Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors
SOC Code: 39-9031Also known as:
Aerobics Instructor, Aerobics Teacher, Aquatics Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Yoga Instructor
Median Annual Salary
$46,180
+11.9% growth (2024-2034)
74K
Openings/Year
370K
Current Jobs
What Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors Do
Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.
💰 Salary
$46,180
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+11.9%
Much faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
74K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
370,100
Projected Employment (2034)
414,200
Related Careers
Personal service managers, all other
$61,340 •
+6.5% growth
Self-enrichment teachers
$45,590 •
+3.7% growth
Coaches and scouts
$45,920 •
+6.4% growth
Recreational therapists
$60,280 •
+3.3% growth
Exercise physiologists
$58,160 •
+9.5% growth
Top Skills Required
Instructing
Service Orientation
Speaking
Active Listening
Learning Strategies
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Observe participants and inform them of corrective measures necessary for skill improvement.
- Offer alternatives during classes to accommodate different levels of fitness.
- Monitor participants' progress and adapt programs as needed.
- Plan routines, choose appropriate music, and choose different movements for each set of muscles, depending on participants' capabilities and limitations.
- Evaluate individuals' abilities, needs, and physical conditions, and develop suitable training programs to meet any special requirements.
- Instruct participants in maintaining exertion levels to maximize benefits from exercise routines.
- Teach and demonstrate use of gymnastic and training equipment, such as trampolines and weights.
- Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations governing sports, recreational activities, and the use of exercise equipment.
- Teach proper breathing techniques used during physical exertion.
- Maintain fitness equipment.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Post-Secondary Certificate
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a exercise trainers and group fitness instructors:
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management
17,472 degrees awarded •
655 colleges offer this program
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
12,633 degrees awarded •
387 colleges offer this program
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
6,964 degrees awarded •
439 colleges offer this program
Physical Fitness Technician
1,308 degrees awarded •
122 colleges offer this program
Yoga Teacher Training/Yoga Therapy
98 degrees awarded •
12 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become exercise trainers and group fitness instructors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do exercise trainers and group fitness instructors make?
The median annual salary for exercise trainers and group fitness instructors is $46,180.
What education do exercise trainers and group fitness instructors need?
Most exercise trainers and group fitness instructors positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Sport and Fitness Administration/Management, Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.
Is becoming exercise trainers and group fitness instructors a good career choice?
Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors is projected to see +11.9% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is much faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 74,200 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for exercise trainers and group fitness instructors?
Top colleges for aspiring exercise trainers and group fitness instructors include
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, University of Florida, The University of Texas at Austin, University of Georgia.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to exercise trainers and group fitness instructors?
Exercise trainers and group fitness instructors may also be known as: Aerobics Instructor, Aerobics Teacher, Aquatics Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Yoga Instructor, Exercise Specialist, Exercise Teacher, Fitness Attendant, Fitness Coach, Fitness Consultant, Fitness Instructor, Fitness Specialist, Fitness Teacher, Fitness Technician (Fitness Tech), Fitness Trainer, Fitness Worker, Group Exercise Instructor, Group Fitness Instructor, Group Fitness Trainer, Group X Instructor.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.