Become an Aquatic Fitness Instructor

STEP 1: Aquatic Fitness Certification Course (4 hours of virtual classes, 24 hours - In-person courses)

The objective of this course is to teach fitness instructors how to lead safe, effective and dynamic aquatic fitness classes. Participants will learn about the following topics:

• Class components;
• Water properties and principles;
• Basic movements;
• Communication tools for class management;
• Choreography techniques;
• Guidelines for safe and effective classes;
• Basic strength training;
• Stretching and relaxation exercises.

STEP 2: Internship (5 hours)

Participants must complete a 5-hour internship before taking the practical exam.

STEP 3: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification

Participants should have a minimum of CPR/AED Level A to obtain certification. Courses available at our YMCA centers.

We strongly recommend that participants obtain their CPR certification before their practical exam.

• More information about CPR training

STEP 4: Practical Exam

Participants must pass a practical exam (by appointment with a YMCA FIT Trainer).

Additional option: Aging Adults (provincial certification - Québec)

The objective of this course is to teach fitness instructors how to lead safe, effective and dynamic group classes for aging adults within their area of expertise.

> Become a Functional Training Instructor for Aging Adults

Register now!

This information applies to the 2026 session.

Description	Members1	Non-members
Aquatic Fitness2 (28 hours)	$ 292	$ 336

¹ YMCA Members: 15% discount on regular price.
² Basic Theory course is not required for Aquatic Fitness course.

Aquatic Fitness Certification (Bilingual)

The objective of this course is to train fitness instructors to lead safe, effective, and dynamic aquatic fitness classes in shallow or deep water.

Participants will gain foundational knowledge on the following topics: class components; water properties and principles; basic movements; communication tools for effective class management; choreography techniques; guidelines for safe and effective classes; basic strength training; stretching and relaxation exercises.

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