The Ins & Outs of being an Instructor

~ 3 Little things that really do make a big difference ~ 1. Learn their names & use them when saying hello & goodbye. 2. Make eye contact 3. Smile

~ A note about music ~ The music you play  can be one of the best parts of the class, or the worst. Keep your music updated, don't keep playing the same tape. Watch out for songs that may seem offensive to others. Keep the volume at a level that is pleasurable and that you can be heard over.

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Fitness professionals  are expected to be  knowledgeable  and  to act in a manner that if refective of that knowledge. Instructors and trainers  are considered to be role models in their community, and should act as such.

Take pride in your appearance when training a client or teaching a class. Keep make-up simple, jewelery basic and clothing professional. Hair and nails neat & clean.

~ Coping with  burnout ~ I t happens.......to all of us.  When it does, take a break. Although you won't be able to stop  teaching, that's your job, you can take a break in your personal life. When you start to feel like your on auto-matic pilot, make small changes in your life, vary your everyday routine, do something , anything, new. And then kick thier butt with a brand new class !!!

Start and end on time.....every time. Don't jepordize your credibility by starting classes late or ending early. Not only is it unprofessional...it's rude.

It's important to stay current. Attend a convention the next time it heads your way or take a  CEC course and learn something new. Try the links on the resources page to get you started.

Don't scimp on aerobics sneakers. Protecting your feet and ankles should be your main concern. Take your time in shopping and try on a few differrent brands. Extend their life by not wearing them outside, use them just for class. If you have a certain brand and style that you like, buy them through one of the instructor discount programs on the resources page.

If it's possible, be available a few minutes before and after class. Use this time to talk to any newcomers, answer any questions and explain any new or difficult moves. This may not be possible during each class but try to make it a regular practice.