do you have to be certified as a fitness instructor
can only add my agreement that some certification in your specific area of interest is essential. It doesn’t necessarily suggest that you are a great instructor. It suggests that you have taken the time to meet the requirements to be a part of their program. Your expertise as an instructor will become apparent as you progress as the instructor.
Take care, good luck.
I have a friend who teaches Silver Sneakers. I could find out what she was required to have, but you might find out faster by checking SS’s site.
Kari wrote: “You will also not be able to get professional liability insurance unless you have a certification.”
Unfortunately, I’ve seen uncertified instructors get insurance. Many Zumba instructors get their license (it’s a license to use the Zumba brand name, *not* a certification) and go straight into renting halls and studios. No base certification, but they get insurance. I know at least a half-dozen people personally who have gone this path, although it’s not my chosen path.
NASM has a new program for senior fitness. That’s a good one to look into if you want to work with older adults.