Group Fitness Instructor responsibilities

What does a group fitness instructor do?

Updated January 8, 2025 8 min read

A group fitness instructor is responsible for creating fitness programs for a group with the same fitness goals, tailoring special instructions to engage the group and helping each individual achieve their healthy lifestyle objectives. Group fitness instructors monitor each trainee's progress, adjusting exercise routines and diet plans as needed, and ensuring that the group follows the training disciplines during fitness sessions.

They must have excellent knowledge of the fitness industry, including the latest routines to provide options and a wide range of fitness programs.

• Lead group exercise classes in cycling, bootcamp and outdoor fitness.
• Attain certifications in aerobics, fitness and aquatic exercise, CPR.
• Provide market research and generate leads using social media (Facebook) to target prospective clients.
• Design and lead fitness classes involving Pilates, yoga, circuits, and resistance training appropriate for all fitness levels.
• Follow guidelines for teaching group fitness through AFAA certification.
• Design and teach strength, bootcamp, stretching, and spin classes.
• Coach high intensity interval (HIIT) classes through a heart rate based program.
• Assist in logistical running of several studios, including member management, equipment management, studio cleanliness and inventory.
• Conduct group fitness classes for women of all ages, including strength and conditioning, HIIT, sculpting and toning.
• Customize yoga classes according to specific needs and fitness levels of participants, ranging from stress reduction to pain relief.
• Maintain extremely high cleanliness standards.
• Certify Pilates and kickboxing instructor.
• Create and facilitate a 60‑minute Pilates exercise class.
• Develop individualized fitness plans, including cardio and weight training.
• Perform yearly evaluations of all instructors and monitor current CPR and instructor certifications.