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Ever wondered how to become a group fitness instructor? You may have asked this question because you are interested in becoming certified, or you might want to learn how the instructor of your class became qualified. You’re not the only one who has asked this question. This post answers some of the questions I had when I started teaching group fitness classes.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Group Fitness Instructor?
A passion for fitness is one of the most essential things to have to become a certified fitness group trainer. It can be a lengthy and expensive process to become certified, so you must be honest. This is not the industry for you if working out seems like a chore.
You must also feel comfortable moving your body in public. Your body doesn’t need to be perfect in order to teach. You must feel comfortable with your movements when you are demonstrating to students.
Where Can You Obtain a Certification as a Group Fitness Instructor?
There are many types of certifications available depending on the type of teaching you wish to do.
You’ll need to be certified before you can start teaching certain types of exercises. Some certifications can only be used for a specific type of exercise or business. If you want to be a CrossFit(r), you will need the CrossFit Level 1 certification. You can then only teach in a CrossFit-affiliated gym.
You’ll need to find a course that is managed or certified through a governing organization for other classes. This type of certification is for those who want to teach indoor cycling, Pilates, yoga, or other similar classes. You can get certified in this manner by finding a nearby location that offers a certification. It could be a large gym, a small studio, or something in between. If you are interested in Pilates or yoga, your training will be based on the number of hours you have completed. This requires more commitment than other types of fitness.
Look into the NCCA-accredited Group Instructor Programs from the American Council on Exercise or Athletics and Fitness Association of America. The NCCA-accredited Group Instructor programs from the American Council on Exercise require that you complete Continuing Education Units, also known as CEUs. This ensures your knowledge and skills remain current.
Contact us now to get scheduled for your free trial!
In Hurry? Call us at 586-453-9846
How Long Does It Usually Take to Become a Fitness Group Instructor?
It depends on the type of certification that you choose and how long it will take to complete. Some certifications can be completed in a single day. Others may take an entire weekend. Still others could take several weeks. The way you complete your certification will also depend on the type of certification. Some will require that you attend a demonstration in person, others will require that an exam be taken, and some may require a video assessment.
Once I’ve Received My Certification, What Do I Do?
It’s time for you to put your certification into action! It can take time to find a job that fits into your schedule, especially if it’s a full-time position in another field. You can get on-the-job experience through internships or apprenticeships at some studios and gyms. Others will require you to audition all of the active members in your class before hiring them.
You may still find it difficult to land a fitness job, but that’s fine! It’s okay to use your training and teach classes in your local community, to build your customer list and hone your skill. This will help you land the job that you want. You should be aware of music rights if you decide to offer classes.
What Is the Average Salary of Fitness Instructors?
The amount that group fitness instructors like those from Apex Performance make depends on many factors, such as location, attendance at the class, time of day, and the seniority of their instructor. Fitness instructors often have full-time jobs in addition to teaching classes. Ask other instructors how much they make.
The information provided here is not intended to provide financial, legal, or other professional advice. It should only be used for informational purposes. This information does not consider your particular circumstances, and you should not act on it without a professional’s full understanding of your present situation, your future goals, and/or your objectives. Apex Performance does not accept any responsibility for actions taken based on the information provided.
