How to Get a Certificate to Teach Dance Exercise Classes

Become certified to teach dance exercise classes to gain the confidence of potential clients.

Teaching dance exercise classes is a great way to stay fit -- and have fun in the process! While a teaching certificate is not required in the United States, obtaining one anyway can help to instill confidence in your clients. They will respect your dedication and commitment, and it will also show that you have taken the steps to educate yourself on topics such as injury prevention and instructional techniques.

Instructions

1. Obtain a certificate in CPR and AED. To become certified to teach dance exercise classes, you must first arm yourself with the knowledge needed to revive participants who may experience heart failure during class. You can do this by obtaining a certificate in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), which is a manual attempt to restore breathing to a heart attack victim, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED), which is a portable electronic device that helps an ailing heart resume a healthy heartbeat.

2. Purchase self-study materials to help you prepare for the exam. There are 10 products to choose from (including two practice tests, a fitness instructor manual, a home study program, etc.) or you can bundle them to save money on individual purchases. (See the Resources section for the link to product and purchase information.)

3. Register for the exam. American Council on Exercise (ACE) Fitness Certification exams are available through Computer-Based Testing in locations across the world. There is a wide variety of testing dates and times. (See the Resources section to search online for locations near you). There is a $249 registration fee for first-time testers.

4. Pass the exam. You will need to answer 150 multiple choice questions in: Exercise Programming and Class Design, Group Instructional Methods, Group Leadership Methods, and Professional Responsibilities. Based on a scale scoring range of 200 to 800 points, you must achieve at least 500 points in order to pass the exam and receive your Group Fitness Instructor Certification.

References

• American Council on Exercise: Group Fitness Instructor Certification

Resources

• American Council on Exercise: Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam Study Materials
• ACE: ACE Fitness Certification Exams