Accredited Fitness Certifications Now Available Through University Recreation

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University Recreation is always looking for certified personal trainers and group fitness instructors to assist in offering a variety of fitness programs to the University of Arkansas community.During the fall 2016 semester, UREC will be hosting a non-credit course and a variety of certifications to equip and empower potential trainers and instructors.

The American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer Prep Course is a 10 week non-credit course that will help participants develop the knowledge base and skills necessary to become an effective, safe, and fun personal trainer. This course, which was designed to prepare participants to deliver the type of individualized programs people need to adopt long-term, healthy behaviors, will meet Wednesdays from 3 - 5 p.m. from Sept.14 - Nov.16. Class is a mix of lecture and practical instruction, and will encompass topics such as: basic anatomy and exercise physiology, nutritional considerations, flexibility, and cardiovascular and strength training concepts.

Completing the ACE Personal Trainer Prep course does not certify individuals as personal trainers or guarantee employment with UREC. This course is open to students and UREC members, who may register either at the UREC Main Office  in HPER 225 or online.

UREC is also offering  several nationally accredited certifications every semester that are also open to the community for enrollment.  P90X® certification will be held on Sunday, Sept.18, UrbanKick certification will be held on Sunday, Nov. 6, Yoga Props certification will be held on Friday, Dec.2, and YogaFit Level 1 certification will be held on Dec.3 and 4. Interested parties can learn more about these certifications at http://urec.uark.edu/fitness/certifications/index.php

"Approximately 75 percent of our group fitness classes at UREC are taught by University of Arkansas students." said Casey Fant, assistant director of fitness/wellness for UREC."Offering a variety of certifications each year allows students to explore other opportunities outside of their major. They are also able to maintain their certifications and take these skills with them after they leave the university." 

All instructors interested in teaching for University Recreation are required to hold a nationally accredited certification. All potential instructors must go through an interview process. The process consists of an audition, in which the potential instructor teaches a 15-20 minute version of the class format they would like to teach. Once hired, instructors are be able to teach in teams or begin teaching classes dependent upon their audition and previous instructing experience. 

For more information contact Casey Fant at cfant@uark.edu or 575-3542.