How much do you love that feeling of stepping outside of your comfort zone and accomplishing something you could have easily walked away from?!? I LOVE IT! And I am on such a high right now because this past weekend I spend two full days going through the Initial Les Mills Bodypump Instructor Training.
Today I wanted to share with you my training experience. I’ll cover the prep work I did beforehand, what we learned during training, and how to pass initial training.
Last year I studied and became an AFAA certified group fitness instructor. I took the online program and learned so much, but felt like I was lacking actual teaching experience and didn’t feel ready to start finding a job at a gym or studio.
There are other available online courses as well that can help you become a physical therapist or trainer. For instance, some people can be interested in physiotherapy but don’t want to take a conventional method of education. In that case, you can explore different alternatives and routes to obtain a physiotherapy degree. You might also opt for various online certifications and courses for jobs instead of going for degree courses.
In my case, I might have wanted practical knowledge. I was looking for a practical training opportunity to learn the fieldwork. When I was first introduced to Bodypump, I was researching weight training workouts. I wanted my workouts to focus on less cardio and more strength. Bodypump workouts use a barbell and weights to work muscles groups in the entire body by doing high repetitions and using low weight.
After attending and loving several Les Mills Bodypump classes at my local World Gym, talking to a few Les Mills instructors, and interacting with the Les Mills team at IDEA WORLD, I decided I wanted to become a certified instructor. So a few weeks ago I signed up for the Initial Training, received all my materials, and started doing some prep work.
Prep Work
Apparently, the training used to be three days as opposed to my two-day 8:00 am- 6:00 pm training. But with technology these days, they are able to give you materials ahead of time, allowing you to do some prep work before the first day. If you have never been to a group fitness class before, it can be highly rewarding! If you are looking for an all ladies one that you can feel comfortable in, you may want to look at group fitness classes in Mandurah, or classes close to where you are living, so you too can workout and enjoy yourself.
Upon signing up, I immediately received my Instructors Manual, Choreography Notes, the Bodypump 100 Masterclass Video, and all the music for the Bodypump 100 release. We were asked to do a little reading about Les Mills programs, Choreography, Technique, and Coaching, and then watch a few videos and answer questions in the Instructors Manual to prepare. In all, the prep work probably took me a little over an hour. And I enjoyed reading the material, it motivated me to start training.
I decided to print the Instructors Manual, but many others in training just used their iPads or laptops.
Prepping and snacking
Before training I was also given a track number I would be presenting and one I would shadow. For those of you familiar with Bodypump I did the Chest track and shadowed during Back track.
To learn the choreography I watched and did the Masterclass video for my track a few times and followed along with the choreography notes. Once I thought I had it down I listened to the music alone and practiced choreography. I didn’t focus on cuing or coaching, as I knew those were skills we would learn at training.
Les Mills Bodypump Instructor Training Day 1
After feeling confident with all my prep work, I was ready for day 1 of training. I was up early to make the drive to Crofton, MD and be sure I arrived early. I packed a change of clothes, including extra shoes, deodorant, my computer, chargers, Bodypump Instructor Manual, pens & highlighters, snacks, and had lunch and extra water in a cooler. You would have thought I was leaving for the weekend, hehe.
Yes Les Mills is sponsored by Reebok and I wore Nike and Adidas, opps! And everyone needs a pair of these Alo Leggings, so comfortable! But the room was freezing so I also brought two sweatshirts.to wear when we were listening to our coach. And was jealous of the people that brought blankets.
The beginning of training was mostly introductions, then we went right into doing the entire Bodypump 100 release. After the workout we had a break then came together as a group to discuss the Key Elements of a Les Mills Instructor and what type of instructor we want to be.
We practiced and worked on improving our technique for each of the main Bodypump exercises and discussed cueing for set and execution position of each move. At this point I kind of felt on information overload. I know how to properly perform each move, but I definitely have some memorizing to do on giving proper cues to keep participants safe. But we are given all this information in our Instructors Manuel.
To finish Day 1 we wrote a script for the beginning of our track for set-up and execution cues. We were then given time to practice the choreography and cuing of the first two minutes of our tracks before presenting. I was so nervous for my presentation. I was confident with the choreography, but I was scared to mess up while trying to talk at the same time. But once it was over I felt so much better and more confident in myself. After our presentation the instructor provided us with some positive feedback and skills to work on for Day 2.
Oh did I mention that as everyone was presenting we were participating and following along with all of the moves. I didn’t put my regular weight on the bar for each track but was still feeling like I got a second workout in. I was so exhausted when I got home I immediately took an epson salt bath, practiced a bit more, ate dinner, then was in bed by 9:00 p.m.
Day 2 of Training
Day 2 started off with us doing our presentations for a second time while the instructor took a video. We watched everyones videos together and again were provided with some feedback for our final presentation. Most of the feedback was on using proper form.
Then things got pretty crazy when we were asked to grab a ton of weight to set up for the Bodypump Challenge. We had a partner and a series of exercises to complete. Partners took turns working so the other acted as the motivator. I loved the workout and it was such a fun activity to practice what I would say to help motivate participants in my class to the finish of a set, rep, or track.
The purpose of the exercise was not just to get us up, moving, and lifting, but to find ways we can connect to our participants and motivate them. I thought it was a super unique activity and really liked the message behind it.
After lunch we met again as a group to further discuss some of the Key Elements of a Les Mills instructor and had more time to script in coaching cues before getting ready for our final performances.
I was second to go and overall I felt I cued the choreography well and gave enough coaching cues. I knew I forgot to say one key safety cue though which made me nervous, but I PASSED with a 3/3 for Choreography, Technique, and Coaching, YAY! You have to remember they’re not looking for perfection.
The only downer of the Initial Training is I am still not technically a Les Mills certified Bodypump instructor. After initial training you have 60 days to memorize the entire release (all 10 tracks) and submit a video of yourself teaching an actual class. Once you pass the video you will receive your certification. While it’s hard knowing I’m only about half way to becoming an instructor, I do like that Les Mills doesn’t hand out certificates easily. Your certification is definitely earned.
Overall it was a great weekend. I learned all the key elements of being a great instructor and know I have things to learn and improve on. I’ll keep you posted when I officially get certified!
And since this blog is also about my sweet tooth and love for sugar. After working out for hours two days straight, I decided to treat myself to some Fractured Prune doughnuts. The store was literally right next to the gym, I had to! Don’t worry I shared with Tom, the Carnival with sprinkles and French toast with maple glaze were my favorites. You can see the yummy donut photos that I shared on my Instagram handle. My friends are urging me to start an Instagram account to track my progress, which is not a bad idea. However, I might have to get some sort of Instagram growth services and check out Path Social reviews or its alternatives to manage audience engagement and for the overall growth of the account.
Shared these on my Instagram Sunday night.
[bctt tweet=”Halfway to becoming a @lesmills Instructor, read about my Initial Training Experience #lesmills #Bodypump” username=”sweetandstrong_”]
UPDATE
To prepare for filming my video I practiced the release at home A LOT! I used a broom stick as my barbell, I was practicing so much there was no way I could use actual weight. When I was confident with my choreography and Level 1&2 cues for a few of the tracks I reached out to my local gym and started co-teaching with two of the Bodypump classes each week. I did this for about a month until I had taught every track to an actual class while co-teaching.
When I was ready to shoot my video I filmed during one of the actual scheduled classes at the gym and just made the participants aware that I was filming, but they weren’t in it. I used an iPad AND my phone just in case there were technical difficulties. I shot and submitted the video with the Les Mills App. The app made it extremely easy. And NO my video wasn’t perfect, I mixed up the choreography at one point in the squats track, forget to stretch at the end of chest, and had poor cuing at one point in shoulders. But remember we’re our own worst critiques, I had to tell myself they weren’t looking for perfection.
You are scored on your Choreography, Technique, and Coaching Level 1&2 cues. After submitting my video I only had to wait a few days (even though they say it could take two weeks) before receiving an email that I had passed my certification! YAY! If you don’t pass the first time though, you can use the feedback they give you to re shoot and submit your video.
Once you’ve passed and received your certification you’ll automatically receive each new release. And after subbing several times all summer I FINALLY have my own class. Tuesdays at 5:45 AM! Great way to start the day teaching and completing a Bodypump workout. Be sure to check out my full week of workouts in my Food and Fitness Week in Review Series.
Please feel free to email me or comment below if you have any questions/if you’re interested in becoming Les Mills certified. I’d be more than happy to help 🙂
Enjoyed Reading This? You May Also Like:
Quick and Sweaty Partner AB Workout
What to Expect at a Pilates Reformer Class
Linking up with Annmarie, Nicole, Michelle, and Jen for Wild Workout Wednesday. Check out other great Gym or At Home Workouts on my Fitness Page.
Have you ever done a group fitness instructor training?
What’s your favorite group fitness class?
What’s something you’ve done recently that was outside of your comfort zone?
Emily @ Always Emily H.
February 8, 2017 at 12:45 pm (6 years ago)This post was so helpful. I love BodyPump and would love to become an instructor one day!
sweetandstrong
February 9, 2017 at 11:59 pm (6 years ago)Oh Awesome Emily, let me know if you have any questions!
Lara
December 30, 2018 at 7:15 pm (4 years ago)Thank you a lot for sharing us your experience. That was really great! I just want to ask you how long did it take you to get the certification? and how much does it cost? thank you and good luck in your job
sweetandstrong
January 27, 2019 at 3:29 pm (4 years ago)Hi Lara, I believe you have about a month after training to pass your certification, but I honestly can’t remember. And when I did training two years ago it was about $250. Good luck!
Tasha
April 7, 2019 at 6:26 am (4 years ago)Hi
I am just in process of doing my body balance and so glad someone else has said they made a few little mistakes and passed made me feel more confident about submitting!
Thanks
sweetandstrong
May 10, 2019 at 12:16 pm (4 years ago)Yes, my video definitely wasn’t perfect. Let me know how it goes for you!
Anonymous
April 20, 2019 at 3:01 pm (4 years ago)Congratulations on finishing and qualifying.l absolutely love bodypump as l do it 3 times a week and thought about becoming an instructor but then change my mind as l don’t know if l could actually do it and be good at it
sweetandstrong
May 17, 2019 at 12:26 pm (4 years ago)Hi! Thanks so much and if you are an avid bodypumper and want to share your passion with others I highly suggest getting certified. I have a few other fitness certifications and Les Mills made me feel the most comfortable with getting up in front of the room. Let me know if you have any questions!
Karishma
April 4, 2020 at 12:36 am (3 years ago)Hey, I was just wondering how you managed to get your own class after the training? Did you just apply at your local gym or did les mills offer some help?
sweetandstrong
April 8, 2020 at 5:56 pm (3 years ago)I knew my local gym had the program and spoke with the group exercise coordinator to get a class. Les Mills does help in that they will email you if gyms near you post openings, but you need to seek them out yourself. Hope this helps!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot
February 8, 2017 at 1:11 pm (6 years ago)Congrats on finishing this! You absolutely deserved that doughnut haha! I think in the future I’d love to do a group exercise certification. I used to be a dancer and dance teacher and miss that teaching aspect.
sweetandstrong
February 9, 2017 at 11:59 pm (6 years ago)You definitely should look into getting certified Heather, maybe Barre would be similar to teaching dance.
Emily
February 8, 2017 at 3:23 pm (6 years ago)I’ve never done a fitness instructing course, but I follow a few people including you who are trainers, and I really have so much respect for you all because it seems tough. I’ve realized just how much work goes into prepping for a class, and wow, I’m thankful for you all.
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:00 am (6 years ago)There is SO much work that goes into prepping classes. Quality instructors are always prepared 😉
Anonymous
October 26, 2019 at 2:52 am (3 years ago)Hi there! I am moving in the direction of becoming a les mills body pump instructor. And I would love to know if I can contact you. I am also from maryland. I would to have additional support through out this process and some one I can shadow from time to to who have already done the program.
sweetandstrong
October 29, 2019 at 2:57 pm (3 years ago)Awesome! When are you looking to get certified? Where in MD are you?
Joyce @ The Hungry Caterpillar
February 8, 2017 at 5:22 pm (6 years ago)Wow–this sounds like an amazing and exhausting weekend! I’ve always loved BodyPump. I don’t do it at the moment because it’s not offered at my gym–because I’m a student, I can go to my campus student rec for free, and they offer really great group fitness classes. But I’d really like to get back into group fitness.
Best of luck going through the final steps of getting your certification. That does sound super-nerve-racking, but I’m sure you’ll be amazing.
Those donuts are well-earned. 🙂
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:01 am (6 years ago)It is super nerve racking! But I’m glad it’s not like some certifications that you get after like an hour of training.
Annmarie
February 8, 2017 at 5:23 pm (6 years ago)I’ve heard great things about Les Mills, love that they don’t hand out their certs either!!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:01 am (6 years ago)I know right, it’s definitely earned.
Kimberly G
February 8, 2017 at 6:43 pm (6 years ago)Congrats! I’ve heard nothing but good things about Les Mills and I’ve heard that they Bodypump classes are super intense!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:02 am (6 years ago)They are pretty intense, but for anyone at any fitness level because you can control the intensity with your weight. I love seeing some of the older ladies in my class. I just want to tell them YOU GO for still caring about your health.
Sherri
October 25, 2019 at 12:31 am (3 years ago)I’m probably one of the “older ladies” you refer to, I’ll be 58 in December!
And, I will be attending Body Pump Instructor training this weekend! Lol
If I understand your article correctly, I don’t need to know all the cuing, just the moves of my two tracks?
I will have (5) triceps and (7) lunges/squats in release 111.
I, too am a nervous wreck!
When I decided to do the instructor training, I had not been to a body pump class for a couple of years, although I weight train 5 days per week.
For the past month I’ve been attending BP classes three days per week.
For the past 2 weeks since I received my tracks I’ve been practicing the whole thing 3x per day for the past week!
Like you, doing it so frequently… I’m down to using the bar with only 2 1/2 pounds on either end!!! Lol
Anything else you care to share or add would be much appreciated! ?
sweetandstrong
October 29, 2019 at 2:57 pm (3 years ago)Hi Sherri,
Congrats on working towards becoming an instructor. You’ll do great. And I would just review your choreography before. Throughout training you’ll learn how to cue and get lots and lots of practice! And don’t stress the amount of weight, they are just watching for choreography, cues, and form.
Sherri
October 29, 2019 at 3:16 pm (3 years ago)Thank you, I passed! ?
Nicole @ Fitful Focus
February 8, 2017 at 11:22 pm (6 years ago)This sounds like a great experience! You’re going to be an awesome instructor!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:02 am (6 years ago)Aw thanks Nicole 🙂
Sarah @ BucketListTummy
February 8, 2017 at 11:39 pm (6 years ago)I absolutely love that feeling of stepping out of my comfort zone and accomplishing something new – it gives such a high! And those donuts look amazing 🙂
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:03 am (6 years ago)I was literally on cloud nine when I got my eval. I just wish I wasn’t so scared to try new things in the first place.
Tracey Turner
February 19, 2020 at 7:42 pm (3 years ago)I am currently looking to take some Les Mills certifications. I was wondering about how it works after you certify. Do you have to pay for each release? Do you have to recertify periodically?
sweetandstrong
March 25, 2020 at 5:57 pm (3 years ago)Hi Tracey, thanks so much for reading. So YES you do need to pay for each quarterly release. But if you aren’t teaching you can stop this at any time. You do not need to do anything for recertification. There are Les Mills advanced trainings you can take, but they are not required.
Lisa @ Mile by Mile
February 9, 2017 at 12:14 am (6 years ago)Wow, how awesome that you are doing this! I used to take Body Pump all the time and I loved it! I considered teaching for a long time but never took the leap. Now I dont have a gym membership so I dont take the classes anymore. They were such a great workout!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:04 am (6 years ago)Les Mills does classes On Demand now which I think is really cool for anyone that can’t go to a gym.
Amanda
February 9, 2017 at 12:39 am (6 years ago)Aw man I want to try Body Pump now more than ever! I have got to bite the bullet. Despite my best efforts, just cannot get into a good groove with strength training on my own. Thanks for the awesome inside look!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:04 am (6 years ago)Body pump is a great place to start for learning about strength training. You learn a bunch of moves you can apply outside of class.
Autumn @ AutumnPTW.com
February 9, 2017 at 3:01 am (6 years ago)I used to do bodypump classes back in the day. They were so much fun and a great workout. Im sure youll get your cert, you got this 😉 Those donuts look amazing!
sweetandstrong
February 10, 2017 at 12:05 am (6 years ago)Thanks Autumn, I’m nervous to memorize the whole release and film. But maybe I should get donuts at the end of that too to motivate me, hehe.
Ashley @ A Lady Goes West
February 15, 2017 at 2:25 am (6 years ago)Welcome to the tribe! I am so happy that you went through training and were able to put yourself out there. It’s not easy to do! I went to BODYPUMP training back when it was three days, and it was my first program, and I was so nervous. But the beauty is, you just keep getting better as the years go on and always keep learning. Have you started team teaching at World Gym yet to get in front of a real class on the mic? I’m here for you if you need any advice! Go girl!
sweetandstrong
February 15, 2017 at 4:25 pm (6 years ago)Thanks Ashley! Before training I did read a few of your posts and you’re advice is always so helpful. I am still focusing on learning the tracks, so hoping to start team teaching soon. And yes they said this would be the hardest release we’ll ever learn bc it’s the first. It’s just so much to remember, but I know once I practice I’ll get it down!
Meg
May 23, 2018 at 3:24 am (5 years ago)So cool to read about your experience and success. I just passed RPM and am now working on the video submission. So excited!
sweetandstrong
May 28, 2018 at 5:41 pm (5 years ago)Congrats on doing RPM, that’s a program I’ve thought about because I love spin.
Meg
May 28, 2018 at 7:03 pm (5 years ago)Thank you! I recommend it highly. I was awesome! I can now appreciate the amount of work (and fun) that goes into delivering a class. Instructors like you were my inspiration. Thanks!
sweetandstrong
May 29, 2018 at 6:31 pm (5 years ago)Yay awesome! I can’t wait to hear what it’s like when you start teaching your own class!
Tracey Hill
June 8, 2017 at 4:36 pm (6 years ago)This was extremely helpful as I’m preparing to go to instructor training this coming weekend! BodyPump 102!
sweetandstrong
June 8, 2017 at 7:48 pm (6 years ago)OH I’m so glad Tracey. Are you learning 101? What track do you have?
Michael Keiffer
July 24, 2017 at 2:01 pm (6 years ago)Hello there! I really enjoyed reading about your BODYPUMP training experience. I have just recently finished the initial training (Release 102) in Las Vegas a week ago. I passed the initial training and I have started to team teach at my gym with a great instructor.
I was curious to know if you have submitted your video and if you received your certification. I have to admit, it was easy to prep for two tracks at training but now the real work begins as I have to learn all 10 tracks for the 102 release. I think the warmup, cool down and abs tracks will be pretty easy, and my assigned tracks were Back and Triceps, so that really only leaves 5 “hard” tracks left to learn!
I hope I can do this!! Thanks again for sharing!!
sweetandstrong
July 24, 2017 at 5:28 pm (6 years ago)Hi Michael. Congrats on finishing your initial training. That’s two tough days of a lot of work. And I took a lot of time to learn all 10 tracks. I followed the method they gave us in initial training and learned choreography first, then scripted in my cues and laying cues. Then I practiced A LOT, co taught for a few weeks, and filmed myself once before the actual take. I shot my video at my local gym with pretty much a full class and used the Les Mills app. A few days later I found out I passed. Please feel free to email me with any questions. You definitely got this!
Dalia
September 13, 2017 at 1:22 am (6 years ago)Hi! Hoping to attend training soon, but I’m not support strong and still do push ups on my toes. Will this be a problem? Thank you!!
sweetandstrong
September 14, 2017 at 10:01 pm (6 years ago)Hi Dalia! I do push ups from my knees too! No worries, you’ll do great. Feel free to email me with any questions.
Dalia
September 13, 2017 at 1:23 am (6 years ago)Edit: not super strong, push ups on my knees!!
Chenoah Saubert
December 18, 2017 at 6:40 am (5 years ago)Mind sharing what this pays per class and on average how many you can expect to do in one week without injury or burnout? Also, does the gym hire you or what’s he process of getting in?
sweetandstrong
December 19, 2017 at 10:17 pm (5 years ago)Hi Chenoah. It most likely depends on the gym on how much you get paid and if they hire you. My gym is contracted so when a time slot opened up I already had the relationship with them from subbing.
And I would suggest about three classes a week at most to avoid burnout.
Corinne Busby
January 26, 2018 at 1:54 am (5 years ago)Hi! I have my training in two weeks…so you only presented your chest track on the first and second day to be critiqued, right? When did you shadow the back track? On the second day?
sweetandstrong
January 27, 2018 at 8:51 pm (5 years ago)Hi Corinne! Yes I presented the first two minutes of chest on the first day and then the whole thing on the second. Our instructor never had us ‘follow’ a person, rather we just did it as an entire group. I would be prepared and know the choreography to both though. Email me if you have any other questions!
Corinne Busby
January 27, 2018 at 11:36 pm (5 years ago)Cool, thanks so much! I’m super nervous of course. I really appreciated your post!
sweetandstrong
January 29, 2018 at 2:29 pm (5 years ago)It’s definitly a nerve racking experience, can’t lie about that. But you’ll feel so great once you’ve accomplished it!
Carina Smith
March 15, 2018 at 5:52 pm (5 years ago)Great post!! I attend my training THIS weekend, and I’m so nervous! I have my tracks memorized, but presenting has me so jittery, I’m afraid I’ll forget. But, I loved reading your post and the comments. So helpful, thank you!!!
sweetandstrong
March 15, 2018 at 10:38 pm (5 years ago)Hi Carina! OH good luck, you’ll do great! And once you go through training and practice you’ll do great with the presentation. I was so nervous too but it was all good 🙂 Let me know how it goes and if you have any questions feel free to email me as well 🙂
Jennifer
March 26, 2018 at 9:03 pm (5 years ago)Hello! I’m getting ready to do my initial training in April – so excited! Can you tell me – the Alo leggings you mention – are they required?
sweetandstrong
March 27, 2018 at 11:25 am (5 years ago)Hi Jennifer! Oh that’s so excited you’re doing your initial training soon. And NO they are not required, I was just linking to the outfit I wore and laughing that I forgot Les Mills was sponsored by Reebok and I totally wore other brands. You can wear any workout clothes you want. And I suggest packing some long sleeves, our room was freezing the entire time. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Jennifer
March 27, 2018 at 5:31 pm (5 years ago)Thanks! I was so glad you mentioned the Reebok thing because I’m planning to get a new pair of sneakers before training and had wondered if I should get Reebok. ; )
sweetandstrong
March 28, 2018 at 10:12 pm (5 years ago)Yes I know Reebok makes some good Bodypump shoes, I don’t have them though. But you get a 20% discount once you get your certification!
Leah
July 3, 2018 at 5:04 pm (5 years ago)Thanks so much for sharing your experience! I’m attending my training in the next month, and honestly, I’m SO nervous. I worry that I won’t be able to handle it! I’ve been shadowing a class for a month and even taught a track last week, and it went really well, but I feel like I’ll never be able to teach all 10 tracks, or that I’ll miss reps, or that I won’t be using enough weight. I don’t know how I’ll remember it all (coming from a girl who did theatre her whole life). How did you find it was best to memorize tracks, and how did you talk yourself up to know that you could accomplish everything?
sweetandstrong
July 5, 2018 at 11:38 am (5 years ago)Hi Leah! First of all let me tell you that I am a HUGE introvert so the thought of teaching at first (and still sometimes does) terrify me. You can do this and it will feel so amazing when you accomplish it! As far as tracks, I found that me practicing and practicing really helped. I used a broomstick and did each track a few times through each day leading up to filming my video. You’ll find memorizing gets easier with time and once you know the music that also helps. I know as a fact I messed up some of the choreography of my video I submitted and still passed, as long as you can get back on track. Even with teaching classes now, I still get nervous, I take an hour to prep the night before class, and yes I still sometimes miss reps, but it doesn’t matter, no one in the class cares. I can’t wait to hear about your experience so keep me posted and let me know if you have any other questions!
Maile
July 5, 2018 at 3:18 pm (5 years ago)Hi! I know this is an older post, but I am in the middle of getting my ACE Personal Trainer Certification with the plan of ultimately teaching group fitness and have always LOVED Les Mills BodyPump. Do they require you to have any type of certification before you can take the instructor training or could I go ahead and apply? Thank you for sharing your experience!
sweetandstrong
July 5, 2018 at 3:33 pm (5 years ago)Hi Maile,
Oh that’s awesome on working on getting your Personal Trainer Certification, that’s something I’ve always thought about doing. As far as Les Mills though you do NOT need any other certification. The two days of training are crammed with knowledge, but I think having your personal training cert. will make you a better and more knowledgable instructor. Please don’t hesitate to email or ask any other questions. I’m happy to help 🙂
Moussa
July 18, 2018 at 12:45 pm (5 years ago)Great work,
just done my cxworx instrutor programm, wanna jump to bodypump and grit.
this will help. 🙂
big hug from germany.
sweetandstrong
July 18, 2018 at 1:48 pm (5 years ago)Hi Moussa, I’m so glad this was helpful and I would love to learn another Les Mills program as well, they’re the best. Let me know how it goes 🙂
Gemma
September 4, 2018 at 4:53 am (5 years ago)Hello! I loved this post – it has been so informative. I am thinking about becoming a bodypump instructor myself, however I am wondering what the time commitment is once you have completed the training. Do you take time to prep for every single class that you teach? How long does learning each new release take? On average how many hours per month would you dedicate to learning the moves, outside of the hours you are paid for as a teacher? Hope that’s not too many questions 🙂 It has been my dream to become a bodypump instructor, but I want to make sure it is viable on top of my full time job, and not just an extra stressor! How do you feel about it now?
sweetandstrong
September 5, 2018 at 11:35 am (5 years ago)Hi Gemma! That’s so awesome you’re thinking of becoming an instructor and I’m glad this post was helpful. To answer your question, first yes I do take some time to prep and review notes before every class. This could take up to an hour if I’m doing some new tracks or less time I’ve just reviewing choreography. I only teach BodyPump once a week, so I always like to give my brain a refresher.
As far as learning new releases I usually try to do the video a few times first and then I split it up between a few days and learn 3-4 tracks a day. It gets A LOT easier the more you’ve memorized.
And like I said about an hour a week prepping. Sometimes I even prep as I’m driving in the car as I listen to the music or as I’m cooking during weeks I’m super busy.
If it’s something you’re passionate about you’ll definitely make the time and it gets much easier after you’ve done it for a few months! Let me know if you have any other questions!
Gemma
September 5, 2018 at 11:28 pm (5 years ago)Thank you so much for your reply Patricia. I really appreciate that. I spend quite a bit of time cooking too, so it’s good to know that I can multi task and review the tracks. I’m trying to figure out if I can actually do the course as I am doing it in NZ and the course I am undertaking seems very structured – once a week training for 16 weeks plus a weekend away. We also have to pass a 12 minute fitness test which is pretty intense – it includes 50 pushups on my toes. Hopefully I pass!
sweetandstrong
September 6, 2018 at 12:37 pm (5 years ago)Oh wow! Good luck, you’re gonna do great!
Elle
October 2, 2018 at 3:44 pm (4 years ago)Hi there! I’ve been obsessed with Les Mills classes (specifically pump and attack) for a few years now. I’ve relocated out of state and have had trouble finding them like I did back in my home state 🙁
this has kind of inspired me to try and bring them to me and spread the lea mills love! Great idea in theory, however I have no idea what I’m doing lol. I came across your blog and am so appreciative of the insight. I have just a few questions:
I am not a certified trainer in any way. Do you recommend this first?
Did you already work at a gym before you were pump certified?
Do I need to be hired by a gym in order to become trained?
sweetandstrong
October 3, 2018 at 1:54 pm (4 years ago)Hi Elle,
So what I would suggest is first speaking with the local gyms in your area. Because they have to pay a Les Mills licensing fee in order to have the programs. And it would unfortunate if you went through all the training and didn’t have a gym you could teach at. Once you find a gym that’s an affiliate of Les Mills I definitly suggest signed up for a training. I was not already working with my gym, but it’s good to at least have a relationship with them. You do NOT need to be a certified trainer in any way, they will teach you everything you need to know and of course you’ll be doing a lot of practicing on your own. Hope this helps, keep me posted on how it goes 🙂
Elle
October 3, 2018 at 12:39 pm (4 years ago)Hi! I am strongly considering becoming Body Attack certified and would love to start teaching it at my new gym. (Ive relocated and they dont have it here, i feel compelled to spread the good word lol!)
However! I have no gym employment experience none the less teaching a class… is this a dead end for me? Would I be wasting my time getting certified?
sweetandstrong
October 3, 2018 at 1:55 pm (4 years ago)Les Mills is a great way to start learning how to become an instructor. I highly suggest their programs for first time group fitness teachers. Talk to your gym and see if they would be willing to pay for the Les Mills licensing fee so you could bring their amazing classes to your area.
Karen
November 28, 2018 at 5:06 pm (4 years ago)I signed up yesterday for my initial training for Body Pump! It’s set for Jan. 12! I’ve been doing Pump now for a year. My question is, did you do anything different to prepare your body for the two day training? Extra cardio? nutrition? Even though I have been doing Pump for a year, my body isn’t 100% the way I want it to look and I want to get it in tip top shape so I feel confident while at training.
sweetandstrong
December 20, 2018 at 12:23 pm (4 years ago)Hi Karen. No need to do anything to prepare for training, there will be a variety of ages and fitness levels in the future instructors. If you’ve been taking pump for awhile that’s ALL I would recommend. Focus more on practicing your choreography and reading a bit about the cues and notes from your release. Good luck!
Lara
December 30, 2018 at 7:44 pm (4 years ago)I would love to become a certified bodypump instructor. and now I am searching about it and how and where I can do it. I am an athlete for over 8 years, but when I do bodypump, I can not carry lots of heavy weight since there are high repitetion. Do they expect us to be super professional and carry lots of weight during the class? I mean the video which must be sent at the end?. Another question please, after getting the certification, I am official instructor to work in any gym? and how much does that cost? Thank you a lot!
sweetandstrong
January 27, 2019 at 3:30 pm (4 years ago)Def don’t worry if you don’t carry heavy weights. They’re focusing on proper form rather than how much weight you lift.
Emma
March 31, 2019 at 1:21 pm (4 years ago)I really love that you’ve shared your experience! It helped me so much. I am thinking about becoming a LesMills BA instructor and this was so helpful and motivating. I also wanted to ask how long did you practise before you decided to become an instructor? And did you only go to BP classes or did you go to the normal gym too?
sweetandstrong
May 10, 2019 at 12:13 pm (4 years ago)Hi Emma, congrats on thinking of becoming an instructor! You’ll have to keep me posted on your experience. After training I practiced for several weeks before submitting my evaluation video. I don’t only do body pump, only about 1-2 times a week. I like doing a mix of cardio, strength, and working on flexibility. Please let me know if you have any other questions!
Lucy
April 10, 2019 at 11:17 am (4 years ago)l realy like Bodypump l have done lots of classes and l would like to become an instructor but l am stuck in Africa we have no registered Lesmills clubs in my country . how do l go about it
sweetandstrong
May 17, 2019 at 12:22 pm (4 years ago)Hi Lucy, I’m so sorry I’m not sure how you would go about it if there are no workshops in your area. Maybe email Les Mills and ask, they are super helpful!
Khiel
April 11, 2019 at 8:18 am (4 years ago)Thank you for sharing a very interesting experience. I’ve heard body pump training and this is very useful for those of us who want to reduce our weight. This exercise also burns more fat in our body. fitnesskoerier.nl
sweetandstrong
May 17, 2019 at 12:22 pm (4 years ago)Body pump is such a great workout! I’m glad you enjoy it 🙂
Maree Hamilton
May 6, 2019 at 11:23 pm (4 years ago)I have done my initial body pump training. I am confused about left and right. Chorey notes in warm up say right leg back and left leg lunges. Does that mean I put my left leg back and lunge on my right leg and same with every left or right reference?
sweetandstrong
May 17, 2019 at 12:31 pm (4 years ago)Hm, I always do the opposite so if I say to my class right, I put my left back. You are by no means going to lose marks for this though. They are evaluating your form, knowledge of choreography, and cues.
Rose
May 26, 2019 at 10:26 pm (4 years ago)Hi Patricia! Thank you for your post on your body pump journey! I’ve got my training coming up at the end of June! My question has to do with your activity co-teaching a class during your 60 days to prepare to make your video. Was that your idea or is that something the program requires? I love it! How did set that up?
sweetandstrong
May 29, 2019 at 2:37 pm (4 years ago)Hi Rose, yay for the upcoming training! You’ll do great. And the co-teaching is not required, I set it up with my local gym. I would HIGHLY suggest it. It was great practice before I taught all the tracks and submitted my video.
Rose
June 24, 2019 at 3:19 am (4 years ago)Hi Patricia,
Thank up for your response. Happy to say I passed the training! Can you give me some guidance on how to approach the gym? I have heard that some of the larger gyms won’t allow it due to liability if I not an employee. Any advice on how to get in would be great. Thanks!
sweetandstrong
June 25, 2019 at 12:54 am (4 years ago)You need to find a gym that pays for the Les Mills classes. Unfortunately I don’t think you can teach bodypump at a gym that doesn’t.
JinaH
June 8, 2019 at 4:10 pm (4 years ago)Thank you so much for writing and posting this. It’s exactly the information I was looking for!! BP TRAINING, here I come!
sweetandstrong
June 11, 2019 at 11:44 am (4 years ago)YES you got this Jina. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions and Good Luck!
Leanne
July 2, 2019 at 9:11 pm (4 years ago)This was super helpful with helping me make the decision to pursue a BP certification. I saw this was from 2017 and was wondering if you knew if they have changed the training since then? My friend told me they don’t tell you what track you’re going to be presenting until it’s your turn to go, which really makes me nervous!
sweetandstrong
July 4, 2019 at 1:03 am (4 years ago)Hi Leanne. Yes I got certified a few years ago so I am not sure if they have changed the training. Back then I WAS told which track I was teaching before the training. But even if you don’t know, it’s two days and you really don’t do a lot of presenting until day 2. Let me know if you have any other questions 🙂
Toni Hill
August 27, 2019 at 10:33 pm (4 years ago)I really needed this information and you nailed it! It’s just what I needed to know! Now I can start the process and feel confident that I can meet my goal of becoming a les mills pump instructor.
sweetandstrong
September 16, 2019 at 2:03 pm (4 years ago)Awesome Toni! Good Luck, hope it goes well 🙂
Shannen
September 16, 2019 at 3:24 pm (4 years ago)Thanks for sharing this! I have my initial BP training this weekend and this helped me prepare so much! I’m glad I know what to expect! Still super nervous but excited to get started!
sweetandstrong
October 23, 2019 at 3:35 pm (3 years ago)Yay Shannen, I’m so glad it was helpful. How did it go? Definitely a nerve racking experience but you’ll feel so great when you get that ‘you passed’ email!
Sherri
October 29, 2019 at 3:07 pm (3 years ago)I passed! Thank you.
sweetandstrong
November 1, 2019 at 1:59 pm (3 years ago)Amazing congrats! Welcome to the tribe 🙂
JENNA
February 12, 2020 at 12:54 am (3 years ago)Hi there! Thank you so much for this post! It helps so much. My only question is, does the gym you teach a class at have to be a gym who currently teaches body pump certified classes? Was it hard to get the gym to let you teach an actual class for the filming of it all? That would be so rough to get past the initial training weekend only to not have an actual class to film the video for. If you can’t film it for an actual class, do you not pass?
sweetandstrong
March 25, 2020 at 5:56 pm (3 years ago)Hi Jenna. Thanks so much for reading. To answer your questions, YES the gym needs to pay for the Les Mills license that allows you to teach the program there. Speak to the gyms owner about this. My local gym already had Bodypump classes so I just asked the instructor if I could co-teach with her to practice, then we did the filming during one of her regularly scheduled classes and just let everyone know it would be me teaching and filming. I believe there needs to be at least 5 people. So you can even talk to the gym to see if they could offer an extra class one day for filming. You’ll find it easy to rally up 5 people to help you out and getting their workout. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Amy Gasson
April 7, 2020 at 11:44 pm (3 years ago)Hi! I’m thinking about becoming a les mills fitness instructor but I work shift work including day shifts late shifts and night shifts, so would that be possible ?
sweetandstrong
April 8, 2020 at 5:57 pm (3 years ago)I would talk to the local gym you plan to teach at to see if what times they offer classes and if that would fit into your schedule.