Gym Fitness for Women

Is paying to get certified in Zumba worth it?

I'm considering attending one of the Zumba certification workshops (would like to make a little extra income). I am not currently certified in any group fitness/aerobics...but I take the classes 2-3 times per week, worked as a manager at a gym, and have been a dancer all my life. The certification classes are a little pricey, and I would have to travel about 3-4 hours to them. Do you think it's worth it?

Public Comments

1. if that is what you enjoy, yes, if it is solely about money, then no
2. yeah if you are enjoying it.
3. If the extra income will be worth it in the end, then yes. Plus, since you enjoy zumba, I'd definitely say it's worth it. Maybe you can get a friend or family member to join you so the drive won't be as boring?
4. Please consider getting a real group certification first. This is a fad that will run its course and if you are truly dedicated to becoming a real fitness professional you will want more skills. I recommend ACE or AFAA and then you can offer a class that combines your dance background in a manner you see fit without paying the fees associated with using someone's 'creation'. Please consider one of these two. Both will allow you to work anywhere and give you a foundation to build on. I have taught Group Exercise Cert classes for several years (I work for a university), and can assure you this is the best way to go. I also have my own business and would never hire anyone without a general group exercise certification from a reputable agency, and most fitness directors I know would not either. www.acefitness.org www.afaa.com If you really like this industry, maybe you should consider a degree in exercise physiology,kinesiology, or something similar. Regarding the monthly fee for music, choreography, and such, since your dance background is strong you should already have some feel for putting together routines and choosing music (dynamix, Power Music are good choices) it would be wasteful to pay that fee.
5. If you enjoy it, go for it! I'm a zumba instructor.. i'm only certified in zumba.. it's the only workout i find fun! I teach 3 times a week just at our local rec center and make $36/class .. a lot of instructors rent a room at a dance studio and charge per class, that way they make more. It depends on where you want to work.. ask around, find out how much fitness instructors make in your area (i'm in cleveland). I like rec centers/fitness centers because my liability is covered (in case someone sprains an ankle or something!) What else can I say, it's always nice to get paid to work out! Also, for $30/month, every other month zumba gives you a new music cd, then on the in between months they give you a music cd AND matching choreography for it which is nice.. helps you constantly keep the classes new and exciting!