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Aerobics Instructor
The main responsibility of an aerobics instructor is to demonstrate and to teach both aerobics and callisthenics, and ensure that each person in the class performs them correctly.

Aerobics classes usually comprise mixed groups of beginners and advanced exercisers. The instructor needs to ensure that beginners are given sufficient attention without disrupting the momentum of the advanced learners. Beginners often perform the exercises incorrectly, rendering them ineffective or placing themselves at risk of injury. It is the instructor's responsibility to demonstrate the correct movements and to pay close attention to each person's breathing and movement. The instructor is responsible for motivating and encouraging groups to get the greatest benefit from their session.

Aerobics instructors conduct group exercise sessions that involve aerobic exercise, stretching and muscle conditioning. Some fitness workers may perform the duties of both aerobics instructors and fitness trainers.

Fitness directors oversee the operations of a health club or fitness centre. Their work involves creating and maintaining programs that meet the needs of the club's members.

Success in this career is dependent on the instructor's ability to motivate the exercisers through a balanced combination of hard work and fun.

Aerobics instructors need to know about choreography and leading exercise classes.

Satisfying Aspects
- helping and seeing people progress in their fitness
- keeping fit while enjoying yourself

Demanding aspects
- sometimes having to work unsociable hours
- frustration with individuals who do not respond to encouragement.

An aerobics instructor should:
- have a passion for physical activity;
- be fit and active;
- have organizational ability;
- be able to work with groups of people;
- be able to encourage and motivate;
- have teaching ability;
- good coordination and a clear voice

School Subjects
No specific high school requirements are necessary to enter this career, however, it is recommended that you go as far as you can at school.

Compulsory Subjects: None
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences

Various courses can be undertaken at universites, eg NMMU, NWU, UCT, UFS, UP, RU and UZ, university of technology, eg TUT, and academies for trainers or colleges.

- private gymnasiums
- gymnasium and health centre chains
- universities and universities of technology
- large organizations
- self-employment - some do freelance work, work from home or have own gyms

Exercise Teachers’ Academy
Tel: (021) 689-1491 Fax: (021) 689-3590

Sports Science Institute of South Africa
Private Bag X5
Newlands, 7725
Boundary Rd
Newlands, 7700
Tel: (021) 659-5600 Fax: (021) 659-5601