Aquatics Training Education Requirements

Aquatics training programs are offered at many locations, such as at your local YMCA, municipal pool or even school. To teach a class, you must first have the necessary certifications. The kind of certification you need can vary, depending on the organization and the kind of program. Find out from the organization which certifications you need to teach a class.

  1. Aquatic Exercise Association

    • The Aquatic Exercise Association offers the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification. This certification verifies that a trainer has achieved an intermediate level of aquatics training knowledge and skill, and is capable of teaching aquatic fitness programs.

      The association's Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination costs $145. The association recommends around 10 weeks of study and six months teaching experience before you take the exam, which tests the students knowledge of areas such as anatomy, kinesiology and exercise physiology. The association provides review and study material when you sign up for the test. You must be 18 years of age or older.

    American Fitness Professionals & Associates

    • The American Fitness Professionals & Associates offers the Aquatic Instructor Certification Course. This course trains students in personal and group aquatic fitness, teaching students how to design effective, appropriate and safe classes and personal training programs.

      The course cost is $395 and must be completed over a period of six months. The Aquatic Instructor Certification Course is available through the associates' website. You must be 18 years of age or older.

    Aerobic and Fitness Association of America

    • The Aerobic and Fitness Association of America offers a daylong program that trains students in aquatic fitness principles and how to create effective and safe aquatic exercise programs. This course focuses both on the physical aspects of training in the water as well as the art of teaching from the deck.

      The fee for this course is $129. This association also recommends that you complete its Primary Group Exercise Certification course prior to the aquatics course. You must be 18 years of age or older.

    American Red Cross

    • The American Red Cross does not offer an explicit aquatic fitness certification. However, many American Red Cross certifications are required in addition to the aquatic fitness certifications. The most common Red Cross certifications required are Red Cross Lifeguarding, Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer, and Red Cross Water Safety Instructor. The Water Safety Instructor course teaches students how to teach basic aquatic skills to both children and adults. This course often provides the foundation for other aquatics fitness programs.