While some fitness centers may be reluctant to hire a plus-size instructor, other facilities recognize that fitness comes in all shapes and sizes. There are no specific weight requirements for earning a fitness instructor certification. However, you need to show knowledge of fitness principles and exercises and have the endurance to teach others.
Step 1
Attend the type of fitness classes you'd like to instruct. Learn the exercises and proper cuing techniques. Build your own strength and endurance. Most certification programs do not teach specific exercises or steps, so you need to gain this experience by taking classes. Some certification programs, such as the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, have a practical portion of the exam in which you'll be asked to demonstrate various exercises.
Step 2
Sign up for a training course from a fitness certification program. Contact local gyms to find out what certifications they accept from their instructors. Well-known programs include the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, the American Council on Exercise and the Interactive Fitness Trainers of America. These programs offer self-paced home-study courses that cover anatomy, kinesiology, exercise physiology, teaching methods, cuing, class design and injury prevention.
Step 3
Take the exam. While you can study at home, most fitness certification programs require you take your exam at a testing center. Some programs offer an all-day review on the test day before taking the exam. You can sign up for a test date when you order your study materials or call or check online for testing dates when you are ready to take the exam.
Step 4
Take a CPR course. Most fitness certification programs require that you obtain CPR with AED -- automated external defibrillator -- certification before issuing an instructor's certificate. CPR teaches rescue breathing and heart compressions, while AED teaches how to use the AED machine to restart the heart. Some programs offer CPR with their certification process or contact your local Red Cross or rescue squad for information about getting CPR and AED certified. Usually, you can get both certifications during one training session.
Step 5
Mail your instructor certification application and proof of CPR to the fitness organization after taking your exam. It takes four to six weeks to receive your instructor's certification in the mail.
Step 6
Apply for instructor jobs at local gyms, fitness clubs and recreational centers. Some establishments may not hire plus-size people because they want their employees to look lean and fit. However, many gyms recognize that people can be larger and still be fit. Further, many clients feel more comfortable with instructors that are larger like them. Before being hired, you may be asked to demonstrate your skills by teaching a class. Further, some gyms have a new instructor training program you may be required to take.
Step 7
Keep your instructor certificate current by meeting continuing education requirements. Fitness certification programs require that you complete continuing education courses every two to three years to keep current on fitness trends and research. Many credits can be earned through home-study courses.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're having difficulty getting hired and you believe it is because of your size, check with a lawyer to find out if there are laws in your area that prevent discrimination based on size.
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