According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the health and fitness industry will increase by 27 percent by 2014. This growing opportunity opens the door for jobs related to water exercise and fitness. But as people find themselves busy with family and social activities, finding time to earn a degree can be difficult. Online water exercise degrees provide convenience and flexibility in earning a degree without attending traditional classes.
Function
Water exercise, including water aerobics, takes place in a variety of settings such as hospitals and fitness clubs. Teaching these classes, however, requires specific training, degrees and certifications. Online water exercise degrees were designed to provide flexible class schedules for a formal college education. For example, Christine Romani-Ruby, owner of PowerHouse Pilates in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, says online programs are a convenient way to earn a bachelor's or master's degree.
Prerequisites
As with other online exercise-related degrees, prerequisites must be met before starting the program or getting a job. Most courses will require current CPR/AED certification, with the ability to earn the certification within the program. A general interest in water and a basic knowledge of aerobics are also required.
Features
While most online degrees are designed on a two-year or four-year plan, online water exercise degrees are flexible. Online programs are comparable in price to in-class tuition, and all textbooks and materials must be purchased as with traditional-style classes. Some classes may also meet frequently at a local outdoor pool or indoor pool for hands-on coursework.
Courses
The online program will progress through a series of classes designed to teach every aspect of water exercise. Typical classes will include essential steps to teaching water aerobics, anatomy and physiology, and a special-populations course about clients with disabilities or special needs, such as pregnant women or arthritis patients.
Considerations
According to the IDEA Health and Fitness Association, one of the first considerations before choosing an online water exercise program is to choose a school that is accredited. IDEA recommends you consider how long the program has been offered, and and whether it allows you to communicate with professors and other students. Before enrolling, research the job market for water exercise instructors in your area at rehabilitation centers, spas, fitness clubs, hospitals and senior citizen centers.
References
- IDEA Health and Fitness Association: Earning an Online Exercise Degree
- Methods of Healing: Water Aerobics Instructor Training
- Charlotte Aquatic Center: Water Aerobics Course Descriptions and Fees
- Methods of Healing: Online Exercise Science Degrees
- AcademicInfo.net: Online Sports and Fitness Degree Programs
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