Certifications

students in a training session on Old Main Lawn

Kickstart Your Fitness Career with University Recreation + Wellness Certification Prep Courses and Workshops.

UREC is proud to offer expert-led preparation courses for nationally accredited fitness certifications - designed to help you build knowledge, gain confidence, and take the next step toward professional success. 

Summer 2025

This course is designed to prepare individuals to take the ACE Personal Trainer certification exam. This 10-week course provides curriculum and materials consisting of PowerPoint presentations, textbook, lectures, interactive group activities, practical programming/training. The Prep Course does not certify individuals as personal trainers. Individuals wishing to become a certified personal trainer must register separately for an ACE PT exam at www.acefitness.org.

May 26 through July 28

    • Personal Training Prep Course this summer! 🌟

    • Location: 100% Virtual – No need to be in Fayetteville!

    • Perks: - Discounted study materials through ACE - Access to chapter PowerPoints & instructional videos -

    • Connect with UREC and kickstart your fitness career!

    • Top students may be offered interviews to become UREC Personal Trainers after the course! (This course does not take place of a certification but prepares students for their ACE test, test and texbook sold seperately but discounted for prep course students)

    • Cost: $50.00 for Students, $75.00 for UREC members

    • Registration: Online at the UREC Member Portal.

    • Questions: Laurie Campbell lc082@uark.edu

Ready to turn your passion for fitness into a career? The ACE Group Fitness Instructor Prep Course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to confidently lead group fitness classes and prepare you to sit for the nationally recognized ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification exam. 

In this course, you'll learn:

  • The role and responsibilities of a group fitness instructor

  • Key safety and design considerations for effective classes

  • Strategies for coaching, cueing, and delivering a successful experience

  • Practical, hands-on experience

  • Study tips and guidance to help you succed

  • Students will receive discounts for purchase of certification exam

You will also gain insight from seasoned instructors sharing real-life teaching experiences, giving you a deeper understanding of industry best practices and real world applications. 

Led by the professional fitness staff at University Recreation + Wellness, you will receive expert instruction and ongoing support as you take the next step toward becoming a certified group fitness professional. 

Fall 2025 Dates

September 17 through November 19 (8-10 classes)

  • Time: 1:30 pm -3:30 pm -- we can be flexible with in person/virtual

  • Cost: $50.00 for Students, $75.00 for UREC members

  • Location: UREC Fitness Center ARKU, 2nd Floor 

  • Registration: Online starting May 15

  • Questions: Laurie Campbell lc082@uark.edu

Learn to Lead: Indoor Cycle Training Workshop

Interested in becoming an indoor cycle instructor? Join the professional fitness team from University Recreation + Wellness for a hands-on workshop where you will learn how to structure, prepare, and confidently teach an indoor cycle class.

This training is perfect for those interested in joining the UREC team as a cycle instructor - no prior teaching experience required!

Reach out to lc082@uark, Laurie Campbell for questions.

  • When: September 13 & October 18 (same workshop offered twice)

  • Time: 10 AM - 2 PM

  • Where: UREC Cycle Studio (1st floor of the HPER)

  • Who: University of Arkansas students

  • Cost: FREE

  • Registration: email - lc082@uark.edu

  • Registration Deadline: TBA

Interested in Becoming a Group Fitness Instructor at University Recreation + Wellness?

There are two pathways to join our team:

1. Enroll in the ACE Group Fitness Prep Course

  • This course will prepare you to take the ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification Exam and give you hands-on experience teaching in a group setting. 

2. Already Certified?

  • If you already have a group fitness certification of your choice, you can apply directly by completing an interview and audition with our professiona fitness team at UREC.

Take the first step toward leading and inspiring others- join UREC Group Fitness Today!

Where can I get a group fitness certification?

  • Group fitness certifications are offered both online and in-person. The 5 most common group fitness certifications are obtained through ACE, ACSM, AFAA, ISSA, or NETA.

How can I become a barre instructor?

  • UREC barre instructors must be certified to teach barre. Some barre certifications include Barre Above, IBBFA, and Barre Intensity. Other barre certifications are offered and work as well. 

How can I become a Zumba instructor?

How can I become a yoga instructor at UREC?

  • Instructors may have a 200 hour Yoga Teacher training and certification or may have a Yoga certification in some cases with an outstanding interview and audition. Some of the most common yoga certifications are obtained through Yoga Fit, The Kaivalya Yoga Method, YogaRenew, and My Vinyasa Practice. Other yoga trainings and certifications are offered and work as well.

Do I have to be a student at the University of Arkansas to teach for UREC?

  • You do not have to be a student at the University of Arkansas to teach for UREC. 

Who should I contact if I am interested in teaching for UREC?

  • Laurie Campbell, the Assistant Director for Fitness at lc082@uark.edu