Aquatic Fitness Specialty

Complete the Fitness Theory Course and Exam

Fitness Theory Course

The Fitness Theory Course isn’t required for BCRPA Fitness Program registration, but it is strongly recommended. This course will help build your knowledge, boost your confidence, and prepare for the mandatory Fitness Theory Exam.

For full details, including course length, content, requirements, and time commitment, please contact an approved course provider directly.

Fitness Theory Exam

To register with BCRPA for the first time, you must successfully complete the Fitness Theory Exam before purchasing your first-year registration.

While the Fitness Theory Course is not required, it’s strongly recommended—especially if you’re preparing for your first attempt or re-writing the exam.

Exam Details

• Format: 60 multiple-choice questions
• Duration: 1 hour
• Passing Grade: 80% (48 correct answers)
• Delivery: Online via ProctorU
  • Email us if you need exam accommodations, we’re here to help.
• Cost: $110 + GST

To write the exam, you’ll need:

• Valid photo ID
• Computer with Windows 10 or higher
• Webcam, microphone, speakers
• Reliable internet connection

How to Register for the Exam

• Log into your account on The Registry® of Fitness Professionals.
• Scroll to the Exam History tab on your User Account page.
• Click Purchase Exam and follow the instructions.
• Pay securely by credit card only.

Once payment is complete, you’ll receive an email with exam instructions and a link to schedule with ProctorU. (Check your spam/junk folder if you don’t see it in your inbox.)

Need to Re-Take the Exam?

If you don’t pass on your first try, we recommend completing the Fitness Theory Course before attempting again. You can purchase the exam up to three times. If you need more attempts, contact the BCRPA office to discuss your options.

Helpful Study Resources

• Fitness Leadership Canada’s Fitness Theory Performance Standards
• Fitness Theory Study Guide
• Fitness Theory Practice Exam

Additional Info

• Online Exam Policy: Please review before starting.
• No deadline: Take your exam when you’re ready.
• Refunds: Available within 3 months of purchase.
• Non-transferable: Exams can only be used by the purchasing account holder.
• After passing: You’ll have 1 year to purchase your first-year registration and begin your Core Specialty training.

CPR and First Aid Requirements

This step can be completed at any point prior to registering with BCRPA.

To stay active with BCRPA, all Fitness Leaders and Fitness Students must keep their CPR and First Aid certifications current at all times.

Certification Requirements:

• Must include an in-person practical component.
• Authorized providers include:
  • Red Cross
  • St. John Ambulance
  • Canadian Ski Patrol
  • Lifesaving Society
  • Heart and Stroke Foundation
  • St. Mark James First Aid Training

At minimum, you’ll need both:

• CPR-A certification, and
• Emergency First Aid or Standard First Aid

Higher-level certifications are also accepted.

Be sure to check with your employer, as their workplace requirements may differ from BCRPA’s.

How to Submit Your Certifications

Log into The Registry® of Fitness Professionals and upload your documents under:

• CPR Certificate tab
• First Aid Certificate tab

Need help? Refer to The Registry® User Manual for further details.

Purchase your First Year Registration

Congratulations! You’re ready to become a BCRPA Registered Fitness Student.

Your first-year registration is valid for one year from the purchase date and can be completed through The Registry® of Fitness Professionals under the “Manage Registration” tab.

During this first year, you’ll hold Fitness Student status and will need to:

• Complete your Core Specialty Module Course
• Successfully pass your Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE)
  (See Steps 5 and 6 for details)

Note: You are not required to earn Continuing Education Credits (CECs) during your first year of BCRPA Fitness registration.

Aquatic Fitness Specialty Module Course

The BCRPA-approved Aquatic Fitness Core Specialty Module Course is based on Fitness Leadership Canada’s Aquatic Performance Standards and includes a minimum of 16 hours of instruction.

Only courses from the verified providers listed below are recognized by BCRPA for Fitness Registration. These providers meet BCRPA standards and are approved to offer the Aquatic Fitness Specialty Module.

Complete Your Practicum and Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE)

Practicum & Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE)

To complete your registration, you’ll need to complete a practicum and pass the Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE) for Aquatic Fitness.

Practicum Requirements
You’ll need to complete 8 hours of practicum with a currently certified Fitness Instructor, either in-person or virtually. During your practicum, you’ll have the opportunity to lead portions of a fitness class and receive feedback from your supervising instructor.

Important Notes:

• Always get permission from the facility and class participants before starting your practicum.
• Practicum fees may vary—please check with your facilitator for details.

If you need support with arranging a practicum time, contact Jaimee Stokes and provide the following information:

• The module you’re completing.
• Your preferred location(s).
• Your general availability.
• Your desired completion date.

Instructor Competency Evaluation (ICE)
Your ICE must be completed with a qualified ICE Evaluator. Requirements vary by specialty, so be sure to review all materials before getting started.

Before You Begin:

• Download and review the Aquatic Fitness ICE Package
• Review example forms:
  • Form B-1 – Lesson Plan Sample
• Contact a qualified Aquatic Fitness ICE Evaluator

Processing Time:
Please allow 5–10 business days for your ICE package to be processed.

Insurance During Practicum & ICE

Your First-Year BCRPA Registration includes a temporary insurance policy valid for one year, allowing you to work with both classmates and the public while completing practical requirements like the ICE.

To keep your insurance valid:

• Your CPR and First Aid certifications must be current at all times.
• You must complete and pass the Aquatic Fitness Specialty Module before your First-Year Registration expires.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve successfully completed all 6 steps, your Aquatic Fitness Specialty will be officially added to your profile in The Registry® of Fitness Professionals.