Group Fitness Instructor Training
Fitness instructors are highly motivated people who use their training to motivate and help others reach their fitness goals. Not only do fitness instructors teach people how to exercise, they also educate about proper form, diet and lifestyle. Training to become a group fitness instructor varies depending on the type of method being taught.
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Background
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Some may confuse personal trainers with group fitness instructors. While the training is similar, personal trainers work with one to three clients at a time, whereas group fitness instructors conduct training sessions with large groups. Fitness workers may do one or both.
Training
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Education is specific to what type of exercise will be taught and in what method. Group fitness instructors often complete different educational requirements than personal trainers. Education is non-traditional, in that certification is sufficient to be a fitness instructor. The largest certification body is the American Council on Exercise (ACE), but employers may require different certifications.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), some employers are requiring a bachelor's degree in a health or fitness field, such as kinesiology. Degree holders can move into administrative positions.
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Specialization
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Group classes center on a specific activity, such as yoga, Zumba or Pilates. In order to teach these methods, instructors must have specialized training. Programs range from a few days to years. Programs such as yoga and Pilates focus on unusual poses and bodily alignments, so lack of proper instruction can lead to serious injury.
Personality
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A major factor in the effectiveness of a group fitness instructor is leadership. She needs to be able to take command and keep everyone on track. The ability to motivate through words and actions also is an essential quality, as is communication and an outgoing personality in order to approach clients during class to correct and encourage them. Physical fitness is important not only because the instructor is modeling a healthy lifestyle for clients but also because of the physical demands of the job.
Environment
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Group fitness instructors work primarily in health clubs, which typically are open long hours, meaning a varied schedule. The BLS reports that group instructors enjoy a large amount of autonomy as they are able to plan classes and training sessions.
Benefits
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Many group fitness instructors receive free membership/access to the club in which he/she works, saving hundreds of dollars a year. If the club is particularly large, these benefits may extend to food, babysitting, and even spa services.
Fitness training is an excellent job for those working towards a larger goal such as fitness administrator, dietitian, or physical therapist. The acquired skills can be readily transferred to any of the aforementioned careers.
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References
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- Photo Credit fitness weights image by William Berry from Fotolia.com
