Online Aerobic Certification

If you enjoy performing aerobic exercises and helping other people get in shape, working as an aerobics instructor may be the perfect career for you. To work as an aerobics instructor in most gyms and fitness centers, you must hold an aerobics fitness certification. As you begin the process of obtaining a certification, understanding the logistics and limitations of an online aerobics certificate may help make the process easier.

First Steps

Before you commit money and time to obtaining an online aerobics certification, make an appointment with the manager of the gym you would like to work for. Ask him what certifications he accepts to ensure that you sign up for a course that offers certification from an approved website to avoid wasting your money and time on a certification you cannot use. When evaluating an online course, research the scope, sequence and content of the material. Verify that the organization has a valid phone number and contact information.

Testing Policies

Both the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) offer group aerobics certifications that you can complete almost entirely online. Although these organizations do not allow you to take your final certification test on your personal computer, they do allow you to do most of the coursework online. When you are ready to take the test, both organizations offer testing and/or workshops in hundreds of cities. Other organizations that offer an online certification may allow you to take the final test at home, but these organizations may not be approved by your local gym.

Preparing for Certfication

Although you cannot obtain either the ACE or the AFAA certification entirely online, both organizations allow you to review, purchase and obtain study materials online. Both organizations offer you the opportunity to take pre-tests which can help you pass the final exam. Inquire about the availability of group support, online study groups or additional training materials. In the case of other organizations, you may be able to purchase the materials and look at the study booklet while taking the test at home.

Topics Covered

The type of topics covered in an online aerobic certification program include the theory of fitness, basic exercise guidelines, basic anatomy, exercise science, how to evaluate individual exercises and instruction on how to apply your knowledge to a group setting. The ACE study materials add kinesology, how to cue participants, prevent injury and other design and instruction techniques. Study the manual and online materials thoroughly in order to be prepared to pass the test.

Prerequisites

Whether you choose to obtain an online aerobics certification from one of the two main certifying bodies or another online source, most certification organizations ask that you hold a CPR certificate prior to taking the tests. Additionally, having experience in leading groups of people may help you once you obtain your certification. After receiving your certification, you must renew your certification every two years, as well as accumulating a set number of continuing education credits, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.