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Group Fitness Instructor Certification
(AFAA-CGFI)

Study from home. Become certified from home. Teach classes from home.

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/month $25 down + 11 interest-free payments. 0% interest, no fees, penalties or credit check!

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$899

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Course Highlights

 

What You'll Learn

AFAA trainer leading group exercise

When you enroll in our Group Fitness Certification Program, you're gaining the benefit of decades of experience in preparing the best instructors in the industry. For generations, we've provided those in our programs with practical skills and hands-on experience needed to inspire and motivate class participants to strive to create happier and healthier lives.

As times have changed so have we, adopting a world-class online learning platform that allows you to study and get certified. From the comfort of your own home. With each program, you'll learn:

Expand What You’ll Learn

  • How to design, choreograph and lead a group fitness class.
  • Training on modalities, including: strength and resistance, HIIT and interval, boot camp, yoga, cycle and more.
  • Essentials of exercise and physiology.
  • Foundations of nutrition and healthy eating.
  • How to adapt for special populations, like pregnant and senior participants.
  • Business skills and professional responsibilities.

Step 1:
Study Your Online Course Material

Step 2:
Pass Your Proctored, NCCA-Accredited Exam

Step 3:
Become an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor!

 

Revolutionary Digital Learning Platform

Access AFAA's Certified Group Instructor course on a high-end, interactive digital learning platform that can be used anytime, anywhere, and on any device! Take a quick tour below to get a firsthand look at the tools and features of this revolutionary platform.

product tour video overlay
 

Curriculum

There are no prerequisites for this course, although a personal trainer certification or a fitness specialization is recommended.

Chapter 1: The Group Fitness Industry
Learn about the state of health and fitness today. This understanding will provide insight into why your pursuit of a career in fitness will help you become so influential in improving the lives of others.

Chapter 2: Foundations of Exercise Science
Helping others reach their fitness goals requires the knowledge to analyze the basics of human movement thoroughly. Biomechanics and the interactions of the muscle action spectrum provide you with the language of exercise science and a foundational understanding of the human body.

Chapter 3: The Human Movement System
Armed with the basics of biomechanics, you can now begin to learn the functions of the Human Movement System (also referred to as the kinetic chain). The kinetic chain is comprised of three different, yet intimately interwoven, systems that allow our bodies to move. The knowledge related to these systems and their interactions will help you guide the individuals you work with to move safely and effectively.

Chapter 4: Integrated Fitness
Integrated fitness is the foundation for the successful development of any fitness program, combining multiple types of exercise to help participants achieve their goals. Through the application of the various components of integrated fitness, you can design safer, more effective fitness classes.

5 Infographics

11 Videos

4 Quizzes

5 Infographics

11 Videos

4 Quizzes

Chapter 5: Teaching Basics
Using the principles of integrated fitness, you may now begin to piece together the five components of a workout for a unified class flow. Through an in-depth exploration of each of the five components (intro, movement prep, the body of the workout, transition, and outro), you can identify the various considerations for the most popular formats, including training intensities and appropriate exercise selection.

Chapter 6: Teaching Multi-training and Exercise Technique
One precious resource for an aspiring Group Fitness Instructor is a vast inventory of exercises that might be useful across multiple formats. Additionally, instructors should be familiar with the appropriate technique for each exercise they offer, as well as be prepared to offer modifications to accommodate participants' needs.

Chapter 7: Class Planning and Preparation
After understanding integrated fitness, the components of a workout, and appropriate exercises across popular formats, instructors can apply their knowledge in the classroom. Thoughtful class planning allows instructors the opportunity to refine the intended outcomes of their classes by selecting elements such as music, equipment, and movement options to best suit their intended goals.

2 Infographics

21 Videos

3 Quizzes

2 Infographics

21 Videos

3 Quizzes

Chapter 8: Adapting to Class Dynamics
Instructors must do more than simply plan for their classes. They must also be prepared to encounter unexpected variables the day-of. Knowing how to respond to numerous situations, from surprise visitors to medical emergencies, will help you in your efforts to provide a safe and inclusive experience for everyone. Diligent classroom set-up can help avert complications before they begin.

Chapter 9: Communication and Learning
While in-depth knowledge of proper exercise execution and workout design is essential for all Group Fitness Instructors, the test of a genuinely successful instructor lies in connecting with participants through their preferred learning styles and active cueing. Generally speaking, the best way to connect with participants is by providing participant-centered instruction that acknowledges individual needs while still serving the group.

Chapter 10: Inclusive Instruction for Special Populations
Participant-centered instruction requires an understanding of the various levels of conditioning that may affect an individual’s performance in a group workout. By understanding the various considerations and modifications available, you can provide support for every participant without singling them out or sacrificing the quality of a workout.

Chapter 11: Class Engagement and Motivation
Effective instructors do more than offer safe movement experiences. They connect with their participants, which engages and motivates them to continue returning time and time again. By motivating every participant in a way that empowers them to meet their goals, you'll build value for your participants.

3 Infographics

28 Videos

4 Quizzes

3 Infographics

28 Videos

4 Quizzes

Chapter 12: Professional and Legal Responsibilities
As with any career, there are legal, ethical, and professional expectations for certified Group Fitness Instructors. Included in these expectations is the need for continued educational and experiential development, as well as methods for self-care to help you sustain and thrive.

Chapter 13: Nutrition
Achieving optimal health and fitness goes beyond human movement, it also encompasses nutrition. Nutrition is an evolving and quickly changing science. As new research is conducted, new information provides fresh insights that may influence the work you do as a Group Fitness Instructor. This module will provide you the basic nutritional information you will need for discussions with participants, as well as to benefit your health and well-being.

5 Videos

2 Quizzes

5 Videos

2 Quizzes

After the completion of the course, you will have the option to take an online proctored final exam from the comfort of your own home, or in-office at a testing facility. The test consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. The exam is timed and cannot exceed 120 minutes. To pass, you need a score of 70% or higher. You will have 180 days (around 6 months) from your date of purchase and 1 attempt to pass. Additional retests can be purchased by calling Member Services. Requirements and limitations for retesting are described in the Candidate Handbook. Please contact the Member Services team for additional details regarding pricing and limitations.

How does training from the comfort of your own home sound? This program now comes with exclusive bonus content that teaches you how to train and manage clients virtually. Learn everything from setting up equipment, creating digital programs, taking payments and more! Course includes 5 in-depth lessons, a 10-part video series, and more.

Fitness Trends Come and Go. A Group Fitness Certification is the Foundation.


Group fitness formats have gained and waned in popularity through the years. With a Group Fitness Certification you'll learn foundational teaching skills, empowering you to adapt quickly and easily to new exercise formats.

1980

1990

2000

2010

2020

  • aerobics icon

    Aerobics

  • 80s homeworkout icon

    Home Workout

  • Racquetball icon

    Racquetball

  • 80s themed step icon

    Step

  • Jazzercise icon

    Jazzercise

  • Karate icon

    Karate

  • Trampoline workout icon

    Trampoline

  • Dance Cardio icon

    Dance Cardio

  • Spin class icon

    Spinning

  • home workout icon

    Home Workout

  • TaeBo icon

    TaeBo

  • gaming console icon

    Gaming Consoles

  • wearable device icon

    Wearable Devices

  • Barre icon

    Barre

  • functional training icon

    Functional Training

  • cardio kickboxing icon

    Cardio Kickboxing

  • P90x icon

    P90x

  • SoulCycle icon

    SoulCycle

  • Bootcamp workout icon

    Bootcamps

  • Crossfit icon

    Crossfit

  • Shape-Ups icon

    Shape-Ups

  • social media icon

    Social Media Influencers

  • Cycling workout icon

    Cycle

  • virtual trainer icon

    Virtual Training

  • Zumba icon

    Zumba

  • Barre icon

    Barre

  • HIIT icon

    Hiit

  • yoga icon

    Yoga

  • Pilates icon

    Pilates

Group Fitness Instructor Certification

 

FAQs

AFAA-GFI is approved for 15 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

NASM Provider logo

1.5 CEUs

AFAA Provider Logo

15 CEUs

Mobile NASM Provider logo

1.5 CEUs

Mobile AFAA Provider Logo

15 CEUs

After passing an NCCA-Accredited exam, you will become an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor.

The exam is valid for 180 days (about 6 months) from your date of purchase. You will have access to the course content for 365 days from your date of purchase and as long as your account stays in good financial standing. This is particularly helpful so you can refer back to the content while you're first starting out as an instructor.

The AFAA-GFI course is completely self-paced. You have 180 days (about 6 months) to take the final exam from the date of purchase. Many students may complete the course in as little as 6 to 8 weeks. Exact times will vary depending on the student, prior experience and dedication to the material.

To support NASM's commitment to protecting health and safety, the AFAA-GFI certification must be recertified every two years.

As an AFAA-GFI, you are required to recertify every years. In order to recertify, you must complete 15 CEUs (continuing education units) as well as maintain a current CPR and AED certifications (worth 2 CEUs). CEUs ensure you're current with best-practice guidelines, plus they will expand your knowledge, skills, and abilities in key areas. To start the recertification process, please visit NASM's recertification and renewal page or AFAA's recertification page.

The final exam is administered online via a live proctor or in-office at a testing facility. It consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and 120 minutes for completion. You have 180 days (about 6 months) from your date of purchase and 1 attempt to pass with a 70% or higher. If you need more attempts, don't worry! You can call Member Services at 1-800-460-6276 Option 3 to purchase a retest. To register for your exam, please see our NCCA-Accredited Exam Testing Page.

Yes. You can purchase only the final exam for a $249 fee. Please call 1-800-446-2322 Option 1.

You do not need prior experience before taking the AFAA-GFI course. To sit for the exam, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and you must have current Emergency Cardiac Care (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification.

The AFAA-GFI certification is the foundation of a group fitness instructor. You will learn the latest instructional techniques, coaching skills, and leadership strategies for teaching safe, effective, and enjoyable group fitness classes no matter what the format is.

Download the FREE
Study Guide

 

Get a sneak peek at the AFAA-GFI course with this free 21-page PDF. This study guide includes key terms and concepts to help you prepare for your exam.

 

 

Hear from Our Fitness Instructors


Awesome Certification

"The book and all the learning materials were so helpful and on point. Loved taking the practice test and quizzes to get a better understanding on what the exam was like. I studied hard for 8 weeks, took many practice tests, did flashcards every night, and I passed the exam on my first attempt. This certification has opened many doors for me, thank you AFAA!”

Gloria R., NV

Highly Recommend

“The course was great for overall group fitness training education. The content, quizzes, and final exam prep is all I needed to pass my Certification exam. I was expecting questions on the exam to be different than the practice exam but everything I needed was included in this course! I would highly recommend this AFAA Group Fitness Training Course!”

Steve O., MN

Empowered

“The GFI course empowered me to become a confident instructor and provided me with all the knowledge I needed to offer well balanced and attractive classes to my future participants. I am so happy I took the course and I cannot wait to start teaching and employ everything I learned!”

Margot K., NH

Feeling Confident

“This was the perfect course for me! I am a stay-at-home mom of two young kids and I was able to stay on track and work at my own pace to accomplish it. I finished feeling confident and ready to start my journey as a GFI!”

Gabrielle G., PA

Very Useful

"Well-structured course both for beginners in fitness industry and for intermediate trainers. Most of all I’m thankful for muscle anatomy block and for common imbalances description. These are very useful to improve our clients life."

Valery F., Ukraine

Easy To Use

“I purchased the textbook to go along with the GFI course. Both were very helpful toward my getting certified as a Group Fitness Instructor. While working on an iPad it was nice to be able to have the text to thumb through. The GFI course was easy to use and the customer service was prompt and quite helpful!”

Ashley T., GA

Very Well Structured

“The materials are very well structured. The contents and the layout are very good and motivating to learn. I have bought the manual and it will be a great reference in the future if I want to clarify something.”

Bridget L., AZ

Highly Recommend

“I highly recommend the AFAA GFI course. I have been an instructor for over 20 years and I still learn so much from this course. It also gives me that extra spark of confidence and validation; I love going through the course and thinking, ‘hey, that’s me!"

Dina T., Egypt

Very Excited

“I am a ballet instructor looking to broaden my teaching to other facilities than just dance studios. NASM’s Group Fitness Instructor certification will enable me to do just that. I am very excited about the doors that will open for me as a result of this course!”

Georgia R., KY

Very Impressed

“I was very impressed with the material from the GFI course. It was laid out well, easy to follow, and extremely informative. I feel much more confident in delivering a great exercise experience for my clients!”

Amy C., TX

Built New Skills

“The GFI course was well presented. The course material covered a wide variety of fitness formats, teaching techniques, biomechanics and nutrition in-depth. I gained a deeper understanding of my previous knowledge and built new skills set for future professional use.”

Dorothy E., PA

Great Information

“This course provided great information on formatting classes for populations with various fitness levels. I feel that the information allowed me to more confidently lead my class in a safe journey to greater physical health.”

Stacey J., NJ

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  • 100% Online Course

  • NCCA Accredited Exam Exams can be administered both in-person and online, depending on your individual state requirements. See our Exam Information page to learn more about remote proctoring options.

  • Digital Textbook

  • Learning Videos

  • Practice Exams & Quizzes

  • Job Guarantee

  • Exam Retest

  • Hardcover Textbook

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  • Recertify for Life

  • 2023 MUST-HAVE!

    Virtual Coaching Specialization: Teach Classes in the Gym & Online!

  • CPR/AED Certification

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  • 100% Online Course

  • NCCA Accredited Exam Exams can be administered both in-person and online, depending on your individual state requirements. See our Exam Information page to learn more about remote proctoring options.

  • Digital Textbook

  • Learning Videos

  • Practice Exams & Quizzes

  • Job Guarantee Upon successful completion of your AFAA-GFI exam, AFAA guarantees that you will get a job within 90 days or the cost of the Job Guarantee will be refunded to you. Terms and conditions apply to the Job Guarantee can be found in the Candidate Handbook.

  • Exam Retest

  • Hardcover Textbook

  • Access To Experts

  • Recertify for Life

  • 2023 MUST-HAVE!

    Virtual Coaching Specialization: Teach Classes in the Gym & Online!

  • CPR/AED Certification

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  • 100% Online Course

  • NCCA Accredited Exam Exams can be administered both in-person and online, depending on your individual state requirements. See our Exam Information page to learn more about remote proctoring options.

  • Digital Textbook

  • Learning Videos

  • Practice Exams & Quizzes

  • Job Guarantee Upon successful completion of your AFAA-GFI exam, AFAA guarantees that you will get a job within 90 days or the cost of the Job Guarantee will be refunded to you. Terms and conditions apply to the Job Guarantee can be found in the Candidate Handbook.

  • Exam Retest

  • Hardcover Textbook

  • Access To Experts Gain access to our AFAA coaches, who can help answer questions and offer assistance during the course.

  • Recertify for Life

  • 2023 MUST-HAVE!

    Virtual Coaching Specialization: Teach Classes in the Gym & Online!

  • CPR/AED Certification

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SHOW FEATURES

  • 100% Online Course

  • NCCA Accredited Exam Exams can be administered both in-person and online, depending on your individual state requirements. See our Exam Information page to learn more about remote proctoring options.

  • Digital Textbook

  • Learning Videos

  • Practice Exams & Quizzes

  • Job Guarantee Upon successful completion of your AFAA-GFI exam, AFAA guarantees that you will get a job within 90 days or the cost of the Job Guarantee will be refunded to you. Terms and conditions apply to the Job Guarantee can be found in the Candidate Handbook.

  • Exam Retest

  • Hardcover Textbook

  • Access To Experts Gain access to our AFAA coaches, who can help answer questions and offer assistance during the course.

  • Recertify for Life To maintain your credentials, instructors are required to recertify every two years. This involves taking continuing education courses, maintaining a current CPR/AED card and paying recertification fees. AFAA's Recertify for Life program allows you to avoid these renewal fees, get discounts on CEU courses, and receive extra exclusive benefits!

  • 2023 MUST-HAVE!

    Virtual Coaching Specialization: Teach Classes in the Gym & Online! The most successful trainers are the ones that reach the most clients. In today's virtual world, knowing how to effectively train both in person and online is essential. Our Virtual Coaching Specialization (VCS) will teach you the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct and modify fitness assessments online, how to cue clients in an online environment, how to run your business digitally, effective sales and marketing strategies, and much more! Course is worth 1.5 CEUs.

  • CPR/AED Certification Learn the basics of CPR from the comfort of your own home with our CPR/AED Certification Online Course. The CPR/AED Certification is required to take the GFI Exam. Certification is worth 0.1 NASM CEUs.

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Add the GFI In-Person Exam (no preparation materials included) to your cart by clicking here. Purchase of AFAA certification preparation materials is not required in order to become eligible to sit for the GFI exam and does not guarantee a passing score.

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