Group Fitness Instructor Training

Choosing this certification means learning to lead safe, dynamic, and motivating group fitness classes through a recognized program that is focused on hands-on experience.

This course will allow you to:

• Learn from experienced instructors
• Get a certification that is recognized across Canada
• Develop concrete skills to teach different types of group fitness classes

Yes, the YMCA FIT certifications are recognized across Canada.

• They qualify you to work as a group fitness instructor.
• They can also open the door to self-employed work, subject to local requirements.
• They give you an advantage when applying for a job at the YMCA.  

Yes.

The Basic Theory Course is the first step in the FIT journey.

It must be successfully completed before moving on to the practical certification. 

The Basic Theory Course teaches you the essential skills a fitness instructor must have to teach a class.  

The subjects broached include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Training principles
• Movement mechanics
• Nutrition
• Program planning
• Healthy lifestyles
• Legal aspects related to the profession

These concepts are then directly applied in the practical part of the certification process.

The duration varies based on the specialization chosen.

• Basic Theory: 30 hours (online)
• Group cardio and strength training certification: 35 hours (in person)
• Cycling: 16 hours (in person)
• Mandatory internship: 5 hours.

The entire course is usually completed over several weeks or a few months.  

• The Basic Theory course is offered online.
• The specializations are offered in person as they involve hands-on learning and in-the-field assessments.

No, courses are not recorded.

• Classes are only offered in real time.
• Classes are not recorded.
• In case of absence, we recommend getting in touch with your instructor.

The certification course has different steps to complete:  

1. Take and pass the Basic Theory Course (30 hours online)
2. Choose a specialization:
   1. Group cardio and strength training
   2. Cycling
3. Complete a 5-hour internship.
4. Get your CPR/AED Level A certification.
5. Pass the final practical exam.  

To register, you must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Understand French or English (depending on the language the course is given in; some terms may be in English)

Depending on the specialization chosen, these are the specific prerequisites:

• Group cardio and strength training: participants should be in relatively good physical shape. Having basic knowledge of group fitness (as a participant or instructor) is also recommended, as well as the willingness to progress.
• Cycling:  participants should be in relatively good physical shape. Having basic knowledge of cycling classes (as a participant or instructor) is also recommended, as well as the willingness to improve.

Once certified, you can:

• Teach group fitness classes at the YMCA
• Work in a gym or sports centre
• Offer your services as a self-employed professional 

This certification allows you to:  

• Become an instructor  
• Work in the fitness industry  
• Start your own business  
• Pursue other FIT specializations such as personal training, functional training for older adults, and aquafitness