ISESA – REPs Ireland Partnership
How are ISESA and REPs Ireland working together?
The Irish Sport and Exercise Sciences Association (ISESA)and Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) Ireland have partnered to operationalise Competency, Qualification and Accreditation Framework for Long-term Conditions (LTC) Exercise Instructors. The partnership aims to create and develop a workforce of LTC Exercise Instructors in Ireland.
What is the LTC Exercise Instructor accreditation?
The LTC Exercise Instructor accreditation recognises exercise professionals who are qualified to deliver structured exercise programmes and physical activity support in community-settings tailored to adults living with chronic conditions, which are stable and low to moderate risk. The accreditation is based on the Competency, Qualification and Accreditation Framework for Long-term Conditions Exercise Instructors
Why was it developed?
The Framework was developed in response to the growing recognition of the benefit of physical activity for people living with chronic conditions and the need for cross-sectoral collaboration to provide high quality, consistent, and accessible physical activity opportunities. The Framework seeks to contribute to national standardisation of the training and accreditation of exercise professionals to work with people living with chronic conditions, in a manner recognised by both the health and physical activity sectors.
How was it developed?
The Framework was developed through an iterative process over 12 months by a multi-disciplinary research team and through consultation with more than 130 stakeholders across health, physical activity, and education sectors.
How is it governed?
The Framework was launched in February 2025 and its implementation is governed by a multi-stakeholder steering group, with representation from national agencies and organisations, including the HSE, Sport Ireland, higher education institutions, clinical exercise services, Local Sports Partnerships, REPs Ireland and ISESA. The Framework is operationalised using the structures and expertise of REPs and ISESA.
What is the benefit of accreditation?
Accreditation as a LTC Exercise Instructor provides a range of benefits, including:
Quality assurance recognising demonstrated qualifications and experience in delivering exercise programmes for people living with chronic conditions
Professional recognition and credibility by demonstrating verified competencies aligned with nationally recognised standards for working with people living with chronic conditions
Increased employability and career progression through expanded opportunities to specialise in the community delivery of exercise for people living with chronic conditions
Commitment to continuous professional development and enhanced awareness of opportunities to advance knowledge and skills
Opportunities for networking and collaboration through engagement with the facilitated professional community of practice
How to get accredited?
The accreditation is aimed at exercise professionals, such as personal trainers, sport and exercise scientists and others, who have appropriate qualifications and experience related to physical activity for chronic conditions. If this describes you, contact us to learn more about the accreditation process at info@repsireland.ie.
Education providers are currently developing programmes that will align to the accreditation standards. Watch this space!