Kickin it at the Y.M.C.A.

I took a Lifeguard class somewhat recently from the YMCA which included full CPR/First Aid/AED certification. I passed the written and physical tests but never received my certification cards. I can't remember how long ago the class was, but to keep the certification up you have to recertify every couple of years. So I got online to see what classes were being offered by the Y and to my surprise I came across their Learning Experiences site (http://www.ymca-le.org/) where they have listed a YMCA Martial Arts Exercise Instructor course. The course is designed to teach instructors how to develop group exercise classes with athletic movements adapted from boxing, kickboxing, karate and Kung Fu. Best of all, the course is only $25! So I looked into signing up.

Unfortunately there were a few prerequisites. First of all, I had to renew my CPR certification. That was no problem as they offer several recertification classes for just $5 (though I found an even easier, if a bit more expensive, way to recert online). The next prerequisite I need is a Healthy Lifestyle Principles class. Fortunately this class is being taught on Monday and I am all signed up! It too is a $25 class with a $30 book. The class is a pre-requisite for all other YMCA Health and Fitness certifications. It provides practical and theoretical information for instructors of all YMCA programs, this includes information on leadership, physical activity, healthy living principles, and safety guidelines.

The last prerequisite that you must have... and there is no way for me to get it in time for the MA Exercise Instructor course (which is being offered only once) is a group exercise instructor course. There are several different courses I could take to get the Group Exercise Instructor certification I need, but none are currently being offered for the rest of the year! I was able to go ahead and sign up for the MA course even without the prerequisite and I will keep my eyes open for any course that would meet this requirement before the date of the MA course, but I doubt one will come available.  I hope that I will still be able to take the class even without this prerequisite. Even if I don't get the certification it will be worth the time and money and I can always take the group exercise class the next time it is offered.

By the way, for those that are interested to know, I played Felipe Rose's part in my elementary school talent show band contest.