The workshops welcome certified instructors. They provide information on the latest developments and training techniques, and enable instructors to enhance their skill set and professionalism all at once.
Our new virtual program allows you to complete your training from the comfort of your home with a live instructor, other students and educational materials on a digital platform.
Workshops - Winter 2024
Simulation: Training Plans for Cardio Workouts (Running, Cycling, Etc.) (French)
Theory is nice, but like a true artist you need to know how to put your knowledge into practice. Through different guided simulation exercises, you will develop a solid foundation and the confidence to create aerobic training plans (running, cycling, swimming, cross-country skiing, etc.). By relying on well-known theoretical basics such as overloads, adaptation, variety, specificity, tapering, cross-training, or even interval, continuous, or Fartlek training, you will be able to develop training plans, putting all the pieces of puzzle together smoothly.
- Sunday, February 25, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Martin Lussier
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: November 27, 2023
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
From Chemotherapy to Catheters: What to Know When Training an Individual with Cancer (English)
This talk will introduce the participants to some common cancer types and what trainers should keep in mind/look for when exercising an individual with cancer. Focus will be placed on basic cancer physiology, signs and symptoms, treatments and side effects, as well as exercise prescription guidelines for this population. The objectives of this talk will be to allow trainers to become more familiar with what happens to individuals after a cancer diagnosis and what must be considered when prescribing and performing exercise and physical activity.
- Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Celena Scheede-Berghahi
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: November 27, 2023
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Diet, Lifestyle and Vitamins: Benefits and Hype (English)
What we eat and how we exercise is a big factor in adding life to our years. This workshop offers a detailed look into the research-based evidence that can help promote wellness for you and your clients.
- Saturday, March 23, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
- Instructor: Evan Beloff
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: November 27, 2023
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Workshops - Spring 2024
Lower Back Health and the Pelvic Floor (French)
Lower back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction are quite common. Learn more about the connection between these two issues and the crucial role physical activity plays in recovery from these respective problems. This workshop includes a theoretical and practical component and covers topics such as lumbar, abdominal, and pelvic anatomy, frequent pathologies that cause back pain, and related urinary symptoms.
You will learn more about lumbar instability as well as the postures and typical movement patterns of people with these issues. We will also touch on the most useful exercises to improve lumbo-pelvic function, typical compensations, and which exercises certain groups of people should avoid.
- Saturday, April 06, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Catherine Roy-de-Montigny
- Saint-Roch YMCA - William Room & Studio 1
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
High Energy HIIT: 10 Ways to Create High Energy HIIT Training Sessions and 10 Ways to Become a HIIT With Your Participants! (English)
In this two-part workshop, we will look at creative approaches to challenge your group fitness participants in your HIIT training sessions and learn how to become a HIIT with them! First, we will explore 10 creative, new approaches to plan your HIIT classes that go beyond push-ups and burpees! Seasoned fitness leader Tiffany Moffatt will share her formula for creating countless class designs that include Tabata, EMOM (every minute on the minute), AMRAP (as many reps as possible), 4x4, 3-2-1, pyramid, 30/60/90, and game-based drill workouts among others. With detailed, easy-to-follow class plans you will be able to implement these new approaches starting Monday morning!
Second, we will learn how to motivate your participants to step up their fitness level, strengthen their entire bodies, and boost their energy in an approach to training that brings inclusivity and joy to movement, making each session inclusive for bodies of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. Whether you are a seasoned fitness instructor or new to teaching, Tiffany, who is a Fitness Leader Champion and trainer for the YMCA in Kelowna, will help you hone your teaching skills to become a motivating, inclusive, and engaging leader. Leave this workshop prepared to pack your fitness classes and create a community for your participants!
- Sunday, April 7, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Tiffany Moffatt
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Training Older Adults: Updates and Practical Applications (French)
It is a well-known fact that Quebec’s population is aging. If we consider that this generation is fortunately more aware about the importance of being in good shape to age well, it is not surprising that we are seeing an increase in the number of older adults in physical rehabilitation centres. Of course, our view of how to train older adults has evolved with scientific research. We know that strength training is a key component; however, the application of different resistance-training methods can still be confusing.
Not to mention that, while well-intentioned, some fitness professionals still have ageist tendencies.
This workshop will present a short recap of the physiological issues of older adults, go over the foundations of the most recent studies and relevant data, and discuss the various ways to deal with these issues in a practical manner.
We will also use this opportunity to discuss accepted notions and stubborn myths. This workshop is for both private trainers and group fitness instructors as we will address how to apply these various strategies to different contexts.
- Saturday, April 13, 2024 | 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Alexandre Lemay
- Du Parc YMCA - Room 2C
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Performance Program Design: Developing Athleticism for all Demographics (English)
Much of traditional strength training comes from old-school bodybuilding. While this approach is an essential foundation of physical conditioning, performance training can be a valuable complement. The performance approach includes athletic-style and sport-specific conditioning, as well as balance training, stability work, and better movement competence. The inclusion of performance elements adds variety and enjoyment to your clients’ training, regardless of ability and age.
This workshop will provide:
- fundamental concepts in athletic and sport-specific training
- identification of performance elements—stability, balance, agility, deceleration, acceleration, power, and plyometrics
- specific exercises and activities to develop performance elements
- an “how to” integration of athletic-style training into programming
- discussion of the coaching approach
- Sunday, April 14, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Louise Malone
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Salutation Options and Variations (French)
Sun salutations are a fantastic way to synch the breath with yoga poses in a flow practice. In traditional yoga, sun salutation A is made up of seven poses (asanas). However, there are many other traditional sequences that include additional poses. Variations and different options for poses can also be introduced into these sequences to better meet the needs of yoga students. Come discover the different ways to perform the Surya Namaskar to warm up the body, use it as a base in a Vinyasa practice, or simply to enjoy being grounded on our mats fully mindful of our breathing.
- Saturday, April 20, 2024 | 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.*
- Instructor: Claudette Rouisse
- Westmount YMCA - Studio 1
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Moving Towards Wellness (English)
Our clients have moved beyond workouts when it comes to their health, and we are perfectly poised to meet their needs. Gain a clear understanding of the skills needed to tap into the ever-growing wellness market. Confidently choose your path through services including health span and longevity, recovery and sleep, stress management and mental health, and so much more!
- Saturday, April 27, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Nathalie Lacombe
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Muscular Fitness Assessment: Theory and Practice (French)
Assessing the physical skills of participants, sports enthusiasts, and athletes has many benefits. These include the analysis of physical capabilities, the monitoring of skills over time, and assistance in defining hard-to-achieve but realistic goals.
In this workshop, we will discuss a simple way to assess muscular fitness in a formal or informal manner, including maximum muscular strength and power, strength endurance, muscular endurance, speed, agility, balance, and flexibility.
- Sunday, May 5, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Martin Lussier
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Pilates and Stretching Guidelines: Mobility, Flexibility, and Strength (French)
Through a selected number of Pilates mat exercises, let’s explore how to look at these exercises differently and how to dissect them efficiently in terms of mobility, flexibility, and strength qualities.
Let’s play with the idea of using just one component of the exercise to promote either one of these qualities for those who need this specific comprehension.
And then let’s see how this new understanding is felt in the movement sequence.
Learn what movement guidelines underline a fun, proper, and successful movement experience.
As movement teachers, it is important to make sure our instructions are clear and aligned with our participants’ needs.
Is your desired outcome achieved?
Can we feel this stretch better or gain more from this exercise? That is what we will discover together.
- Saturday, May 11, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Chantal Perron
- Cartierville YMCA - Studio 3
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Core Exercise Regressions (English)
Planks, crunches, bird dogs, and bugs are excellent core exercises that can be done as part of an overall program. But what if your client is injured, out of shape, or is having difficulty with proper form? If you are noticing compensatory strategies, difficulty maintaining optimal alignment, or discomfort/pain, a regression may be warranted. Sometimes less is more! Learn exercise regressions for all your favourite floor work exercises and offer an appropriate challenge based on function, ability, and level. Regress to progress.
- Thursday, May 16, 2024 | 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Sarah Zahab
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Leaking When You Lift Is Not Normal (English)
Fitness professionals play a vital role in screening for and helping clients overcome urinary
incontinence. If you train women, close to 40% of your clients experience leaks and often avoid
certain moves or put up with daily pad use because they think it is normal. Come explore why incontinence happens, how to identify it in your clients, and most importantly how to help them overcome it.
- Sunday, May 26, 2024 | 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.*
- Instructor: Kim Vopni
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: February 19, 2024
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
FIT Personal Trainer Gap course - Fall 2023
FIT Personal Trainer Gap course (English)
This six-hour gap course for trainers with existing YMCA Canada Individual Conditioning Certification to upgrade/update their certification to YMCA Canada Personal Trainer has been developed. This course can also be taken to obtain continuing education credits for all the FIT certifications.
- December 3, 2023
- Sunday | 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.*
- Instructor: Mike
- Virtual class
- Registration begins: July 31, 2023
*Eastern Standard Time Zone (EST)
Recertification and Continuing Education
To maintain valid certification, the YMCAs of Québec’s instructors and trainers are required to participate in continuing education workshops, for a total of 16 hours over a two-year period.
Two of these workshops or six hours must be taken as part of the YMCAs of Québec’s continuing education program.
Please consult the recertification form for full recertification requirements.
General Information
Cancellation
To cancel or reschedule your workshop registration, please notify the supervisor at least 48 hours before the workshop.
Fees
Veuillez consulter la tarification dans le système d'inscription en ligne, en suivant la procédure indiquée plus haut.
Registration
You can register now using our Online Registration system or at one our YMCA centres.