Become a Certified Aqua Fitness Instructor
Are you ready to lead invigorating aqua workouts that truly transform lives? Already teaching but never formally trained? This certification is for YOU!
Aquatic fitness has grown tremendously over the past decade—and we need passionate, prepared instructors more than ever. Aqua Progressions 1 is the only certification of its kind, combining intensive online education with hands-on, in-person training you’ve simply GOT to feel for yourself.
Led by industry veteran Janice Jaicks (35+ years of experience!) and master trainer Lisa Busse, this hybrid course sets you up for success from start to finish.
How It Works:
You’ll begin with 9 on-demand modules and a comprehensive manual you can study at your own pace (approximately 4–5 hours). Then we meet in person on Sept. 11th for the practical, movement-based portion of your training.
What You’ll Learn:
- Fundamental water principles
- How to work with special populations
- Cueing, smooth transitions, leadership skills, and safety
- Deck vs. water teaching styles and when to use each
- Complete choreography structure including warm-up, cardio, suspended and standing core, and stretch
What’s Included:
- Laminated choreography
- Hands-on demonstrations and a practical evaluation to confirm your skills
- A 100-question online exam following the course
- CECs
- ACE .8
- AEA 8
- FitnessFest 8
Upcoming Trainings
AP1 Certification
Nov. 14th 9:30-2:30, Oconomowoc, WI
FitnessFest’s Aqua Special Populations Specialist course is an introductory training designed to equip aquatic fitness instructors with the knowledge and confidence to safely and effectively serve participants with special health considerations. Because water reduces body weight by 60–90% and minimizes joint impact, aquatic exercise provides a uniquely supportive environment for special populations. The cushioning and resistance properties of water make it possible to deliver meaningful cardiovascular and muscular training while significantly reducing stress on the joints and spine. Feel more confident instructing participants in the following categories:
Arthritis
Asthma
Cardiac conditions
Diabetes
Fibromyalgia
Hearing impairments
Hypertension
Knee issues
Low back pain
Multiple sclerosis
Obesity
Osteoporosis
Prenatal
Shoulder impingement
This course goes beyond general aqua fitness instruction by teaching condition-specific considerations, the best water depth and temperature, programming modifications, and inclusive coaching strategies. Instructors will learn how to design safe progressions, lead extended and purposeful warm-ups, manage intensity for varying medical needs, and create a supportive class environment that prioritizes function, mobility, balance, and quality of life. By the end of this training, instructors will be prepared to confidently adapt aquatic programming for diverse populations and become trusted specialists in safe, effective water-based exercise for those who need it most.
What’s Included:
- 4 hours of lecture
- 2 hours and in-pool training
Printed manual - Health considerations downloadable spreadsheet
CECs:
- ACE .6
- AEA 8
- FitnessFest 8
Ageless Aquatics: Aqua HIIT Specialist (Coming soon)
Ageless Aquatics: Aqua HIIT Specialist is an advanced training designed for fitness professionals who want to confidently teach high-intensity interval training in the water. This course blends the science of HIIT with the powerful properties of aquatic resistance, buoyancy, and hydrostatic pressure to help instructors deliver safe, effective, and results-driven workouts for participants of all ages and abilities.
Participants will learn how to design dynamic interval formats, coach from the pool deck with precision, modify for special populations, and create engaging, high-energy classes that build cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and functional power—without excessive joint stress. Graduates will leave prepared to lead innovative, performance-based aqua HIIT classes that stand out in today’s aquatic fitness market.
What’s Included:
- Online, 60-minute pool practical
- 30-minute lecture on video
- A 50-question online exam following the course
- CECs: FitnessFest 3
Hosting an Aqua Progressions training at your facility is the perfect way to energize your community, attract new participants, and showcase your pool as a hub for innovation in fitness. By bringing this certification course to your location, you’ll provide local instructors with valuable education while gaining visibility as a leader in aquatic programming. The hybrid format makes it simple—participants complete online learning before arriving, so the in-person portion runs smoothly and maximizes pool time. It’s an opportunity to build excitement, grow your network, and put your facility at the forefront of aqua fitness.
Looking for aqua instructors?
If you’re in the Phoenix area and searching for a passionate, qualified instructor or program manager for your aquatic program, look no further. Our team specializes in creating and delivering engaging water fitness experiences that serve participants of all ages and abilities. From designing dynamic class schedules to leading safe, effective, and fun workouts, we’re here to support your growing aquatic community. Let us help you expand your offerings and make your facility the go-to destination for water fitness.