Deutsche Sportakademie

What Deutsche Sportakademie does

Deutsche Sportakademie is a Germany-based, state-approved (ZFU-certified) distance learning institution that operates in the vocational education market for the sports, fitness, and health sector. It is operated by DGBB – Deutsche Gesellschaft für berufliche Bildung GmbH, a privately held GmbH headquartered in Köln (Poller Kirchweg 99, 51105 Köln), managed by Merle Losem and Mirco Fretter with Miriam Müller as Akademieleitung. The company serves primarily employed individuals pursuing part-time certifications (A/B-Lizenz trainer licenses, Personal Trainer, EMS-Trainer, Yoga teacher with Krankenkassen approval, Ernährungsberater, group fitness, etc.) as well as young adults entering dual vocational apprenticeships (Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann/-frau IHK + Professional Fitnesscoach).

The core product is the Lernwelt learning platform, a media-supported LMS that delivers digital study briefs (Studienbriefe), live webinars, online assessments, and personal learning coaching, supplemented by in-person Praxistage at partner fitness studios across seven German cities (Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Dortmund, Köln). Course delivery is ZFU-certified and integrates IHK-aligned commercial qualifications, LES MILLS instructor certifications (added January 2025), Yoga Alliance recognition, and BBGM-certified corporate health management training. The portfolio spans 25+ programs across Fitness, Group Fitness, Management, and Life Balance verticals, plus the dual vocational apprenticeship.

Revenue is generated primarily through monthly tuition subscriptions (SEPA direct debit, PayPal, or bank transfer; VAT-exempt under German law), with optional paid extensions (€139 for 6 months; €239 for 12 months). Distribution is predominantly DTC via a self-serve website supplemented by phone, WhatsApp, Calendly, and email consultation; an inhouse corporate workshop channel addresses enterprise buyers. Marketing spans SEO content, paid search (Google Ads, Bing/Microsoft), paid social (Meta/TikTok pixels), email/CRM (CleverReach), the BMBF 'Die Duale' video campaign, and event presence at FIBO. A 50+ partner network functions as both apprenticeship placement infrastructure and referral lead channel.

Name

Deutsche Sportakademie

Legal name

DGBB – Deutsche Gesellschaft für berufliche Bildung GmbH

Website

https://deutschesportakademie.de

Company type

Private

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Deutsche Sportakademie is a German ZFU-certified distance learning provider, operated by DGBB GmbH in Köln, offering 25+ part-time vocational certifications and a dual IHK apprenticeship for the sports, fitness, and health industries targeting employed professionals and career-changers.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Vocational Education and Training

NAICS

Sports and Recreation Instruction (61162), Apprenticeship Training (611513), Technical and Trade Schools (6115), Professional and Management Development Training (611430)

SIC

Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Fitness & Exercise Training Education (Strength, Cardio, Mobility) (EDAAAHAB)

akta.pro secondary industries

Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) & Pilates Instructor Training (HSADACAL), Yoga, Pilates & Mind-Body Movement Education (EDAAAHAC)

Keywords

• Vocational distance learning
• Fitness trainer certification
• IHK continuing education
• Dual vocational training
• Sports management education

Headquarters

HQ city

Köln (Cologne)

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Operations, Others

Revenue model

1. Tuition / Course Fees (Monthly installments): Students pay monthly study fees over the duration of their program. The AGB state fees are due on the 1st working day of each month via SEPA direct debit, PayPal, or bank transfer. All fees are VAT-exempt under German law. A one-time 6-month extension costs €239; a 6-month alternative costs €139.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Deutsche Sportakademie delivers state-certified (ZFU-approved) part-time distance learning programs and a three-year dual vocational apprenticeship (Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann/-frau IHK) for the sports, fitness, and health management industries. The 25+ certification offerings cover Fitness trainer licenses (B-Lizenz, A-Lizenz), Group Fitness instruction, Sports/Fitness Business Management (IHK), and Life Balance disciplines (Yoga, Nutrition, Meditation, Resilience), delivered via the proprietary Lernwelt online learning platform combined with in-person practical training days at partner fitness studios across Germany.

Product overview

Deutsche Sportakademie is a state-certified (ZFU) distance learning institution offering vocational training and continuing education programs for the sports and fitness industry. The portfolio includes 25+ certification programs organized into five main categories: Fitness (trainer licenses A/B, Personal Trainer, EMS-Trainer), Group Fitness (group instructor licenses, Choreo Coach), Management (Sports/Fitness Business Manager IHK, Corporate Health Management, Online Marketing), Life Balance (Yoga, Nutrition, Meditation, Mindfulness, Resilience), and a dual vocational apprenticeship (Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann/-frau IHK). Programs are delivered through the Lernwelt digital learning platform with study materials, webinars, workshops, and personal tutoring support. Partnerships with LES MILLS provide integrated instructor certifications. Programs lead to industry-recognized licenses (A-Lizenz, B-Lizenz), IHK-certified qualifications, and specialized certifications.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Sport- und Fitnesstrainer Comprehensive fitness trainer certification covering exercise science, training methodology, and practical client management skills. Designed for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the fitness industry.
• Fitnesstrainer B-Lizenz State-approved B-level fitness trainer license offered in standard 6-month, Express 3-month, and Intensiv 5-day-plus-exam formats. Required qualification for entry-level fitness trainers in Germany.
• Personal Trainer Advanced one-on-one training certification focusing on individualized program design, client assessment, and business skills for independent personal training practice.
• Female Fitness Performance Coach Specialized certification addressing female-specific training considerations, hormonal factors, and performance optimization for female clients.
• EMS-Trainer Certification for electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) training methods and equipment operation.
• Ausdauertrainer A-Lizenz A-level endurance trainer license covering advanced cardiovascular training, periodization, and performance diagnostics.
• Medizinischer Fitnesstrainer A-Lizenz A-level medical fitness trainer license focusing on exercise prescription for clinical populations and rehabilitation support.
• Functional Fitnesstrainer A-Lizenz A-level functional fitness trainer certification covering movement-based training, kettlebells, and bodyweight exercises.
• Professional Group Fitnesstrainer Professional group fitness instructor certification including optional LES MILLS instructor certification for class leadership.
• Group Fitnesstrainer B-Lizenz B-level group fitness instructor license with optional LES MILLS instructor training pathway.
• Choreo Coach A-Lizenz A-level choreography coach certification for designing and leading choreographed group fitness classes.
• Functional Group Fitnesstrainer A-Lizenz A-level functional group training certification combining functional movement principles with group instruction methodology.
• Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement Corporate health management certification covering workplace wellness programs, certified by the Bundesverband Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement (BBGM) at training stages I and II.
• Fitnessfachwirt (IHK) IHK-certified fitness business manager qualification covering management, sales, and operational aspects of fitness facility management.
• Sportfachwirt (IHK) IHK-certified sports business specialist qualification for advanced management roles in sports and fitness organizations.
• Sportmanager Sports management certification covering business administration, marketing, and organizational management in sports contexts.
• Geprüfter Nachhaltigkeitsmanager Certified sustainability manager qualification focusing on environmental and social responsibility in sports and fitness businesses.
• Online Marketing Management Digital marketing certification covering social media, content marketing, SEO, and online advertising for fitness businesses.
• Ausbildung der Ausbilder (IHK) Train-the-trainer certification (IHK AdA) qualifying participants to instruct and mentor other fitness professionals.
• Systemischer Coach Systemic coaching certification for motivational interviewing, behavioral change support, and client psychology.
• Grundlagen der Neurodivergenz (Digital Certificate Course) Four-week digital certificate course on neurodivergence (ADHD, autism spectrum, dyslexia, dyscalculia) for creating inclusive workplace environments, aimed at HR professionals and managers.
• Yogalehrer Yoga teacher certification recognized by Yoga Alliance, including optional health insurance approval (Kassenzulassung) for leading recognized health courses.
• Yogalehrer mit Kassenzulassung Yoga teacher certification with fachliche Anerkennung (professional recognition) for Krankenkassen-finanzierte Kursleiter (statutory health insurance-funded course leaders).
• Ernährungsberater Nutrition advisor certification updated in April 2026 with holistic coaching approach for sports and competitive environments.
• Ganzheitlicher Meditationslehrer Holistic meditation teacher certification covering mindfulness techniques, neuroplasticity, and meditation instruction.
• Resilienztrainer Resilience trainer certification for building mental toughness and stress management skills in clients.
• Achtsamkeitstrainer Mindfulness trainer certification for teaching stress reduction and present-moment awareness techniques.
• Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann/-frau (IHK) inkl. Professional Fitnesscoach Three-year dual vocational training program combining IHK-certified commercial education (Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann/-frau) with Professional Fitnesscoach certification, delivered in cooperation with partner Ausbildungsbetrieb (host fitness studios). Includes mandatory LES MILLS BODYPUMP instructor training from 2025. State-approved and ZFU-certified.
• Inhouse Workshops (Corporate Training) Customized in-house corporate training programs for companies seeking to upskill employees through Deutsche Sportakademie content and instructors.

Quantifiable outcome

• Top Fernschule 2025 based on 13,370 verified participant reviews (FernstudiumCheck)
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers1 record

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration11 records

Feature3 records

Partnerships

24 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• LES MILLS GermanycoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 January 2025Strategic partnership beginning 2025 integrates LES MILLS instructor certifications (including BODYPUMP) into Deutsche Sportakademie's dual vocational training and selected continuing education programs (Professional Group Fitnesstrainer, Group Fitnesstrainer B-Lizenz, Sport- und Fitnesstrainer). Students earn a globally recognized LES MILLS instructor certification alongside their German qualifications.
• Just FitcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorJust Fit, one of the leading fitness providers in NRW with 20 high-tech facilities in Cologne and Mönchengladbach, serves as the primary apprenticeship training partner (Ausbildungspartner) for the Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann (IHK) dual program. Features prominently in the BMBF 'Die Duale' video campaign. Over 700 employees.
• Olympiastützpunkt NRW/WestfalencoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerSupports elite athletes in securing recognized vocational qualifications alongside their sporting careers under the dual career concept. The Olympiastützpunkt manages over 500 athletes across 20 Olympic sports.
• Olympiastützpunkt HessencoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerProvides dual career support for approximately 400 Olympic athletes in Hessen, coordinating with Deutsche Sportakademie for vocational education pathways for athletes.
• Volleyball Bundesliga (VBL)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerGerman volleyball league association supports Deutsche Sportakademie's efforts to provide vocational training pathways for professional volleyball players preparing for post-career transitions.
• Vereinigung der Fußballer (VdF)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAustrian professional footballers' union supports career transition planning for active footballers through Deutsche Sportakademie vocational training, supporting the 'Karriere nach der Karriere' (post-career) concept.
• Bundesverband Personal TrainingminorOthersQuality assurance association for personal training; Deutsche Sportakademie certifications align with the association's training standards for certified personal trainers.
• RehaSport Deutschland e.V.minorOthersDeutsche Sportakademie's Sport- und Fitnesstrainer license has been reviewed and approved by RehaSport Deutschland, enabling graduates to access further qualifications such as Rehasport Übungsleiter C-Lizenz.
• Yoga AllianceminorOthersYoga Alliance, the world's largest yoga association, provides international recognition for Deutsche Sportakademie's Yoga Teacher (Yogalehrer) certification programs.
• IHRSAminorOthersInternational Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association connects Deutsche Sportakademie with global fitness industry networks, events, and research publications.
• Bundesverband Betriebliches Gesundheitsmanagement e.V. (BBGM)minorOthersDeutsche Sportakademie's Betrieblicher Gesundheitsmanager training is certified against BBGM's educational stages I and II, ensuring alignment with high-quality standards for corporate health management professionals.
• FIBOminorOthersFIBO, the world's largest fitness trade show held in Cologne, provides a platform for Deutsche Sportakademie to showcase its programs to the global fitness industry audience.
• 1. FC KaiserslauternminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerHistoric Bundesliga football club supports active players and coaches in obtaining vocational qualifications through Deutsche Sportakademie's continuing education programs for a post-professional career.
• Holmes Place Health Club KölnminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPremium fitness club hosts Deutsche Sportakademie's practical training days (Fitness-Praxistage), allowing students to train with members and use club facilities after their in-person sessions.
• INJOY Köln-PorzminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPartner fitness studio hosts practical workshops for Deutsche Sportakademie's trainer license programs, where students gain hands-on customer experience during their licensing training.
• Crunch FitminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorFitness studio chain offering dual vocational training positions (Ausbildungsplätze) for aspiring Sport- und Fitnesskaufleute, with full training costs covered and above-tariff compensation provided.
• Fitness FirstminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGermany's largest national fitness chain (55+ clubs) provides combined training and practical experience for Deutsche Sportakademie apprentices as part of their professional development program.
• JoobleminorGTM or Marketing PartnerInternational job search platform partnership driving recruitment of prospective students and connecting graduates with employment opportunities in the fitness industry.
• Super Fit (EAST BANK CLUB)minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorLeading Berlin-Brandenburg fitness chain (10 studios) providing Ausbildungsplätze for Sport- und Fitnesskaufmann apprentices with comprehensive training and above-tariff compensation.
• jumpers fitnessminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSouthern German fitness chain with 38+ studios and ~500 employees (including 100+ apprentices/students) provides ongoing training positions and employee development opportunities.
• KörperformenminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorHealth-oriented EMS studio chain (267 locations across 6 countries) offers franchise and career development opportunities for Deutsche Sportakademie graduates.
• foodspringminorOthersBerlin-based sports nutrition company (150+ employees) partners with Deutsche Sportakademie to provide content and product context within nutritional education programs.
• bodyLIFE MEDIENminorOthersLeading German fitness industry media group (bodyLIFE, TRAINER, FUNCTIONAL TRAINING magazines) provides industry content and editorial coverage supporting Deutsche Sportakademie's thought leadership positioning.
• Bitkom e.V.minorOthersGermany's digital industry association (2,200+ member companies) provides framework for Deutsche Sportakademie's digital education quality standards and industry benchmarking.

Scale indicators3 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Others

• DEKRA Akademie: One of Germany's largest continuing-education and certification providers, focused on safety, technical, and management training. Comparable in operating a multi-channel vocational education platform, but does not specialize in fitness/sport certifications.
• TÜV Rheinland Akademie: Major German certification and continuing-education provider offering professional development across multiple industries. Comparable in operating a recognized German certification brand and B2B training channel, but adjacent rather than direct fitness specialization.

Broad incumbents

• FernUniversität in Hagen: Germany's only state distance-learning university, offering accredited Bachelor's and Master's programs including in sports science and health. Comparable in Fernstudium delivery mechanics, but competes at the academic-degree tier rather than vocational certifications.
• ILS (Institut für Lernsysteme): Major German Fernstudium provider offering fitness, health, and personal trainer certifications among many other vocational tracks. Comparable in state-certified distance-learning delivery and monthly subscription pricing, but a broader, less specialized portfolio.
• SGD (Studiengemeinschaft Darmstadt): One of Germany's largest general distance-learning providers with a broad catalog including fitness and health courses. Overlaps in delivery format and pricing model but serves a much wider topic portfolio rather than specializing in fitness/sport certifications.

Direct peers

• dfa Deutsche Fitness Akademie: German fitness academy offering trainer licenses (B-Lizenz, A-Lizenz), nutritional advisor, and group fitness certifications. Direct competitor targeting the same employed career-changer segment with comparable certification pathways.
• BSA-Akademie: One of Germany's largest fitness and health vocational academies offering trainer licenses, IHK qualifications, and management certifications through blended distance-learning formats. Directly comparable in target audience (employed career-changers), product structure (B/A-Lizenz, Fitnessfachwirt), and ZFU-style state recognition.
• SAFS (Staatlich anerkannte Fachschule für Sport und Gesundheit): German state-recognized vocational school for sport and health, offering trainer certifications and continuing education programs. Direct peer in target audience, course structure, and certification outcomes for fitness professionals.
• IST-Studieninstitut: German distance-learning institute specializing in fitness, health, and sport management vocational certifications delivered through a similar self-paced Fernstudium model. Directly comparable in business model (monthly tuition subscriptions), product mix, and target student (working professionals seeking IHK-recognized credentials).

Regional players

• Akademie für Sport und Gesundheit (ASG): Regional German sports and health academy offering trainer licenses and fitness certifications, primarily serving southern Germany. Comparable in product structure and target audience, but smaller scale and more regionally focused than Deutsche Sportakademie's national delivery.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Instagraminstagram.com/deutschesportakademie
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/school/deutsche-sportakademie

Compliance8 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles3 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Deutsche Sportakademie