Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Candidate Handbook

This Certification Candidate Handbook contains information for individuals seeking the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification offered by the Aquatic Exercise Association. Keep this Certification Candidate Handbook for future reference.

All documents and information necessary for the AEA Certification can be found at the AEA Website, www.aeawave.com, under the CERTIFICATION menu.

AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009

Table of Contents
About the Aquatic Exercise Association .................................................................................. 3 AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination................................................ 3
Certification Oversight Committee........................................................................................................... 4 Independent Testing and Scoring Agency .............................................................................................. 4 Code of Ethics- AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professional ................................................................... 4

Earning an AEA Certification ..................................................................................................... 5

PART A: Recommended Preparation ..................................................................................................... 5 Part B: Candidate Eligibility Criteria and Application Process ................................................................. 6 Eligibility............................................................................................................................................... !" Application Process ............................................................................................................................. !" Special Assistance .............................................................................................................................. #" Application Appeal Process ................................................................................................................. #" Cancellation / Refund Fees ................................................................................................................. #" Part C: Examination and Scoring Procedures ......................................................................................... 8 Candidate Evaluation and Comments ................................................................................................. $" Exam Scoring and Results .................................................................................................................. %" Exam Scoring Appeals ........................................................................................................................ %" Exam Retakes ..................................................................................................................................... %" Cancellation of Exam Scores .............................................................................................................. %" Reasons for Disciplinary Action ..........................................................................................................&'"

Certification Renewal Policies and Procedures..................................................................... 10 Privacy, Security, and Records Retention.............................................................................. 11
Statement of Nondiscrimination ............................................................................................................ 11 Confidentiality / Privacy Policy .............................................................................................................. 11 Length of Records Retention................................................................................................................. 11 Security ................................................................................................................................................. 11

Appendices................................................................................................................................ 12
Appendix A: AFP Certification Examination Study Objectives ............................................................. 12 Appendix B: Certification Examination Disability Assistance Form ...................................................... 19 Appendix C: Certification Examination Evaluation ............................................................................... 20 Appendix D: Petition Form for Non-Approved AEA Provider CEC Allocation ...................................... 21

AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009

About the Aquatic Exercise Association

The Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) is a not-for-profit educational organization committed to the advancement of aquatic fitness worldwide. As the largest organization dedicated to improving the quality of the aquatic industry both domestically and in over 36 countries, AEA provides the highest level of education, information and networking to ensure consumer safety and industry growth. AEAs top priority is providing access to the latest industry resources, research, products, training and education to increase global health, wellness and longevity through aquatic fitness. AKWA, published by AEA, is the most comprehensive magazine in the aquatic fitness industry and provides research updates, current programming formats and professional development articles for all AEA members. Incorporated in 1984 in Port Washington, Wisconsin, AEA aimed to provide professionals with information and instruction on conducting water exercise programs for consumers, serving as a chamber of commerce for aquatic fitness. In 1993, AEA changed the Board of Directors and a new Corporation in Florida was formed with merged assets, The Aquatic Exercise Association, Inc. a 501C-6 Corporation. In 2005, The World Aquatic Coalition, Inc. DBA Aquatic Exercise Association was approved by the Internal Revenue Service and became a non-profit 501C-3 Corporation. AEA offers an intermediate level Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification (AFPC) in the United States based upon the Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual, which collaborates input from industry experts/authors to complete the most current and comprehensive resource manual.

AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination

AEA examination procedures follow guidelines set forth by NOCA (The National Organization for Competency Assurance), CLEAR (The Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation) and the NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies). By following certification protocols deemed appropriate by such organizations, AEA aims to increase consumer safety and confidence in Aquatic Fitness Professionals. AFPC provides a higher level of service to the community by establishing a standard level of competency for the aquatic fitness professional. The 100-question, multiple-choice written exam is designed to test a standard level of theoretical and practical competence and skill for aquatic fitness professionals to deliver safe and effective aquatic fitness programming. This is a timed examination with 1 hour and 45 minutes allotted for completion, approximately 1 minute per question. The following process, created in consultation with a psychometrician, is used to develop the Aquatic Fitness Professional Examination: 1. Job Analysis/ Role Delineation / Certification Objectives: A group of industry experts review specific job requirements in order to develop a set of objectives which outline the knowledge, tasks, and skills required to effectively perform the role of aquatic fitness professional. 2. Validation and Test Specifications: The objectives are then sent to a large, random, national sample of fitness professionals who currently hold the certification or to entities that employ fitness professionals to validate the objectives for professional practice and AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 3

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weight the objective material to determine test specifications. Test specifications determine the number of questions to be used on the examination from the various objective categories. Item Writing: A national and representative committee of industry and educational experts develop, review, and analyze exam questions. These subject matter experts tie questions to the validated objective criteria and directly reference the questions to the examination study materials approved by AEA. Examination Assembly: The examination questions are then sent to Fitness Learning Systems where they are stored in a secure test question database. The examinations are constructed using this test question database following the examination specifications determined from the job analysis survey. Cut Score Determination: Cut scores for each AEA examination are statistically determined based on acceptable criteria determined by the fitness industry. Examinations are weighted and equated to an appropriate degree of difficulty. Continual Examination Evaluation: The AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Examination is evaluated for test reliability and validity of specific items as well as the overall examination on an annual basis. Criteria are reviewed yearly by psychometric experts who recommend changes or updates.

A new examination development process begins approximately every five years following the process outlined above. All question writers, AEA personnel, and FLS personnel sign and execute a confidentiality and security agreement protecting and securing all examination questions, materials, and tests. Certification Oversight Committee The Certification Oversight Committee is a voluntary committee comprised of professionals from the aquatic fitness industry and other industry professions to represent public health and safety. This committee is responsible for overseeing all affairs and matters regarding Certifications and acts independent of the AEA board of directors. These affairs and matters include establishing and upholding standards for initial certification, recertification, and continuing education, issuing certificates to individuals who meet these standards, and establishing and maintaining a disciplinary process for certified individuals. Independent Testing & Scoring Agency Fitness Learning Systems (FLS) is the independent test administration agency contracted by AEA to develop, administer, score and analyze the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Examination based upon criteria approved by the AEA Certification Oversight Committee. Additional information on the test development and scoring is available in the Aquatic Fitness Professional Policies and Procedures document, which can be found on the AEA website.

Code of Ethics and Conduct - AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professional

All AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professionals will: Maintain high standards of professional conduct at all times. Remain aware of current AEA Standards & Guidelines for Aquatic Fitness Programming and not knowingly contradict current accepted industry standards. Maintain AEA Certifications through Continuing Education to stay abreast of the industry. A minimum of 15 hours of continuing education is required for each 2-year renewal period of the AEA Certification. AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 4

Maintain training and certification in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and obtain and maintain training in the use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Maintain recommended levels of training in First Aid and Water Safety. Acknowledge skills and limitations as an aquatic fitness professional, practice ethically and properly represent qualifications. Maintain clear and honest communications with clients and students and uphold confidentiality at all times. Respect and cooperate with all health care and fitness professionals to promote the betterment of the aquatic fitness industry. Contribute to the health, safety and welfare of clients and students to assure continued respect for the aquatic industry. Uphold the standards, policies and procedures as outlined by the employing aquatic facility. Dress in a professional and appropriate manner when representing the aquatic fitness industry. Refrain from using any mind-altering drugs, alcohol, or intoxicants when conducting classes or instructing clients. Provide the highest quality of service possible to clients and students in keeping with the standards, guidelines and objectives of the Aquatic Exercise Association.

Earning an AEA Certification PART A: Recommended Preparation

AEA highly recommends that all certification candidates have a minimum of 8-12 weeks of selfprepared advance study in addition to a minimum of 6 months practical experience, regardless of educational background. To adequately prepare, candidates are encouraged to follow the timeline below: 8 Months Prior: Read the Certification Examination Objectives (See Appendix A, also available as a download at www.aeawave.com) to review the examination content based upon the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual (AFP Manual). Read the manual and use the key chapter concepts and questions provided at the end of each chapter to test comprehension of the information. The ability to correctly answer these questions demonstrates the necessary level of understanding to move to the next stage in the preparation process. 6-8 Months Prior: A minimum of 6 months practical experience is recommended. Those seeking certification should participate in classes led by other AEA Certified Professionals and apprentice with an experienced AEA Certified Professional. The Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Practical Applications DVD also provides an in-depth practical demonstration (deck instruction and views of participants including underwater footage) of the information found in the AFP Manual. Candidates are specifically seeking to understand and practice skills in the areas of: choreography, cueing and deck teaching; moving to the music and various water tempos; monitoring participant safety; and maximizing the training benefits in the water by mastering concepts such as inertia, acceleration, frontal resistance and levers. To further reinforce these concepts, it is recommended that candidates attend AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 5

Continuing Education Workshop(s) led by AEA Approved Continuing Education Provider(s). For information regarding current AEA Approved CEC Providers visit: www.aeawave.com and click on the education link. 3-6 Months Prior: Offered through Human Kinetics, the AEA Online Prep Course is an interactive online educational course for candidates preparing to earn the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Examination. It includes a course pre-test, unit quizzes and a course test to confirm your understanding of the material and assist you with the Certification Examination. Course content includes exercise anatomy & physiology, applied anatomy, physical fitness, aquatic environment, physical laws, aquatic fitness equipment, aquatic fitness choreography, deep water exercise, exercise programming & leadership as well as other related topics pertaining to exercise instruction. Candidates should expect a minimum of 30 hours to complete this online course. There are no prerequisites for this online course. The interactive course design allows one to start and stop as desired as well as the ability to repeat units in order to focus on areas of difficulty. For detailed Online Prep Course information visit: http://www.aquaticeducationcenter.com/. 0-3 Months Prior: Intently review the Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual, focusing on areas of difficulty, and the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Practical Applications DVD to practice deck instruction skills and program design. The AFP Practical & Skill Applications course may be completed at anytime, but candidates often choose to attend the course the same day as taking the Certification Examination in order to tie together the theoretical and practical concepts. This interactive program is designed to reinforce the knowledge learned in the AEA Certification Prep Course and involves activity both on land and in the pool. This course reviews the practical and skill related aspects of aquatic fitness leadership including deck instruction, applied anatomy, physical laws and muscle actions as related to aquatic fitness equipment. Although optional, AEA highly recommends that all candidates seeking certification participate in this course. There are no prerequisites for this course.

PART B: Candidate Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

Eligibility Candidates must be at least 18 years of age. Candidates under 18 years of age must contact AEA and will be required to provide parental/legal guardian consent. Candidates must provide proof of current and valid CPR and AED certification. If the candidate does not have current CPR/AED certification, he/she may take the examination but the certificate will be held until CPR/AED certification documentation is provided. Application Process Candidates must complete the AFPC Application prior to registering for any scheduled certification examination. Information submitted on the AFPC Application form is kept strictly confidential. It is highly recommended that Candidates apply at least 30 days prior to the examination date. Absolutely no candidate applications will be accepted within 14 days of examination date. AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 6

Applications can be downloaded from the AEA Website, www.aeawave.com, under the Certification menu. Completed Applications are submitted to AEA for processing. Candidates will receive a confirmation of acceptance/denial within 72 hours. Once the Application has been confirmed, the Candidate must then register for the examination location. Examination locations can be found on the AEA web Site. Candidates must bring the Confirmation/Receipt/Invoice to the Examination. Candidates who do not provide documentation of CPR/AED on the AFPC Application should bring documentation to the Examination. If the Candidate does not have current CPR/AED certification, he/she may take the examination but the certificate will be held until CPR/AED certification documentation is provided.

On-Site Exam Day Information Candidates will sign in with the Exam Administrator at the examination site. Candidates NOT participating in the Practical & Skill Applications course offered prior to the Examination must arrive by 3:30 pm. Photo identification is required from all exam candidates at the examination site. Cell phones are not permitted in any examination room. Candidates must bring No. 2 pencils to complete the examination. Special Assistance AEA will assist with special arrangements for Examination Candidates who have a medical and/or learning disability that may prevent taking the examination under standard conditions. Candidates requiring special assistance due to a disability must complete the Certification Examination Disability Assistance Form (See Appendix B). During the online application, you will be prompted to select Certification Examination Disability Assistance and the form will then be emailed to you separately for completion. If you are applying by mail, please request the Disability Assistance Form with your Application to assure that it is submitted within the required timeframe. The form and necessary documentation must be received no later than 30 days prior to the examination date. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), documentation of the disability, from a qualified health care provider, must be submitted with this completed form. AEA reserves the right to review and evaluate the request and will make every effort to provide the requested accommodations when feasible. Application Appeal Process The AEA Certification Oversight Committee reserves the right to deny any application that does not meet the eligibility requirements. If denied, the individual can appeal and request that the application be reviewed by submitting an email or faxed request stating reason(s) why he/she should be eligible and provide any supporting documentation. All appeals will be reviewed in 7 working days upon receipt and notified in writing if the appeal has been accepted or denied. AEA Exam Application Appeal Email: info@aeawave.com Fax: 941-486-8820 Cancellation / Refund of Fees Cancellation Policy - All AFPC Examination cancellations or transfers to another event must be submitted in writing to AEA Corporate and received 14 days PRIOR to the scheduled examination. The Examination cancellation fee is $50.00. The Examination transfer fee is $25.00. NOTE: Only one transfer is permitted, after which the Candidate must re-apply and pay for another Examination event. AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 7

Should it be necessary for AEA to cancel an examination, all candidates will be notified by email or phone. Candidates will be given the opportunity to transfer to another location or a full refund of application fees will be provided. No Shows - Candidates who do not arrive on site to take the examination at the scheduled date and location, who have not cancelled within the 14-day cancellation period, will forfeit their registration fee. Should the candidate wish to take the exam at a later date, it will be necessary to complete the application process and pay the registration fees again.

PART C: Examination and Scoring Procedures

An Exam Administrator will facilitate candidate admittance to the examination. Absolutely no walk in candidates will be admitted. Exam on-site registration area will be set up between 3:30 and 3:45pm. Candidates arriving late may be denied admittance. All candidates taking the exam must show a picture ID or at least 2 other forms of identification from a government agency or educational facility (i.e. Voters ID, College ID, social security card, etc.). If a candidate has no acceptable identification, he or she cannot take the examination. If Candidate did not provide proof of CPR/AED with pre-application, this information can be provided to the Exam Administrator at check-in. Prior to beginning the examination, the Administrator will present a tutorial to assure all Candidates understand the computer-scored exam procedures. Candidates will only be permitted to have the examination booklet, bubble sheet to record answers, non-programmable calculator, pencils and erasers and water/snacks with them during the examination. All other personal items must left at the side of the room for the duration of the exam. Candidates will not be permitted to leave the examination room for any reason during the course of taking the exam. No copying of examination questions is permitted. Any Candidate found removing or attempting to remove test materials or notes from the exam room, communicating with other candidates, or participating in any form of misconduct, will be denied certification. Candidates will have 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete the 100-question multiple-choice exam. There is only one correct answer for each question; indicating more than one response for any question will result in that question being scored as incorrect. Candidates MAY NOT ask the Exam Administrator for help with any questions or discuss the examination for any reason during or after the examination.

Candidate Evaluation and Comments All Candidates will be asked to complete the AFP Certification Examination Evaluation Form (See Appendix C). This form includes an area for comments or concerns regarding the examination process. All evaluation forms will be returned to AEA for review by the COC. Exam Scoring & Results All candidates must receive a minimum score of 68% on the examination in order to earn the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification. AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 8

Certification Candidates scoring below the minimum exam requirement may retake the course at a future date and location within an 18-month period. The retake fee is $65.00. Fitness Learning Systems (FLS) is the independent test administration agency contracted by AEA to administer, score and analyze the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Examination. Results will be sent from FLS via mail to the Candidates address indicated on the Exam Scoring Sheet within 4-6 weeks. Results cannot be received by phone or via email. FLS will provide the Candidate with an Individual Mastery Report, which includes an overall percentage as well as a breakdown of responses for each examination objective. This information is valuable to candidates as it reviews strengths and weaknesses relating to each objective. Individual question mastery details are NOT provided in order to maintain examination and test question security. Candidates who pass the examination and successfully earn the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification will be sent a certificate from the AEA office within 8 weeks of the examination date. Materials explaining continuing education and requirements for retaining certification will be included. Candidates who fail the examination and do not successfully earn the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification will receive information from AEA within 8 weeks of the examination date outlining options for appealing and re-taking the certification examination. If CPR/AED has not been verified by the Examination date, the Candidate will receive examination scores from FLS but will not be issued a certificate or certification status from AEA until CPR/AED certification documentation is provided to AEA. Exam Scoring Appeals A candidate receiving a failing score on the examination may request hand scoring of his/her exam. A request must be submitted in writing or via email to Fitness Learning Systems within 60 days of the examination score release date with a $25 re-scoring fee. Upon receipt of the written request and required fee, the candidates answer sheet will be re-scored by hand and results will be provided in writing via email to the candidate. Requests can be sent to Fitness Learning Systems, 1012 Harrison Ave #3, Harrison OH 45030, or via email to info@FitnessLearningSystems.com. Exam Retakes Candidates who do not successfully pass the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination may apply to retake the exam at a scheduled exam location within a period of 18 months from the date of the initial exam. The Retake Fee of $65.00 also allows participation in the AFP Practical & Skill Applications course when offered on the day of the exam (available at most locations). Personalized exam scores provided by FLS indicate the general objective areas where the candidate should concentrate studies in order to improve performance. Cancellation of Exam Scores The AEA Certification Oversight Committee (COC) reserves the right to withhold or cancel examination scores if there is reason to question circumstances of the examination process due to suspected misconduct by the Candidate or examination irregularities beyond the control of the Candidate. AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 9

Suspected Misconduct if the COC determines that there is sufficient evidence to question the validity of the score, the score may be cancelled and the Candidate notified in writing. Examination Irregularity if the COC determines that a situation jeopardized the validity of the examination scores (i.e. missing page from exam booklet), scores may be cancelled. All Candidates affected will be notified and provided an opportunity to retake the examination at a future time free of charge.

Reasons for Disciplinary Action The following situations will necessitate disciplinary action to be taken by the AEA Certification Oversight Committee (COC). Disciplinary action may involve refusal of the Examination Application or revocation of Certification status. 1. Using fraud or deception to obtain, or attempt to obtain, certification. 2. Intentionally assisting another person to use fraud or deception to obtain, or attempt to obtain, certification. 3. Falsification of certification documents. 4. Removing, or attempting to remove, test materials or notes from the exam room.

Certification Renewal Policies & Procedures

AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professionals are required to renew their certification every two years. Early renewals can be submitted within 6 months prior to certification expiration if all renewal requirements are met. (The AFP Cert Renewal Form is available at www.aeawave.com) AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professionals must obtain a minimum of 15 AEA Approved CECs to obtain recertification. If you earn more CECs than the minimum required, they do not carry over to the next renewal period. CECs begin at zero (0) on your next term. A list of AEA Approved Continuing Education Providers can be found at the AEA website. AEA may issue CECs to non-approved educational programs; go to the AEA Website for current procedures for non-approved course recognition and petition information. (See Appendix D for the Non-Approved Provider Petition Form, also found at www.aeawave.com) AEA Certified Aquatic Fitness Professionals must maintain current and valid CPR and AED Certifications throughout the renewal term. AEA CECs allocated for CPR and AED renewal will depend on the CPR and AED organizer/provider. There is a $50.00 Certification Renewal Fee. This fee represents on-time renewals (received no more than 60 days past the certification expiration date) with all requirements fulfilled. Late fees will apply if AEA does not receive Certification Renewal within 60 days of expiration; the AEA Website lists current procedures and fees for late renewals.

Privacy, Security, and Records Retention

Statement of Nondiscrimination AFP Certification Candidate Handbook 2009 10

AEA does not discriminate among examination candidates on the basis of gender, age, religion, race, national origin, marital status or disability. Confidentiality / Privacy Policy AEA is committed to protecting the privacy of information provided during the Certification Application, Examination and Renewal procedures. Candidate privacy is important to AEA. Registration for AEA Certification requires only necessary information to process shipping of certification materials (name, address, phone number, email and payment information) and that information remains secure. Only authorized employees have access to exam candidate files and are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of that information. No information submitted to AEA or FLS during the certification process, including but not limited to examination scores, will be released to a third party without written authorization from the Candidate. With the exception of verification of certification, written consent from the Candidate is required prior to the release of any information from the individuals certification records. If you provide an email address upon registration you will receive notice of AEA sponsored education opportunities and/or product/education promotions from AEA affiliated organizations. To stop receiving email notifications, send a written request to AEA requesting to be removed from the email list and discontinue all notices sent from AEA. Length of Records Retention The Aquatic Exercise Association shall indefinitely retain records of all candidates and current and former AEA-certified professionals as long as they remain affiliated with AEA as an organization or until they request (in writing) that the information be removed. Whereas public record of the information will be removed, AEA will retain members records for a period of 5 years securely. Security Candidate information is maintained by AEA and FLS in secure databases. AEA individual information is accessible only via that persons AEA web account protected by the username and password selected by the individual. Individual information is not available through the FLS test database to maintain examination and test question security. Any hardcopy records are stored in locked filing cabinets in secure areas within the AEA and FLS administrative buildings.

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Appendix A: AFP Certification Examination Study Objectives

Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification STUDY OBJECTIVES

ALL Study Objectives are covered in the Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual; additionally, ALL examination questions have been developed from the content of the Aquatic Fitness Professional Manual. ALL Study Objectives are addressed in the Online Prep Course either through a unit activity, a unit summary assignment (designated reading in the AFP Manual), the glossary and/or questions found in the unit quizzes. Study Objectives marked with an asterisk ( * ) are covered in the AFP Practical & Skill Applications Course.

GENERAL CATEGORIES
1. Exercise Anatomy 2. Exercise Physiology 3. Applied Anatomy 4. Physical Fitness 5. The Aquatic Environment 6. The Physical Laws 7. Aquatic Fitness Equipment 8. Aquatic Fitness Class Choreography 9. Aquatic Exercise Programming and Leadership 10. Health Risk Appraisal and Physical Screening 11. Emergencies, Injuries, and Instructor Wellness 12. Special Populations 13. Basic Nutrition and Weight Management 14. Exercise Behavior 15. Business Responsibilities and Legal Concerns 16. Deep Water Exercise NOT covered in the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification

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EXERCISE ANATOMY 1. Name the 11 systems of the human body. 2. * Define the anatomical reference terms and use them in an example. 3. Identify the major bones in the human skeleton. 4. Describe the four classifications of bone, the structural composition of bone, and how bones grow. 5. Understand the characteristics of human muscle tissue. 6. Define the terms agonist and antagonist and use them in an example. 7. * Identify the major muscle groups in the body, their location, the joint(s) moved, and basic movements. 8. Understand the basic organization of the nervous system. 9. Describe the flow of oxygen in the respiratory system. 10. Understand the basic anatomy of the heart muscle. Be able to trace the pathway of blood in the cardiovascular system. 11. Define general cardiovascular terms. EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 1. Define and apply the physiological principles of exercise. 2. Explain the importance of muscle balance by strengthening and stretching both members of a muscle pair. 3. Describe how water promotes muscle balance. 4. Understand basic energy metabolism. 5. Describe how the metabolic energy systems work together to supply the bodys energy needs. 6. Understand the sliding filament theory and the basic concept of muscle contraction. 7. Know the characteristics of fast twitch and slow twitch muscle fibers. 8. Describe isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic muscle actions. 9. Describe steady state and high intensity aerobic exercise responses. APPLIED ANATOMY 1. * Define and describe anatomical position and the anatomical movement terms. 2. * Understand the three planes around which the human body moves. 3. Describe a third class lever and its application in the human body. 4. Know the types of joints in the human body. 5. Understand the functions of tendons and ligaments. 6. Describe and define abnormal curvature in the spine. 7. Understand proper postural alignment. 8. Explain center of gravity and center of buoyancy. PHYSICAL FITNESS 1. Define the primary and the skill-related components of fitness. 2. Understand ballistic and static stretching in relationship to the stretch reflex. 3. Understand the American College of Sports Medicines (ACSM) guidelines for exercise. 4. Demonstrate methods for monitoring exercise intensity. Know how to calculate an aquatic exercise target heart rate range by using Karvonens formula. 5. List the theories why aquatic heart rates may be lower than heart rates achieved during comparable land exercise. 6. Understand the difference between continuous training, circuit training, and interval training. 7. List the health and psychological benefits of regular exercise. 8. Explain the difference between physical activity and exercise to improve physical fitness.

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THE AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT 1. Compare the bodys ability to dissipate heat in land and aquatic exercise. 2. Know the importance of generating body heat during the thermal warm up and stretches. 3. Explain precautions that should be taken by students and instructors in relation to air and water temperatures and humidity. Know water temperature appropriate for various class formats and populations. 4. List problems and possible solutions associated with slippery, rough, or sloped pool bottoms; water depth; pool edges, gutters, or sides; water quality; acoustical factors; and the use of electrical appliances. 5. Discuss the benefits of wearing shoes when leading or participating in aquatic exercise. THE PHYSICAL LAWS 1. * Define Newtons laws of inertia, acceleration, and action/ reaction; explain how they apply to aquatic exercise and describe ways to increase and decrease intensity using the principles of these laws in aquatic movement. 2. Describe how the waters viscosity causes resistance to motion in the aquatic environment. 3. * Describe and demonstrate how intensity is altered in aquatic exercise by altering frontal surface area / frontal resistance. 4. * Demonstrate hand positions that will increase and decrease intensity in aquatic exercise. 5. * List the alternatives to using speed to increase intensity in aquatic exercise. Explain the advantages to using these alternative methods. 6. * Explain and demonstrate how the limbs are used as levers in aquatic exercise and how the length of the lever affects the intensity of the movement. 7. Describe how buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, surface tension, and turbulence contribute to the aquatic exercise experience. AQUATIC FITNESS EQUIPMENT 1. Discuss factors for selecting and purchasing aquatic equipment. 2. Define muscle terminology. 3. * Identify the major muscle(s) responsible for primary movements in exercise. 4. * Describe how gravity affects the muscle action and muscle use for primary exercise movements performed on land. 5. * Explain how and why muscle action and use varies for submerged movement as compared to land movement. Give examples. 6. * Determine the resistance direction and muscle action/ use for buoyant equipment. 7. * Determine the resistance direction and muscle action/ use for weighted equipment. 8. * Determine the resistance direction and muscle action/ use for drag equipment. 9. * Determine the resistance direction and muscle action/ use for rubberized equipment. 10. * Describe the purpose and use of flotation equipment. AQUATIC FITNESS CLASS CHOREOGRAPHY 1. Define basic choreography terms. 2. * Demonstrate base moves for aquatic choreography for the lower and upper torso. 3. * Identify and differentiate between the common choreography styles used in aquatic exercise. 4. * Understand and be able to differentiate between various impact options for aquatic exercise including Levels I, II, and III, grounded/anchored, and propelled/elevated. Describe water specific movements.

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5. * Demonstrate five basic ways to vary arm use and arm patterns in aquatic exercise. 6. List the pros and cons of using music in your aquatic workout. 7. * Describe appropriate use and demonstrate execution of movement in the aquatic environment including land tempo, water tempo, and ! water tempo movement. 8. * Demonstrate safe and effective toning exercises for major muscle groups. 9. * Demonstrate safe and effective stretching exercises for major muscle groups. AQUATIC EXERCISE PROGRAMMING & LEADERSHIP 1. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic components of an aquatic fitness class and be able to use these components to design a safe and effective class. 2. Describe the differences in aquatic program formatting. 3. * Understand proper form and alignment when teaching aquatic exercise. 4. * Demonstrate verbal, visual, and tactile cueing techniques. 5. * Give examples of basic, intermediate, and advanced transitions. 6. * Describe the pros and cons of teaching from on the deck and in the pool. Understand the importance of weight transfer and proper cadence when teaching from the deck. Describe various ways to demonstrate moves from deck. 7. Understand why it is important for aquatic programming to promote muscle balance. 8. * Describe why some movements are considered high risk or ineffective for an aquatic fitness program. 9. Describe professional behavior and attire for an aquatic fitness instructor. HEALTH RISK APPRAISAL & PHYSICAL SCREENING 1. Understand the basic process for health history, health risk appraisal, and physicians consent for a fitness participant. 2. Understand the appropriate use of physical screening for a fitness participant. 3. Describe commonly assessed physical parameters and commonly used assessments. EMERGENCIES, INJURIES & INSTRUCTOR WELLNESS 1. Understand the difference between acute and chronic injuries. 2. Identify symptoms and treatment for common exercise injuries. 3. Demonstrate procedures for basic first aid including the RICE concept. 4. Adapt your first aid and CPR training to the water environment. 5. Demonstrate basic water safety concepts. 6. Identify common emergency conditions and be aware of a recommended course of action for these situations. 7. Explain why emergency action plans are important. SPECIAL POPULATIONS 1. Identify recommended water temperature, shallow water depth, tempo, and program formats for special populations. 2. Recognize characteristics, the benefits of exercise, and program considerations for the following special populations: Older Adults, Larger Adults, Children, Adolescents, Pre and Post Natal, Cardiovascular Disease, Pulmonary Disease, Musculoskeletal Disease, Metabolic Disease, Neurological Disease, and Immunological/ Hematological Disorders. BASIC NUTRITION & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT 1. List the 6 basic nutrients found in food. 2. Explain the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and how to use them to ensure nutrition adequacy in the human diet. 3. Explain the role of nutrition in reducing the risk of lifestyle related disease.

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4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Understand the importance of proper hydration and replacing fluids during exercise. Define overweight and obesity and discuss the theories of obesity. Be familiar with the benefits of exercise in weight management. Identify unsafe dieting practices and list symptoms for common eating disorders. Recognize and discuss guidelines for safe and effective weight management.

EXERCISE BEHAVIOR 1. Identify personal, program, and other factors contributing to exercise dropout. 2. Define exercise behavior. List factors contributing to exercise behavior. 3. Define adherence and compliance. List factors that affect exercise adherence and compliance. Identify strategies to reduce dropout and increase compliance. 4. Understand how to reach individuals with various learning styles by incorporating different methods of instruction. BUSINESS RESPONSIBILITIES & LEGAL CONCERNS 1. Define the different labor status or business categories of employee, independent contractor (subcontractor), sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) and corporation. List the responsibilities of each with consideration to requirements for insurance, taxation, and business structure. 2. Identify the need for liability insurance required for fitness professionals. 3. Define legal terminology related to professional responsibility, negligence, duty, and liability. Identify factors that influence determination of liability and awarding damages. 4. Define Standard of Care for AEA certified fitness professionals with reference to an established code of ethics and understand the importance of proper education and training as it relates to legal and moral responsibilities. 5. Understand the need for risk management whenever services are provided to the public. 6. Understand the 1976 U.S. Copyright Act and your legal responsibility in regard to using music in fitness programs. 7. Understand the Americans with Disabilities Act. DEEP WATER EXERCISE (Chapter 16 Deep Water Exercise will NOT be included in the Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination; this is included as additional, optional study material.) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Discuss the physiological benefits of deep-water exercise. Evaluate participants readiness for deep-water exercise. Describe factors to consider in managing the deep-water exercise environment. Differentiate the benefits and safety considerations of deep-water exercise equipment. Identify the causes of and solutions to participant problems with technique and alignment in deep-water exercise. Describe the effects of balance, muscle balance, planes and axes, and transitions on body mechanics in deep-water exercise. Explain how physical laws alter the intensity of deep-water exercise. Discuss the keys to effective deep-water programming. Identify marketing opportunities for deep-water programming.

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SAMPLE TEST QUESTIONS 1. Water exercise participants often notice that their recovery heart rates: a. are much higher than with land based aerobics b. show signs of arrhythmia c. are attained more quickly than in land based aerobics d. remain elevated for a 10-second pulse rate check 2. Which metabolic pathway is primarily utilized for short bursts of energy or for the initial stages of longer duration activity? a. Krebs cycle b. Electron transport chain c. ATP-PCr system d. Aerobic system 3. The relationship between heart rate and oxygen consumption differences in the water may be due to all the following factors except: a. reduced drag b. gravity c. increased compression d. the dive reflex 4. What piece of equipment is designed specifically to utilize drag as the primary resistance? a. elastic bands b. foam dumbbells c. water filled dumbbells d. webbed gloves 5. Which muscle is responsible for flexion of the knee? a. vastus medialis b. latissimus dorsi c. biceps brachii d. biceps femoris 6. Flexing and extending the shoulder under water without equipment trains the _______________________. a. medial deltoid and rhomboids b. anterior deltoid and posterior deltoid c. middle trapezius and pectoralis d. upper trapezius and deltoids 7. Cueing a jumping jack in 3s, with a Single, Single, Double would be an example of which type of cueing? a. directional b. numerical c. rhythmic d. step 8. What tempo kick does the following chart represent? Music Beat 1 2 3 4 5 Right Left Right Left Right Kick kick kick kick Kick a. land tempo b. water tempo c. 1/2 water tempo 6 Left kick 7 Right kick 8 Left kick

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9. A deconditioned participant begins exercising daily for one hour or more and soon experiences overuse injury. The principle of ____________________ was ignored. a. variability b. progressive overload c. specificity d. adaptation 10. Explosive moves such as tuck jumps increase intensity because of: a. acceleration b. inertia c. buoyancy d. frontal area 11. Muscular strength is BEST obtained through: a. isometric exercises done several times per week b. repetitive action over a long duration c. moderate weight with several repetitions over time d. few repetitions with heavy weights 12. This is the immediate energy source of a muscle cell: a. CP b. Oxygen c. Glycogen d. ATP 13. The Law of Levers can be utilized to: a. increase intensity only b. decrease intensity only c. increase and decrease intensity d. increase intensity for lower body exercises only 14. When you add weighted equipment to a standing arm curl (elbow flexion and extension beginning from anatomical position) in chest deep water, you are: a. toning the biceps b. toning the triceps c. toning the biceps and triceps d. toning the deltoids and latissimus 15. Press your heels to the pool bottom is an example of which type of cue? a. motivational b. form c. transitional d. directional

1. C 7. C 13. C

2. C 8. A 14. A

SAMPLE TEST QUESTION ANSWERS 3. A 4. D 5. D 9. B 10. A 11. D 15. B

6. B 12. D

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Appendix B: Certification Examination Disability Assistance Form

Certification Examination Disability Assistance Form

AEA will assist with special arrangements for Examination Candidates who have a medical and/or learning disability that may prevent taking the examination under standard conditions. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), documentation of the disability from a qualified professional must be submitted with this completed form. AEA reserves the right to review and evaluate the request and will make every effort to provide the requested accommodations when feasible. This form and necessary documentation must be received no later than 30 days prior to the examination date. Exam Location: ____________________________ Exam Date: _________________ Name: ________________________________________________________________ Daytime Phone: ________________________________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________________________ Nature of Disability: _____ Vision (declared legally blind) _____ Hearing Impairment _____ Dyslexic _____ Attention Deficit Disorder / Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) _____ Other Learning or Medical Disability (please specify) Special Arrangements Requested: _____ Extended Exam Time (maximum time allowed 2 hours and 45 minutes) _____ Large Print Written Exam Booklet and Bubble Scoring Sheet _____ Reader _____ Separate Exam Room _____ Other Special Arrangements Requested (please specify) In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), attach/include documentation of the disability submitted by a professional qualified to diagnose the disability.

Aquatic Exercise Association

Form and required documentation may be mailed, faxed or sent by email as attached documents. Mail to PO Box 1609 Nokomis FL 34274-2609 Fax to 941.486.8820 Email to shana@aeawave.com

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Appendix C: Certification Examination Evaluation

Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification Examination Evaluation

Exam City & State: _______________________________ Exam Date: ________________ Your Name: _______________________________________________________________ Your Email Address: ________________________________________________________ Thank you for participating in the AEA AFPC Examination! Please answer the following questions regarding the Examination process.

1. When did you register to take the AFPC Examination? (months or weeks prior to the exam) ____________________________________________________________________ 2. How many months did you prepare prior to taking the AFPC Examination? ____ < 1 month ___ 1 month ___ 1-3 months ___ 3+ months 3. What study resources did you use to prepare for this examination. Please mark all that apply. ____ AFP Manual ____ Practical & Skill Applications Course ____ AFPC Study Objectives ____ Online Prep Course ____ AFPC DVD 4. Did the Practical & Skill Applications course assist with preparing for the Examination? YES NO N/A I did not attend the course 5. Did the Online Prep course assist you with preparing for the Examination? YES NO N/A I did not take the Online Prep course 6. Did the Examination terminology/content match the AFP Manual terminology/content? YES NO 7. Did the difficulty level of the Examination meet your expectations? YES NO, exam was too difficult NO, exam was not difficult enough 8. Was the scope of knowledge required for this certification program appropriate for an aquatic fitness professional? YES NO, the requirements are too high NO, the requirements are too low Please list any comments concerns that you have regarding the AEA Examination process to assist AEA with future program development.

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Appendix D: Petition Form for Non-Approved AEA Provider CEC Allocation Aquatic Exercise Association Non-Approved AEA Provider CEC Allocation Petition Form Submission Guidelines
If an AEA Certified Professional attends a course that is offered by a person or organization that is NOT an AEA Approved CEC Provider, they must submit a petition form for credits. Eligible Courses - AEA CECs are allocated for programs specifically designed to increase professional levels of skill, knowledge and leadership in the field of aquatic exercise. Accepted topics include, anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, psychology, safety, land based fitness programs, nutrition, leadership, professional growth, business practices and marketing. Courses not accepted through petition include land master classes/workouts, clinical hours, teaching hours, or preparation time for an examination and/or sitting an actual examination. CEC Allocation - Petitioned courses will be assessed based on theoretical and/or practical application of similar AEA Approved Provider programs. CECs will be allocated up to 50% of what a similar course offered by an AEA Approved Provider would receive. For example, a 3-hour aquatic workshop would be awarded a maximum of 1.5 AEA CECs. Full CEC Allocation Exceptions - Programs offered on select topics of study in hospitals, colleges and/or universities, adult education, and/or special areas of study/professional courses/trainings may receive full CEC allocation. These courses will be issued CECs similar to that of an approved Provider and the petition fee is waived. Petition Fee - The petition fee is $15.00 per course or $25.00 per conference. If the course does not meet specifications, the petition fee will be refunded. IF you are a current AEA CERTIFIED MEMBER, you are NOT required to pay petition fees The petition process will take approximately 3 weeks. Non-Approved Provider CEC Petition Directives-Complete ALL required information. Step 1: Contact Information List YOUR Name, AEA Certification Number and E-mail address. Step 2: Course Information Course NAME Provide the exact title of the course. Course INSTRUCTOR List the name of the person who taught the course. Course LENGTH Provide the total duration of the course (do not include breaks). Course TYPE List the type of programming of the course. Please choose from the following options: Land Workshop, Aquatic Workshop, Aquatic Master Class, Lecture or Conference. Course LEARNING OBJECTIVES List three (3) objectives you learned from this course that are applicable to aquatic fitness. Organization Name List the name of the organization offering the course if it differs from the Course Instructor Name. Provider Website/Email List the website and email address of the Instructor and/or Organization offering the course. Step 3: Proof of Attendance Attach the necessary paperwork to demonstrate proof of attendance. A. For studies offered in hospitals, colleges and/or universities, adult education, special areas of study/professional courses/trainings provide a Certificate of Completion, Transcript, Grade Report and/or Verification of Attendance. B. For individual courses provide a course Completion Form or Course Certificate indicating date and location of event. C. For conventions/conferences provide a conference completion form or certificate indicating date and location of event and proof of the courses you personally attended. Also include a copy of the CEC Form issued by the hosting organization. Step 4: Payment Information Full payment must be included to process your petition form.

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2009-2010 Aquatic Exercise Association Non-Approved AEA Provider CEC Allocation Petition Form
Before completing your petition please review the submission guidelines on page one. Incomplete petitions will be returned and will delay the approval process Step 1 Contact Information AEA Certified Instructor Name (YOUR Name) AEA Certification Number Email Address Step 2 Course Information Course NAME Course INSTRUCTOR Course LENGTH Course TYPE Course LEARNING OBJECTIVES (List 3 Objectives specific to aquatic fitness) Organization Name (if different than the Instructor Name) Provider Website / Email Step 3 Proof of Attendance Attach copy/copies with your submission. If this is a conference petition also include a copy of YOUR COMPLETED CEC FORM issued by the hosting organization showing the courses you attended. You do NOT have to complete a petition for each session when petitioning a conference. Step 4 Payment Information Method of Payment: Cardholder Name: Card Number: Exp. Date: CVC Code ___ Check Enclosed or Credit Card: ___VISA ___MC ___DISC ___AMEX

Cardholder Signature (typed signature is acceptable): Remember to attach or enclose: ! Complete petition form for each course/conference seeking AEA credits. ! Proof of Attendance (scanned file attachments or paper copies) CEC Forms, Course Completions, Certificates, overall completed Conference CEC Forms, etc. ! Payment information fee is $15.00 per individual course petition OR $25.00 per conference. Return by mail or email to: AEA-CEC Petitions PO Box 1609, Nokomis, FL 34274-1609 info@aeawave.com

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