About Linda Hicks
Back in the day, certifications were few and far between. In the '90s, companies started doing instructor trainings. I received group X training, step training and personal training. A few years later, I added Aquatic Exercise Association water aerobics training (the hardest one of all my certifications). I have added rowing and cycling plus a senior fitness specialization course and a brains and balance specialization course. CPR/First Aid and Lifeguard certifications are a must and then keeping up my continuing education units is super important. I always want to know what is the newest, latest and greatest information in the market. I also teach Bosu, Tabatas and TRX for fun.
Once we have our certification, we have to maintain it. This requires 15 CEUs every 2 years. I usually do well over 40 CEUs because I love to learn. I read lots of health and fitness books, take classes and challenge myself to find out everything I can for all the major mechanical and medical issues I might have to deal with in the pool.
I have and continue to teach a variety of land and water classes. I like variety, so I say yes to everything, except Zumba. My favorite format is water because it is the most forgiving and challenging.
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I taught through all three of my pregnancies. I have dragged my kids to my classes when they were young and love that they are all athletes now. Sharing my love of exercise is my joy. I teach every age group from young adults, both able and adaptive, at Riverside Community College and UC Riverside, to employees at UC Riverside, to my senior citizens at Aquamotion. I do classes for sports teams and guest speak at events, so I can share the power of moving in the water.
What do I do in my off hours? I’m a glitter queen. I glitter synchronized swimming suits for people who have no desire to get glitter and glue all over their house. I also read a lot, quilt and garden.
Carlene Sawyer
I am relatively new to the world of aquatic exercise, having an extensive background as a social worker with both the developmentally disabled and foster children. I started taking Aquamotion water aerobics classes in July 2017 and after my very first class I was hooked.
In 2005, at the age of 30, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Having MS made it difficult for me to participate in traditional aerobics classes and weight training programs due to general muscle weakness, fatigue, and extreme heat intolerance. Water aerobics has given me a way to participate in a workout program that allows me to stay cool, especially during the hot summer months. What I also gained was strength, endurance, flexibility, friendships and a passion to share with others the benefits of aquatic exercise.
Knowledge is just as important as passion. Certifications and training are a must in providing a great water aerobics program. I hold certifications in Aquatics Exercise Association (AEA) water aerobics, Multiple Sclerosis Certification as well as American Red Cross lifeguard and first aid/CPR certification. Over the past several months, I have received extensive instructor training from Aquamotion owner, Linda Hicks. I enjoy teaching a wide variety of workout styles, so that no two classes are the same. Water aerobics has changed my life and now my desire is to help others achieve their fitness goals.
Shannon Kelly Jones
Shannon Kelly-Jones, is an American Synchronized swimming champion. Shannon is a Riverside Native with two beautiful daughters. She started her swimming career at the age of 7 with the Riverside Aquettes and then moved on to the Unsyncables of Southern California masters team. She has a strong dance background and worked many years as a dancer with the Disneyland Resort. She is currently coaching for the Meraquas of Irvine and working independently as a water aerobics instructor with Aquamotion and teaching all levels of swimming. Shannon loves being around the pool and helping swimmers achieve their goals. She also does swim lessons during the school year for all ages.
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