Basic Theory is a foundational course designed to complement the practical skills of Les Mills instructors. It provides essential theoretical knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and exercise science, helping you deliver safer and more effective classes.
Why this matters for you as a Les Mills Instructor.
For the first time, Les Mills Nordic instructors can gain official recognition as Europe Active EQF Level 3 Group Fitness Instructors. This accreditation strengthens your professionalism and makes your skills recognised across Europe.
With Les Mills Initial Training combined with Improve Educations’ Basic Theory, you meet and exceed the European standards for group fitness.
IMPROVE AS AN INSTRUCTOR!
BASIC THEORY
Do you want to inspire people and take your role as a Les Mills instructor to the next level? With our Basic Theory education, tailored specifically for Les Mills instructors, you’ll gain a strong foundation in anatomy, physiology, and exercise science. This modern and flexible education is based on research, designed to strengthen your skills as an instructor and help your participants achieve their goals.
Complete any
Les Mills Initial Training
Les Mills Initial Training is your first step to becoming an instructor. It equips you with the coaching skills, program-specific techniques, and practical tools you need to inspire participants in every class. With Initial Training, you gain the foundation to teach safely, effectively, and with the unique Les Mills style that motivates people worldwide.
EQF Level 3 – The European Standard
EuropeActive
Les Mills Nordic instructors can now achieve the EuropeActive EQF Level 3 – Group Fitness Instructor certification. This accreditation proves that your knowledge and skills meet European standards for fitness professionals. By combining your Les Mills Initial Training + Basic Theory, you are officially recognised at EQF Level 3.
International Recognition
EREPS
Once you are EQF Level 3 certified, you can be registered with EREPS – the European Register of Exercise Professionals. EREPS is an independent register that recognises qualified fitness professionals across Europe. Being an EREPS member shows that you are a professional instructor, committed to quality and continuous development – and part of an international community of fitness experts.
Basic Theory
On demand.
Online course.
€249
Les Mills Nordic exclusive.
Regular price: €499
2 weeks part time
Average time for our students.
When studying 2 hours a day.
Earn EQF Level 3 Certification
The European standard for group fitness instructors.
REGULAR PRICE - 499€
LES MILLS NORDIC PRICE - 249€
Create your free account to get access to a free trial of Basic Theory.
THE PERFECT FIT FOR LES MILLS INSTRUCTORS!
The course is 100% online and designed to be completed entirely at your own pace – making it easy to fit into a busy instructor schedule.
With interactive content, clear explanations, and up-to-date science, Basic Theory is the most modern and accessible course of its kind on the market.
Your Educators. Your Support. Your Team.
MATTHEW GRIFFTHS
Matthew is an experienced instructor trainer and learning designer who specializes in creating engaging and effective educational experiences. In Basic Theory, he ensures that complex topics are delivered in a structured and motivating way. His expertise in adult learning and communication supports learners at every step.
HELENA ÅKESSON
With over two decades of experience in fitness and education, Helena is a skilled personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and pedagogue. In Basic Theory, she guides learners through key concepts with clarity, structure, and care. Her strength lies in making participants feel confident and supported in their learning journey.
SETH RONLAND
Seth is a seasoned personal trainer and educator with a strong foundation in functional training and evidence-based practice. In Basic Theory, he brings deep expertise in anatomy, physiology, and training application. His teaching style makes complex concepts accessible and practical for fitness professionals.
MARY-LOU RICHARDS
Mary-Lou is a registered naprapath with a clinical focus on women’s health, rehabilitation, and exercise integration. In Basic Theory, she provides valuable insight into functional anatomy and the relationship between treatment and movement. Her academic and clinical background adds depth and relevance to the educational experience.
NIKLAS BOHLIN
Niklas is a physiotherapist and educator with a passion for bridging theory and practice in human movement. In Basic Theory, he shares his expertise in biomechanics and injury prevention with clarity and precision. His background in both clinical and performance settings enhances the course’s practical relevance.
ELIN ÄNG
Elin plays a key role in the education and quality assurance of Les Mills instructors across Europe. She contributes to Basic Theory with her extensive knowledge of movement, training methodology, and coaching. Her involvement ensures high standards and professional delivery throughout the course.
Foundation
Basic Theory gives you the essential knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and training science – the solid base every instructor needs to feel confident and credible.
Confidence
Understanding how the body works makes you more secure in your role. You’ll be able to answer questions, explain movements, and gain the trust of your participants.
Quality
Les Mills sets the global standard for group fitness. With Basic Theory, your theoretical knowledge matches the same high level of quality as your classes.
Flexibility
The entire course is online and self-paced. Study when and where it suits you, with complete freedom to fit learning into your lifestyle
Certification
When you complete Basic Theory together with your Les Mills Initial Training, you achieve the EuropeActive EQF Level 3 – an international license recognised across Europe.
Growth
Investing in theory is investing in yourself. You don’t just become a better instructor – you grow into a true fitness professional.
MEET LES MILLS NORDIC TRAINER
DITTE SOMMER WEINREICH
Anyone who meets Ditte can’t help but be inspired by her enthusiasm and passion for educating group fitness instructors. Ditte has completed Basic Theory herself, and in this video, she shares why the knowledge it provides is so essential for every Les Mills instructor. Watch to hear her thoughts!
TURN YOUR PASSION INTO PURPOSE
BECOME AN INSTRUCTOR
Not a Les Mills instructor yet? Take the first step towards an inspiring career in group fitness. Click below to explore how you can get started with your Les Mills Initial Training.
IMPROVE AS AN INSTRUCTOR!
We already know that you're an awesome instructor. But we also know that there are some parts that could be useful you as well!
That's why we have created this groundbreaking online course, designed for you as an instructor. You will learn the most important about anatomy, physiology and the basics of training!
Which will give you even more confidence both for you in your instructor role and more credibility towards your participants!
To get started is free!
To give you a feel and look of our course, we have created a free trial course. Which gives you a deep insight of how the course looks and is structured.
A unique Les Mills deal!
Thanks to being the official provider to Les Mills. You will get a great deal!
Modern, on demand and simple!
All of the course content is based on research and evidence, which means that it is pure facts that you will learn. Through modern training videos with 3D animations, filmed material and a professional teacher, you get an online education like no other!
FAQ - Get answers to your questions!
Why should Les Mills instructors take Basic Theory?
As a Les Mills instructor, you already have exceptional practical skills. Basic Theory strengthens your role by adding a deeper understanding of how the body works, enabling you to adapt exercises and better support your participants.
In what languages is the course available?
The course is available in both English and Swedish, making it accessible to Les Mills instructors across different countries.
Basic Theory is an on-demand course, allowing you to study at your own pace. The content includes interactive videos, 3D animations, and quizzes to test your knowledge as you progress.
How long does it take to complete the course?
Most participants complete the course in about 2–4 weeks if studying part-time. However, the flexible structure allows you to take as much time as you need.
Will I receive a certificate after completing the course?
Yes, once you successfully complete the course, you’ll receive a certificate confirming your theoretical competence.
Can I access the course material after completion?
Absolutely! Once you purchase the course, you have lifetime access to all materials, allowing you to revisit them anytime.
Is Basic Theory specific to Les Mills instructors?
While the course is tailored to complement Les Mills programs, it is also suitable for any group fitness instructor looking to strengthen their theoretical foundation.
Why is theoretical knowledge important for group fitness instructors?
Theoretical knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and exercise science helps group fitness instructors understand how different exercises impact the body and how to best coach participants to avoid injuries and maximize results.
Do I need any prior knowledge?
No prior knowledge is required to take this course. Basic Theory is designed to guide you step-by-step, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced instructors looking to strengthen their theoretical foundation.
How do I enroll in Basic Theory?
Simply create an account on our platform, purchase the course, and start studying immediately.
Contact us, and we’ll respond within 24 hours.
COMING SOON!
Get EuropeActive Certified – As a Les Mills Group Fitness Instructor
A complete online education combining theory and practical training – built for Les Mills Nordic instructors.
🎓 What is this?
This course is designed exclusively for Les Mills Nordic instructors who wish to receive a EuropeActive EQF Level 3certification in fitness instruction.
It combines:
Basic Theory (delivered by Improve Educations)
Les Mills Initial Training (delivered by Les Mills Nordic)
Together, they meet the standard for EQF Level 3 Fitness Instructors across Europe.
⏱️ Course Duration and Structure
The total course workload is 160 hours, combining theoretical learning, practical experience, and self-directed study. This is how it breaks down:
📍 Les Mills Initial Training — 24 hours
Delivered over 2 days, either in-person or via Zoom. Includes:
Practical workshops
Coaching and communication skills
Feedback and assessment preparation
Safety and class delivery techniques
Led by certified Les Mills trainers.
📍 Supervised Teaching Practice — 40 hours
Completed over up to 8 weeks in a real-life group fitness setting.
You will:
Teach live classes
Receive structured feedback
Submit a final video for assessment
Conducted in local gyms or partner clubs and reviewed by Les Mills assessors.
📍 Home Study & Theory — 96 hours
Delivered via Improve Educations’ interactive learning platform.
Includes:
Full Basic Theory course (anatomy, physiology, training science, health & safety)
On-demand learning, digital lectures & revision
Les Mills Foundations Prework
Self-assessment and final exam prep
These hours also cover personal reflection and optional self-directed study.
💻 Course Delivery for Basic Theory
This is a 100% online education with:
Video-based lectures
Interactive modules
Assignments and assessments
Live tutor support
Accessible anytime, anywhere through our virtual campus.
📚 What you’ll learn from Basic Theory
From Basic Theory – powered by Improve Educations:
Anatomy
Physiology
Training science
Movement principles
Coaching foundations
💻 Course Delivery for Initial Training – delivered by Les Mills:
How to deliver safe and effective group fitness classes
Teaching and cueing techniques
Class structure and choreography
Music, motivation, and presence
🧑🏫 Your Educators
The course is led by experienced educators, including:
Academic experts from Improve Educations
Senior trainers and presenters from Les Mills Nordic
Each instructor brings years of experience in both education and group fitness.
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To become a EuropeActive Certified Group Fitness Instructor, you must first complete the Les Mills Initial Training. Upon successful completion, you will be invited to purchase and enrol in Basic Theory – the theoretical component required to meet the standards of the EQF Level 3 qualification.
💰 Price
The combined package is available for €XXX (VAT included).
Flexible payment options available for eligible instructors.
🎓 Final Qualification
Upon completing both components, you will receive an EQF Level 3 Fitness Instructor Certification, recognised across Europe and accredited by EuropeActive.
🌐 Online Student Platform
You’ll get access to a virtual learning environment with:
Peer interaction and forums
Progress tracking and reminders
Tutor messaging and guidance
Resource library and downloads
Support is always just a message away.
👀 Try It First – For Free
Want to experience the course before enrolling?
You can try selected parts of the Basic Theory platform for free and see how it fits your learning style.
👉 [Click here to access your free trial] (button or link)