How to Get Certified to Teach Aerobics

If you're addicted to the movement, the rhythm and the burn of a good aerobics class, you may be ready to become an aerobics instructor. Aerobics instructors plan the exact moves for their classes and make sure those moves are both appropriate for the types of people in the class and the desired end result. Although certification is not a law for aerobics instructors, some fitness centers will want you to be certified before they'll hire you.

The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) claims to be the world's largest fitness educator. It offers Primary Group Exercise Certification, which qualifies you to teach aerobics. To get it, you'll need to take a workshop through the association and pass an exam.

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain CPR certification. The Aerobics and Fitness Association of America requires you to have current CPR certification to receive Primary Group Exercise Certification. Call your local Red Cross or American Heart Association to find a class in your area. You might also want to try CPRToday.com, a website that provides valid CPR training and certification that you can earn from home.

    • 2

      Register for the Practical Skills and Choreography Workshop through the AFAA. According to the AFAA website, this class is typically scheduled a day before the Primary Group Exercise Certification workshop. You'll learn how to develop an aerobics class, plan the choreography, transition between routines and select music. This class is appropriate whether you do or do not have prior experience teaching aerobics. You can register for this workshop through the AFAA website.

    • 3

      Register for the Primary Group Exercise Certification workshop. After you register, you'll receive a Primary Group Exercise Certification Study Guide. Read the guide before the workshop so you'll be prepared for the test at the end of the class.

    • 4

      Order and read a copy of the textbook "Fitness: Theory & Practice." This text is also required reading for certification. You can purchase a copy through the AFAA website. Be sure to read it before the workshop.

    • 5

      Attend the Practical Skills and Choreography workshop and the Primary Group Exercise Certification workshop. Once you take these two classes, you'll have attained all the hands-on learning you need to lead your own aerobics class.

    • 6

      Take the Primary Group Exercise Certification exam. This test is given at the end of the Primary Group Exercise Certification workshop, and it consists of both written and practical materials that you've learned.

    • 7

      Receive your AFAA Certified Instructor certificate. Both the certificate and an ID card will be given to you when you successfully pass both parts of the exam. You'll also receive five continuing education credits once you pass.