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The Fit Life: Building a Career That Moved Me

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If you're into fitness and love workout classes, have you ever thought about becoming an instructor? 💪🏽 I was a fitness instructor for 15 years, and it was one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Whether you’re looking to teach part-time or ...
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Certifications

Whether you're chasing sets, choreography, or transformation, the top trio of fitness certifications has you covered: - NASM: The go-to for science nerds and body mechanics pros. NASM packs precision, corrective strategies, and next-level programming...

 
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Some of the instructors were certified here. This is where I got my certification. You do need to keep up with some training within two year of your renewal. It’s great if you train in other certifications because it will count for your CEU’s require...
Group Fitness Instructor
 
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Some instructors got certified here and her training seemed more intense on kinesiology aspect of group training. If you have a great memory and want more in depth info NASM is the way to go.
Earn your Certified Personal Trainer Certification - Start Today | NASM.org
 
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Some of the instructors were certified here. It's a nonprofit organization that certifies fitness professionals and promotes healthy, active lifestyles. With science-based programs and NCCA-accredited certifications, ACE empowers trainers, coaches, a...
Ace Health and Fitness Certifications, Continuing Education & Resources

Level up your game : Other Certs

Great instructors never stop learning. Whether it’s exploring new certifications, mastering fresh techniques, or simply staying curious; growth is the key to impact. When you invest in your own development, you bring renewed energy, updated knowledge...

 
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The certification covers the core rhythms, cueing techniques, and class structure. After completing the training, you receive a Zumba Instructor License, allowing you to teach Zumba classes. 70% OFF AFF1676706DP Expires on Jul 31, 2025, then resume...
Become a Zumba Instructor
 
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Its a unique mix of cardio, body-weight training, and synced beats pushes students harder and is proven to deliver a total-body transformation. 70% OFF AFF1676706DP Expires on Jul 31, 2025, then resumes at 65%
Become a Licensed STRONG Nation® Instructor | Find a Training
 
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Based on the science of functional movement, CIRCL Mobility™ focuses on flexibility, breathwork, and mobility exercises. 70% OFF AFF1676706DP Expires on Jul 31, 2025, then resumes at 65%
CIRCL Mobility™
 
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TRX® is a versatile suspension training system that uses bodyweight exercises to build strength, balance, and core stability. As a fitness professional, it’s a powerful tool to help clients achieve their goals while enhancing your own expertise and c...
TRX Education
 
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Les Mills is a global fitness brand offering science-backed group workouts that combine music, movement, and expert coaching. From high-energy classes like BODYPUMP and BODYCOMBAT to yoga-inspired BODYBALANCE, their programs are designed to make fitn...
Les Mills: Taking Fitness to the Next Level
 
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Piloxing® is a dynamic fitness program that fuses boxing, Pilates, and dance into a high-energy, interval-based workout. It’s designed to sculpt muscles, burn fat, and boost cardiovascular health while keeping participants engaged and empowered. Fitn...
Piloxing
 
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Animal Flow® is a ground-based movement system that blends elements of gymnastics, parkour, and animal-inspired motions to improve strength, mobility, and coordination. It’s designed for all fitness levels and can be practiced solo or in group settin...
Animal Flow
 
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BOSU® Inspire360 offers a comprehensive library of on-demand education courses and workshops designed to elevate fitness professionals’ skills and knowledge. From balance training and mobility to Pilates and bootcamp formats, these programs help trai...
BOSU® On-Demand Education
 
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The IBBFA Barre Certification is the world’s leading and most comprehensive online barre training program, recognized for its high-quality instruction and up-to-date curriculum. It equips fitness professionals with the skills to teach safe, effective...
Barre Instructor Training and Certification Program | Online Barre ...
 
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For Mat PilatesMat Pilates is a full-body exercise method that improves flexibility, strength, and body awareness through controlled movements. With ISSA’s 100% online Pilates Instructor certification, you’ll learn how to structure sessions, support ...
Certified Pilates Instructor

Top Four Pilates Certifications

If you're aiming for maximum career flexibility and recognition, STOTT or Balanced Body are top picks. If you're drawn to depth and artistry, BASI shines. And if you're a classical enthusiast, Peak Pilates is a great fit. 

 
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Most Popular -Most recognized worldwide, rehab-friendly, high demand
STOTT PILATES | Education
 
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Widely Recognized -Flexible, modern, widely used in studios
Balanced Body Pilates Instructor Training - How to Become a Pilates Instructor
 
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Academically Respected -Strong academic and artistic reputation
BASI Pilates Teacher Training Programs
 
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Classical Appeal -Classical focus, smaller global footprint
Peak Pilates Education

Fitness Instructor Essentials To Carry In Gym Bag

Think of it like prepping a baby bag but for a fitness pro. When you're teaching back-to-back classes, there are a few must-haves you'll be glad to have on hand. From pain relief and "boo-boo" fixes to stay-fresh products that keep you feeling confid...
 
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Its always good to carry a few for backup.
Sunmns 10 Pack Mini Lapel Mic Windscreens
 
Dulce Perez profile picture
These are good. I hate when a sqinchy breaks on me mid class. 😣
Pimoys 100 Pcs Black Elastic Hair Ties
 
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I have both flavors. Cinnamon taste like big red chewing gum. Great to have just incase ya didn’t get your morning coffee and you’re running late to class. Also helps if he you have to pull a double.
NeuroGum Energy Caffeine Mints, 72 pcs
 
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Just in case ya need to touch up your hair right before or after teaching.
Wet Brush Squirt Mini Detangling Brush Sky
 
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For headaches and or body pains. Always good to have some in your purse or bag.
Tylenol Extra Strength 500mg Caplets, 10 ct
 
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Headaches or just body pains like a sore lower back. It’s always good to have on hand.
Advil Pain Reliever Ibuprofen 200mg - 10 Tabs
 
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Just in case you have a cut or blister while at the gym and you’re about to teach or teaching.
Band-Aid Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages 8ct
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In case need immediate relief for knees, lower back before or after teaching class.
Aspercreme Odor Free Lidocaine Pain Relief Roll-On 2.5 oz
 
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Its always necessary to have hand sanitizer available to clean hands after class. Touching the weights, mat and floors with bares hands gets yucky.
Purell Hand Sanitizer Variety Pack, 1oz, 8ct
 
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I large towel for mat exercise or shower and a face towel to clean sweat when sweating in class to avoid slipping and sliding.
Tian qing Microfiber Towel Set, 2 Pcs, Medium
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As you begin teaching more frequently, having athletic tape on hand can offer helpful support while you assess whether you need a brace. It's something you can keep accessible before, during, or after class.
Care Science Waterproof Copper Infused Kinesiology Tape, 40 ct Precut Strips
 
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I was gifted some of these products, and they were fantastic! The person who introduced me to them is a huge fan and swears by their quality. I'm already looking forward to placing my own order cause the first one was for my mother and now she offers...
Hammer Nutrition | Fuels & Supplements for Endurance Athletes
 
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I like that it doesn’t leave marks on the clothes.
Dove Invisible Dry Stick Anti-Perspirant 40ml
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A touch of color and a lip moisturizer. Dry lips and mouth are not fun while teaching.
NIVEA Fruity Tinted Lip Balm 4-Pack
 
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This power bank is great cause it has a cord included.  Not terribly heavy. Just in case battery low before or after classes.
ANKER Nano 10,000mAh Power Bank 30W USB-C
 
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If you don’t have time to wash your hair after class or between classes, but need a quick refresh, this is your lifesaver.
Batiste Dry Shampoo Bare Mini 1.6oz (2 Pack)
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Let’s face it feet stink after working out. Spray beforehand to reduce this.
Dr. Scholl's ODOR-X Ultra Odor-Fighting Spray
 
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Just in case food gets stuck prior to teaching. Since you should be smiling at your participants keep it clean. nothing like having a piece of broccoli in there .
Plackers Micro Mint Dental Floss Picks, 12 Ct

Essentials-Gym bag Ideas

Our gym bags will carry everything we need to crush our workout, from water bottles and protein snacks to towels and gear. With durability, style, and smart compartments, it’s more than a bag, it’s your fitness sidekick. Here some options to check ou... 

 
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This BAGSMART bag does it all. With compartments for shoes, wet gear, and tech, it’s perfect for gym days, weekend escapes, or airport sprints. TSA-friendly, water-resistant, and surprisingly chic.
BAGSMART 4-IN-1 Women’s TSA Travel Duffel
 
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When you want function without sacrificing flair. It fits 2–4 outfits, has a ventilated shoe compartment (no stink!), a waterproof wet pocket for post-swim gear, and even hidden yoga mat straps. With tons of pockets and a sleek silhouette.
RHDZO Gym Bag for Women with Shoe Compartment
 
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This bag means business. With 10 compartments including a full-length shoe pocket, hidden wet pouch, and space for two bottles it will keep your gear sorted and your post-workout chaos contained.
Ultimate Gym Bag 2.0 Durable Duffel 20"
 
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This Ceneda bag has a hidden yoga mat strap, a separate shoe compartment, and a waterproof pocket for post-workout stuff.
Ceneda Large Gym Bag for Women with Yoga Mat Holder & Shoe Compartment

Essentials - Water bottle ideas

When choosing a water bottle for teaching aerobics, go for one with a straw or a small, screw-on mouthpiece. That way, you won’t end up gulping too much water between cues or worse, dropping it and soaking the studio floor.
 
Dulce Perez profile picture
I never teach a class without my Yeti. My robin blue one is my go-to, I also own a light purple tumbler with a straw. Keeps drinks cold, refreshing, and spill-free while I cue, coach, and crush it. If you're an instructor or just love a good hydratio...
Rambler® 18 oz Water Bottle
 
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Personally, never bought the steel one, I had a glass version, but let’s just say that didn’t end well 😅 Anyhoo… these bottles are cute, and the real kicker? Waterdrop® also sells flavored hydration cubes for all my fitness folks who just can’t with...
Classic Thermo Steel
 
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S'well bottles are for the bold Mine were all about the colors, vibrant, fun, and totally me. If you're someone who wants your gear to show a little personality (you know what I mean 😉), these are perfect. Plus, they feel a lil lighter in the bag, w...
Original Bottle | 17oz
 
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Hydro Flask was my go-to for my teens. We used them for school, gym and trips. They kept water cold, and that cute logo. I’m obsessed. They even offer matching lunch kits, which is perfect if you love being coordinated. Durable, stylish, and super pr...
Bottles
 
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My girls used these Lululemon bottles all through college. If you're a Lulu fanatic, you gotta get their merch, don’t ya? 😜 Sleek, stylish, and totally on-brand. They even pair with other gear if you love being coordinated.
Back To Life Sport Bottle 24oz - lululemon
 
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I haven’t personally owned this one yet, but If you're more on the outdoorsy end, this bottle’s got your back. Clip it to your backpack, carry it by the handle, and boom you’re trek-ready. Bonus: it comes with a paracord. And let’s be real, you never...
GOSWAG 24oz Insulated Sports Water Bottle

Essentials-Headphones

It’s not just about what happens in class, our workouts go beyond the studio as well. Whether we’re pushing through a tough circuit or getting outside for a fresh-air session, the right music can take your energy to the next level. That’s where great...
 
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Make a statement with retro headphones that offer a pop bold color, vintage vibes, and sound that turns heads.
Bose/Bluetooth Headphones & Wireless Headphones
 
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Love the silence. Live for the sound. These earbuds do both. I love the noise canceling aspect.
Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds, H2 Chip
 
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No slips, just beats go over-the-ear for your cardio sessions.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds

Fitness Instructor-home essentials

 
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Cold or hot compress when muscles are tiered and or strained. Love that this can be used hot or cold.
TheraPearl Color Changing Reusable Hot Cold Pack
 
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After multiple classes and barely any proper stretching, this is fantastic for easing tension and giving those muscles some much needed love.
TriggerPoint Grid 1.0 13" Foam Roller
 
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Good to have at home or in your bag if you need to roll the fascia under your foot, or if you have tight tension spots around your body.
Velocity Lacrosse Balls - Practice & Official

Gym Fit

Look good, feel unstoppable. A solid gym fit means gear that breathes, stays put, and keeps the sweat off your style. No distractions, just you and the grind.

 
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If you like to feel like you have nothing on. Buttery soft.
Women's Bestsellers | lululemon
 
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Fun prints for those whom like to be more expressive.
Yoga Democracy
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Budget friendly sets, no front seam bottoms.
Gymshark Official Store - Gym Clothes & Workout Clothes
 
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Another budget friendly company that has great variety of styles.
Halara UltraSculpt™ SoCinched High Waisted Tummy Control Pocket Shaping Training Leggings
 
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Soft and stylish.
Women's New Clothing Arrivals: Pants, Tops & More | Vuori
 
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When I just don't want to spend too much.
HeyNuts Yoga Pro High Waisted Leggings

Fitness Trackers

From counting steps to tracking heart rate, fitness trackers bring clarity to your goals. Whether you're chasing miles, mastering sleep, or fine-tuning workouts, these sleek wearables turn movement into motivation. Stay accountable, monitor progress,...
 
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I personally own an Apple Watch, which includes a fitness app that tracks calories burned and monitors exercise activity during class. I like that I can control the music directly from my watch pausing it when needed and adjusting the volume up or do...
Apple Watch Series 10
 
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WHOOP 5.0 is a screen-free fitness tracker that monitors sleep, recovery, and performance 24/7 perfect for focused, data-driven training
WHOOP 5.0
 
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Fitbit Charge 6 tracks heart rate, workouts, and sleep plus it connects with Google apps, Maps, and Wallet for smart, seamless living.
Fitbit Charge 6
 
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Garmin Venu 3S blends style and smarts with GPS, health tracking, and a vibrant display all in a compact, 41mm design built for everyday movement.
Wearable4U Garmin Venu

Instructor Inspiration

Observing fellow instructors in action clarified the direction I wanted to take as fitness instructor. Their teaching styles and passion sparked ideas for how to structure and run my own classes. With time and confidence, you’ll find your own rhythm,...

 
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She is an exceptional example. Been in the industry for years.
Cathe Friedrich Workout & Exercise Videos
 
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She is soft spoken and great another great example.
Jenny Ford Fitness
 
nourishmovelove
 
CHRISTINA DORNER
 
Heather Robertson
 
Zuzka Light
 
Autumn Calabrese
 
BodyRock TV
 
LivestrongWoman
 
Bodybuilding.com
 
Sean Vigue Fitness
 
gymvirtual
 
Muscle Mummys
 
BodyFit By Amy
 
Shelly Dose Fitness
 
Redefining Strength
 
Mirna's Aerobic Studio
 
Melissa Bender
 
Joanna Soh Official
 
AXFIT.COM
 
eFit30
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XHIT Daily
 
fitnesscentral
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MadFit
 
RC Fitness Official
 
Group HIIT
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Millionaire Hoy