DCC Offers New Credential for Fitness Class Teachers

Release Date April 18, 2007

Poughkeepsie, N.Y. – In an effort to raise the standards required for individuals to become leaders of group exercise classes, Dutchess Community College’s Department of Health, Physical Education, Athletics and Dance will begin offering a “Group Fitness Leader Credential” in fall 2007. This 26-credit curriculum is designed to prepare instructors to teach a variety of group exercise classes and/or help prepare them for national group exercise leader certification exams. For information on this new program, contact DCC Wellness and Fitness Instructor Deborah VanBuren at (845) 431-8475.

The curriculum provides theoretical and practical experience in an academic setting. Students in the program will lead exercise classes as part of their experience. The course work can be completed in one year of full-time study. Part-time study is also an option.

Many local fitness centers were contacted during the summer of 2006 and responded favorably to the need for such a program. The curriculum is based in credit courses and results in a Dutchess Community College Credential. Required courses include Lifetime Wellness and Fitness, First Aid, Safety and CPR, Introduction to Exercise Science, and Nutrition. The program includes a practicum as an instructor in DCC’s Phil Arnold Fitness Center, and a practicum in Group Exercise Leadership where students gain experience teaching group classes at the College and/or off-site facilities. In addition, students get broad experience in college-level group fitness classes including step aerobics, Pilates, creative movement, low-impact aerobics, weight training, yoga, jazz dance, and stretch and tone.

This credential differs from the College’s two other fitness-related programs. DCC offers a two-year Associate in Science degree program in Exercise Science and Wellness for students who plan to transfer to four-year schools to study teaching, athletic training, exercise physiology, health and wellness, physical therapy, or nutritional science. In addition, DCC’s Office of Community Services offers a series of noncredit courses which culminate in personal trainer certification through the National Fitness Trainers Association.

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