How to Become a Zumba® Instructor in
Pennsylvania
How to Become a Zumba® Instructor in Pennsylvania
If you love Zumba® and helping others find joy in dance and fitness, it might be time to consider a career as a Zumba® instructor! Being an instructor gives you the freedom to be creative and active while inspiring others to learn, build new skills and challenge themselves to get healthy in a fun, engaging environment.
Becoming a Licensed Zumba® Instructor in Pennsylvania is easy — read on to learn more!
What Does It Take to Be a Zumba® Instructor?
Zumba® instructor training courses are open to anyone 18 years and older with no prerequisites or specific experience required. Being a successful leader requires a commitment to:
- Learning: You will be responsible for learning new choreography, challenging yourself to help others improve their physical and mental health and keeping your license valid by joining the Zumba® Instructor Network, after taking a training and receiving your Zumba® Instructor License.
- Engaging: Engaging with your online or in person community of students is the best way to keep them interested, excited and ready to have fun while working our. To be a good instructor, you need to understand how to meet students where they are comfortable while still encouraging them to go beyond their comfort zone. The more fun and approachable the atmosphere is at your Zumba® classes, the more your students will look forward to returning — and bringing friends!
- Preparing: Show up to every class prepared by practicing your sets in front of a mirror and knowing each song and fitness choreography on your playlist. Figure out your teaching style and adapt it to your participants' unique learning styles. Work with your facility manager, if applicable, to figure out all the logistics of holding Zumba® classes before you begin recruiting new students and advertising classes.
How to Get a Zumba® License in Pennsylvania
To get started, you need to complete the Zumba® Basic 1 training course. Zumba® Basic 1 gives you everything you need to build a foundation as a Zumba® instructor, including core rhythms like merengue, salsa, cumbia and reggaeton. You'll learn how to put these core dance fitness styles to music and instruct your first Zumba® class.
Your Zumba® Instructor training course will provide all the information and materials you'll need to be a successful instructor. During your training course, you'll receive:
- Zumba® Basic 1 Instructor Digital Manual
- 4 basic rhythms review
- Fitness certification credits
- Zumba® Basic 1 certificate
Once you receive your license, you can start leading Zumba® classes whenever you're ready. As an independent contractor, you will get to choose when, where and how often you conduct classes, including your payment structure and Zumba® class price.
Where to Take Zumba® Instructor Training Courses
You can take instructor training courses in one of two formats — in person (at a physical location) or online:
- In person training courses: Find an instructor course near you and get hands-on, in person training. You will receive several confirmation emails upon successful registration with more information regarding class logistics, like time, location, schedule and other critical details.
- Online training courses: In just 8 - 10 hours, you can complete an online Zumba® instructor training course. Your online training comes with all the music, tips and tools you need to start leading Zumba® classes. Choose from livestream and on demand training options to find what suits your schedule the best.
Once you're a licensed instructor, you'll have the ability to become an active member of the Zumba® Instructor Network, which ensures that your Zumba® Instructor license does not expire, as long as you are a member. As a Zumba® Instructor Network member you will also have access to countless helpful tools, marketing packets, playlists and community support.
If you're looking for a job at a gym or fitness center, keep in mind each facility may have its own requirements for instructors.
Helpful Additions for Your Zumba® Instructing Career
Once you have your Zumba® Instructor License, you'll start to look for places to host your classes. If you're looking for a job at a gym or fitness center, keep in mind each facility may have its own requirements for instructors. It's helpful to research job openings and learn what their qualifications are for fitness instructor positions.
Instructors can enhance their Zumba® skills in numerous ways, like:
- Taking multiple Zumba® classes to learn new techniques.
- Having a CPR certification.
Where to Find Work as a Zumba® Instructor in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Bethlehem and Erie are Pennsylvania's largest cities, but the Keystone State is full of opportunities for motivated, skilled Zumba® instructors. Start your search in facilities like:
- Local gyms
- Health clubs
- Dance studios
- Community and recreation centers
- Summer camps
- Vacation resorts
- College campuses
- Religious institutions
- Corporate offices
- Schools
- Parks
Teaching Online Zumba® Classes From Pennsylvania
Teach when it's convenient for you by leading online Zumba® classes through our virtual platform or a third-party video conference application. You can prerecord or livestream classes, depending on your preference and availability. Here's what you need to get started:
- A quiet space with plenty of room.
- Audio and video recording or streaming equipment.
- Adequate natural or studio lighting.
- A stable wired or wireless internet connection.
To foster a sense of community in your online classes, chat with people as they join livestreams. To ensure everyone has the best experience possible, take a few minutes to test and troubleshoot your camera and microphone before classes and make sure everything is working well.
Tips for Leading Your First Class
Prepare for your first Zumba® class with these tips:
- Take advantage of your surroundings: Pennsylvania has more than 100 state parks, national parks and national heritage areas. Take advantage of your surroundings by hosting immersive outdoor classes in a quiet place with a view. This can help your class stand out from the crowd and puts a unique spin on your Zumba® classes.
- Leverage your other skills and interests: Find what makes you different by leaning into your interests, experience and passions. The more authentic you are with your students, the easier it will be to find your teaching style and build a lasting community of students.
- Practice your playlist: Practice your playlist until you know each song well enough to lead others through classes, including pauses and rhythm changes. Strike a balance with classes — blend student-favorite songs with new music to encourage skill-building.
Pennsylvania is a beautiful state full of opportunities for motivated dance fitness instructors.
Learn More About Teaching Zumba® in Pennsylvania
Whether you prefer teaching online or in person, Pennsylvania is a beautiful state full of opportunities for motivated dance fitness instructors. Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Zumba® instructor and start your journey toward becoming a Licensed Zumba® Instructor!