Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 9/7/2008

Question
What are the steps for becoming a basic aerobics exercise instructor? How long does this take? I have been a registered nurse for a while but now would like to pursue exercise. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer
Hi Patricia!!
Congratulations on your pursuit in becoming an aerobics instructor. Aerobics instructors are also referred to as "group exercise instructors". Depending upon what type of group class you are interested in and in what setting you are planning to teach (health/fitness club, wellness center, private home/residential facility, etc.) most employers expect instructors to be certified.  Certification is usually very easy to get (there are several certifying groups)but some are more reputable than others or require more (or less) education/skill/knowledge.  I am certified and work for Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), an international certification highly reputable organization who has been around since 1983.  AFAA (not AFFA) requires written and practical testing for their certification; go to www.afaa.com for more information about the primary certification.  There are other certifications you can also google.

How long does it take? Many certification classes are 1-3 day courses, you take a test and you pass or not pass. If you pass, you get that organization's certifications. AFAA requires moderate exercise physiology, kinesiology and anatomical knowledge as it relates to teaching exercise classes.  In other words, its best to prepare and study prior to the certification workshops.  So its up to you as to how long it takes you to either get certified and/or to build the confidence and skill set to teach exercise to other people.  For example, starting out it took me about 1 month to get my certification and teach aerobics.  I was not Gin Miller, but I was motivated to be one of the best instructors in my area as quickly as possible. I was working on my MS in exercise phys at the time, so I had the knowledge, but it took me a while to hone my teaching style and effectiveness with a group.  Since then, even though I could give Gin Miller a run for her money with my eyes closed, my focus has always been on safety, effectiveness and fun times for all for the thousands of multi-level students in the classes I have taught (and still teach) over the years.

I hope that helps you.  If you go with AFAA, make sure you fill in the workbook BEFORE you go to the workshop.  That way the certification specialist can help you the best.  Good luck and good for you!!!  Feel free to ask a follow up.  -Daphne