How I Became an Instructor

While I was training for the marathon last year, I started going to a sixty-minute spin class as part of my cross-training.  Something resonated in me every time I left that studio.

Could this be my new career??

I began researching how to become an instructor.  To my surprise, there were several options on becoming certified.  But which was the best route?  So I went to Google with hope of finding my answer.

I read about AFAA and there was a deal on their GEAR / Indoor Cycling Instructor, Music Selection, and Mental Toughness fit package.  I purchased it and began the online training which included videos and quizzes after each section.   I passed my final exam with flying colors.

I was beyond excited and set up an audition right away.  But I soon realized I never received a certificate.  I didn't want to chance it, so I re-scheduled my audition.  After conducting more research, I soon discovered that I didn't complete an actual certification, just received credits.

So I went back to the drawing board.  I found Mad Dogg Athletics® and there was a training in Philly in a few weeks.  I signed up and received the manual in the mail.   I was returning home from Myrtle Beach the day before the live workshop and our flight was cancelled.  My fiancé got a rental car and drove home through the night.

The day of the live workshop was split between reviewing the manual and two 45-minute rides.  The manual information was similar to AFAA on safety and set up.  After the workshop, I had 30 days to take the exam.  I took the exam and became an official Certified Spinning® Instructor in April.

My first audition didn't go very well.  I thought I was prepared but my nerves got the best of me.  I went on another and the same thing happened.

A few weeks later, I went on auditions at two local gyms and got hired!

The next thing I needed was to get First Aid/CPR/AED certified. I found an upcoming workshop with the American Red Cross. It consisted of a quick online overview + quizzes that took about two hours to complete prior to attending the live workshop.  The workshop consisted of reviewing the online material while practicing with dummies.

I started teaching in the beginning of August and the happiest I have ever been.

Are you interested in hearing more about instructing?  Let me know 😊

Both trainings I completed were great and would recommend.  Just make sure to complete the AFAA Group X Instructor training along with the Indoor Cycling / G.E.A.R.  If you want more info, check out AFAA and Mad Dogg Athletics Spinning.

This is not a sponsored post, just my personal experience