We get a lot of questions about how to become a BCRPA fitness instructor. The first thing you will want to do is consider which type of instructor you want to be. Some examples include aquafit instructor, personal trainer, and pilates instructor. We will go over the most common types in this post.
BCRPA Fitness Instructor: The First Step
Whether you want to be a personal trainer or a pilates instructor, the first step is to take the BCRPA Fitness Theory exam. But, before taking the exam, you will want to take a course to prep yourself. If you are worried about this step, we have you covered. We offer a BC Fitness Theory course to get you ready for your exam. Just like you, we understand the challenges of juggling between jobs, life, and family. Our course covers all ten topics on the exam, including anatomy and movement mechanics.
BCRPA Fitness Instructor
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer is the most popular choice of a fitness instructor. These fitness professionals work within a scope of training to ensure that their clients are safe. Guidelines may vary depending on the organization, but for BCRPA, these include:
- Designing and instructing a personalized, safe, and effective program for the healthy clients
- Creating a safe exercise environment using proper tools
- Provide initial health screening, as well as monitor progress
- Design short/long term programs
- Provide basic nutritional info
- Refer clients to health care providers when conditions are out of the scope of practice
- Act as a consultant/educators based on the guidelines
To become a personal trainer with BCRPA, you will need to complete the fitness theory, complete and pass the Weight Training exam and ICE, and the Personal Trainer exam and ICE.
Pilates Instructor
Another fitness instructor you may choose to become is a pilates instructor, and you can find out more information here. Since the pilates instructor teaches a different activity, the scope of practice will be slightly different from other fitness instructors. The following include:
- Designing, modifying, and leading a safe mat pilates fitness group
- Leading participants and screening them using PAR-Q (or those who have medical clearance)
- Follow the training standards and guidelines set by NFLA (the umbrella organization that includes BCRPA)
- Using appropriate exercise equipment based on the client’s needs
- Give nutrition info based on Canada’s Food Guides
Becoming a pilates instructor is easier than a personal trainer in the sense that you have fewer steps. Upon completing the Fitness Theory exam, Pilates course, ICE, and written exam, you will have your certification!
Aquatic Fitness Instructor
Recall that time you went to the swimming pool and saw an instructor teaching an aquafitness class. They may have been a certified BCRPA Aquatic Fitness instructor! Even though they work in a different environment, these instructors have the exact scope of practice as pilates instructors. Remember, working within the scope of practice ensures that you are keeping yourself safe and your clients.
Final Thoughts on BCRPA Fitness Instructor
Regardless of which type of instructor you would like to be, you are regarded as a highly qualified fitness professional under BCRPA. Take your fitness theory course, pass the exam, and pursue whichever path you want to take!
Let’s Get Started!
If you have not taken your BCRPA Fitness Theory exam, join us here and begin studying today!