How to Become an Aerobics Teacher

Becoming an aerobics teacher is a great way to help others, earn extra money and stay fit. After participating in group exercise classes as student you may decide that you have the desire and skill to turn your love of fitness into a source of income. Earning a certification from a qualified organization will show potential employers that you have the expertise to lead fun and safe fitness classes. Through study and practice you can pass your certification exam and begin your new job as a successful aerobics instructor.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A fitness center that offers aerobics classes
• Computer with Internet access
• Money to pay for a certification exam

1. Participate in the types of group exercise classes that you hope to teach. Learn the basic moves from these classes and improve your skill. Pay attention to the personality traits of instructors that improve the quality of the class such as ability to motivate, energetic and informative.

2. Talk with the instructors. Ask questions about certifications, how long he or she has been teaching and how much time he or she puts into preparing for classes. Ask for advice regarding the steps you should take to become an instructor and use this information to guide your planning.

3. Research a variety of organizations on the Internet that offer group exercise instructor certifications such as the American Council on Exercise, American College of Sports Medicine or Cooper’s Institute. Find out if they will be holding certification exams in your area.

4. Choose an organization, exam date and exam location based on your needs and schedule. Estimate how long you feel you will need to prepare for the exam. Consider allowing yourself three to six months for preparation however this may depend on your current knowledge of fitness and exercise.

5. Purchase all necessary study guides and text books and begin studying for the certification exam. Sign up for and attend preparation workshops. Inquire about possible workshops being conducted at local colleges, universities or fitness centers.

6. Think about where you would like to teach aerobic classes and inquire about open positions. Let fitness directors at these locations know you are preparing to take a certification exam. Ask if you can team teach with more experienced instructors to improve your skill.

7. Use the knowledge gained through studying and practicing to pass the certification exam. Apply for instructor positions at local fitness centers and begin your new job as an aerobics teacher.

Tips & Warnings

• Many certification organizations hold exams in moderate to large size cities. If you do not live in these cities, getting certified my require you to travel to the location closest to you.
• Some exams have only a written component and others have both written and practical components. Research the organization well and know what you will be tested on so that you can prepare appropriately.
• Certification exams offered by smaller organizations can be less expensive. Be sure to examine your long-term goals when choosing an exam and organization. You will be more marketable if you invest in a certification from a well known organization such as the American Council on Exercise, American College of Sports Medicine, Cooper’s Institute or the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America.

Resources

• Aerobics and Fitness Associaton of America (AFAA)
• American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
• American Council on Exercise (ACE)
• The Cooper's Institute

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