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Information about Zumba Certification

People interested in becoming Zumba instructor may take a look at the guidelines given here to attain the certification.
Puja Lalwani
In the world of health and fitness, Zumba is one of the most popular dance forms, but with reason. Known to be a type of exercise that combines fun and a full body workout (in the form of various types of dance), a Zumba class is more often referred to as a dance party than an actual exercise class.
Because it is so much fun and people have actually experienced great benefits, a lot of them are now interested in undergoing Zumba certification to qualify as instructors in the field.

How to Become a Certified Instructor?

The process in itself is not very demanding. Zumba certification is available in more than twenty countries all over the world. To start with, enroll for a Zumba Class.
If you want to make a career in it, you have to first know what Zumba is all about. For this, enrolling in a class and seeing if you can get the hang of it, whether you enjoy it, and whether it's something you want to do all your life (or for a significant portion), is imperative.
You will probably realize that to teach it, you need to be very agile, fit, and greatly enthusiastic. A positive frame of mind with the love for dance is essential. It is also imperative that you be above 18 years of age to become an instructor.

Types of Certifications

Basic 1

The basic course has no prerequisites and anyone who is fit enough to perform, can enroll for this course. Here you are taught the basics of various types of Latin dances namely Salsa, Cumbia, Reggaeton, and Merengue. You will also be taught how to create steps to a song, and the basics of carrying out a class.
In addition, you will be given a one year basic license. This course is a prerequisite to enroll in any of advanced courses mentioned further. Upon attaining the license you can become a member of the Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN) for an additional fee.

Basic 2

In this course, you will be taught additional dance styles. These include Flamenco, Samba, Belly Dance, and Tango to make them a part of the dance routine. Here, you will also be taught advanced levels of carrying out classes.
You will meet greatly qualified and experienced instructors, and will learn more about carrying out Zumba instruction as a profession. You will be given a one year basic license at the end of the course.

Gold

It is a special course that aims to teach instructors how to carry out classes for adults, while keeping in mind their physiology and course requirements. It will train you to prepare individuals who are undergoing Zumba training for the first time.
Here, you will also be taught the Zumba chair workout. In order to qualify for a Gold License, you should be an existing member of the Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN).

Zumba Toning

Instructors who would like to incorporate toning into a weight loss Zumba workout, can opt for this workshop. Here, you are taught to use specific toning sticks that are known to tone the body, and enhance strength and rhythm. You will receive a Zumba Toning license at the end of the course.

Aqua Zumba

As the name suggests, it refers to the workout in water. You are taught to carry out such a class for all age groups, in a manner that combines both Zumba and aqua fitness in a safe manner. This is known to be very effective for weight loss and toning.
You will also be getting an Aqua Zumba license at the end of the workshop. The Zumba Academy recommends that you hold an Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) certification before you enroll for this workshop.
You should renew your certification by continuously attending workshops, that will also update you about any changes in this field. You cannot attain certification online, and you must go to the Zumba Academy website to locate a center closest to you, where you may undergo training.

Duration and Cost

Each of the aforementioned courses require you to complete an 8 hour workshop that is carried out within a day. You will be guided under qualified and experienced instructors. After being certified, you are qualified to carry out the course.
The cost for each workshop varies, based on when you sign up for it. Like, if you sign up about 3 weeks before the course begins, you will pay US $225. If you sign up a week before the course begins, you will pay US $270. If you sign up in the week of the beginning of the course, you will pay a fee of US $285. These fees can change with time and geography.
Experts suggest that only by getting a certification, you are not guaranteed a job as an instructor. Because there are so many candidates who qualify as instructors each day, the field is becoming more and more competitive. Though there are as many openings, you have to prove your mettle before you get a guaranteed position.