If you enjoy music and want to motivate people to achieve their fitness goals, becoming a group fitness instructor is an excellent career move.

Both Zumba and Exercise to Music qualifications are popular options for aspiring fitness professionals – but the one you choose first depends on multiple factors.

In this guide, we’ll explore Zumba and ETM instructor qualifications in more detail, so you can choose the best fit for your immediate needs and long-term career goals.

What are Zumba qualifications?

Zumba is one of the most popular fitness programmes, providing heart-pumping and fun-filled workouts for people of all ages and fitness levels. It incorporates Latin dances, including cumbia, salsa, reggaeton, and merengue.

While anyone can become a Zumba instructor, it’s a trademarked certification, which means that you’ll need to obtain a Zumba Instructor License.

How to become a qualified Zumba instructor

There are worldwide Zumba instructor courses available, and beginners can start with the Zumba Basic 1 Instructor Training, then explore other courses.

Once you complete the qualification, you’ll receive a Zumba Instructor License and can work in gyms and health clubs, or freelance.

What are ETM qualifications?

The Exercise to Music (ETM) qualification is a popular option for individuals who want to further their knowledge of group fitness principles and lead lively classes.

You’ll learn how to develop and implement fitness programmes that combine cardio and strength training with music.

How to become an ETM instructor

ETM instructor courses are highly accessible, and you can complete your training online with The Fitness Circle.

While you don’t need any previous qualifications, some people find that completing the Level 2 Gym Instructor certification provides them with foundational fitness principles.

In most cases, you can complete the course within six weeks, while also fitting it around work and personal commitments.

What are the differences between ETM and Zumba courses?

Zumba and ETM qualifications focus on integrating music into group fitness sessions, but the courses have some key differences.

Which course should you choose first?

There’s no right or wrong answer as to whether you choose a Zumba or ETM qualification first, as each offers a range of benefits. When making your decision, it’s important to consider the following factors:

Your passion

While the ETM course lets you teach a variety of formats and fitness disciplines, Zumba certifications are only for teaching Zumba.

If you’ve taken classes before and love the adrenaline-pumping rush of Latin dance, then Zumba can be an excellent option – but focusing on just one fitness principle means you need to have a genuine passion for it.

Career goals

The fitness industry is the perfect place for ambitious professionals, as it offers plenty of opportunities to boost your earning potential and rise through the ranks.

Both Zumba and ETM courses offer a rewarding career, but becoming an exercise to music instructor usually provides more opportunities.

Instead of just focusing on Zumba, you can teach a range of classes, which makes you a more attractive candidate for gyms and health centres.

Demand

While Zumba is a popular fitness class, the demand for qualified instructors depends on where you live. For example, London and other large cities in the UK offer the most Zumba classes, but this also means multiple instructors are competing for roles.

In contrast, ETM instructors can offer diversity, including HIIT, aerobics, cardio, and strength training classes, which often makes them more attractive prospects for employers.

Can you do both certifications?

Absolutely – and plenty of fitness instructors do. By opting for Zumba and ETM qualifications, you can diversify your skillset and enjoy more career flexibility.

For example, starting with an ETM certification gives you a grounding in incorporating music into fitness sessions, and you can still teach Latin dance moves in your classes – though not trademarked Zumba routines.

However, if you want to add Zumba to your repertoire, you can diversify your class offerings and attract more clients.

Key takeaways

As you can see, both Zumba and ETM certifications are excellent ways to turn your passion for music and fitness into a profitable career. But we get that choosing between both can be hard, so here are our recommendations:

When to choose Zumba

If you’ve participated in Zumba classes before and love every single aspect of it, then turning your passion into a profitable career is an excellent idea. However, you might find that there are limited opportunities to work full-time.

When to choose ETM

If your main goal is to build a successful career in the fitness industry, opting for the ETM instructor course gives you more flexibility. You can specialise in a range of disciplines and enjoy progressing into other careers, including the Level 3 Personal Trainer diploma.

When to choose both

If you love Zumba but want to become a full-time fitness professional, start with the ETM course, build vital skills, and become a qualified Zumba instructor. That way, you can work in gyms and health centres, or become a self-employed fitness instructor.

The bottom line

No matter which course you choose, success in the fitness industry depends on the amount of work you’re willing to put in and your passion.

There are plenty of opportunities for dedicated individuals who genuinely enjoy helping clients meet their fitness goals, and many instructors choose to supplement their work in gyms and health centres with freelancing.

If you’re interested in the ETM instructor course, The Fitness Circle lets you enjoy a 100% online learning experience and flexible payments. Benefit from dedicated learning materials and a team of specialist tutors, ready to offer guidance.

Please book a free call today to discuss your options.