Thinking about Becoming a Group Fitness Instructor?

So you’re thinking about becoming a GFI - let’s discuss!

And start with a few questions…

  • Do you enjoy fitness?

  • Do you enjoy meeting new people?

  • Do you currently take group fitness classes?

  • Do you have time to class-prep, teach, and keep your certification in good standing?

  • Can you accept negative feedback as an opportunity to grow?

  • Are you quick on your feet, both mentally and physically?

  • Are you ready to marketing yourself?

If you answered yes, or are willing to work, then you’re probably on the right path - next up, RESEARCH and QUESTIONS.

The above questions were surface level, there is much more that goes into group fitness instructing and preparing for the certification and classes.

From the classes you teach to the modalities you choose, there is a lot to consider when exploring a new field of work. The below are my personal opinions and should be read as such - one group fitness instructor talking to another.

Let’s take a look at what I consider the advantanges and disadvantages to being a GFI.

The Advantages 

  • Relatively inexpensive to acquire the certificate. I chose AFAA - acquired by NASM.

  • Short study process compared to a personal trainer certification - only took me a few weeks from purchase to completion.

  • Tons of employment options - locations and specialties.

  • Flexible schedule - you choose your availability and how often you’d like to be on the schedule.

  • Various pay options - don’t forget to negotiate! I started at $30 an hour at a corporate gym and grew from there.

  • Ability to keep a healthy lifestyle - PLEASE find time to recover. You’re body and remaining physically and mentally healthy is as important as your member’s health.

The Disadvantages

  • Pay is hourly or by class - it can be difficult to make a living depending on your rate.

  • Uniforms aren’t always provided - you may need to supply your own clothing.

  • Instructing accessories may not be provided (read more regarding my accessory choices).

  • Competition - depending on location, you might run into a “Coach v. Coach” mentality.

  • Class sizes and member recruitment - depending on where you are, your gym might report LPCs, low performing classes. These classes might get the axe if you can’t keep them full. A large part of your job as a successful group fitness instructor is marketing and motivating members to come to class.

  • Self marketing - time to step into the spotlight! You’re mic’ed and on stage, but now you need to marketing on social media. Whether it’s your personal social media accounts or on a studio/gym page, you need to give members a compelling reason to come to your class. Pictures, text, videos, whatever it is - make your message short and convincing. 


Whatever you choose to do, and I hope you choose to pursue a new fitness career, just like anything, there are advantages and disadvantages, you’ll need to decide if one side outweighs the other.

You’ve got this - research, study, and get certified!

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My Journey to a GFI Through AFAA

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The Bucket