, “It plays a key role in persons mental health, healthy living, and lifestyles. Whilst being operational, there can sometimes be limited things to do so the gymnasiums become a pivotal place where people can feel a sense of normality.”

PO Reid conducted the course over a 2-week ad hoc period due to operational commitments of personnel and it proved a great success, with all four participants passing. 

The course concluded with the Commanding Officer, Cdr Alex Savage presenting them with their certificates and all four have already taken several circuits. 

PO Reid added, “I would highly recommend that all Physical Training Instructors in the position within UKNSF carry out a CTL course every 3-6 months. This way guarantees that when the Physical Trainer takes 2 weeks for rest and recovery, there are qualified personnel who can continually run and organise formal PT sessions.”