About to enter the world of Group Fitness Instruction

MCDerin

Hello all!
I have worked out at home for ages. I love Turbo Jam and other Beachbody products.
I have been a member of the gym in the past but hated it. I was even a personal trainer for a while and quit because I just don't like that kind of environment for working out.

Well, I had never taken a group fitness class I would have if any of my local gyms offered Turbo Kick (the gym version of Turbo Jam, which, as I said...I have done for years). However, I recently discovered and took a Zumba class. OMG. Totally awesome!
I still am learning the moves (again...keeping w/ my theme..I ordered the DVD's to do at home and practice with .
However, that inspired me to look into becoming a Turbo Kick instructor AND I decided to try for Zumba too
I will be testing for both certifications in Sept and early October.

Now...I need to find a place to teach Gyms mostly want previous group fitness experience and I dont' have it. I am looking into renting space from local karate schools or dance studios.
Anyone else care to share advice to a newbie to this field (I will still have my fulltime day job that I would LOVE to quit, but can't afford to until I make at least that money back in the classes...that might take a long time .

I appreciate it SO much.
I live in MD, btw

SuzanneRogers

Talk to the YMCA, 24 hour fitness, or Lady of America, they all teach those classes and maybe they need a night or weekend teacher just call around and get your name out there. I don't have your confident yet to get my intstructor cert just yet. I'm trying to decide between personal trainer and instructor for Powder Blue.

MCDerin

Suzanne,
I was a Personal trainer a few years ago and hated it because I hate the gym That is the reason I love BB. I lost my weight and continue to workout mostly at home.
I only recently discovered group fitness since noone around here teaches TK, otherwise I would have done it sooner.
But, I discovered Zumba and then decided, if I can teach that, I will just find a gym that lets me teach TK too

24 hour Fitness requires the ACE or AFAA before you can start, and I don't have those yet. I also think they prefer experience and I don't have group fitness trainer experience.
I THINK I am going to end up renting space and promoting my own class at first and then hopefully be able to work at 24 Hour or something.

I am also about to get my Lifestyle & Weight Management specialist certification, so that will help too, I hope

So, by Powder Blue instructor you mean to get Turbo Kick, PiYO, or Hip Hop Hustle certified? You totally should!

DoreenN

Look into the YMCA and also teaching at senior centers. I was told senior centers are a great place to get experience, You wont get paid alot, some its even on a volunteer basis, But they are less likely to care if you screw up and they will want to help you along the way. When I took my fitness certification through AFAA that is what the instructor suggested to us.