Training for fitness instructors can often be found through a college's continuing or professional education department. In order to accommodate those who have little time to attend on-site courses, several schools are offering web-based instructional programs in personal training & group exercise.
Online Versus On-Site Fitness Instructor Training
Although the end result will be similar, several differences exist between online & on-site fitness instructor programs. One advantage of online training is that some programs allow students to work at their own place within a given time period, which is often longer than a typical semester of courses offered on-site. Individuals interested in fitness instructor training may find this useful if scheduled meeting times conflict with other obligations. However, some online programs do require individuals to follow a schedule & may even require trips to campus on top of the web-based courses.
Other differences exist in the goals of each program. Web-based community education courses are often intended for those looking to gain a new skill set on the side of other commitments. However, many colleges & universities offer fitness instructor training courses as part of a larger degree program within their kinesiology & recreation departments. Degree programs may even require practical internships, which are not always available through online programs. On-site training may also be offered as a type of audition for an instructor position at the school's campus recreation center.
Online Fitness Training Programs
Internet-based training for aerobics instructors may be general or more specialized but usually consist of basic courses in anatomy & physiology, exercise science, business management & nutrition. Some available concentrations include the following:
- Group Fitness on Land
- Aquatic Group Fitness
- Personal Training
- Exercise for Older Adults
- Exercise for Women
Fitness Certification
Upon completion of a fitness instructor program, individuals may be eligible for certification through a national organization. Certifying organizations include the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America, the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Council on Exercise & the National Association for Fitness Certification. Eligibility information, study materials, & exam details are available through each individual website.
Although a variety of certifications are available for fitness professionals, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are no set requirements for group fitness instructors (www.bls.gov). Individuals interested in teaching aerobics can choose a training program & certification on their own or wait to find out specific requirements from a potential employer. Certification typically lasts two years, & then instructors must attain continuing education credits through coursework or training in order to become recertified.
No comments:
Post a Comment