Abstract There is increasing awareness of the benefits of civic engagement in higher education. Service learning activities in undergraduate programs, in particular, have been linked to positive academic outcomes and gains in various forms of self-efficacy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a structured fitness training experience on Exercise Science students' self-efficacy for fitness assessment and exercise prescription. Students enrolled in a service learning course implemented a 12-week individualized fitness training program with community members as clients. Our results indicate a significant improvement in self-efficacy from pre-test to post-test and benefits of involving students in a second service learning experience. Students also reported improved confidence in their fitness assessment and exercise prescription skills. Community members involved in the program reported a positive experience with both students' knowledge of fitness assessment and exercise prescription, and also their own progression to independence in a home exercise program.