The Higher Degree in Physical Conditioning (TSAF) qualification is one of the most comprehensive and sought-after training courses in the field of fitness and physical activity. It enables graduates to develop skills focused on training both individuals and groups of sportspeople, both at amateur and professional level. It is highly valued preparation for working in gyms, sports centres and even swimming pools.

But what do you actually learn in the TSAF and what subjects do you study? Below, we explain what is covered, how the academic courses are structured and what materials you will need.

What do you learn in the Vocational Training Higher Degree in Physical Conditioning?

One of the main attractions of the TSAF is its subjects which enable students to acquire a wide variety of skills. These range from the design of training routines for the weight room and group activities with musical support, to conditioning in aquatic environments.

Students also learn how to carry out fitness assessments which are essential in order to adapt activities to the needs of each individual and avoid health risks.

Furthermore, students not only acquire technical knowledge, but also develop interpersonal skills, improve their communication skills and develop customer service skills. As such, it can be a perfect gateway to entrepreneurship in the world of fitness.

TSAF subjects: what are they?

In the VT in Physical conditioning, the subjects are split into two academic years in which a total of 13 different subjects are taken. These provide students with a complete overview of the world of fitness.

Subjects in the 1st year of TSAF

In the first year of TSAF, there are five core subjects covering essential areas of fitness such as indoor training and the safety in activities.

  1. Fitness training in a multipurpose gym: students are taught how to plan and carry out training routines in the weight room, as well as how to guide users in the use of different machines and equipment in the gymnasium.
  2. Basic physical conditioning activities with music support: students learn how to coordinate exercises to music which is very common in group aerobics, step and other choreographed activities.
  3. Aquatic physical conditioning: in addition to teaching the techniques for activities in swimming pools, students learn about the benefits and characteristics of aquatic training.
  4. Physical conditioning assessment and accident intervention: students are trained to assess the physical condition of the participants and to know how to act in case of accidents or injuries.
  5. Vocational training and guidance (FOL): a subject oriented to the field of employment, providing knowledge about employment rights, job search techniques and basic skills to cope in the labour market.

Subjects in the 2nd year of TSAF

In the second year, the subjects of the Higher Degree in Physical Conditioning are more specific and involve the introduction of more advanced concepts. Eight modules complement the initial training and prepare students for practical situations in the world of work.

  1. Social skills: focuses on the development of communication and interpersonal skills, essential for dealing with users in a professional manner.
  2. Specialised physical conditioning activities with music support: unlike the first-year subject, here we focus on advanced activities, oriented towards the specialisation of trainers in exercise programmes set to music.
  3. Hydrokinesis techniques: focuses on advanced aquatic exercise techniques, known as hydrokinesis. Essential for those interested in working in aquatic physiotherapy and rehabilitation centres.
  4. Postural control, well-being and functional maintenance: prepares students to work in wellness centres and spas, where wellness and injury prevention through postural control is essential.
  5. Business and entrepreneurship: an introduction to entrepreneurship and business management. Intended for those who wish to start their own business or be self-employed.
  6. Professional English: focuses on technical and professional English, an essential tool for those who aspire to work in an international environment or who want to continue training in their sector.
  7. Physical conditioning project: this is the final subject. Students apply the knowledge they have acquired to develop a project, whether it is a business plan or a personalised training programme.
  8. Work placement training (FCT): a 400 hour work placement module where students can work directly in sports centres and apply everything they have learnt in a practical environment.

How many years does the TSAF last and what is the timetable for the courses?

The TSAF lasts two academic years and has a total of 2,000 hours of training. Around 1,600 hours correspond to theoretical and practical subjects, while the remaining 400 hours are dedicated to the FCT, the work experience in companies.

As for the timetable, the centres usually offer morning or afternoon sessions, allowing students to choose the option that best suits their needs and availability.

What subjects are transferable in TSAF?

For those who have previous studies or work experience, it may be possible to transfer subjects. For example:

  • From an intermediate cycle: you can transfer subjects such as ‘Business and Entrepreneurship’ and ‘FOL’.
  • From another higher cycle: it is also possible to transfer ‘Professional English’, in addition to the two previous subjects.
  • From university: transfers depend on the degree course taken, but those who have studied in the field of sport have more options.
  • With work experience in the sector: in some cases, experience can be transferred in the subject of Workplace Training (FCT).

Materials needed to study the TSAF

With regard to the materials needed for the TSAF course, it is essential to have sports clothing and some accessories for swimming practice (cap, towel, swimming goggles, etc).

The centre where the TSAF course is taken is equipped with a multi-purpose training room and access to a swimming pool for practice. This will ensure that future trainers are ready for the world of work, whether in a gym, a wellness centre or even setting up their own business.