How to
Become a Zumba®
Instructor in
Virginia

Zumba® Instructor Requirements

As long as you're 18 years or older, you're ready to take Zumba® instructor courses as early as today. This age requirement is the only prerequisite for participating in Zumba® instructor training. If you meet the age requirement, start your Zumba® instructor career off right by taking the Zumba® instructor training (called Zumba® Basic 1).

This training uses a combination of lectures and practical training to teach you all the basics of leading others in Zumba® classes. By the end of your Zumba® instructor training, you'll have the information and confidence you need to teach Zumba® classes and work closely with clients. After completing your training course, you'll receive your Zumba® Instructor License.

Virginia State Requirements for Dance Fitness Instructors

To become a dance fitness instructor in Virginia, it helps to have solid credentials and proof that you're an expert in the technique you want to teach. Your Zumba® Instructor License will tell potential employers that you're a qualified candidate because you have all the necessary knowledge and skills to lead Zumba® classes.

Along with your Zumba® Instructor License, some fitness centers or studios may require additional qualifications. Ask leaders at the place you're applying to what their exact expectations for Zumba® teachers are.

Some fitness facilities may also require their Zumba® instructors to be certified in CPR. Even if the studio or gym you're interested in working at doesn't require this, it's helpful to have a CPR license when teaching group exercise classes. Check out CPR and other first-aid courses at your local American Red Cross.

Where to Work as a Zumba® Instructor in Virginia

Getting your Zumba® Instructor License in Virginia means you can start teaching group Zumba® classes wherever you'd like. Zumba® instructors are independent contractors, so you'll have the freedom to set your schedule. You can also decide your rates, terms and any other agreement details with the gym, fitness center or dance studio you teach at.

Along with being qualified to teach Zumba® classes at gyms, fitness centers and studios, you'll be able to lead classes at other venues like schools and corporate offices. If you love getting some fresh air while you work out, you can even start teaching Zumba® classes at your local park. After you have your Zumba® Instructor License, your teaching possibilities are limitless.

When you first get your Zumba® Instructor License, you'll probably have the best luck getting hired as a Zumba® instructor at one of Virginia's largest fitness chains. Check out locations like Crunch Fitness, Planet Fitness, Gold's Gym and Life Time Fitness. These widely known gyms serve as great places for launching your career as a Zumba® instructor, sharpening your teaching skills and building your clientele.

Once you start feeling more comfortable as a Zumba® instructor, you might want to try starting your own business or teaching classes at a smaller, local studio. If you're looking for a more specialized fitness center for Zumba®, check out these top places in Virginia that offer Zumba® classes to clients:

• Valley Fitness: Valley Fitness is known for its rigorous and spirited Zumba® classes that get clients' blood pumping. They offer a wide range of classes to a variety of clients.
• XSport Fitness: This small fitness chain has multiple locations scattered throughout the Virginia and Washington D.C. area, including studios in Fairfax, Alexandria, Falls Church and Woodbridge. They offer high energy Zumba® classes at these convenient XSport Fitness locations.

Keep in mind that you can also teach Zumba® remotely. You can lead Zumba® classes online and have the flexibility to interact with clients from anywhere in Virginia or beyond. With online exercise classes consistently rising in popularity, now is a great time to consider teaching Zumba® classes virtually.