High School

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers should hold a high school diploma. If you are interested in a fitness career, take physical education, biology, and anatomy courses. In addition, be involved in sports, weight lifting, or dance activities to stay fit and learn to appreciate the value of exercise.

Postsecondary Training

Although it isnt always necessary, a college degree makes you more marketable in fitness. Typically, aerobics instructors do not need a college education to qualify for jobs; however, some employers may be more interested in candidates with a balance of ability and education.

Fitness trainers must usually have a bachelors degree from an accredited athletic training program or a related program in physiology, kinesiology, or exercise science. These programs often require extensive internships ranging from 500 to 1,800 hours of hands-on experience. Essential college-level courses include anatomy, biomechanics, chemistry, first aid, health, kinesiology, nutrition, physics, physiology, psychology, and safety.

Other Education or Training

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers must keep their skills up to date and become thoroughly familiar with the latest knowledge and safety practices. To maintain their certification, they must take continuing education courses and participate in seminars. The Athletics and Fitness Association of America, American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, IDEA Health & Fitness Association, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and National Athletic Trainers Association offer continuing education opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Most serious fitness trainers and aerobics instructors become certified. Although certification is not required in most states, most clients and fitness companies expect these professionals to have credentials to prove their capabilities.

Certifying organizations include the following: Athletics and Fitness Association of America, American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, IDEA Health & Fitness Association, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and National Athletic Trainers Association. Aerobics instructors should also be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before finding a job.

Any volunteer or paid experience you can obtain teaching exercise classes will be helpful.

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers are expected to be physically fit but are not likely to be specimens of human perfection. For example, members of an aerobics class geared toward overweight people might feel more comfortable with a heavier instructor; a class geared toward the elderly may benefit from an older instructor.

Anyone who works in this field needs to have strong people skills. Fitness trainers must also be talented salespeople, as training sessions are often sold in add-on packages not covered by the standard health club fees. A member may receive several free sessions, but it is up to the trainer to convince the member to purchase additional sessions.

Other important traits include confidence, excellent communication skills, and the ability to motivate people.