Jay Shah
DevOps\Aerospace Engineer & Journalist
Hello Hello, Afro-beats enthusiasts and rhythm seekers! 🎶 After the unforgettable energy brought to you by
& Ingrid’s Msingi brought to Vancouver’s waterfront with her free flowing performances (yes I would consider the combination of Afrobeats, her meditative guidance with the rhythm of movement as any other I’ve covered in Vancouver), they’re back with an incredible opportunity for those who want to dive deeper into the world of fitness and well-being. Whether you’re a long-time follower or someone eager to master the foundational movements, lets take your skills to the next level!
MSINGI Master Trainer Certification Course
For those reading this before November 16th, MSINGI is offering the MASTER TRAINER Certification course fully online as well so you can master the elements no matter where you are!
If you’ve been following my journey, you know that movement has always been more than just fitness for me—it’s a form of connection and transformation. My experiences growing up in Nairobi, Kenya, then having through life experiences journeyed across different countries (Malaysia, India and of course North America….someone get me an opportunity to go to South America please!) have deeply shaped my relationship with movement, especially through cultural dance and rhythm. When I came across the this movement, it felt like coming full circle. Not only does MSINGI tap into traditional African movements and rhythms, but the instructor also spent several years living in Nairobi, further deepening the roots of this practice.
Having covered the Afro Beats and Waterfront Feats class previously, I know firsthand the power of MSINGI to bring people together through rhythm, energy, and movement. In this post, I’ll take you through the details of this incredible course—whether you’re looking to become a certified MSINGI trainer or just deepen your personal movement practice.
What is MSINGI? A Philosophy in Motion
To truly understand the power of this certification, let’s start with a refresher on what it’s all about.
In Swahili, “MSINGI” means “foundation,” which makes sense because this practice builds the foundation for holistic movement that goes beyond physical fitness.
It’s about connection—to yourself, to the elements, and to the people around you.
Its a philosophy rooted in traditional African movements that have been adapted into a fitness practice, tapping into the rhythms that exist naturally within us and using those to build strength, flexibility, and resilience.
When I covered the class at Waterfront station, the biggest takeaway was how MSINGI resembled a meditative experience. You flow between movements that are at once
powerful and grounded, but also
soft and fluid
Instructors guide participants through sequences that align with the natural elements—earth, wind, and fire. These elements shape the way we move, the energy we bring, and the way we connect with the world around us.
Breaking Down the Elements
In MSINGI, each of the fundamental movements is aligned with one of the natural elements, which are symbolic of different aspects of strength, adaptability, and energy.
EARTH
WIND
FIRE
- Earth: These movements focus on grounding, stability, and strength. Earth movements are low to the ground, using strong, intentional steps that build core strength and balance. As you teach or practice these movements, you’ll feel a deep connection to the ground, as if every step you take is rooting you in the present moment.
- Wind: Wind movements are fluid, light, and adaptable. This is where you learn to move with grace and flow, transitioning seamlessly from one movement to the next. Wind is all about flexibility—not just in your body, but in your mindset as well. The goal is to teach others (and yourself) how to move through challenges with ease and fluidity.
- Fire: The fire movements are intense, powerful, and explosive. This is where you tap into your inner strength, pushing your body to its limits while maintaining control. Fire movements teach you to harness your energy and direct it with purpose.
Now, this certification course is designed to break down those elements and teach you how to guide others through the same journey. Whether you’re looking to teach others or just grow in your personal practice, understanding these movements deeply will transform the way you move and live.
For those focused on personal growth, the Personal Development track lets you experience the full training without needing to submit a final video or commit to further subscription fees.
What Sets MSINGI Apart?
There are countless fitness certification programs out there, but what makes MSINGI stand out is its unique blend of cultural influence, movement philosophy, and community focus. Here’s why MSINGI is different from other certifications:
- Cultural Rhythms and Influence: By incorporating African movements and beats, which adds a layer of cultural depth to the practice by tapping into a rich history of dance and connections that spans across continents & generations.
- Holistic Movement: It’s about mental and emotional well-being, too. The movements are designed to help you connect with your body, improve your awareness, and find balance in all areas of your life.
- Adaptability: MSINGI is accessible to people at all fitness levels. The progressions allow you to scale the movements for beginners while providing challenges for more advanced participants. Whether you’re new to fitness or an experienced trainer, it offers something for everyone.
- Community Support: Through the MIC, certified trainers become part of a collective that’s committed to growth, learning, and mutual support. You’re not just getting a certification—you’re joining a network of people who share your passion for movement and wellness.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Whether you’re taking the course for certification or personal development, it offers an opportunity for deep personal transformation. The movements challenge you physically while encouraging mental clarity and emotional connection.
11 Fundamental Movements: Building Your Foundation
What You’ll Learn
I had the wonderful opportunity to dive into the heart of this practice, mastering the 11 fundamental movements that form the core of MSINGI.
These movements are based on the elements of earth, wind, and fire, and learning them gives you the tools to create powerful, rhythmic sequences that align with the natural world.
These fundamental movements are the bedrock of this practice. Think of them as the alphabet of movement—you can arrange them in endless combinations, creating sequences that feel like poetry in motion. These movements focus on
Balance, Strength, Flexibility, and Fluidity
and each one offers its own unique benefits.
When I first started witnessed learning these movements, I realized just how intuitive they are. Each movement felt natural, and it was less about forcing oneself into a certain form and more about unlocking the movement that was already there, making it easy to follow and perform.
One of the most impactful movements for me was the earth-bound sequence—a series of low, grounded moves that work on stability and core strength. As someone who’s always been drawn to movements that make me feel grounded, this was a sweet spot. In contrast, the wind-based movements showcased how to move with lightness and flow, while the fire-based progressions challenged everyone to tap into their strength and power.
What I observed was that I could feel the shift in their bodies and mind as they moved through the different elements.
It’s adaptable to all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
In the certification course, you’ll not only learn how to perform these movements but also how to teach them to others, adapting each element to the needs and abilities of your students. This is where MSINGI truly shines as a practice.
Certification : Steps to Becoming a Master Trainer
This process is designed to ensure that you not only understand the 11 fundamental movements but also know how to teach them effectively. Let me guide you down this rabbit hole Dorothy:
Step 1: Attend the 4-Hour Class
Your journey begins with a 4-hour immersive class, available both in person and virtually, making it accessible no matter where you are. During this class, you’ll dive deep into the fundamental movements and their variations, learning how to perform each one with precision and flow.
It may seem challenging and daunting given the hours at first but by the end, you will have a thorough and rich understanding of the movements and rhythms. The format allows you to immerse yourself fully in the practice, learning not just the technical aspects of the movements but also the philosophy behind them.
Step 2: Pass the Course Quiz
After attending the class, participants are required to pass a course quiz (do not worry, you have my blessings!).
This quiz ensures that you’ve absorbed the information, understand the movements, and are ready to move on to the next step of certification.
Step 3: Complete 2 Volunteer Teaching Hours
Teaching is at the heart of the certification process, and before you can become certified, you’ll need to complete 2 volunteer teaching hours. This allows you to gain practical experience leading others through the movements and progressions.
During these hours, you’ll have the opportunity to teach classes, guide individuals, and apply the knowledge you’ve gained from the course.
This hands-on experience is invaluable, as it gives you the chance to hone your teaching skills in a real-world setting. Whether you’re teaching in a gym, a community center, or a virtual setting, these hours allow you to build confidence in your ability to lead a MSINGI class.
Step 4: Submit a 30-Minute Sample Class Video
The final step in the certification process is to submit a 30-minute sample class video. This video showcases your ability to teach the movements, guide participants, and create a flowing sequence that aligns with the MSINGI philosophy.
The submission of this video is a testament to your mastery of the movements and your ability to lead others. It’s not just about getting the movements right—it’s about how you connect with your students, how you guide them through the progressions, and how you embody the MSINGI spirit.
Personal Development
:
Grow Without the Pressure
If teaching isn’t your goal, but you still want to experience the power of MSINGI, the Personal Development Option is the perfect alternative. This track allows you to take the course for your own growth and wellness without the need for certification or future subscription fees.
You still gain access to the full 4-hour course, learning the 11 fundamental movements and the earth, wind, and fire progressions, but without the need to submit a final video or pursue membership in the MSINGI Instructor Collective (MIC).
This option allows you to explore MSINGI on your own terms, focusing purely on growth and wellness.
This is perfect for those looking to deepen their personal movement practice, improve their overall fitness, or simply explore MSINGI for its grounding and transformative benefits. You’ll walk away from the course with a renewed sense of connection to your body and a toolkit of movements that you can continue to develop long after the course is completed.
The MSINGI Instructor Collective (MIC)
When you complete the certification process, you don’t just walk away with a title—you gain access to a community of instructors and movement enthusiasts through your 1-year membership to the MSINGI Instructor Collective (MIC).
This membership is your passport to a supportive network where you can continue learning, sharing ideas, and growing as a trainer. The MIC is more than just a place to exchange tips—it’s a collective of like-minded individuals who are passionate about MSINGI and committed to helping each other evolve as instructors. As a member, you’ll have access to exclusive educational content, advanced variations of the movements, and opportunities to connect with other certified trainers.
The beauty of the MIC is that it offers ongoing support. Whether you’re looking for advice on how to modify a movement for beginners or want to share your latest class sequence, this is a space for growth, collaboration, and inspiration. Instructors who are part of the MIC not only benefit from continuous learning but also from the sense of belonging that comes from being part of a collective.
From Participant to Advocate
When I first experienced MSINGI during the Afro Beats and Waterfront Feats class, I was instantly hooked. The rhythm, the movement, the oh so vibes of a sunny Canada Place and ofcourse the connection to the my home country drew me in, and I could see why it was much more than a typical fitness program.
There was something about the way Ingrid guided everyone through the movements (her soothing voice does help!) teaching us not just how to move our bodies but how to connect with ourselves and the world around us. As we followed the sequences, I could feel the grounding power of the earth , the fluidity of wind as they moved through transitions, and the explosive energy of fire when the music picked up and we pushed our limits.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Are you ready to take the next step in your movement journey? Whether you’re looking to become a certified instructor or you’re seeking personal growth this is your opportunity to learn, grow, and transform.
and experience the power of movement like never before. With the 11 fundamental movements, progressions aligned with earth, wind, and fire, and the support of the MSINGI Instructor Collective and the oh so wonderful Ingrid, this will take your practice to new heights.
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