Qualification
SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness

SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness
Study Modes
Online
Duration
18 months

Course overview

Looking for the ultimate fitness qualification? Well you’ve found it in the Master Trainer Online Program™ from Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF).

Developed and delivered by leading fitness experts and educators, the Master Trainer Online Program™ equips you for industry. While holding a Certificate IV in Fitness is sufficient for most fitness industry employers, some require trainers to also have their Certificate III in Fitness in order to deliver their proprietary exercise programs to members and participants. The inclusion of this qualification in the Master Trainer Online Program™, therefore, enables graduates to meet this requirement.

Delivered through a streamlined, engaging and effective learning experience, this program covers all the fitness fundamentals plus much more, including nutritional guidance, anatomy, physiology and exercise prescription. Students also learn training principles and considerations for a range of groups and special populations, such as adolescents, older adults, amateur athletes and people with body composition and endurance-based goals.

The course also has a strong business focus, with units addressing how to prepare for and set up your own fitness business, and the basic sales and marketing skills necessary to acquire clients. You will also learn how to positively influence exercise behaviour, and how to effectively use wearable technology to enhance the service you provide to clients. Plus, you will have access to F.I.R.E. and the Healthy People Fitness Recruitment site which connects students and graduates directly to industry.

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Who this course is for

  • Those who want to help others achieve their fitness goals and change lives
  • Those who are looking for a career change and have a passion for health and fitness
  • Those who want the qualification the fitness industry prefers
  • Those interested in receiving the highest quality education in fitness, superior learning support and the greatest opportunities to start a successful fitness career

Benefits

With obesity and other diseases linked to inactivity on the rise in Australia, the importance of fitness education and services are more essential than ever.

At the AIF, it is our mission to train our students to be Warriors against SeDs (Sedentary Death Syndrome) to activate the nation to stay fit and healthy. With exercise now widely recognised as both a pre-habilitative solution and a rehabilitative solution for chronic lifestyle diseases, more doctors are prescribing exercise to their clients, increasing the demand for highly skilled PTs.

Personal training is no longer seen as a luxury service, and as the fitness industry continues to grow, so does the uptake of personal training services.

Our Coaches

When we ask our students what they love most about their experience at the AIF, our Coaches continually rank as a standout feature of the course. We believe this is one of the reasons our students regularly score our course experience at over 9 out of 10.

Our highly qualified team of Coaches bring passion and commitment to their teaching, ensuring all areas of learning are delivered in a fun and engaging way.

They have many years experience working with a huge range of personal training clients, from elite sportspeople to those new to fitness, and many also present at fitness conventions and write for reputable fitness resources.

Career opportunities

  • Personal Trainer
  • Outdoor Trainer/Bootcamp Instructor
  • Personal Training Manager
  • Fitness Coach
  • Fitness Instructor

Training & assessment

The program is delivered over 80 delivery sessions, including knowledge checks and assessment challenges. Extra criteria must be met to gain the Master Trainer Level 1 certification.

Entry requirements

Students must be over 16 before they begin SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness and over 17 before they begin SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness. They must also have a computer and internet access, a passion for fitness, and meet the AIF’s acceptance criteria. This includes an eligibility interview and demonstrating satisfactory levels of language, literacy and numeracy.

Students must successfully complete SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness before commencing SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness.

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SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness

Competency Code Competency Title Elective/Core
BSBOPS304 Deliver and monitor a service to customers Core
BSBPEF301 Organise personal work priorities Core
HLTAID011* Provide First Aid Core
HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety Core
SISFFIT032 Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation Core
SISFFIT033 Complete client fitness assessments Core
SISFFIT035 Plan group exercise sessions Core
SISFFIT036 Instruct group exercise sessions Core
SISFFIT040 Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients Core
SISFFIT047 Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise Core
SISFFIT052 Provide healthy eating information Core
CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues Elective
SISXIND009 Respond to interpersonal conflict Elective
CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people Elective
SISXDIS001 Facilitate inclusion for people with a disability Elective

*To be completed externally

SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness

Competency Code Competency Title Elective/Core
BSBESB401 Research and develop business plans Elective
BSBESB301 Investigate business opportunities Elective
BSBESB404 Market new business ventures Elective
SISXCAI005 Conduct individualised long-term training programs Elective
SISFFIT051 Establish and maintain professional practice for fitness instruction Core
SISFFIT034 Assess client movement and provide exercise advice Elective
SISFFIT041 Develop personalised exercise programs Core
SISFFIT042 Instruct personalised exercise sessions Core
CHCCOM006 Establish and manage client relationships Core
SISFFIT050 Support exercise behaviour change Core
SISFFIT043 Develop and instruct personalised exercise programs for body composition goals Core
SISFFIT053 Support healthy eating for individual fitness clients Core
SISFFIT044 Develop and instruct personalised exercise programs for older clients Core
SISFFIT049 Use exercise science principles in fitness instruction Core
SISFFIT045 Develop and instruct personalised exercise programs for adolescent clients Core
SISXICT001 Select and use technology for sport, fitness and recreation work Elective
SISFFIT046 Plan and instruct online exercise sessions Elective

 

What you'll learn

You’ll accomplish your goals and achieve your qualifications by undergoing and completing the following units within your courses:

BSBESB401 ElectiveResearch and develop business plans

Gain the skills and knowledge required to establish and oversee successful fitness businesses, encompassing market analysis, financial planning, and risk management. Personal trainers will create detailed business plans, achieving their goals and objectives. Suitable for trainers in diverse settings, this unit is crucial for aspiring entrepreneurs in the fitness industry.

BSBESB301 ElectiveInvestigate business opportunities

This unit assists personal trainers in starting or expanding their business by identifying and evaluating potential opportunities within the fitness industry. It covers the essentials of business opportunities, legal frameworks, market research, financial planning, and risk assessment. Applicable to both independent trainers and those within a larger organisation, graduates will develop and execute effective business plans, attaining their goals in the competitive fitness sector.

BSBESB404 ElectiveMarket new business ventures

This unit aims to teach personal training students the skills and knowledge necessary to devise and execute an effective marketing strategy integrated within their business plan. Students will learn to identify target audiences, develop persuasive communication strategies, and analyse market data, improving their business venture’s performance. Ideal for personal trainers starting or expanding their business, graduates will gain valuable skills for building a strong brand identity, communicating effectively, and fostering business growth.

SISXCAI005 ElectiveConduct individualised long-term training programs

This unit is crucial for personal training students, as it focuses on acquiring the skills and knowledge needed to develop and implement long-term training programs that enhance individual sporting skills or physical capacity. The course covers a wide range of topics, such as applying sport or activity-specific knowledge, program planning, and evaluation techniques. Students will be able to work with diverse clients, including individuals, groups, or teams, to create customised training programs that are effective and sustainable. The course also includes best practices for program evaluation, ensuring that training programs are continuously adapted and improved to meet clients’ evolving needs, fostering their progress and success.

SISFFIT051 CoreEstablish and maintain professional practice for fitness instruction

This unit is fundamental for those pursuing a personal training career, as it lays the foundation for success in the industry. Personal trainers will develop the skills and knowledge necessary to create an industry context for their work, build relationships with medical and allied health professionals, and engage in ongoing professional development through reflective practice and critical thinking. In this unit, personal trainers will learn how to identify and evaluate evidence-based information, equipping them with the tools needed to make informed decisions in their daily activities. These skills are vital for independent personal trainers, allowing them to exercise discretion and judgement while developing and delivering individually tailored client exercise programs and providing comprehensive support to individual clients.

CHCCOM006 CoreEstablish and manage client relationships

This unit imparts the skills and knowledge needed to establish and manage professional one-on-one relationships with clients while providing ongoing health services or interventions. Students will learn how to work independently with clients within established guidelines, maintaining a high level of professionalism. This involves effective communication with clients, assessment of their needs, and development of customised health interventions that cater to their unique requirements. By completing this unit, students will be prepared to deliver high-quality services that address their clients’ needs, paving the way for a successful career in the field and fostering lasting professional relationships.

SISFFIT050 CoreSupport exercise behaviour change

In this unit, students will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to identify clients’ current exercise patterns and assist them in making positive changes to achieve their fitness goals. The unit emphasises evidence-based approaches to behaviour change and instructs students on integrating these approaches into every aspect of client support, from initial fitness assessments to program planning, instruction, and evaluation. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are prepared to provide a service that is tailored to each client’s specific needs. The unit stresses discretion and judgement in the development and delivery of individually tailored exercise programs for personal trainers who work independently with clients. Furthermore, it offers guidance on helping individual clients reach their goals, promoting lasting behavioural change and ongoing progress.

SISFFIT034 ElectiveAssess client movement and provide exercise advice

In this unit, students will acquire the skills to conduct movement assessments and offer customised exercise advice that can be integrated into comprehensive fitness programs for individual clients. Emphasising the importance of discretion and judgement for personal trainers working independently, this unit guides students in delivering assessments and advice tailored to each client’s specific needs. Upon completing this unit, students will be proficient in providing personalised assessments and recommendations that can be incorporated into well-rounded fitness programs, setting them up for success in the industry.

SISFFIT041 CoreDevelop personalised exercise programs

In this unit, students will learn how to combine information from pre-exercise screenings, fitness assessments, and medical advice to design customised exercise programs that address each client’s unique needs. The unit emphasises the practical application of exercise science and training principles in program development and is complemented by SISFFIT049, which covers exercise science principles in fitness instruction. Students will gain the ability to use exercise science and training principles to create safe, effective, and personalised programs catering to each client’s specific requirements.

SISFFIT042 CoreInstruct personalised exercise sessions

In this unit, students will learn how to modify exercise programs based on continuous client monitoring and feedback. Emphasising the need to adapt and adjust programs as clients advance through their personal training journey, the unit helps students effectively instruct and assess exercise sessions within a broader personal training program. Students will acquire the ability to adjust pre-designed exercise sessions to accommodate each client’s unique needs and objectives, ensuring a customised and efficient training experience. Upon completing this unit, students will have the expertise to plan, deliver, and evaluate exercise sessions tailored to individual client requirements, preferences, and fitness goals, paving the way for a successful career in the industry.

SISFFIT043 CoreDevelop and instruct personalised exercise programs for body composition goals

This unit targets personal training students who want to learn how to identify individual clients’ healthy eating needs and provide information that helps clients adopt healthier eating habits. Students will learn to utilise the current Australian national dietary guidelines and related resources to promote optimal health and well-being in otherwise healthy individuals. Through this unit, students will acquire the skills and knowledge required to offer clients practical advice on healthy eating habits. Emphasising evidence-based approaches to healthy eating, the unit ensures students have the most current information and techniques for assisting their clients. Upon completing this unit, students will be able to provide evidence-based, client-specific advice that promotes optimal health and well-being.

SISFFIT053 CoreSupport healthy eating for individual fitness clients

Focusing on the skills and knowledge required to create safe and effective exercise programs for clients over the age of 55, this unit considers the unique needs, challenges, and risks associated with ageing. The unit emphasises the importance of encouraging healthy ageing and integrating information from pre-exercise screenings, fitness assessments, and medical guidance to design appropriate programs. It also covers evaluating and modifying programs based on client feedback for optimal results. Personal training students will learn how to provide tailored exercise programs that promote healthy ageing for their senior clients.

SISFFIT044 CoreDevelop and instruct personalised exercise programs for older clients

This unit emphasises the skills and knowledge required to create secure and effective exercise programs for older clients, aged 55 and above. These programs and sessions consider the unique needs, challenges, and risks associated with ageing. The unit highlights the importance of fostering healthy ageing and integrating information from pre-exercise screenings, fitness assessments, and medical guidance to devise appropriate programs. It also covers evaluating and modifying programs based on client feedback for optimal outcomes. Personal training students will learn to provide tailored exercise programs that promote healthy ageing for their elderly clients, ensuring a better quality of life.

SISFFIT049 CoreUse exercise science principles in fitness instruction

This unit educates personal trainers on applying exercise science principles to their practice, enabling them to design effective exercise programs for clients. Students will learn to adjust programs over time, ensuring adherence to the latest evidence-based practices. By the end of the unit, students will possess a comprehensive understanding of using exercise science to help clients achieve their fitness goals safely and efficiently, resulting in improved client satisfaction and success.

SISFFIT045 CoreDevelop and instruct personalised exercise programs for adolescent clients

This unit concentrates on the skills and knowledge necessary to perform pre-exercise screening and fitness assessments for adolescent clients between the ages of thirteen and seventeen. It also covers designing and delivering exercise programs and sessions specifically tailored to their needs. The unit highlights the importance of program evaluation and modification based on client monitoring and feedback, ensuring safe and effective programs for adolescent clients. Additionally, the unit addresses potential issues and limitations that may arise during their development. Personal training students who complete this unit will be proficient in working independently with adolescent clients, providing individually tailored exercise programs using discretion and judgement to meet their unique requirements.

SISXICT001 ElectiveSelect and use technology for sport, fitness and recreation work

This unit outlines the performance outcomes, skills, and knowledge required to evaluate and review technology requirements for consistently providing personal training services. It involves obtaining technical information and utilising technology skills to enhance the delivery of personal training services. The unit encompasses various personal training-related technologies, including fitness tracking apps, virtual coaching platforms, and online communication tools. The objective is to ensure personal trainers possess the necessary technological skills to offer their clients a high-quality and efficient service, keeping up with modern trends

SISFFIT046 ElectivePlan and instruct online exercise sessions

This unit equips personal training students with the skills and knowledge to plan and conduct effective online exercise sessions for individuals or groups. Students will learn how to develop engaging and safe sessions using basic technologies, whether live or pre-recorded. The unit focuses on specific considerations for delivering online exercise sessions, such as researching and configuring technology, assessing safety risks, and selecting appropriate exercises. Upon completing this unit, students will be capable of delivering engaging and effective online sessions that cater to the fitness goals of their clients, offering flexibility in their service delivery

BSBPEF301 Organise personal work priorities

Master the art of managing personal work priorities, tracking performance, and sustaining competence levels with this comprehensive unit, tailored for fitness professionals and those working in diverse contexts. Discover how to efficiently plan and organise work schedules to meet client demands, monitor performance, and gather feedback to enhance your abilities. Remain up to date with industry trends and continuously develop your skills and knowledge to excel in your profession and provide outstanding service while effectively balancing your work priorities.

BSBOPS304 Deliver and monitor a service to customers

Embark on a journey to master the art of understanding and fulfilling your clients’ needs with our comprehensive unit. This course is designed to elevate your customer service skills, ensuring you can deeply connect with and support your clients, whether in a gym, a studio, or any fitness setting. As a budding fitness professional, you’ll learn to offer technical advice and sustain both short-term and long-term client relationships with finesse. Your journey will equip you with the ability to make informed decisions and exercise sound judgement, all while delivering top-notch service. By the end of this unit, you’ll be well-prepared to create exceptional experiences for every client, setting the stage for a successful and rewarding career in personal training.

HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety

Develop the essential skills and knowledge to maintain a safe and healthy workplace for fitness professionals and clients with this unit. Learn to identify potential hasards and implement safe work practices, ensuring the well-being of all stakeholders. Applicable to all fitness professionals, this unit emphasises the importance of understanding workplace health and safety (WHS) while performing duties with direct supervision or individual responsibility. Create a secure training environment to deliver effective, high-quality training programs.

HLTAID011 Provide First Aid

Discover the crucial skills and knowledge needed to provide first aid in line with the guidelines set by the Australian Resuscitation Council and other leading clinical bodies in Australia. This comprehensive unit is perfect for fitness professionals and anyone who may need to provide first aid in various community and workplace settings. Learn how to confidently assess emergency situations, administer life-saving first aid, and manage incidents until professional medical assistance arrives. Prepare yourself for various scenarios and become a reliable first responder with this essential unit.

SISFFIT032 Complete pre-exercise screening and service orientation

Explore the essential skills of pre-exercise screening and service orientation with this unit aimed at fitness professionals, gym instructors, and group fitness instructors working in diverse environments. Acquire the knowledge to collect and evaluate health information using pre-exercise screening systems, questionnaires, and guidelines. Learn to pinpoint risk factors and refer clients to medical or allied health professionals for advice on appropriate exercise intensity levels. This unit will enable trainers to develop customised exercise programs for clients, helping them achieve maximum benefits from their training sessions in settings such as fitness facilities, gyms, leisure centres, and outdoor locations.

SISFFIT033 Complete client fitness assessments:

Learn to assess clients’ current fitness levels using industry-standard pre-exercise screening data with this unit tailored for fitness professionals and gym instructors. Conduct assessments through various activities and measurements, documenting results to create customised exercise programs for clients. Ideal for trainers in diverse settings, this unit equips professionals with the skills to work independently, providing high-quality client assessments and personalised training programs to help clients achieve their fitness goals.

SISFFIT035 Plan group exercise sessions

Develop the ability to plan group exercise sessions for mixed abilities or specific groups, such as older individuals, with this unit. Acquire the skills to adapt sessions to varying abilities and assess their success using participant feedback. Explore cardio, resistance, and flexibility exercises, with or without music. This unit is perfect for group fitness instructors and fitness professionals planning sessions based on participant needs, working in diverse environments.

SISFFIT036 Instruct group exercise sessions

Enhance your skills in delivering pre-planned group exercise sessions with this unit designed for group fitness instructors and fitness professionals. Master effective instructional techniques and adapt sessions to accommodate varying abilities. Focus on session delivery rather than planning, with sessions that may include cardiovascular, resistance, and flexibility exercises, with or without music. Work independently and use discretion and judgement to resolve routine problems while adhering to policies and procedures

SISFFIT040 Develop and instruct gym-based exercise programs for individual clients

Master the art of designing personalised gym-based exercise programs for individual clients with this unit aimed at fitness professionals. Learn to develop programs using pre-exercise screening data, fitness assessments, and medical advice, and offer initial guidance to clients. Monitor and evaluate client progress in largely self-managed programs while adhering to policies and procedures. Equip unsupervised gym instructors with the skills to create successful exercise programs even with minimal direct instruction.

SISFFIT047 Use anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe and effective exercise

Enhance your understanding of anatomy and physiology to design safe and effective workouts with this unit. Cover the fundamental knowledge required for fitness instruction, and explore direct links to other units for planning and instructing group and individualised exercise programs. Perfect for group fitness instructors, gym instructors, and fitness professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and elevate their training.

SISFFIT052 Provide healthy eating information

Learn to provide general healthy eating information to fitness clients with this unit, covering macro and micronutrients based on current Australian national dietary guidelines. Understand when to recognise situations outside your scope of practice and recommend medical and allied health professionals for nutritional advice. Conduct Dietary Habits Consultations, identifying areas for improvement and offering strategies for healthier lifestyle choices.

CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues

Develop the skills and knowledge to establish relationships, clarify needs, and collaborate with clients experiencing mental health issues. Understand how mental health can impact physical activity goals and overall well-being. Ideal for personal trainers working in various settings, this unit equips professionals with the ability to provide appropriate support within their scope of practice.

SISXIND009 Respond to interpersonal conflict

Master the ability to identify and resolve interpersonal conflicts in the workplace, such as gyms and fitness centers. Enhance conflict resolution, communication, and interpersonal skills to become a more proficient fitness professional. This unit is suitable for individuals in diverse industries, including coaches and officials in the Australian sport and fitness industries.

CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people

Learn to effectively work with clients from diverse social and cultural backgrounds, gaining skills in cultural awareness, sensitivity, and communication. Personal trainers will tailor training methods to meet the needs of clients from various cultures and overcome cultural barriers. This unit applies to fitness professionals in settings like fitness facilities, gyms, community centers, and more.

SISXDIS001 Facilitate inclusion for people with a disability

Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to identify and facilitate opportunities for people with disabilities in the fitness industry. Understand the benefits of physical activity for people with disabilities and strategies for adapting activities and equipment. Graduates will be able to provide inclusive fitness programs, assisting clients with disabilities in achieving their fitness goals and improving overall well-being.

FAQs

Still have questions? Check out more FAQs here or speak with our friendly Careers Team on 1300 669 669

What are the entry requirements at the Australian Institute of Fitness?

Each student must meet our acceptance criteria and age requirements before studying with AIF. The AIF acceptance criteria assesses the skills and values of each and every student, such as punctuality and attitude, ensuring we are bringing the best people into the industry. We also verify you have the tools required to succeed, necessary written and verbal communication skills, and are committed to your goal.

How old do I have to be to study at the Australian Institute of Fitness?

You must meet the age requirements for the course you intend to study. To study a SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness you must be at least 16 years old on your course commencement date. For a SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness you must be at least 17 years old on your course commencement date. To study for a career in massage with AIF, you must be at least 18 years old on your course commencement date.

How much does it cost to study at the Australian Institute of Fitness?

Tuition cost varies depending on course, study modality and applicable scholarships. We have multiple payment options available, which our Careers Team will discuss to find the option that suits you.

Why should I get qualified as a Personal Trainer at the Australian Institute of Fitness?

If you want to be the best, you have to train with the best! AIF is recognised in the industry for having trained many of Australia’s top fitness professionals. A pioneer in both virtual and online fitness education, we provide the tools and facilities to complete your studies with confidence, including our exclusive Support PlusTM program from our incredible Coaches who are there to assist. With our unrivalled network of Career Partners, AIF can help you turn your passion into a career by positioning you front and centre, with the best industry connections.

Are the Australian Institute of Fitness courses practical?

At AIF, we know that being a PT is a hands-on role, so our courses are designed to reflect this. Our students film their assessments with real-life clients, and gain practical gym experience from wherever they are located. We also run gym-based Masterclass workshops for those who can make it, giving plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience.

How long does it take to become a Personal Trainer?

If you choose to study virtually, you can complete our Master Trainer Program in 11 months. Our online modality is completed in 14 months. If you already have attained a qualification, such as SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness, this may adjust your study duration. Chat to our friendly Careers Team to see what option is best for you.

Does AIF help you get a job once you have completed your course?

With AIF, you’ll receive the support you need to position yourself for success in the fitness industry. AIF has the most up-to-date and relevant information regarding fitness industry roles and connect you with job opportunities with our many Career Partners. You’ll also have access to regular industry presentations and our famous F.I.R.E (Fitness Industry Recruitment Expos) where you can meet key industry employers and secure a job or trainer experience placement.

What makes our online option superior to other online learning?

For us, experience is everything. That’s why our students regularly score our course experience at over 9 out of 10. Our unique learning platform platform allows you to study in your own space, at your own pace. With access to virtual classrooms and interactive webinars, you’ll have the best tools and knowledge to succeed as a fitness professional. That’s why our online course boasts a graduation rate almost 4 times higher than the industry average.

Who is going to be coaching me and what experience do they have?

When we ask our students what they love most about their experience at the AIF, our Coaches continually rank as a standout feature of the course. We believe this is one of the reasons our students regularly score our course experience at over 9 out of 10. Our highly qualified team of Coaches bring passion and commitment to their teaching, ensuring all areas of learning are delivered in a fun and engaging way. They have many years experience working with a huge range of personal training clients, from elite sportspeople to those new to fitness, and many also present at fitness conventions and write for reputable fitness resources. Check out our coach profiles here to find out more about our coaching team!

WHY CHOOSE US

Here's why more
students learn with AIF

Train where the BEST train

Follow in the footsteps of the people who set the standard. Our graduates help us to keep raising the bar in the industry so you can rest assured that our training is the best of the best.

Fulfil your BEST potential

Be the best you can be and build your best career with our Career Head-Start Service™, providing unrivalled access to working opportunities. Become an industry leader.

Be part of the BEST Community

We are a community of leaders, past, present and future. Access our content, news, events and extra-curricular course and career upgrades.

The BEST facilities & support

We help our students to become their best every step of the way. You’ll have access to the tools and facilities you need to succeed, plus dedicated support time from our coaches with Support Plus™.

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