Today, there are over 2,000 Zumba instructors all over the world. You need to undergo special training and other types of workshops to be certified. The programs and demands will also vary, depending on the specialty you want to indulge in. You will find that there are also several benefits and materials provided to willing educators. Here are some tips.
About the Training
You may be happy to know that the program given to potential Zumba instructors has adequate support. The ZIN or Zumba Instructor Network is available which is a monthly membership program that includes a database of choreography DVDs, marketing materials and Zumba music and tracks. You also get discounts on Zumba wear, get access to the message board for instructors and a listing in the A-class database.
The message board is highly important since instructors get to share support and share information, regardless of their current position. There is no other program that has the same kind of resource. The fee is $30 per month. In some places, teaching fitness for a living is tax-deductible so everything is worth the investment.
Practice Makes Perfect
If you want to become an ideal Zumba instructor, you need to practice a lot. You need to put together some songs and tracks, then listen to these again and again. Next, you have to put up the choreography. You can get some songs and choreography, since you are already part of the ZIN. You may change the music often, depending on your mood to keep sessions entertaining and fun.
You can create your own program in Zumba. This is one way of staying creative. Pick your own songs and dances, although 70% of Zumba is derived from Latin music. You may also add some belly dance, rock and roll, country and swing. Breaks and choruses in songs are emphasized in Zumba, and at times, the words too, aside from the traditional 32-count sequence in aerobic classes.
Zumba Basic Instructor
The first type of Zumba program, which is also the most popular, is the Zumba Basic. If you want to become an instructor, you have to join Zumba Basic workshops that last one full day. The workshop is usually held on weekends over America and the world.
There are also 2-day workshops that move through the lessons more slowly. You get to have more time to practice and raise questions. The workshops are taught by ZES. You may also be fortunate enough to join the workout that creator, Beto, leads himself. You only need to wear workout clothes that are easy and comfortable to wear. You can expect to receive a bag of materials complete with a manual and snacks. The first hour usually consist of a Master Class
Zumba Gold Instructor
If you want to become a Zumba Gold instructor, you need to attend a Zumba Gold workshop that specializes in teaching the true beginner and active older adults. The very same principles and basics are featured, just like in the Basic program, except for the change in the target participant. The intensity level is decreased a little. The workshop lass around 1 day, with the first hour being a Master Gold Class.
You will also learn how to educate a Zumba Gold Chair Class for seniors who have disabilities. The pace is slower and can be a good foundation for entering Zumba Basic.