Fitness and Health Promotion

Post-Secondary Programs
Credential Earned: Ontario College Diploma (2 Year)
Campus: Timmins
Program Length: 4 semesters

Program Code: H169

You know that a healthy and active lifestyle is a cornerstone of good general health.

There are a variety of challenges that fitness professionals like you can help people overcome. Becoming a certified fitness professional will allow you to work in both the public and private sectors with specialized groups of people like children, the elderly, or with professional sports organizations. You will learn about all kinds of fitness exercises including outdoor activities, yoga, resistance training, cardiovascular training, and how to modify activities for various limitations.

As a student in this program, you will learn how to assess clients and build individual training programs to help them achieve their fitness goals. You will also learn how to build community health promotion programs and present them to others by honing your communication, networking and community relations skills. You will be ready for your fitness internship as you learn with us, graduating with the ability to create a business plan to start your exciting new venture.

As part of your studies, you will complete the CSEP – CPT and Canfit Pro fitness certifications. This will help you to meet the demands of the market for fitness, wellness and health promotion service requirements.

Contact Information

For questions about being admitted into the program, please contact Northern College Admissions at admissions@northern.on.ca or by phone at 705-235-3211 ext. 7222.

For questions about the content of the program, contact the Program Coordinator.

Maria McInnis
Program Coordinator
Email: mcinnism@northern.on.ca

Student Success & The Northern Experience

Becoming a certified fitness professional will allow you to work in both the public and private sectors with specialized groups of people like children, the elderly, or with professional sports organizations.

You will learn about all kinds of fitness exercises including outdoor activities, yoga, resistance training, cardiovascular training, and how to modify activities for various limitations.

Does this program sound like a good fit for you?

Connect with us to learn more.

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Course Information

Course descriptions can be found below.

Please note, course information is based on our current offering and is subject to change. Current students can find more information on courses in their student account.

If you have questions or require program information for previous academic years, please contact the Program Coordinator.

2024-2025 Academic Year

Semester 1

In this course, students will learn essential skills for success in college and the workplace. This course focuses on developing and strengthening oral and written communication skills, and critical thinking ability. During this course, students will engage in a variety of forms of communication with a focus on upholding the principles of academic integrity. Students will develop the skills necessary to create discipline-specific documents, practice business etiquette and professionalism, and apply critical thinking strategies to practical scenarios. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to plan and draft concise, coherent and well-organized writing assignments that are tailored to specific audiences and purposes. 

42 Hours

In this course, students will gain the mathematical skills and knowledge necessary for a career in Fitness and Health Promotion. The mathematical calculations and skills introduced will be used in assessing fitness and for developing exercise programs in future courses. Real life examples in the fitness industry and business will be used to solidify the mathematical skills. Basic statistics and research principles will be reviewed to enhance students’ ability to understand current research in the health field.

42 Hours

In this course, students will examine the musculoskeletal system in depth. Bones, joints, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, connective tissue, and muscles of the body will be studied. Group and individual work will be performed using anatomical models and diagrams to facilitate comprehension. Students will study the muscular attachments and actions of selected muscles. Determining active muscle contraction and joint actions during various basic exercises for the trunk, upper extremities, and lower extremities will be explored.

56 Hours

In this course, students will gain foundational knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. Principle concepts of homeostasis, levels of organization within the body, and fundamental terminology will be introduced, and types of tissue and energy metabolism will be examined. Students will study the following specific systems, integumentary, nervous, endocrine, lymphatic, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive.

42 Hours

In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of health screening and fitness assessment methodologies.  With a focus on safety and accuracy fitness assessment theory and hands on practical techniques will be used to obtain the fitness status and evaluate general health.  The goal is for students to gain skills and confidence to perform necessary assessments and interpretation of the results in order to provide safe exercise prescription and progression to achieve health or performance goals.  The fitness assessment components covered include, preliminary health screening, body composition, muscular strength and endurance, and cardiorespiratory capacity.

42 Hours

In this course, students will be introduced to the key fundamental components of developing and instructing group exercise classes. Topics such as music, cueing, safety, integrating applied anatomy, choreography development, effective instructional techniques, and coaching will all be used to improve skills of students as group exercise leaders. In this active class, students will participate in exercise sessions as well as physically instruct classmates in group warm-up exercises, flexibility and mobility training, neuromotor and functional training, cardiovascular training, and muscular conditioning.  Group training for older adults using chairs will also be explored.

42 Hours

General Education Courses are selected online each semester by the student from a list provided and exposes students to a related area of study outside of their immediate academic discipline. Certain programs have predetermined electives. 

42 Hours

Semester 2

In this course, students are encouraged to explore their personal health a wellness journeys while studying a wide variety of topics, issues and information. The determinants of health will be studied with group discussion and self-reflection. Students will use research methods to study the emotional, social, physical, environmental, and occupations factors that contribute to health and wellness. Specific topics related to health and wellness will include, mental health, aging, substance abuse, chronic disease, illness, gender identity, healthy environment, poverty, culture and race will be examined.

42 Hours

In this course, students will review health screening and fitness assessment protocols.  A systematic approach to fitness and lifestyle appraisal will be followed in this hands-on practical course.  Students will use knowledge and skills gained in semester 1 and will continue to build on these skills.  A variety of assessments will be used to gain additional useful information to develop an effective client-centered fitness and life-style action plan.  An emphasize will be placed on the health benefits of physical activity and communicating those benefits to healthy individuals.   Assessment components covered include, pre-appraisal screening, health-related questionnaires, body composition, aerobic fitness, musculoskeletal fitness, balance, functional movement screen and occupational fitness.  Modifications for individual with disabilities will be explored.

56 Hours

In this course, students will learn the importance of proper nutrition for overall health and wellness.  Students acquired knowledge of basic nutrition theory will begin with studying the six classes of nutrients, which include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and water.  The role of the fitness professional versus regulated health professional scope of practice for providing nutritional advice will be covered.  The details of the Canada’s food guide will be studied in depth.  Mindful eating, implications of alcohol, considerations for Indigenous Peoples, proper digestion and absorption, and food labelling will also be explored.

42 Hours

In Group Exercise II, students will build upon the foundational knowledge and skills they acquired in Group Exercise I. This comprehensive program delves into an array of exercise styles and formats to provide a well-rounded fitness education, including kickboxing, step training, indoor cycling, boot camp, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), water exercise, yoga, and Pilates. Additionally, we’ll briefly explore various other popular fitness modalities to enhance your understanding of the diverse world of group fitness.

42 Hours

In this course, students will gain knowledge and practical skills on effective exercise program design, monitoring and evaluation.  This practical class will cover proper selection of exercises and equipment corresponding to client goals. Correct execution of exercises and correct spotting techniques along with proper use of equipment will be taught and evaluated.  Program design will include all components from information gathered from client in consultation to execution of warm-up/cool down, overload, resistance training, aerobic and anerobic training, flexibility training and mobility training.

42 Hours

In this course, students examine business skills, marketing methods, and effective communication strategies necessary for a successful career in fitness and health promotion.  Topics for class discussion include internship preparation, career opportunities, entrepreneurship, professionalism, interview skills, and general workplace legalities.

42 Hours

In this course, students will examine the responses and adaptations of several body systems and processes during and after various types of exercise.  The topics studied will include adaptations to energy metabolism, respiratory system, neuromuscular system, cardiovascular system, and hormonal responses.  Students will contrast the physiological variations between sedentary individuals and a variety of trained individuals.

42 Hours

Semester 3

In this course, students will be introduced to theories of behavioural change and effective communication skills that are essential in the field of fitness and health promotion.  Students will have a practical opportunity to apply their gained knowledge and skills of counselling and communication with a client during the semester.  Some of the topics covered include discussions on behaviour change and exercise adherence, stages of change, personality and physical activity, habits, building rapport, empathy, emotional intelligence, and active listening.

42 Hours

In this course, students will study common musculoskeletal injuries and conditions.  Injury prevention and management and how it relates to exercise prescription will be examined.  Students will gain knowledge and skills on various types of rehabilitative exercises and equipment that can be integrated into an exercise program.   Basic biomechanical principles will be introduced.  Healthy individuals and special population considerations will be addressed.

56 Hours

In this course, students will be introduced to basic knowledge and techniques essential for exercise prescription for specific populations.  Modifications, special considerations, and appropriate adaptations necessary for the selected populations will be studied.  Practical opportunities and theoretical knowledge will be used to evaluate the benefits of exercise and physical activity in the treatment of various populations and conditions. The anatomical and physiological changes or differences will also be considered when preforming assessment and exercise prescription.  Some of the specific populations studied will include: pre/post-natal, seniors, children, obesity, specific cognitive and physical needs, and diabetes.

42 Hours

In this course, students will gain planning and leadership skills necessary to run a successful community event promoting fitness and health.  Working as a team, students will develop an event concept or build on an existing one, create the proposal and plan, in order to execute an event for their local community.  This practical class will involve many components such as, event promotion, operations, safety, staffing, and finances.

42 Hours

In this course, students will have the opportunity to train clients in this on-campus internship.  Students will meet weekly as a class to review client training progress and continue with preparation for full fourth semester internship.  Students will use their skills in communication, counselling, fitness assessment and fitness program prescription to attain client’s fitness/wellness goals.

42 Hours

General Education Courses are selected online each semester by the student from a list provided and exposes students to a related area of study outside of their immediate academic discipline. Certain programs have predetermined electives. 

42 Hours

Semester 4

In this course, students will begin with a review of general nutrition and exercise physiology building on their knowledge gained from their Nutrition course in semester one.  They will spend time critically evaluating popular dietary methods, including the role of hydration.  Identification of disordered eating patterns, ergogenic aids, and nutrient timing will also be reviewed.  An understanding of nutrition strategies for exercise and sport training will be attained.

45 Hours

In this course, students will continue to build on their skills of prescribing safe and effective training programs for a variety of individuals.  More advanced training techniques will be studied in order to prepare clients for a specific sport or event.   In this practical course students will continue to build on student competencies with communication, coaching, and execution of safe and effective exercise techniques.

45 Hours

In this course, students are introduced to the important role managers and supervisors play in the success of a fitness and wellness club or organization.  The main topics covered are financial management, risk management, customer service, and human resources.  Promoting professionalism and leadership while managing the operations of a fitness/wellness facility or club is the primary objective of the course.

45 Hours

In this course, students will focus on the mental and physical health benefits of outdoor recreation.  Students will be introduced to a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as skiing, trail running, snowshoeing, cycling, canoeing, hiking, stand up paddle boarding, and orienteering.  Identifying local, provincial, and national recreational organizations for many of the outdoor recreational activities will increase knowledge of general fitness and health promotion opportunities within their community and beyond.  Safety and adhering to risk management will be applied to all outdoor recreational activities.

45 Hours

In this course, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a work environment.   Placement settings and locations will vary providing a range of opportunities for students.  All placements will provide students with experience in a community-based setting within the field of Fitness and Health Promotion.  Students will have the opportunity to gain additional skills in the field of fitness and health promotion through performing activities such as fitness assessments, counselling clients, providing fitness and health promotion activities/events within the community, instructing fitness classes and helping clients meet their fitness and health goals

100 Hours

Improving your knowledge and understanding of the history of the Indigenous peoples of what we now call Canada is an important step to enable Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, organizations, and communities to work together more respectfully. Throughout this course you will have the opportunity to learn, discuss and reflect about many topics that are relevant in the learning journey towards reconciliation.

42 Hours

Career Ready Graduates

Pathways to Success

If you choose to continue your studies after college, you can transfer into other post-secondary diploma and/or degree programs including the Bachelor of Health Promotion or Bachelor of Kinesiology with partner universities.

 

Articulation Agreements

A number of articulation agreements have been negotiated with universities and other institutions across Canada, North America and internationally. These agreements are assessed, revised and updated on a regular basis. Please contact the program coordinator for specific details if you are interested in pursuing such an option.

  1. Conduct an assessment of the physical fitness, activity level and lifestyle of the client using standardized protocols, to build an individualized exercise program.
  2. Develop, implement and evaluate safe training programs grounded in fundamental of anatomy, bio-mechanics, cardiorespiratory physiology, the musco-skeletal system and nutrition to support the fitness and wellness goals of clients.
  3. Instruct individual clients and groups in the correct techniques for executing fitness and training programs to achieve results that meet their goals for fitness, active living, and wellness.
  4. Select and apply interview tools and coaching strategies that will enable clients and groups to improve their fitness and wellness in sustainable ways.
  5. Develop business plans for a fitness and/or training business organization to ensure sustainability and viability while mitigating risks.
  6. Support community health promotion strategies for active health living in the general population.
  7. Establish and maintain positive working relationships with clients, staff, allied health professionals, and volunteers in the delivery of programs, activities, and use of facilities.
  8. Provide positive reinforcement to empower clients and help them sustain their efforts.
  9. Develop plans and implement strategies for ongoing professional growth and development.

Communicate information persuasively and accurately in oral, written, and other media formats.

Career Opportunities

As part of your studies, you will complete the CSEP – CPT and Canfit Pro fitness certifications. Becoming a certified fitness professional will allow you to work in both the public and private sectors with specialized groups of people like children, the elderly, or with professional sports organizations.

  • Personal fitness trainer
  • Fitness coach
  • Employed by community centres, sports and fitness clubs, outdoor centres, resorts, recretational facilities, health care facilities, retirement homes, and correctional institutions

Explore labour market information for related careers and employment trend data from the Government of Canada Job Bank.

Admissions Information & Requirements

Admission Requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
  • Grade 12 (C or U) Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology or Exercise Science)
  • Grade 12 English (C,U)

 

Academic prerequisites for this program may be obtained free of charge through Academic Upgrading.

Applicants who do not have a high school diploma or equivalent and will have reached the age of 19 years on or before the start of the program must undergo academic testing and may be required to complete Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR) process to demonstrate equivalency of admission requirements prior to admission into a program.

For more details, please contact the Admissions Office at 705-235-7222 or admissions@northern.on.ca.

Additional Requirements for International Students

In addition to the admission requirements, international students must have proof of English Proficiency and meet the requirements below.

  • IELTS (academic) overall 6.0 with one band could be 5.5
  • Grade 12 High school diploma or equivalent
  • Either grade 12 biology or physics or chemistry at least 70%

Program Specific Requirements & Additional Information

Tuition, Fees & Payments

The tuition and fees information is typically updated yearly for the upcoming Academic Year in May. The amounts are for the full academic year.

Amounts may be based on last years tuition and fees and are subject to change.

If you are a current student, please refer to your Student Account or see a Student Services Clerk for the most up-to-date information.

Tuition

Domestic: $2,720.56

International: $14,813.46

Ancillary Fees

Ancillary fees vary by campus and support aspects of your experience as a Northern College student, such as Student Associations, Athletic Facilities, and Health Benefits.

Ancillary fees are paid in full for the entire academic year in the first semester.

The Convocation and Official Documentation Fee (GRA) of $100.00 only applies for the first year of each program.

Please see Detailed Ancillary Fees for more information.

Ancillary Fees by Campus Domestic International
Timmins (PC) $945.50 $1,558.00

Find Your True North.

At Northern College, you’re a part of a community.

From your teachers to support staff and administrators, we are all here to help you get an education and make some lasting connections along the way.

Your success is incredibly important to you, so we provide student supports to help you achieve your goals. From study assistance and accessibility services to mental health supports and financial aid, we’ve got you covered.

Each of Northern’s campuses boasts exercise facilities, a gym, cafeteria, study areas and a library – places that you can go to help keep you focused as you work your way through your studies. The communities we call home are incredible places, filled with amazing people and things to do.

Student Supports & ServicesTimmins Campus

Timmins Northern College Campus sign

Does Northern College sound like a good fit for you?

Here’s how to take your first steps on your new exciting and rewarding career path.

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