How Much Can You Earn a NESTA Certified Group Exercise Instructor?

How do I get a job as a group fitness instructor?You likely want to get certified and teach a group exercise class because of your love and passion for fitness, as well as helping others. And, you know it’s also important to provide for yourself and your family along the way. So, it’s important to understand your income options and opportunities.

Group exercise instructor jobs are a popular and rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals. Group exercise classes are a great way for people to stay motivated and accountable while working out in a supportive and social environment.  And, before we go on, it’s important to know that you can teach group exercise classes indoors, or you can teach group fitness classes outdoors, as well as health clubs, fitness centers, private studios, a spa or resort, or even a private gym you can build in your home.

There are many different types of group exercise classes, including Sport Yoga, Pilates, cycling, dance, strength training, and more. As a NESTA Certified Group Exercise Instructor, you will be responsible for designing and leading these classes, ensuring that participants are using proper form and technique, and motivating and encouraging them to push themselves to achieve their goals.

One of the benefits is the flexibility of the job. You may work for a gym or fitness center, but you can also work for yourself by offering classes in your community or even online. Many instructors also work part-time, allowing them to pursue other interests or work in other industries.

To become a group exercise instructor, you will need to obtain certification through NESTA. Once you have obtained certification, you can start applying for group exercise instructor jobs. Many fitness facilities are constantly looking for qualified instructors to lead their classes. You may also want to consider offering your services as a freelancer/independent contractor or starting your own business by renting a studio space and offering classes to the community.

You will need to have strong communication and leadership skills. We offer you programs to enhance these skills within the Spencer Institute. You will be responsible for creating a positive, fun and motivating atmosphere in all your classes, so it is important to be able to connect with participants and encourage them to push themselves safely. You should also be knowledgeable about proper form, breathing and technique, as well as be able to modify exercises for different fitness levels and abilities.

In addition to leading classes, group exercise instructors may also be responsible for other tasks such as scheduling classes, managing equipment, and keeping track of attendance and membership information. It is important to be organized and detail-oriented to effectively manage these responsibilities.

Overall, group exercise instructor jobs can be a fulfilling and rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about fitness and helping others. Whether you work for a gym, resort, or fitness center, or start your own business, being a group exercise instructor allows you to share your love of fitness with others and help them achieve their health and wellness goals.

What is the Earning Potential for a Certified Group Exercise Instructor?

The pay rate for group exercise instructors can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, such as location, type of facility, experience, and level of certification. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for fitness trainers and instructors, which includes group exercise instructors, was $20.31 as of May 2020.

However, it is important to note that many group exercise instructors are paid per class, rather than per hour. The pay rate for individual classes can range from $20-$100 or more depending on the type of class, the location, and the instructor’s level of experience and certification.

Instructors who work for large fitness chains or high-end boutique studios may earn more than those who work for smaller gyms or community centers. Additionally, instructors who have built up a loyal following and have a reputation for delivering high-quality classes may be able to command higher pay rates.

It is also worth noting that many group exercise instructors work part-time or on a freelance basis and may not receive benefits such as health insurance or paid time off. Therefore, it is important to consider the total compensation package when evaluating job opportunities.

Ultimately, the pay rate for instructors can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. However, for those who are passionate about fitness and helping others achieve their health goals, the rewards of the job can often outweigh the financial considerations.

Many group exercise instructors decide to create their own business teaching large groups outdoors using these types of models.

Some people decide to live a nomadic lifestyle and teach group exercise online, on a cruise ship or in various countries as they travel. This guide that shows you how.

How Do You Write a Resume to Get a Job as a Group Exercise Instructor?

If you’re a group fitness instructor looking to update your resume, there are several key pieces of information you should include to highlight your skills and qualifications. Here’s how to build your resume:

  1. Start with a clear job title: Begin your resume by listing your job title as Group Fitness Instructor. This will make it immediately clear to potential employers what type of position you are seeking.
  2. Summarize your qualifications: Underneath your job title, include a summary of your qualifications, highlighting your relevant certifications, experience, and any areas of expertise. This section should be no more than a few sentences long and should give the reader a quick overview of your fitness background.
  3. Detail your experience: In the work experience section of your resume, list any relevant jobs you have held as a group fitness instructor. Include the name of the gym, studio, or community center where you worked, as well as the dates of employment. Be sure to highlight any notable achievements, such as creating new class formats or achieving high attendance rates.
  4. List your certifications: In a separate section of your resume, list any relevant certifications you hold, such as those from NESTA and Spencer Institute. Be sure to include the name of the certification, the date you received it, and any expiration dates or renewal requirements.
  5. Highlight your skills/hobbies: In the skills section of your resume, list any relevant skills or areas of expertise, such as dance, public speaking, yoga, strength training, or cycling. Also, include any other relevant skills, such as leadership, communication, and customer service.
  6. Include relevant education: Although this is most often not required for employment, it can help. If you have any relevant education or training, such as a degree in exercise science, kinesiology, or a related field, be sure to include this information in a separate section of your resume.
  7. Edit/Review/Polish: Typographical errors, missing punctuation, and poor sentence structure does not translate well to your new potential employer. Be sure to have a couple different people with English and writing proficiency review your résumé before submitting it.

By following these steps, you can create a strong resume that highlights your skills and qualifications as a group fitness instructor and increases your chances of landing your next job in the fitness industry.

Get started with your group exercise career right now by enrolling in our professional certification program.