Aiming to align group fitness instructor certification with the changing and highly digitized fitness landscape, the American Council on Exercise has unveiled its updated ACE Group Fitness Instructor (GFI) certification and study program, which includes an all-new textbook, “The Exercise Professional’s Guide to Group Fitness Instruction.” The enhanced learning experience is intended to support future ACE GFIs in navigating technology, growing a dedicated following and changing lives through the delivery of safe, effective and fun group fitness experiences.
“This program incorporates evidence-based yet approachable and application-oriented information into a multidimensional learning experience and places increased emphasis on equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging,” said Cedric X. Bryant, Ph.D., FACSM, ACE president and chief science officer. “The new updates ensure candidates continue to receive the best learning experience from ACE, with content that reflects the current needs of the industry."
One of the key highlights of the all-new study program is the ACE RRAMP Approach. RRAMP, an acronym for respect, recognition, alignment, mistakes and participant, provides a practical approach for group fitness instructors, facility owners and managers to create a caring and task-involved environment. This approach builds intrinsic motivation and inspires participants to return to classes again and again.
This approach teaches instructors to engage with their participants and develop relationships and value beyond the classroom. As with all four ACE study programs, the aim is to provide individuals with tools that can have an immediate impact on the health and well-being of their clients. This updated program also incorporates the ACE Integrated Fitness Training Model and the ACE Mover Method philosophy.
“By blending the foundational knowledge and practices based on scientific evidence with the ACE behavior-change philosophy, the all-new ACE GFI Certification Study Program equips candidates with the latest instructional techniques, coaching skills and leadership strategies that are necessary to deliver effective and enjoyable classes in a variety of settings,” said Lauren Shroyer, MS, ATC, ACE vice president of product and innovation.
The improved GFI study program caters to the specific needs of adult learners, offering new videos, interactive learning activities and podcasts. With its application-based approach to training, the program covers a wide range of topics, including exercise programming, motivation techniques, music selection, safety considerations and more. By providing the latest instructional techniques, coaching skills and leadership strategies, ACE ensures candidates are well-prepared to deliver impactful and enjoyable classes.