Afaa

[S.D.M.F.]

Aerobics and Fitness Association of America:

1. Poll: Who has completed an AFFA Certification? good, bad, just another?

2. For my industry veterans: Personal opinion?

 

[takniteasy]

I did about 8-9 years ago. It was a good certification back then; I don't know now. I believe other organizations have better certs, such as ACSM and ISSA.

I am not an industry vet, so I can't answer question 2.

 

[bignate73]

i've seen it. looked through the course material. its required for aerobics instructors at 24hr fitness...but not the trainers. I'd say its very general info so that instructors have the basics and can have a foundation from which to speak with some credibility and teach with safety.

go with NASM, NSCA or ISSA for your first.

 

[paulytee]

I took my AFAA course in 2003 and found it to be pretty basic. The reason I took it at the time was scheduling. I needed the cert. and it just happened to be offered that same weekend. Another reason I took it was I teach group classes (Spinning/Cycling) and AFAA is pretty much the standard for group teaching.
I do think certs from the American College of Sports Medicine, NASM, and NSCA carry more weight and they are more difficult. These work well if you are planning to go into coaching as well as training.
AFAA is not the toughest cert to obtain but overall, it's not a bad way to go, especially if you're planning to do any group classes.
Hope this helps!