How to Become an Aerobics Instructor
Teaching aerobics or group fitness classes can be a wonderful way to earn extra income, meet new people, and get a workout - all at the same time. Through a combined knowledge of exercise guidelines, safety and cueing, you can create a rewarding opportunity that enhances your health and the health of others.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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1
Get experience with different forms of aerobic exercise, including step aerobics, high and low impact aerobics, kickboxing, water aerobics and sports conditioning.
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2
Enroll in a CPR and first aid training class. Most certifications require these skills.
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3
Take classes or read books on anatomy, exercise physiology, kinesiology and motivational techniques. A basic understanding of fitness-related topics is recommended before pursuing a certification.
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4
Seek certification by a nationally recognized organization such as the American Council on Exercise (ACE), the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) or the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
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5
Practice cueing, or giving verbal instructions. Many certifying organizations offer classes on how to design and teach fitness classes, which include the techniques of cueing.
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Seek opportunities to gain teaching experience. Organize a class of friends or family members to instruct.
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Team-teach with another instructor. Start by teaching a small portion of the class and gradually increasing the amount of class time you teach.
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Choose music that is professionally mastered for smooth transitions and even counts.
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Check out teaching opportunities at local gyms, corporate health clubs, recreational clubs and hospitals.
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Tips & Warnings
Oftentimes, a gym will provide additional training, continuing education and master classes for instructors.
Most instructors are paid on a per-class basis depending on level of experience, background, and participant feedback.
Most health clubs offer a free gym membership to instructors.
Keep in mind that your first priority as an aerobics/fitness instructor is to safely instruct and motivate others - not to do your own workout.
Be sure to adhere closely to the safety guidelines set forth by your certifying organization and place of employment.
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Comments
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Nov 22, 2005
Once a year the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America travels to select cities and offer a discount on their certification fees. It was called APEX 2000 this year; next year it will be APEX '01 and so on. You can save a lot of money this way.
