We asked Dyan Decastro L4 – Exam Corrector, and global Essentrics cheerleader – to share her thoughts on community.

When she began her training, there weren’t any instructors in Connecticut. Though she had been a Marketing executive in New York, she was brand new to the fitness instructor world and didn’t want to email Montreal with her every question. “I felt alone. It was frustrating for me not to have someone nearby with whom I could openly share my questions, doubts and fears.” She was determined to keep going and found someone on our website in New Jersey. “We became fast friends and helped each other progress. I tried out her Level 2 Trademarks and she participated in my Level 1 Apprentice classes. Connecting with Angela was like crossing over a bridge that connected me to a whole new world. That was over four years ago and now that bridge spans from nearby states to across the globe!”

Their phone and Skype partnership developed into a state-wide study group where they have monthly meet-ups; giving all levels of instructors an open space to discuss Essentrics and shoot questions around. “We help each other and cheer each other on so we all can become better Essentrics instructors.”

“Working with a group or a study buddy helps you stay on the path of learning and it keeps the momentum going. Yes, life can easily get in the way but having someone to study with, someone who shares the same goals and is willing to work, is a great motivator. And it doesn’t matter if you’re not on the same level. You both can benefit. The beginner learns from the more experienced and the seasoned instructor cements her knowledge by articulating what they have learned.” Love it, Dyan!

Make dates with your study buddy or group and stick to them! “It’s important to keep progressing without letting too much time elapse (between meet-ups) because you continue to build on what you have learned for each level. Keeping it fresh in your mind helps you progress more smoothly.”

Reach out on our Facebook Instructor page, check the instructor listing , or email Head Office to put you in touch with a fellow instructor!

Think about your exam as an opportunity for personal growth, learning and development.

Colorado Master Trainer Jenny Bertrand offers a nice perspective: “Exam graders work very hard to provide useful feedback to help teachers enhance skills and build confidence in teaching safe alignment, communicating objectives, effectively applying techniques, just to name a few. It’s a wonderful accomplishment to attain certification. The true value of the exam is in the feedback. Miranda will be the first one to tell you that even she is still learning better ways to teach Essentrics, and when we put ourselves out there, outside of the comfort zone, we open ourselves up to more learning….where the magic happens.” We know this step can feel quite daunting, but don’t be scared of the process! Review the exam guidelines, specifically what you will be evaluated on for your current Level and go from there. **If you are missing this document, please email [email protected] with what you need. All of our exam graders went through the same process as you. They know what it’s like and are dedicated to helping you become the best you can be.

Do yourself and your students a favour by committing to all four Levels. Think about it this way – you wouldn’t consider going to a trained professional if you found out they didn’t complete their degree! Each Level adds incredible knowledge, experience, depth and drive to your teaching. As you progress, you will be able to expand your clientele with confidence and take advantage of more professional opportunities. So keep going!

Here’s what Jennifer Mulligan from Niagara Falls, Ontario had to say: “I’ve recently completed the Level 4 exam and can now officially say I’m a Level 4 instructor!! When I started the process 3 years ago I would have never thought I would (or could) accomplish this. I simply wanted to complete Level 1 and begin sharing my love for Essentrics with others. However, after finishing Level 1, I intuitively knew that I must continue. I knew that the program felt good in people’s bodies but I needed to know why this was happening. Learning to teach the exercises in the proper sequence is where you begin, but I quickly realized it was so much more than this. There is a method to properly rebalance the body. There is also a need for a strong foundation in anatomy to help with the constant evaluating and re-evaluating of people’s bodies that must be done as an instructor. This knowledge aids in deciding which specific technique will achieve the desired result in your clients. Each Level leads into the next, and while I didn’t know it at the time, I see now how it made me a more well-rounded instructor. I feel confident I can work with different bodies and levels of ability.

The process wasn’t always easy, but attending a Live Training helped push me further. It was also a great opportunity to ask lingering questions, as well as meet others on the same journey. While I may call myself Level 4, I realize that the learning is never-ending. I can’t wait to continue to explore the intricacies of the Essentrics program and continue to refine my teaching.” Way to go, Jen!

Hands down, the best way to add more purpose to your teaching and to gain personal feedback, fine tuning and confidence to your movements. Live Training 2017 & 2018 dates + 

If you’re not where you thought you’d be at this point in your training journey, don’t worry. Learning a new skill, like teaching Essentrics, is both rewarding and challenging. The reward of teaching and sharing this program with others is like magic, as described by Jenny Bertrand, Master Essentrics Instructor: “Outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. This is a mantra I learned I’d better subscribe to early on in my development as an Essentrics instructor. Level 1 terrified me. Learn to build a playlist on iTunes? What is End of the Stretch, exactly? Will anyone come to my Apprentice class? Will anyone get hurt in my class? Film myself teaching and send it in for review?! This ALL made me uncomfortable, but I did it anyway. And then, the magic happened.”

At the end of the day, we all have the same goal; to share this unique and healthy workout with as many people as possible. We hope you enjoy the rewards of teaching!