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Certificate of Achievement
Kinesiology - Fitness Specialist

The Fitness Specialist Certificate Program is designed to prepare students for employment as fitness instructors and a career in the rapidly expanding health and fitness industry. Students will gain academic knowledge and fitness skills through the required coursework, as well as develop the skills necessary to apply this knowledge in a vocational setting. The certificate is designed to be completed in one calendar year for students who attend full-time and may lead to immediate employment opportunities. The curriculum has been designed to equip the student with the scientific background, both theoretical and practical, to successfully customize fitness programs that include education and guidance on nutrition, weight control, flexibility, core strength, cardiovascular exercise and resistance training. Students will also be prepared to pass national certification exams in health, fitness, strength and conditioning. The program will prepare students for transfer to a university in order to pursue a higher degree in various areas of study.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2023-2024 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
KIN 122 - Nutrition for Sport and FitnessM3.0
KIN 122 - Nutrition for Sport and Fitness (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This course provides an overview of the role of nutrition to increase energy and enhance performance. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water will be introduced. The digestive system and metabolic systems will be discussed. Sport and exercise nutrient needs before, during, and after exercise are evaluated for their effect on optimal health and performance. Carbohydrate loading, popular diets, and supplementation are discussed. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry; certificates in Fitness Specialist, Coaching of Sport, Sport and Performance Coach, and Community Health Worker; and/or the A.A. in Dance and the A.S in Sports Medicine, as well as those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of nutrition on the mind and body.

KIN 126 - Principles of Strength and ConditioningM3.0
KIN 126 - Principles of Strength and Conditioning (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course includes information needed for students who intend to teach strength and conditioning. The course covers anatomy and physiology, bioenergetics, biomechanics, training adaptations, exercise and equipment selection, training techniques, program design, and safety factors. This course is designed for students pursuing a career in the fitness industry; Fitness Specialist, Strength and Performance Coach, or Coaching of Sport Certificates; or an AS in Sports Medicine; and/or students interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the body and mind.

KIN 127 - Exercise PhysiologyM3.0
KIN 127 - Exercise Physiology (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: UC,CSU

This course provides an overview of the body systems and their functions under conditions of exercise stress, including how fitness training affects health, wellness, and performance. Emphasis will be placed on the muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, metabolic/bioenergetic, and neurological systems, as well as the physiological processes that are affected by exercise. The effects of various diseases and exercise immunology will also be addressed. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry, a Certificate of Achievement in Fitness Specialist or Strength and Performance Coach, the Associate of Arts in Dance, or those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the body and mind.

KIN 131 - Functional Anatomy of MovementM3.0
KIN 131 - Functional Anatomy of Movement (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course provides an overview of the study of movement as it relates to exercise under both normal and injury conditions. Students will learn the basic anatomical principals used specifically in the area of human performance. Emphasis is placed on applying body alignment, range of motion, stabilization, and acceleration principles to the analysis of movement. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry, a certificate in the Fitness Specialist Program, or those interested in furthering their understanding of the biomechanical effects of exercise on the body.

Select one: KINA 130 / KINA 134 / KINA 136 / KINA 158 / KINA 230 / KINA 258 / DANC 114 / DANC 167 M1.0
KINA 130 - Fitness and Wellness Laboratory (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is a self-paced physical fitness laboratory designed to develop and encourage positive health and wellness attitudes and habits. Topics include cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, body composition, muscular strength, and endurance. Students are assessed in each of these areas, and an individual fitness profile is established. Fitness activities primarily utilize exercises organized into an aerobic super circuit with additional activities prescribed to increase strength and flexibility.

KINA 134 - Cardio Boot Camp (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for students who want to improve their cardiovascular and core fitness levels. Students learn lifelong skills to improve their health. Workout skills such as core strengthening, cardiovascular fitness, step aerobics, and flexibility training are covered. Instruction includes proper diet, heart rate monitoring, skills proficiency, and fitness program planning.

KINA 136 - Pilates Mat I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written college composition and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course introduces students to the basic Pilates floor exercises, which are designed to increase strength in the abdominal and spinal musculature. Students will engage in activities and exercises designed to increase awareness of body alignment, increase strength in the torso, spine and limbs, increase endurance, learn breathing techniques to utilize in strength training exercises, increase coordination, improve balance, and will learn about the muscle groups and their actions being utilized during traditional Pilates mat work. This course is suitable for students interested in conditioning, dance, Hatha Yoga, athletics, and individuals seeking to increase strength to better support the spine in everyday activities.

KINA 158 - Yoga I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written college composition and read college-level texts.
Transfer to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for the beginning student who would like to learn the fundamental physical Asanas (poses) of Hatha Yoga as well as Pranayama (breathing techniques) and Dhyana (meditation techniques). The goal of the course is to integrate the mind, body, and spirit and to give the student tools to better manage stress, alleviate physical tensions, and encourage optimum fitness. In this introductory course, students learn proper physical alignment in the standing poses (Sun Salutation Series A-C, Warrior 1-2, Downward Dog, Upward Dog, Cobra, Triangle, Crescent), the floor poses (Staff, Lotus, Cobbler, Twists, Backbends), and in elementary inversions (Inverted Leg Rest, Headstand Preparation, WallDog Preparation).

KINA 230 - Fitness and Wellness Laboratory II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: KINA 130
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is a self-paced physical fitness laboratory designed to develop and encourage positive health and wellness attitudes and habits. The course provides students with the skills and information needed to improve cardiovascular fitness through activities like running, rowing, cycling, core training, aerobic activity, aerobic circuit, and resistance bands. Students learn about the importance of nutrition, blood pressure, heart rate, and exercise target zones in relation to cardiovascular disease.

KINA 258 - Yoga II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: KINA 158
Transfer to:UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for intermediate students who would like to advance their physical asanas (poses) of Hatha Yoga as well as Pranayama (breathing techniques) and Dhyana (meditation techniques). The goal of the course is to integrate the mind, body, and spirit and to further challenge the students in their physical practice by increasing sustainment, perfecting alignment, and by incorporating twists and wraps. Parivrtta Trikonasana, Prasarita Padottanasana, Malasana, Garudasana, Natasajasana, Utthita Hasta Padangustasana, Chaturanga Dandasana, Purvottanasana, Navasana, Virasana, Ustrasana, Matsyasana, Sarvangasana, Suryya Namaskar B will be covered in depth during the course.

DANC 114 - Conditioning & Alignment for the Dancer (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for PE activity courses)

This course is designed to provide the physical training and preparation for students interested in dance, yoga, Pilates, and athletics, and is suitable for individuals seeking to move with greater efficiency and less pain in everyday activities. Students learn how to move safely and effectively while developing strength, flexibility, proper alignment, agility, balance, and coordination. Coursework is designed for those who want to work at a more deliberate pace and in a non-competitive atmosphere, or who are recovering from prior injury.

DANC 167 - Latin Dance for Fitness (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for PE activity courses)

Latin Dance for Fitness combines dance, Latin and Funk rhythms, and aerobic elements to provide a fun, upbeat, cardiovascular workout. Students will constantly move to various genres of Latin music, utilizing various tempos. Salsa, Cha-Cha, Tango, Mambo, Latin Jazz, and Hip-Hop rhythms will be incorporated. Students will build stamina, while increasing cardiovascular fitness. This course is designed to help students develop aerobic capacity, coordination, balance, rhythmic awareness, and flexibility. This class will also include exercises to build abdominal strength, lower body strength, and upper body strength. Classes may incorporate sections with small handheld weights, exercise bands, and/or other fitness props to further develop strength and endurance. Students will build a foundation for a personalized exercise and fitness program that can be continued after the course has ended.

Total Semester Units:13.0 
2nd Semester
KIN 115 - Fitness Specialist InternshipM2.0
KIN 115 - Fitness Specialist Internship (2.0 units)

Prerequisite: Instructor approval, KIN 126, KIN 127, KIN 131
Prerequisite/Corequisite:KIN 122, KIN 128, KIN 145, KIN 146
Transfers to: CSU

This course will provide students with practical experience in the fields of health, fitness, and exercise instruction. Emphasis is placed on participant screening, evaluation, fitness assessment, exercise program design, nutrition and health education, and principles of exercise science. The course includes career preparation, self-marketing and social media, trainer-client relationship building, and professional responsibility in a fitness setting. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry and/or a Certificate of Achievement in the Fitness Specialist Program, as well as those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the mind and body. Instructor approval is required for enrollment.

KIN 128 - Fitness Testing and Exercise PrescriptionM3.0
KIN 128 - Fitness Testing and Exercise Prescription (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course provides an overview of how to assess and evaluate the results of cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, body fat, pulmonary function, blood pressure, postural analysis, and functional movement. Emphasis is placed on determining appropriate tests, conducting the tests, interpreting results, and creating exercise programs. This course is designed for students pursuing a career in the fitness industry or for the Fitness Specialist and Strength and Performance Coach certificates, as well as those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the body.

KIN 145 - Theory and Analysis of Fitness InstructionM2.0
KIN 145 - Theory and Analysis of Fitness Instruction (2.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course provides an introduction to the principles and techniques involved in teaching group exercise and developing a personal trainer/client relationship. Emphasis is placed on client assessment, communication skills, program design, exercise adherence, teaching strategies, and professional responsibility and liability. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry, a certificate in the Fitness Specialist Program, as well as those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the mind and body.

KIN 146 - Training Principles for Special PopulationsM2.0
KIN 146 - Training Principles for Special Populations (2.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course provides an overview of the exercise implications for special populations related to age, medical condition, and level of fitness. Emphasis is placed on cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, exercise-induced asthma, metabolic disorders, diabetes, obesity, orthopedic injuries, physical disabilities, auto-immune issues, sensory impairments, mental challenges, geriatrics/seniors, children, pregnant and post-partum women, and the issues and challenges of exercise. This course is designed for the student pursuing a career in the fitness industry; a certificate in Fitness Specialist, Yoga Teacher Training, and Community Health Worker Program; as well as those interested in furthering their understanding of the effects of exercise on the mind and body.

Select one: KINA 130 / KINA 134 / KINA 136 / KINA 158 / KINA 230 / KINA 258 / DANC 114 / DANC 167 M1.0
KINA 130 - Fitness and Wellness Laboratory (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is a self-paced physical fitness laboratory designed to develop and encourage positive health and wellness attitudes and habits. Topics include cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, body composition, muscular strength, and endurance. Students are assessed in each of these areas, and an individual fitness profile is established. Fitness activities primarily utilize exercises organized into an aerobic super circuit with additional activities prescribed to increase strength and flexibility.

KINA 134 - Cardio Boot Camp (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for students who want to improve their cardiovascular and core fitness levels. Students learn lifelong skills to improve their health. Workout skills such as core strengthening, cardiovascular fitness, step aerobics, and flexibility training are covered. Instruction includes proper diet, heart rate monitoring, skills proficiency, and fitness program planning.

KINA 136 - Pilates Mat I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written college composition and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course introduces students to the basic Pilates floor exercises, which are designed to increase strength in the abdominal and spinal musculature. Students will engage in activities and exercises designed to increase awareness of body alignment, increase strength in the torso, spine and limbs, increase endurance, learn breathing techniques to utilize in strength training exercises, increase coordination, improve balance, and will learn about the muscle groups and their actions being utilized during traditional Pilates mat work. This course is suitable for students interested in conditioning, dance, Hatha Yoga, athletics, and individuals seeking to increase strength to better support the spine in everyday activities.

KINA 158 - Yoga I (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written college composition and read college-level texts.
Transfer to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for the beginning student who would like to learn the fundamental physical Asanas (poses) of Hatha Yoga as well as Pranayama (breathing techniques) and Dhyana (meditation techniques). The goal of the course is to integrate the mind, body, and spirit and to give the student tools to better manage stress, alleviate physical tensions, and encourage optimum fitness. In this introductory course, students learn proper physical alignment in the standing poses (Sun Salutation Series A-C, Warrior 1-2, Downward Dog, Upward Dog, Cobra, Triangle, Crescent), the floor poses (Staff, Lotus, Cobbler, Twists, Backbends), and in elementary inversions (Inverted Leg Rest, Headstand Preparation, WallDog Preparation).

KINA 230 - Fitness and Wellness Laboratory II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: KINA 130
Transfers to: UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is a self-paced physical fitness laboratory designed to develop and encourage positive health and wellness attitudes and habits. The course provides students with the skills and information needed to improve cardiovascular fitness through activities like running, rowing, cycling, core training, aerobic activity, aerobic circuit, and resistance bands. Students learn about the importance of nutrition, blood pressure, heart rate, and exercise target zones in relation to cardiovascular disease.

KINA 258 - Yoga II (1.0 units)

Prerequisite: KINA 158
Transfer to:UC (credit limit*), CSU
(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for KINA activity courses)

This course is designed for intermediate students who would like to advance their physical asanas (poses) of Hatha Yoga as well as Pranayama (breathing techniques) and Dhyana (meditation techniques). The goal of the course is to integrate the mind, body, and spirit and to further challenge the students in their physical practice by increasing sustainment, perfecting alignment, and by incorporating twists and wraps. Parivrtta Trikonasana, Prasarita Padottanasana, Malasana, Garudasana, Natasajasana, Utthita Hasta Padangustasana, Chaturanga Dandasana, Purvottanasana, Navasana, Virasana, Ustrasana, Matsyasana, Sarvangasana, Suryya Namaskar B will be covered in depth during the course.

DANC 114 - Conditioning & Alignment for the Dancer (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for PE activity courses)

This course is designed to provide the physical training and preparation for students interested in dance, yoga, Pilates, and athletics, and is suitable for individuals seeking to move with greater efficiency and less pain in everyday activities. Students learn how to move safely and effectively while developing strength, flexibility, proper alignment, agility, balance, and coordination. Coursework is designed for those who want to work at a more deliberate pace and in a non-competitive atmosphere, or who are recovering from prior injury.

DANC 167 - Latin Dance for Fitness (1.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: UC (*credit limit), CSU(*The UC will grant a maximum of 4 units credit for PE activity courses)

Latin Dance for Fitness combines dance, Latin and Funk rhythms, and aerobic elements to provide a fun, upbeat, cardiovascular workout. Students will constantly move to various genres of Latin music, utilizing various tempos. Salsa, Cha-Cha, Tango, Mambo, Latin Jazz, and Hip-Hop rhythms will be incorporated. Students will build stamina, while increasing cardiovascular fitness. This course is designed to help students develop aerobic capacity, coordination, balance, rhythmic awareness, and flexibility. This class will also include exercises to build abdominal strength, lower body strength, and upper body strength. Classes may incorporate sections with small handheld weights, exercise bands, and/or other fitness props to further develop strength and endurance. Students will build a foundation for a personalized exercise and fitness program that can be continued after the course has ended.

Total Semester Units:10.0 
Total Units for Kinesiology - Fitness Specialist COA program 23.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

1

Students will analyze individual health and fitness levels and create individual exercise programs.


2

Students will apply and demonstrate exercise testing skills and techniques to real world situations, such as individual client fitness assessments.


3

Students will adapt to diverse populations and fitness levels and have an awareness of special needs individuals.


4

Students will apply fitness concepts, definitions, and principles to personal training, group fitness instructions, or health and fitness settings.


5

Students will have a career in the personal training or fitness instructor field, or transfer to a 4-year institution, within 3 years.


About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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