Many people start in the gym assisting clients with their weight routines. This profession can lead to other jobs later in life such as personal training or even older adult training. Having weight training knowledge is always useful in training sessions since it allows you to expand the type of workout with your clients. If you have weight training experience or you simply love to help train others, this career path is for you. Learn how you can get certified as a BCRPA weight training instructor in 6 steps.
BCRPA Weight Training Instructor
Weight trainers can do many tasks, such as design, modify, and lead basic exercise training programs. If you plan to certify under BCRPA and would like to become a personal trainer eventually, then this is a MUST have certification. Here is how you can get certified as a BCRPA weight training instructor.
Step 1: Create an Account on The Registry
Your first step is to create an account with BCRPA. The Registry is where you can find your info about exam history, Speciality Module Courses like weight training, and CPR/First Aid certifications. You will also be able to book exams here as well.
Step 2: Take the Fitness Theory Course & Exam
It is recommended that you take the Fitness Theory course to help prepare for the mandatory Fitness Theory Exam. With proper studying and practice, you will save time and money in the long run. At FHP, we offer online courses to study at your own pace. You can learn anywhere and anytime. You will have everything you need, including notes, lectures, quizzes and practice exams.
Once you are ready to take the exam, you will need to log into The Registry. From there, click on “Exam History,” then “Purchase Exam.” It will look something like this:
Keep in mind that you can book the exam in advance even when you are not currently ready. Just make sure that you give yourself enough time to study. Our course gives you 6 months to prep, but if you need extra time, you can get in touch with us to find out how to get an extension.
Upon successfully completing your exam, you will have 1 year starting when you pass the exam on buying your first-year registration. Once you register, you will have another 1 year to complete your specialty modules like weight training or pilates.
Step 3: CPR & First Aid Certification
Now that you have passed the Fitness Theory exam, you need your CPR & First Air certification. It is completely fine if you complete this step even before passing your exam. Keep in mind that you have an expiry date for CPR & First Aid Certification. So, you may want to do this step closer to when you are planning on taking the Fitness Theory exam or after you have passed.
Certifications can come from one of these places:
- Red Cross
- Heart and Stroke Foundation
- Lifesaving Society
- St. John’s Ambulance
- Canadian Ski Patrol
Your local first aid certification business may also deliver a blended online and in-person training format. This is an excellent option if you can’t spend 2 8-hour days taking the course. As long as the certification has an in-person component and is not purely online, BCRPA will accept those certifications.
You are required to have a minimum of CPR level A and either Standard First Aid or Emergency First Aid. Once you have passed these courses, make sure to log them into your account on The Registry.
Step 4: First-Year Registration
Remember to register before it expires! If you do not register within 1 year, you will need to retake your Fitness Theory Exam. You can buy this registration for $109 under the “Manage Registration” tab.
During this time, you will need to complete your Specialty Module and pass your Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE).
Step 5: BCRPA Weight Training Course
The Weight Training Course should be at least 16 hours. Your modules will have a theory and a practical, hands-on component. Please check here for the current BCRPA approved course providers.
Step 6: Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE)
The last and the final step! You will need to review the ICE package and fill in the ICE Evaluator Feedback Form. Make sure that your ICE Evaluator is qualified under BCRPA. Once you pass everything, you are officially registered as a BCRPA weight training instructor! After every 2 years, you will need to renew your membership for $165.
Summary
Weight training is a great profession, especially if you want to start the fitness industry. It is rewarding and allows you to work with members of your community. Not only do you get to learn how to work in the gym setting, but you can also apply the knowledge from the module to your workout routines.