Course

10109173 Group Fitness & Small Group Coaching
Course Information
Description
Design and lead safe, effective, and inclusive group fitness and small group training sessions. Apply exercise science principles, coaching strategies, and behavior change techniques to support participant success. Modify exercises for diverse populations while upholding professional standards, implementing risk management procedures, and applying communication skills in a group fitness setting.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies
  1. Differentiate roles and responsibilities of group fitness professionals
    Assessment Strategies
    Written Product, Test
    Criteria
    Identify roles of group fitness instructors and related professionals
    Distinguish scope of practice within fitness settings
    Describe professional responsibilities and ethical standards
    Differentiate between group fitness and personal training roles

  2. Design structured group fitness and small group training sessions
    Assessment Strategies
    Written Product, Test, Skill Demonstration
    Criteria
    Class plans include warm-up, conditioning, and cool-down
    Exercises align with class format and objectives
    Exercises are organized using effective sequencing and timing
    Programming is aligned with participant needs and goals

  3. Apply exercise science principles to movement and programming
    Assessment Strategies
    Test, Scenario Response
    Criteria
    Apply principles of training (overload, progression, specificity)
    Relate anatomy and movement patterns to exercise selection
    Identify health- and skill-related fitness components
    Select most effective intensity and volume for activities

  4. Select and modify exercises for diverse participants
    Assessment Strategies
    Scenario Response, Skill Demonstration, Test
    Criteria
    Modify exercises using regressions and progressions
    Adjust movement variables (range of motion, tempo, load)
    Adapt exercises for varying fitness levels and abilities
    Exercise options are safe and effective

  5. Instruct exercise using effective coaching and cueing techniques
    Assessment Strategies
    Skill Demonstration
    Criteria
    Exercise technique and alignment are effective
    Deliver clear verbal, visual, and kinesthetic cues
    Apply appropriate teaching strategies (simple to complex, part to whole)
    Correct movement patterns to improve safety and performance

  6. Lead inclusive and engaging group fitness sessions
    Assessment Strategies
    Skill Demonstration
    Criteria
    Class environment shows evidence of positivity and inclusiveness
    Communicate using clear and engaging instruction
    Class delivery is adapted based on participant response
    Class flow and organization are maintained, using effective time management

  7. Apply motivation and behavior change strategies
    Assessment Strategies
    Scenario Response, Reflection, and/or Test
    Criteria
    Motivational techniques selected align with the intended goal
    Behavior change principles are applied to participant interactions
    Provide constructive and supportive feedback (verbal and/or written)
    Use encouragement strategies for adherence and participant engagement

  8. Implement risk management and safety procedures
    Assessment Strategies
    Test, Scenario Response
    Criteria
    Identify potential safety hazards in group settings
    Emergency response procedures are conducted within specified accuracy
    Recognize signs of overexertion and fatigue
    Follow professional and legal guidelines

  9. Evaluate coaching performance
    Assessment Strategies
    Self-Assessment, Written Product
    Criteria
    Assess effectiveness of class delivery
    Identify strengths and areas for improvement
    Incorporate feedback into future sessions
    Modify programming based on evaluation