The YMCA prides itself on providing qualified fitness leaders through our Fitness Leadership Program. Becoming a Certified YMCA Fitness Leader and joining our team is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

1. YMCA Basic Theory

Take the first step to becoming a fitness leader through Basic Theory. Here you will learn the basics of fitness and learning to lead others into a lifetime of fitness. (Prerequisite for Group and Individual Training)

Cost:        $110 (Includes textbook and exam)

Pre-requisite: Completed Basic Theory

Next, learn what it takes to become either a Group Fitness Leader or an Individual Conditioning Leader. Each specialty is a separate course.

YMCA Individual Conditioning Training - Level 1

This course is to help both volunteers and staff build relationships with members in a YMCA conditioning center. Level 1 will help you create a positive atmosphere in a conditioning center where members can strive toward and achieve their goals.

YMCA Individual Conditioning Training - Level 2

This course is to help fitness leaders/instructors develop a better understanding of the principles related to the conditioning of an individual. Emphasis is on designing a basic program that includes all components of fitness to develop a well balanced, conditioned individual.

Cost:        $100 (Includes textbook, exam & observation)

YMCA Fundamentals of Group Fitness Training

This course is to help fitness leaders acquire information related to teaching fitness classes in a

group setting. You will also gain an understanding of the YMCA member and learn how they can foster relationship building in their fitness classes. From here different Group Fitness Streams are offered.

Classes run 8:30 - 4:30pm

Cost:        $50 (includes textbook, exam & observation)

Group Choreography-based Stream

This stream is to develop fitness leaders who are able to teach safe and effective group choreography-based fitness classes. This is an 8 hour course and participants must complete both Basic Theory and Fundamentals of Group.

Classes run 12:00 - 8:00pm

Cost:        $80 (includes manual)

This stream is to develop fitness leaders who are able to teach safe and effective group cycling classes. This is a 6 hour course and participants must complete both Basic Theory and Fundamentals of Group Fitness.

Classes run 12:00 - 6:00pm

Cost:        $80 (includes manual)

Group Resistance Training Stream

This stream is to develop fitness leaders who are able to teach safe and effective group resistance training classes or stretching classes. This is an 8 hour course and participants must complete both Basic Theory and Fundamentals of Group Fitness.

Classes run 8:30 - 4:30pm

Cost:        $80 (includes manual)

Aquatic Fitness Stream

This stream is to develop fitness leaders who are able to teach a water based group fitness class in shallow or deep water using a system of safe and effective exercises. This is an 8 hour course and participants must complete both basic theory and group fundamentals.

Cost:        $80 (includes manual)

3. Apprenticeship

The last step of your certification is to complete an apprenticeship program. Here you will get your practical hours needed to gain your YMCA Fitness Leader Certification certificate.

Group Fitness Apprenticeship (Requirement for YMCA certification)

12 practical hours to help instructors present and cue moves, and design a fitness class in a safe and fun manner.

Cost:        $75.00

Individual Conditioning Apprenticeship (Requirement for YMCA certification)

12 practical hours to help new trainers obtain confidence when setting up personal programs for clients.

Cost:        $75.00

Practical Theory Observation (Group or Individual)

Cost:        $30.00