Teaching your first fitness class can be both exciting and daunting. Even if you are an experienced fitness trainer, there is always something new to learn when it comes to teaching a class.
However, did you know that 80% of adolescents are not physically fit?
Did you just graduate from fitness school? If so, congratulations! You are now a fitness trainer.
You are all excited to get out there and teach your first fitness class. But how do you ensure that everything goes well? And how do you make your first class memorable?
Here are several tips for teaching your first fitness class as a new trainer.
Utilize Simple Language
You must use simple language when teaching your first fitness class as a new trainer. Speak clearly, and use easy language for all your members to understand. Explain each movement and exercise as if you were teaching fitness classes to beginners.
Use basic terms that most people understand, such as push-ups, squats, jump rope, etc. Teach the proper form and explain why each movement and exercise is essential. Verbal queues such as “keep your torso up”, “bend your knees” or “pull your navel to your spine” will help ensure your members are performing the exercises correctly.
Give plenty of encouragement and be mindful of how you guide the class. Utilizing simple language will create a safe, effective, and successful training environment for your members.
Introduce Engaging Activities
When teaching a fitness class as a new fitness trainer, one of the essential elements of a successful session is ensuring the activities you choose are engaging. Plan activities that focus on movement and fun to ensure your students stay motivated and attentive.
Incorporate a variety of exercises and activities that challenge their minds and bodies. While traditional exercises such as running, jumping jack, and abdominal crunches are essential, you should mix them with partner or team exercises, HIIT circuits, or Tabata drills.
You should also utilize music as a motivator. Nothing gets people more motivated than an upbeat song with a great beat. To keep your class members engaged, switch up the exercises periodically and give them breaks when needed.
Offer plenty of encouragement and show your enthusiasm for the class; your enthusiasm is contagious and will help keep your class members excited and energized. If you want to know more engaging activities that can help you, visit ASFA.
Establish Ground Rules
Establishing ground rules is the essential step to teaching any fitness class. It is vital to inform the class that safety is the main priority, and any adjustments should be communicated.
It is necessary to highlight that health must come before performance, and beginning slowly is the safest approach. A no-judgment policy should be emphasized to ensure respect among the class members.
Setting a ‘no phone’ rule will help keep distractions to a minimum and ensure that all participants get the most out of their workout. By teaching a class of members the importance of setting ground rules, their expectations and level of participation can be managed more effectively.
Starting Your Own Fitness Class
Teaching your first fitness class as a new trainer can be daunting but rewarding. With some planning and pre-work, you can enter confidently and set up your students for success. Get out there and start teaching your first fitness class today.
