Does Group Exercise Instructor

What does a group exercise instructor do?

Updated January 8, 2025

A group exercise instructor is responsible for leading fitness training and programs for different class groups. They develop conditioning techniques, observe proper form, and guide students toward a healthy lifestyle. They identify each student’s strengths and weaknesses and develop training programs to address their needs.

• Manage general fitness center cleanliness and coordinate group fitness instructor schedules.
• Create classes based on high intensity cardio and strength training using a wide array of fitness equipment.
• Instruct groups in exercises ranging from strength training to cardio formats (e.g., Zumba).
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility, restock cleaning supplies, clean equipment, and re-rack weights.
• Instruct classes and individuals in mat Pilates as well as on equipment including reformer, barrel, chair, and Cadillac.
• Lead group equipment classes including springboard; incorporate HIIT and Tabata training.
• Hold and maintain group exercise certifications with organizations such as ACSM and AFAA.
• Develop syllabus and overall course structure for youth and staff programs.
• Develop and coordinate programs involving fitness, testing, group exercise, and kids’ activities.
• Operate Pilates equipment including reformer, barrel, Cadillac, power circles, bars and straps.
• Provide safe and effective group exercise classes including step aerobics and Pilates for health club members.
• Help members meet fitness needs by teaching a variety of cardio and strength conditioning classes.

We calculated that 36% of Group Exercise Instructors are proficient in CPR, Yoga, and Kids. They’re known for soft skills such as customer service, communication, and listening skills.

• CPR, 36% Maintain current CPR and other certifications through continuing education.
• Kids, 8% Develop and coordinate programs involving fitness, testing, and kids.
• Customer Service, 7% Deliver excellent customer service and assist in member acquisition and satisfaction.
• AFAA, 6% Instruct classes with varied choreography (e.g., Zumba, Body Combat).
• Lead participants through Zumba Fitness, Les Mills formats, and other group classes.

A fitness coach mentors clients toward a healthier lifestyle, developing training programs based on client needs, facilitating training sessions, reviewing medical histories, monitoring progress, and motivating clients. Salaries and specific responsibilities differ, but both roles require CPR, yoga, customer service, and other foundational skills.

Note:

This section compares typical responsibilities and does not represent all positions or salary data for every employer.

Location, distance, job type, and education information are frequently listed in postings. Examples include opportunities at Arizona Country Club (Phoenix, AZ), City of Farmington Hills (Farmington Hills, MI), St. Francis Medical Center (Cape Girardeau, MO), EXOS (Austin, TX), University of Houston at Downtown (Houston, TX), and others with varying salary estimates.

For more details, see the full job postings on the employer pages or job boards.