Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
CERTIFICATION PROCESS
An instructor/trainer/consultant must complete either:
a) WaterART Onsite Training Courses (you will have up to 4 months AFTER the onsite training
date to complete both exams OR
b) WaterART Home Study Programs. Note you have up to six months from your purchase date.
(reference your invoice)
After this you will pay a late fee of $35.00 / exam (+ applicable taxes)
After a year, we will no longer accept your exam submission, you will have to re-do the programs.
Whether you complete home study or onsite education - the system and exam competencies
are the same. We provide written report cards for both onsite and home study exams (theory &
practical). We confirm all exams received ( either via email or phone if you don’t have email
address). Please keep us up to date with your email address as this is your log in & user name.
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION EXAMS
You have some options for completing the practical assessment to complete your
Certification.
The theory exam may be either
1. [email protected] ( you may EMAIL the answers). Do not re-type the questions as we know
the questions)
2. Mailed ( please track - you do not need a to request a signature from us)
3. Please note we will not accept FAXED, SCANNED nor downloaded exams because of
liability, copyright and virus issues.
4. Please put you name on the exam and in the exam ( correct spelling and mailing address for
your diploma.)
IN CANADA: WaterART Fitness International, 83 Galaxy blvd UNIT 19, TORONTO, M9W 5X6
IN USA: WaterART Fitness International Inc, 210 South 8th street, Lewiston, NY 14092
Practical Assessments - all candidates have an option to
1 ) submit a home VHS video/DVD of your class (the class design is written out as part of
the theory exam - we follow it along with your video/DVD submission) see details on exam yes, in this case you need to complete a full class (45-60 minute PROGRAM.) You are
marked based on the .marking system ( included in manual). We can not download video
streaming of your class .
OR
2 ) to complete an ONSITE practical assessment . You have to go to see the MT. In other
words the candidate makes the assessment convenient for the MT. In this scenario, the
person being assessed by the MT usually takes about 30 minutes / person . If there are
several people in a group- the group of instructors should stay for all of the assessments (as
they can learn from others performance). The goal is to guide the instructor to be to
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
gain valuable competencies. It is not necessary for the Master Trainer to attend the
whole program. You just have to complete the competencies (see below)
Report cards are then written for both theory & practical’s (and we email the report card to
you). BOTH sections must be completed to receive the report card. Once you are
successful - you will receive an official WaterART Certified Diploma, status and online profile
recognition.
Practical Onsite Assessment involves:
Teaching other instructors who attend the assessment date or the Master Trainer. We
usually have 3-5 people in a group ; however, we may work with you individually - if the
MT is assessing you individually.
The Onsite practical assessment will include:
a) answering a couple of oral safety questions as well as teach (specialty modules will
apply specific learning from the module)
b) teaching a 3-5 minute warm up Teaching
learning from the module)
(specialty modules will apply specific
c) teaching a 3-5 minute Cardio set Teaching (specialty modules will apply specific
learning from the module)
d) teaching two 3-5 minute Strength sets ( be sure to perform enough sets & reps or 3-5
sets of 8-25 repetitions) - (specialty modules will apply specific learning from the module)
e ) a 3-5 minute Warm Down. (specialty modules will apply specific learning from the
module)
You are evaluated based on
1) do you understand the exercise objective
2) can we see, hear and understand you
3) is the exercise safe and effective,
WaterART is Exercise with a Purpose.
We do hope that you will complete your Certification & benefit with becoming
qualified & competent! If you have questions please email us at [email protected]
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
www.waterart.org
Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
All practical assessments for certification exams may be booked with our VIA HEAD
OFFICE - contact us OR directly with a Master Trainer in Your Area
In Canada
Bonnie Bailey Windsor, ON
Sandy DuSomme, Sutton, ON
Fay Maitland Coyle, Newmarket, ON
Kathy Cook Toronto, ON
Harold Dineson & Joan Dawson, Peterborough, ON
Jacqueline Duff Toronto, ON & Panama City, FL
Christina DeSouza, Toronto ON
Pam Genge Woodstock, ON
Clare Gorman Vaughan, ON
Rikki Gross Hamilton, ON
Helene Jubinville, Ottawa ON
Sharon Klinger, Lacombe, AB
Drusilla Leitch S W Ontario,
Stephanie Marrello, Welland, ON
Marianne Pacaccio Hamilton, ON
Delia Palmer - Vancover, BC
Jan Rakovsky York University - Toronto, ON
Chet Skiginski Guelph, ON
J Nan Sturgis, Calgary, AB
Barbara Truax, Toronto, ON
Sandee Watson, Grande Prairie, AB
Jari-Lyn Weaver, Cranbrook, BC
In USA
Claudia Collins Augusta, GA
Judy Conley Lansing MI, CA, OR, HI
Ruth Fraley Naples, FL
William Fitts Connecticut
Dr. Lucia Cordell Getsi -McCormick, SC
Laurie Hooper, Panama, Fl
Sue Harkin, Bozeman, MT
Terri Lees, Kansas City, MO
Drusilla Leitch, Atlanta, GA, Bonita Springs, FL
Lindsay Mondick, Minneapolis, MN
Sharon McDonnell, Hilton Head, SC
Amy Parker, Mount Pleasant, SC
Wendy Patrick, Rockford, MI
Jane Pomponio, Port Tobacco, MD
Janet Rollero, Whitehouse Station, NJ
Amanda Sommer, Elon NC
Julie Scratch,Seattle, WA
Dorie Shore, Statesville, NC
Jennifer Williams, Texas
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
OR OFFICE USE
Date: of Course or purchase :____________________
Practical assessment date ___________________
Theory Exam date submitted ___________________Mailed or emailed __________
INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION EXAM
This exam is for the registrant (home study or onsite training course) only.
We appreciate you keeping this information confidential
NAME: ______________________________________________________________________
ADDRESS:
______________________________________________________________________
CITY:
STATE/PROV:
ZIP/POSTAL CODE:________
Best Phone Number
(Alternative Phone number)
EMAIL ________________________________________________
:
In order to validate your qualifications, you will need to keep a current copy of CPR/First
Aid/AED or Life guarding qualifications. Are you done with this process. Y/N if not, please
realize that you may submit exams; however, your qualifications will not validate unless
these courses have been successfully attended.
PLEASE NOTE : You Instructor Certification is only valid with the completion of emergency safety
qualifications. You must have either lifeguarding OR Basic CPR/AED/First Aid training as our
course does not cover this.
All candidates must achieve a mark of 75% or more to pass for both theory and practical portions of
exam process. Should your exam be incomplete or not make the standard, you may re-purchase
each part of the exam for a $35.00 + applicable taxes..
All candidates will have up to FOUR MONTHS (for onsite Instructor Certification programs
guided by a Master Trainer) OR SIX MONTHS for home study (self training) to complete the
exam process without a penalty fee.
Sharing exams and materials is strictly prohibited for both liability and copyright reasons.
All candidates must complete BOTH the theory exam & a practical assessment.
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
www.waterart.org
Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
How to Complete the Theory Exam Process:
All Theory Examinations are take-home, open book, applied theory. Exam answers may be
EITHER
1)emailed in PDF or .doc files OR
2) snail mailed to be marked.
You may study with a fellow instructor but all answers MUST be completed on your own and
in your own words. We do not accept faxed or scanned copies as they are generally
difficult to read. There are no deductions for incorrect spelling; however the written
portion must be legible. Please do not use pencil. Typing is best for us to read. If
a question is unclear you may email [email protected] for assistance.
Emailed exam take 1-2 weeks to grade whereas mailed exams will take 2-4 weeks to
grade. We confirm all emailed and mailed exams via email (or WaterART will phone you IF
you don’t have access to email).
MAIL the completed written exam to:
IN CANADA:
WATERART FITNESS INTERNATIONAL INC,
83 GALAXY BLVD UNIT 19,
TORONTO ON M9W 5X6
IN USA:
WATERART FITNESS INTERNATIONAL INC.
210 SOUTH 8TH ST
LEWISTON NY 14092
Email exams or questions to [email protected] (there is an automated confirmation on this email
address)
How to Complete the Practical Exam Process:
The practical assessments may be completed via an onsite assessment with a WaterART Master
Trainer OR provide a mailed submission via DVD/VHS video/USB stick of their program as written
out in the class design/case study. You may film the program in your home or at a center. We
recommend keeping your filming simple with small groups or just yourself in the program. We need
to be able to see, hear and understand your exercise goals and objectives and review that your
programs is safe, effective and enjoyable. There are marking guidelines in the back of each manual
for your reference. NOTE: For security, liability and confidentiality reasons we do not
download video streaming files.
Exam Deadlines
Any exams submitted after the 4 month period (6 months for correspondence) are subject to a
$35.00 late fee plus applicable taxes per late exam submission or for each portion of the exam
(theory or practical /case study). Please note that we do not accept exam submissions after 1 year
from the initial training date.
Successful candidates will receive an official EMAILED REPORT CARD immediately with
their results & may immediately LOG IN . MY ACCOUNT ) top right hand corner of website to
show your employer/insurance your qualifications RIGHT way. Your user name is your email
address –so keep us current – and you may only use one email address. Official Certification
Diploma & laminated Instructor Card will be mailed in approximately 2-4 weeks after you are
successful.
Please note will we not grade your exam until BOTH parts are submitted so ideally submit your
theory exam before the assessment to fast track results.
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
www.waterart.org
Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
WATERART INSTRUCTOR THEORY EXAM
you can write answers on a separate sheet of paper or submit answers (only) via email
but please label with the correct question number.
Questions 1 – 5 (1 mark each)
1: What two basic shallow water movements may not be used successfully in the deep? And
explain why not?
2: What are three water skills that should be taught to someone coming to class for the first
time, especially a NON- Swimmer. Explain
3: What should someone new to class be advised to wear/utilize to help with stability and
balance ?
4: List 2 advantages for each of the following
a) Teaching from the deck
b) Teaching in the water
5: Why does using a mixture of slow and fast moves for short cardio “bouts” (often referred
to as the “pyramid” method) generally not work in the water for effective cardiovascular
expenditure? How should this method be changed and cued for more effective
cardiovascular training?
Questions 6 – 10 (2 marks each)
6: Name the 2 abdominal waist muscles, state their joint or biomechanical action to show
how they move the body. Give an exercise for each to show the difference.
7: Name a muscle group that is naturally assisted with buoyancy when a “land” exercise is
used in the water for strengthening. Describe a more effective way to strengthen this same
muscle group using the water for resistance.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
8: There are two types of muscle fiber: fast twitch (FT) and slow twitch (ST). Give an exercise
to show how each can be used in exercise design for a class containing people of mixed
ages and/or skill levels.
FT
ST
9: List 2 properties of water and give an exercise to show how each property can be used for
variety in a mixed level shallow water program.
10: List the 3 planes of movement and give a walking exercise for each plane.
Questions 11 – 16
(5 marks each)
11: When designing an effective water program what is the difference between using
muscles for cardiovascular fitness versus targeting for specific muscular strengthening?
Give an example of a move that could be used for either fitness component and explain how
you would cue this exercise to be done differently to meet the intended goal.
12: Write a 5-10 minute warm up for a shallow water program incorporating 3 or more basic
moves, the 3 planes of movement and at least 2 WaterART working positions.
13: Name at least three muscle groups that assist with the movement of the hip. Give an
exercise for each.
14: Name at least three muscle groups that assist with movement at the shoulder. Provide an
exercise example for each unique move.
15: List 5 body or working positions that may be utilized with a noodle. Provide an exercise
using each body position. State if this exercise may only be utilized in shallow and/or deep
water. Additionally, name the fitness component being targeted with each exercise.
16: Design a cardiovascular combination suitable for deep water. Incorporate three basic
moves, to provide variety and prevent muscle fatigue, and at least three body positions.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
Questions 17 – 19 (10 marks each )
17: List 10 ways or variations of a rock (sometimes referred to as a rocking horse) move.
18: Provide an example of an exercise to show how you would target the following muscles
for strengthening in the depth suggested. Be sure to describe the working or body position
and how equipment (mitts/noodle) would be utilized if applied.
a) Strengthening the Rhomboids in deep water depth
b) Strengthening the Latissimus Dorsi in shallow water depth
c) Strengthening the Hamstrings in shallow water depth
d) Strengthening the Quadriceps in Deep water depth
e) Strengthening the Rectus Abdominus in Shallow water depth
f) Strengthening the External Obliques in Deep water depth
g) Strengthening the Internal Obliques in shallow water depth
h) Strengthening the Triceps in deep water depth
I) Strengthening the Abductors in shallow water depth
j) Strengthening the Core in shallow or deep water depths.
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
19: Give an exercise to show how you would target the following muscles while using the
water for stretching or lengthening the muscle group (stationary or actively):
a) Abductors in shallow water depth
b) Pectorals in deep water depth
c) Quadriceps in shallow water depth
d) Iliopsoas in deep water depth water depth
e) Hamstrings in shallow water depth
f) Adductors in deep water depth
g) Gastrocnemius & Soleus (Calf muscles) in shallow water depth
h) Gluteus Maximus in deep water depth
i) Rhomboids in shallow water depth
j) Latissimus Dorsi in Deep water depth
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
THEORY EXAM - Question 20 - CLASS DESIGN (25 marks)
The goal of this section is to demonstrate that you are competent to provide a safe, effective and
enjoyable program for participants in an aquatic fitness class. Write this out as a lesson plan for a
45 – 60 minute program in Shallow and/or Deep Water that you might use in the future for group
exercise (small or large). You may utilize noodles and mitts as equipment; however, we
recommend that you do not utilize advanced equipment for this exam or advanced techniques not
covered in this program.
NOTE: If you are planning to teach a full class for your practical assessment on site (with a Master
Trainer) or if submitting a DVD/USB stick for your practical you may use this same program.
You May List Exercises AND/OR Use Chart Form For This Class Design
1. Write out a 45 minute to 60 minute program or class
2. Be sure to list the components of the class you will train & the approximate time for each
component.
3. Itemize the exercise goal(s) or objective(s) within each component
4. Provide at least 5 examples of exercises for conditioning giving a short description of
each exercise – Be specific with suggestions for “variations” for cardio moves and provide
actual exercises for the muscle groups you choose to target.
5. We suggest that you provide alternating cardio & muscle sets (flexibility & muscular
endurance) so that you develop a balanced program.
6. Remember to make note how many repetitions or what the duration is pertaining to the
warm up, conditioning for CV or muscle set or for the warm down.
7. You may wish to include some of the exercises you have already described in Section 1
8.
Do not copy the class design “verbatim” from the manual or laminated card(s)
We accept, point form/bullet form or short forms however, your class design should be
legible. Ideally type or print this PLEASE DO NOT USE PENCIL OR SCAN TO SEND
Below, is a sample template or blueprint class design. Realize you would be using this on deck to
refer to your notes so it should be approximately 1-2 pages and easy to understand and follow
should you forget your planned class or program. Please itemize the repetitions or time (duration of
sets). Realize as you teach a regular program, you will have to be flexible and adapt the program
for water temperatures, skill levels of participants, health histories as well as motivation or goals of
participants.
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
* COMPONENT or PARTS
OF THE PROGRAM/
CLASS
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
EXERCISE
OBJECTIVE/GOAL
SAMPLE
EXERCISE DESIGN
( list sets and reps or
duration, travel , working
position etc )
Use extra pages if necessary.
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT – VIDEO/DVD SUBMISSION:
INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION EXAM ML001
PLEASE BE SURE TO SUBMIT A REGULAR SIZED VHS VIDEOTAPE OR DVD OR
USB STICK (seems to be the best option)
•
On video, DVD or USB stick , with a clear view of the instructor, please record your 45-60
minute practical assessment (class/blueprint design/lesson plan) as laid out in your theory
exam ( Section 2). Be sure to include the required 2 tasks listed below. You should submit the
class design additionally as part of your theory exam as this is worth 25 marks on the theory
portion as well.
• You may choose to teach either on deck or in the water; please be sure that we can see you, hear
you, and understand what you are doing.
• If teaching from the deck, please show the rear view of participants or utilize them as background.
• Professional videotaping is not necessary; however, it is important that we see the components of the
class and know your exercise objective, safety tips and tools utilized for visual and verbal
communication.
• Participants should be informed that this is for learning purposes only, and will not be sold or
reproduced. In the event that participants do not want to participate in the video – you can teach from
the deck and be the only person in the video OR you may phantom teach the program to the video as
if there is a class in attendance. However, this is much more difficult to do. It is easier to teach to a
live class.
PLEASE MAIL VIDEO/DVD & WRITTEN EXAM TOGETHER and be sure to include your name and
address. We will provide confirmation of submission.
If you reside in Canada or International (except USA): Mail to
WaterART Fitness International Inc.
83 Galaxy Blvd Unit 19 TORONTO,ON CANADA M9W 5X6
If you reside in USA mail to:
WaterART Fitness International Inc
210 South 8th St, Lewiston, NY 14092
REQUIRED TASKS:
TEACH A 45 MINUTE SESSION. You may use the one described in Section 2 of the written exam. (with or
without music). You will receive a written evaluation of your class (TOTAL 100 marks)
You may teach your regular participants, a friend or family or “ghost” teach (pretend to teach).
In addition: Please teach/demonstrate the following elements from the deck
(with students in the water.)
•
How to scull, - to assist and resist forward/backward and side travel with a jog movement.
•
A Body-Check balance exercise.
•
The four shallow-water working positions for either a cross-country, Jax , or Jog basic move. OR - if
teaching in deep water, any 4 body-positions for one abovementioned basic move.
•
Describe the Emergency Rescue procedure for your facility
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
This is a form YOU should review PRIOR to doing your practical either via VHS
VIDEO / DVD/USB STICK Submission OR onsite practical assessment. This is also a
tool Supervisors or Aquatic Directors may utilize to manage your performance staff.
You do not need to mail us this form.
INSTRUCTOR- PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
NAME:
CLASS TYPE:
DATE:
:
CLASS TIME:
:
SCORING SYSTEM: YES =1 and No =0 TOTAL= 60
THERE COMES A TIME WHEN EVERY LEADER NEEDS FEEDBACK ON HIS/HER PERFORMANCE. THE FOLLOWING EVALUATION WAS
DEVELOPED TO AID LEADERS THROUGH POSITIVE AND SPECIFIC FEEDBACK. THIS TOOL IS INTENDED TO HELP EVERY LEADER BECOME
THE BEST LEADER THEY CAN BE.
BACKGROUND:
Instructor has life guarding certifications or lifeguard on deck
Instructor is neat in appearance
Instructor wears appropriate clothing and footwear
ORIENTATION :
Instructor acknowledges / greets class prior to beginning; welcomes and introduces
any new participants or guests.
Instructor asks if there are any non-swimmers
Instructor asks if there are any special needs or medical conditions
Instructor knows approximate water temperature/asks participants how H20 feels
References given on content of class
Music is cued ( if using)
Equipment is ready ( if using)
BUOYANCY WARM UP SEGMENT:
_______
Begins class on time (maximum 2 minute grace)
Organizes participants to utilize their correct water depth/ positions them in the water
Utilizes the properties of water (resists buoyancy, works at water speed)
_______
Gives participants the basic aquatic fitness skills to succeed
(scull, recovery, balance)
_______
Keeps participants warm and comfortable and safe with the buoyancy warm up
CARDIOVASCULAR WARM UP:
Has a gradual increase in heart rate
Utilizes a method of monitoring intensity ( RPE/Heart rate Monitor/ Talk test)
Utilizes music at appropriate volume
Encourages/demonstrates good body mechanics ( on deck/in water)
Provides specific options for special populations or medical needs
(within scope of practice)
Utilizes the music at an appropriate tempo
Reminds the participants about posture & technique & breathing
Encourages participants to go at own level through self paced exercise
_____
Introduces basic terminology/moves and 2-4 working positions
CONDITIONING SEGMENT: CARDIOVASCULAR/MUSCLE CONDITIONING
Gradually increases intensity & complexity
Instructor utilizes appropriate "simulated" speed in water or on deck
Communicates appropriately for a variety of fitness levels ( visual & verbal cueing)
INTEGRATES muscle work with cardiovascular sets as to not fatigue muscles prior
to breathing
Performs exercise with appropriate repetitions so participants may “master” the
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
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Instructor Certification
HOW TO COMPLETE CERTIFICATION
moves
Progresses smoothly from less complex to more complex movement patterns
Explains and suggests how to increase/decrease intensity appropriately
Utilizes both long & short lever movements to prevent muscle fatigue
______
Balances musculature appropriately (especially hamstrings, tibialis anterior,
Ab/adductors, abdominals)
Utilizes travel movements appropriately ( and cues the arms to assist/resist or
balance)
Explains purpose and exercise goal ( and how it pertains to their goals)
Balances rebound moves with suspended or neutral moves
Re-checks or monitors intensity through talk test/perceived exertion (adjusts
accordingly)
__________Provides a good balance between Motivation and Education
WARM DOWN:
Stretches tight muscles actively or statically ( if the water temperature allows it)
Adjusts or adds appropriate music for relaxing or finishing program
Demonstration of appropriate movement speed (on deck or in the water)
Provides participants with a feeling of rejuvenated
Give a fit tip or information on upcoming events – so that participants go home yet
remain motivated to come back
____
Participants remain thermal regulated
Thanks participants for coming out/answered questions as able or necessary
OVERALL:
Promotes interaction and fun
Participants remarked "it was good class"
Participants could see and hear and understand instructions
Instructor maintains eye contact or an awareness of the group
Keeps class controlled (their attention & enthusiasm)
Provides interesting program which is generally motivating
Gets in the water to demonstrate moves and be part of group ( at least some time)
Design a water fitness class specific to "water training not a land in the water" class
Provides a goal of helping people to function on land.
Provides visual cuing for directing travel and organizing group travel
Utilizes safe and low impact deck moves
Teaches participants the "skill" of how to "work" the water rather than just
following along
Provides feedback (technical) invites questions and comments?
Instructors comments:
Do you feel that you taught a good class? Y/N
Were you comfortable? Y/N
What would you differently if you had another evaluation? Please describe.
Program Evaluation:
What did you ENJOY most about the WaterART program ________________________________
What did you LEARN most about with the WaterART program ________________________________
What would you like to change or add____________________________________________
Are you interested in further educational programs?
Y/N
Would you recommend this program to another colleague
©WaterART Fitness International Inc.
Y/N
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