Choosing a Group Fitness
Instructor
You’ve spent a great deal of time
convincing yourself to get back in shape, maintain your shape, or at least start
thinking about your shape. That was
a big step and you don’t want to start back tracking already.
You need to find a group fitness instructor who will assist you in
keeping this momentum moving forward.
Group
fitness instructors come in all shapes & sizes, with different backgrounds,
experiences, and certifications. Choosing
the instructor(s) who will help you reach your fitness goals is not always an
easy task.
The
following questions are all topics you should investigate when searching for a
quality group fitness instructor. We
hope these will assist you in making your decision.
 | Is
the instructor interested in you and your goals?
A good instructor will want everyone to feel welcome.
They will also put your workout ahead of theirs.
|
| Does
the instructor have a group fitness certification?
There are many different certifications available.
Follow this question up by asking what was required of them in
attaining their certification.
|
| Does
class follow proper format of warm up, aerobic workout, cool down, &
flexibility?
These elements are essential for any aerobic workout.
|
| Did
the instructor ask you about your current level of fitness, medical
conditions, or injuries?
A quality instructor will seek these answers so that they can provide not
only an effective but also a safe group fitness class.
|
| Does
the instructor pay attention to participant form?
Good form brings better results and fewer problems.
You are not receiving the full service of a good group fitness class
if the instructor is not taking time to ensure proper form.
|
| Does
the instructor demonstrate modified versions of advanced or high impact
movements?
As all participants are not at the same fitness level or experience, a good
instructor must show variations.
*NOTE: As
participants you must check your ego at the door.
Class is not a competition and you should follow your instructor’s
cues and your body’s signals for when to use these modifications.
|
| Is
the instructor able to verbally cue and visually demonstrate movements?
The instructor must have good communication skills and have the knowledge to
cue participants using consistent and recognized terms.
|
| Does
the instructor provide variety in their choreography regularly?
You will experience better gains and be less subject to injury when your
instructor regularly changes exercise choreography.
|