Expert: Daphne E Brown MS CPRP - 7/5/2009

Question
I was wondering if you had any music suggestions and simple aerobic routine for the practical AFFA Cert. Need to learn one in one month

Answer
The music will be provided by the certification specialist, barring any technical difficulties (a month ago I had to bring a sound system with me because the host center surprisingly did not have one).  Usually we have 130 bpm 32 count various artist or instrumental aerobics music playing. You can go to Ebay and search "aerobics music" and there are lots of choices.  I personally like cardio mixes.com fitness music mixes.

The demonstration part of the exam begins with the entire group going through a "mock" class.  The certification specialist will tell you when to change to the next movement.  If you attend the entire day workshop, all of this will be covered, but unless you have been teaching for a while, most people need to prepare before the workshop.  To prepare, I always recommend looking in the mirror when you practice to make sure your body is in alignment, and you are confident in what you are teaching to your class, projecting your voice especially if you don't have a microphone.

During the individual demonstration,  we look for all of that, particularly that you are using the correct muscle movements, body mechanics/alignment, appropriate modifications, safety and alignment cues,(ie "AFAA Five Questions" VERY IMPORTANT).  You only have a minute--so the more you explain and talk and demonstrate the exercise and modifications, the more the examiners have a chance to see that you know what you are doing.  Don't just go into the exercise and start counting and saying things like "come on you can do it". That doesn't show us you know fitness/biomechanical safety exercise fundamentals you were supposed to already know or to learn in preparing for being certified.

Does that make sense?  Whatever form of group exercise you teach, you can get AFAA certified if you study and know the Five Questions. I hope this helps you. Best wishes!!!!  -Daphne