High School

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers should hold a high school diploma. If you are interested in a fitness career, take courses in physical education, biology, and anatomy. In addition, be involved in sports, weight lifting, or dance activities to stay fit and learn to appreciate the value of exercise.

Postsecondary Training

Although it isn't always necessary, a college degree will make you more marketable in the fitness field. Typically, aerobics instructors do not need a college education to qualify for jobs; however, some employers may be more interested in candidates with a balance of ability and education.

Fitness trainers are usually required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited athletic training program or a related program in physiology, kinesiology, or exercise science. These programs often require extensive internships that can range from 500 to 1,800 hours of hands-on experience. Essential college-level courses include anatomy, biomechanics, chemistry, first aid, health, kinesiology, nutrition, physics, physiology, psychology, and safety.

Other Education or Training

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers must keep their skills up to date, becoming thoroughly familiar with the latest knowledge and safety practices. They must take continuing education courses and participate in seminars to keep their certification current. Continuing education opportunities are offered by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, IDEA Health & Fitness Association, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and National Athletic Trainers' Association. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

Most serious fitness trainers and aerobics instructors become certified. Certification is not required in most states, but most clients and fitness companies expect these professionals to have credentials to prove their worth.

Certifying organizations include the following: Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, American College of Sports Medicine, American Council on Exercise, IDEA Health & Fitness Association, National Academy of Sports Medicine, and National Athletic Trainers' Association. Aerobics instructors should also be certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before finding a job.

Any volunteer or paid experience you can obtain teaching exercise classes will be useful. 

Aerobics instructors and fitness trainers are expected to be physically fit, but are not expected to be specimens of human perfection. For example, members of an aerobics class geared to overweight people might feel more comfortable with a heavier instructor; a class geared toward the elderly may benefit from an older instructor.

Anyone who works in this field needs to have strong people skills. Fitness trainers, especially, also need to be talented salespeople, as training sessions are often sold in add-on packages that are not covered by the normal health club fees. A member may receive several free sessions, but it is up to the trainer to convince the member to purchase additional sessions.

Other important traits include confidence, excellent communication skills, and the ability to motivate people.