FAQS

Instructor Trainings

How do I find a Zumba® instructor training in my area?

you'll find all currently scheduled Zumba® Instructor Trainings posted in our Instructor Training section. Just click on Find Now or simply log in to your ZIN™ account. If you don't find any Instructor Trainings scheduled in your area, please keep checking as we frequently update our website.

My facility wants to host a Zumba® instructor training. How do I do this?

If you know of a facility that might be interested in hosting a Zumba® Instructor Training, ask the potential host to visit zumba.com and click on "Zumba for Gyms." Under "Host a Training" the facility can submit a form with all their information. If there is adequate demand in the area and if the facility meets the minimum requirements, they will be contacted by a Zumba Education Specialist.

Is there a demand for Zumba® instructors?

Yes! Not only is there a demand, but you can easily create more of a demand. Many Zumba® Instructors created a demand in their area simply because there were not many Zumba Instructors available in their area and people wanted to try out the Zumba program. When the buzz spread, these instructors were suddenly in high demand.

How do I become a Zumba® instructor?

The first step is to attend a Zumba® Basic, Jump Start Gold™ or Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr.™ Instructor Training. To view the dates and locations of upcoming trainings, visit our Instructor Training page. There are no prerequisites to becoming a Zumba Instructor, although a fitness or dance background is always a plus. Anyone 18 years or older may attend a Zumba Instructor Training.

Are there any prerequisites?

Anyone 18 years or older may attend a Zumba® Instructor Training. There are no prerequisites for taking the Zumba® Basic or Zumba Jump Start Gold™ Instructor Training. However, it helps if you've already taken a Zumba class before or if you have previous experience in teaching group exercise classes. Not to worry; many of our well-known and successful Zumba Instructors were former students who did not have any teaching experience. We always have a percentage of Instructor Training participants who have never taken a Zumba class. While it may take them longer to practice and get started, many of them have been equally as successful.

What is the difference between the Zumba® Basic, Jump Start Gold™ and Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr.™ instructor trainings?

There are three entry-level Instructor Trainings available to non-Zumba Instructors: Zumba® Basic Level 1, Zumba Jump Start Gold™ and Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr™.

The Zumba Basic Level 1 Instructor Training (also known as Zumba Basic) is a high-energy training session where you'll learn the basic Zumba rhythms as well as multiple variations. This Instructor Training gives you the groundwork you need to teach a Zumba class. Zumba Basic is an absolute thrill, but it's also very intense, so get ready!

If you wish to teach a lower-intensity Zumba class to active older adults, beginners, or special populations, then we recommend you take the Jump Start Gold™ Instructor Training. The Jump Start Gold Instructor Training combines the Zumba Gold^® Training with the foundation and formula of a Zumba® Basic Level 1 Training.

The Jump Start Gold™ program addresses the anatomical, physiological and psychological needs crucial to teaching the active older adult population*. It is designed for instructors-to-be who are passionate about teaching Zumba Gold^® classes (versus basic Zumba classes) and want to “jump start” their Zumba Gold career. This course allows instructors-to-be to become licensed in both the Zumba Basic and Zumba Gold programs in one extended 10-hour Instructor Training.

The Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr.™ Instructor Training gives you two Zumba® Instructor Licenses — Zumba Basic 1 and Zumba® Kids & Kids Jr. — in a one-day training! You’ll get all the instruction and materials you need to kick start a Zumba® kids program.

To receive the instructor license after the jumpstart training, you must join ZIN (Zumba Instructor Network)

What is the Zumba® Basic 1 Instructor training?

The Zumba Basic Level 1 Instructor Training (also known as Zumba Basic) prepares you with the foundation and formula to teach a Zumba class. You will learn the steps to four basic rhythms (merengue, salsa, cumbia and reggaeton); how to put them together into a song; and how to create your first Zumba class. We provide you with all the tools and resources you need to teach a Zumba class. There are no prerequisites. On the day of the Instructor Training, you will receive the following materials:

• Cardio Party and Live Class DVD
• 20 Minute Express Workout DVD
• 4 Basic Rhythms Review DVD
• Cardio Party Music CD
• The Zumba^® Basic 1 Instructor Digital Manual
• Zumba Basic 1 Certificate of Completion
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)
• One year license to teach basic Zumba classes

What is the Jump Start Gold™ instructor training?

This course is designed for new instructors who wish to teach the active older adult and addresses the anatomical, physiological and psychological needs specific to this population. It will also prepare you to teach students just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle and who want to join the fitness-party for the first time. The Jump Start Gold Instructor Training teaches you the foundation and formula to teach a Zumba class and prepares you to teach Zumba Gold® classes by integrating the concepts of the Zumba Gold program.

• Cardio Party and Live Class DVD
• 20 Minute Express Workout DVD
• 4 Basic Rhythms Review DVD
• Cardio Party Music CD
• The Zumba^® Basic 1 Instructor Manual
• Cardio Party and Live Class DVD
• The Zumba Gold^® Instructor Manual
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)
• One year license to teach basic Zumba classes

What is the Zumba Gold® instructor training?

The Zumba Gold® Instructor Training is designed for any instructor who wishes to teach the active older adult population or the Zumba® program beginner. Zumba Gold classes effectively address the anatomical, physiological and psychological needs specific to these populations. It also includes a Zumba Chair Workout. The Zumba Gold certificate allows you to teach Zumba Gold classes only.

• THE ULTIMATE MUSIC & CHOREO COLLECTION TO LAUNCH YOUR ZUMBA GOLD^® CAREER
• The Zumba Gold Instructor Manual
• Zumba Certificate of Completion
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)
• License to teach Zumba Gold classes (as long as you are a ZIN Member in good standing)

What is the Zumba® Basic 2 instructor training?

The Zumba® Basic Level 2 Instructor Training (also known as Zumba Basic 2) covers steps for four more rhythms (belly dance, flamenco, tango and samba). It reinforces the Zumba formula for success and provides an easy, fun and effective class for everyone. you'll learn new techniques, network and share choreography with fellow instructors, and enhance your professional status and skills. License: One year basic Zumba license. Prerequisite: Must be a current Zumba Instructor (50% off for ZIN™ Members).
On the day of the Instructor Training, you will receive the following materials::

• A Level 2 Review DVD
• A Level 2 Music CD
• The Zumba Instructor Level 2 Manual
• Zumba Level 2 Certificate of Completion
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)

What is the Zumba® Kids and Zumba® Kids Jr. instructor training?

This training allows you to teach two new classes: Zumba Kids classes for ages 7-11, and Zumba Kids Jr. classes for ages 4-6. This course teaches you the fun, kid-friendly moves to impress today’s youth – and tomorrow’s Zumba class participants! You’ll learn how to modify Zumba moves to get optimal class response, and receive tips on class management and working with two new audiences. With cool, age-appropriate music and fresh new choreo, Zumba Kids and Zumba Kids Jr. classes are a great way to expand your instructor career and boost your bottom line.

• THE ULTIMATE MUSIC & CHOREO COLLECTION TO LAUNCH YOUR ZUMBA^® KIDS AND ZUMBA^® KIDS JR. CAREER
• The Zumba Kids + Zumba Kids Jr. Instructor Manual
• Zumba Kids + Zumba Kids Jr. Certificate of Completion
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)
• License to teach Zumba Kids and Zumba Kids Jr. classes (as long as you are a ZIN™ Member in good standing

What is the Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr.™ instructor training?

The Jump Start Kids & Kids Jr.™ Instructor Training gives you two Zumba® Instructor Licenses — Zumba® Basic 1 and Zumba® Kids & Kids Jr. — in a one-day training! You’ll get all the instruction and materials you need to kick start a Zumba® kids program. Plus, Jump Start is open to anyone.

Earn a license to teach both Zumba® and Zumba® Kids & Kids Jr. by learning the foundation of the Zumba® program and how to use it to instill healthy habits in kids ages 4-6 & 7-11

• Cardio Party and Live Class DVD
• 20 Minute Express Workout DVD
• 4 Basic Rhythms Review DVD
• Cardio Party Music CD
• The Zumba® Basic 1 Instructor Manual
• The Zumba Kids & Kids Jr.™ Instructor Manual
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings – varies by country
• One-year license to teach basic Zumba classes

Note: To receive the Instructor license after the jumpstart training, you must join ZIN™ (Zumba Instructor Network).

What is the Aqua Zumba® instructor training?

This is the aqua fitness program everyone has been waiting for! The Aqua Zumba® program is definitely NOT your grandmother's water workout! Created by international fitness and aqua aerobics expert Mimi Rodriguez Adami and Zumba® creative genius Beto Perez, the Aqua Zumba Instructor Training will provide you with the basic fundamentals and skills needed to become a successful, creative and safe Aqua Zumba leader. You will learn how to integrate the Zumba formula and philosophy into aqua fitness disciplines and create a challenging, refreshing and fun water-based workout. On the day of the Instructor Training, you will receive the following materials:

• THE ULTIMATE MUSIC & CHOREO COLLECTION TO LAUNCH YOUR AQUA ZUMBA^® CAREER
• The Aqua Zumba Instructor Manual
• Aqua Zumba Certificate of Completion
• Fitness Certification Credits for Instructor Trainings (varies by country)
• License to teach Aqua Zumba classes (as long as you are a ZIN™ Member in good standing)

Is there an age requirement to participate in a Zumba® instructor training?

Yes; a participant must be 18 years or older to attend any Zumba® Instructor Training. A 16- or 17-year-old may attend a Zumba Basic Instructor Training on their own, but they must have a letter from their parent, and both the parent and the child must sign the liability form at the Instructor Training. If you are 16 or 17 years old, contact the trainer for your Instructor Training to coordinate receiving the letter from your parent and having the liability form signed at the Instructor Training.

How do I sign up for an instructor training?

In order to sign up for an Instructor Training, go to "Instructor Training" on zumba.com and locate your Instructor Training of choice. Then fill out the form with your billing and participant information as well as your credit card information. (Note: If you do not have a promotional code, please leave it blank.) The username and password you choose will be what you will use to log in to the website. If you are having trouble signing up or have special circumstances, just call the Zumba Fitness corporate office or the Zumba® Educational Specialist (ZES) for that Instructor Training. Also, when you type in your email address, please be careful and make sure it is accurate. Your receipt and all correspondence will be sent to this address. In addition, make sure your name is typed exactly as you would like it to appear on your instructor certificate.

After I have signed up for an instructor training, what’s next?

After submitting your registration, you will receive an email confirming that the registration is complete. Expect a second email about a week before the Instructor Training from the ZES. He or she will explain any logistical details such as parking, lunch, schedule, etc.

How long is a Zumba® certificate of completion (license) valid?

A Zumba® certificate of completion (license) is valid for one year. As with any reputable occupation, a professional is expected to keep up-to-date on industry knowledge and stay fresh with their industry skills. Zumba Fitness wants its instructors to be the best in the industry and maintain a high level of expertise and proficiency. To help instructors attain and maintain this status, Zumba Fitness provides numerous opportunities for continuing education and requires all Zumba Instructors to update their skills annually in order to renew their instructor certificate.

How do I renew my certificate of completion (license) after one year?

There are several ways to renew your license so you can continue teaching Zumba® classes:

1. Become a ZIN™ Member: Zumba Fitness offers a comprehensive continuing education program to all Zumba® Instructors, the Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN™). ZIN Members are constantly receiving new choreography and music to change and update their routines, along with a wealth of marketing materials and ideas to help ensure lifelong success. The benefits are numerous, and of course, ZIN members in good standing are always considered "Current Zumba Instructors," meaning their certificate is always valid as long as they are a ZIN Member. For more information on the ZIN program and its benefits, scroll to the ZIN section below.

2. Sign up for the Zumba® Basic 2 Instructor Training: If you attend a Zumba Basic 2 Instructor Training before your 12-month expiration period, you will receive a certificate that will extend your license to teach Zumba classes for another year. Please note that most instructors who want to take a Basic 2 Instructor Training choose to join ZIN first (see #1 above) because they then receive the Basic 2 Instructor Training at a 50% discount.

3. Retake the Zumba® Basic Level 1 Instructor Training or a Jump Start Gold™ Instructor Training: Every Zumba® Education Specialist (ZES) provides a new and different insight into the Zumba experience. By retaking the Zumba Basic Instructor Training, you'll not only renew your certificate, you'll get a fresh perspective on teaching Zumba classes. The other option is to take a Jump Start Gold™ Instructor Training. This course reviews the basic steps and will also renew your license for one year. However, only those who join the ZIN™ program will receive a license to teach the Zumba Gold® format.

What happens after the instructor training? When can I start teaching?

After completing the Instructor Training, you can begin teaching whenever you feel comfortable and ready. Every instructor is an independent contractor, which gives you the freedom to set your own schedule, rates, terms, agreements, etc. at any facility you choose. Although the Instructor Training shows you how to teach as well as how to create routines for a Zumba® class, you may need to practice on your own and take time to choose the right selection of music. You may consider borrowing from the DVD/CD set you received at the Instructor Training to get started.

Some fitness facilities require their instructors to have a general group exercise certification. The Zumba® program is considered a specialty certificate, just like pilates or yoga. Ask your local fitness facility what their requirements are in order for you to teach at their facility. You can always obtain a Zumba certificate first and then obtain a general certification. Some facilities may allow you to start teaching Zumba classes as long as you have a Zumba certificate and evidence that you are working to obtain a general certification. Two highly recognized certifications are ACE and AFAA. For details, go to acefitness.org or afaa.com.

I have a conflict and must leave before the Instructor Training is over. Can I still get my certificate of completion and/or fitness certification credits if I leave early?

If you have a conflict, we highly recommend that you take an Instructor Training at another time when you are able to stay for the entire duration. Zumba® Instructors are highly regarded and we want to be sure you receive the utmost level of training before you leave. There is a great deal of information packed into the Instructor Training. If you leave early, you may not feel completely prepared. A ZES may decide if you can leave up to 30 minutes early, but that would be on a case-by-case basis.

If I sign up for an instructor training and then cannot attend, can I transfer my registration to another instructor training?

If you are unable to attend an Instructor Training, you can transfer your payment to another Instructor Training. Please keep in mind that a transfer fee of $15 USD will be applied and that you are responsible for any possible difference in price (including differences due to rush/early bird rates).

I registered for an instructor training but I have to cancel. What can I do?

If you are unable to attend your training, you have three options:

1. You can request a refund. If you cancel your registration 21 or more days (i.e. 21, 22, 23 days) before your training date, you will incur a $25 USD cancellation fee. A $75 USD cancellation fee will apply for all cancellation requests received within 21 days or less (i.e. 20, 19, 18 days) from your training date or any time after your training date. If you choose to process your cancellation by phone, an additional $15 USD processing fee will be applied. To proceed with your cancellation, please log in to your account on zumba.com.

2. You can transfer your registration to another training. If you transfer 21 or more days (i.e. 21, 22, 23 days) before your training date, there is a $5 USD transfer fee due at the time of the transfer for self-serve, online transfers. If you transfer less than 21 days (i.e. 20, 19, 18 days) from your training date or any time after your training date, there is a $15 USD transfer fee for self-serve, online transfers. You will also be responsible for any price increases. (For example, if you signed up at an early bird rate and the new training is at a rush rate, you will be charged the difference in addition to the transfer fee). If you choose to process your transfer by phone, an additional $15 USD processing fee will be applied. To proceed with your transfer, please log in to your account on zumba.com.

3. You can place your training fees on hold and use them toward a future training within one year of your original registration date. If you transfer 21 or more days (i.e. 21, 22, 23 days) before your training date, there is a $5 USD transfer fee due at the time of the transfer for self-serve, online transfers. If you transfer less than 21 days (i.e. 20, 19, 18 days) from your training date or any time after your training date, there is a $15 USD transfer fee for self-serve, online transfers. You will also be responsible for any price increases. (For example, if you signed up at an early bird rate and the new training is at a rush rate, you will be charged the difference in addition to the transfer fee). If you choose to process your transfer by phone, an additional $15 USD processing fee will be applied. After one calendar year from the date you submitted your original registration form, your ability to transfer expires and you forfeit your funds that were on hold. To proceed with your transfer, please log in to your account on zumba.com.

What should I bring and wear to the instructor training?

You should bring a towel, water, a sweatshirt, a healthy snack and lunch. The right type of shoe is key to easy-flowing movement, so you should wear good supportive shoes such as cross-trainers or dance-specific sneakers. Wear shoes that do not have a lot of tread at the bottom and are meant for medial/lateral/twisting motion. Although we provide an instructor manual, bring a notebook and pen to take additional notes.

May I videotape or take pictures at the instructor training?

Still image cameras are allowed. Video or DVD motion pictures are not allowed.

What happens if there is bad weather predicted for the day of the instructor training?

Zumba Fitness, LLC, in conjunction with the host facility, will determine if an Instructor Training should be canceled due to inclement weather. If an Instructor Training is canceled, the participants will be notified by 8PM the evening before the Instructor Training. If the Instructor Training is not canceled but the weather becomes treacherous overnight, the Zumba® Education Specialist (ZES) will send an email to participants in the morning. In any event, a participant should not take any risks to their safety. If the Instructor Training is canceled, the ZES will contact each participant to discuss options of transfer or refund. If the Instructor Training is not canceled, and a participant cannot make it due to inclement weather in their area, the ZES will contact the participant after the Instructor Training to discuss options. (Please note that Zumba Fitness, LLC is not responsible for travel fees incurred or lost due to inclement weather.)