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Exercise Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Exercise Instructor

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$18.67 - $20.67/hr

As an Exercise Instructor, you will create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement as you teach group exercise classes. Key Responsibilities: * Conduct fun, safe and ...

Exercise Instructor

East Brunswick, NJ ยท On-site

$20 - $24/hr

We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic Exercise Instructor to lead engaging fitness activities that support the physical health, coordination, and confidence of individuals participating ...

Exercise Instructor

Lakewood, WA ยท On-site

$18.67 - $20.67/hr

As an Exercise Instructor, you will create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement as you teach group exercise classes. Key Responsibilities: * Conduct fun, safe and ...

Exercise Instructor

Tacoma, WA ยท On-site

$19.23 - $19.73/hr

Exercise Instructor Wage: $19.23 to $19.73 per hour (Compensation is determined based on relevant experience, skills, and qualifications, with most new hires starting between the minimum and midpoint ...

Exercise Instructor

Kettering, OH ยท On-site

$20.10 - $25.05/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for preparing and instructing exercise classes. Compensation: Pay range is $20.10 to $25.05 per hour. Entry rate is contingent upon candidate's related ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Group Exercise Instructor The Group Exercise Instructor will lead members, in a group environment, through a pre-arranged format of exercises designed to enhance overall fitness, strength and ...

Group Exercise Instructor The Group Exercise Instructor will lead members, in a group environment, through a pre-arranged format of exercises designed to enhance overall fitness, strength and ...

Group Exercise Instructor The Group Exercise Instructor will lead members, in a group environment, through a pre-arranged format of exercises designed to enhance overall fitness, strength and ...

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Exercise Instructor information

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How much do exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for exercise instructor in the United States is $26.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $27.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Exercise Instructor do?

An Exercise Instructor leads individuals or groups in physical activity sessions, such as aerobics, strength training, yoga, or dance classes. They demonstrate exercises, monitor participants' performance, and provide guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness. Exercise Instructors also develop workout routines, motivate participants, and may offer advice on healthy lifestyles. Their goal is to help clients improve their fitness levels, achieve personal health goals, and enjoy exercising.

Can you make good money as a fitness instructor?

Fitness instructors can earn varying salaries depending on factors such as location, experience, certifications, and the type of facility they work in. On average, they earn a median annual wage that can range from entry-level pay to higher earnings for specialized or experienced professionals, with opportunities for tips and bonuses in some settings. Income potential increases with additional certifications, client base, and working in high-demand areas or private settings.

What are some common challenges Exercise Instructors face when leading group classes, and how can they overcome them?

Exercise Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing participants with varying fitness levels, maintaining motivation and engagement, and ensuring correct technique to prevent injuries. To overcome these, instructors typically offer modifications for different abilities, use positive reinforcement, and demonstrate proper form throughout the class. Building strong communication skills and staying current with fitness trends also help instructors create inclusive and effective sessions that keep clients motivated and safe.

How do I become an exercise instructor?

To become an exercise instructor, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications such as CPR and fitness instructor certifications from recognized organizations. Gaining experience through training, developing strong communication skills, and understanding exercise techniques are also important for working in gyms, fitness centers, or community programs.

What qualifications do I need to be a fitness instructor?

To become a fitness instructor, you typically need a relevant certification from a recognized organization, such as ACE, NASM, or ACSM. A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required, along with good communication skills and knowledge of exercise techniques. Some positions may also require CPR/AED certification.

Is $400 a month a lot for a personal trainer?

For an exercise instructor working as a personal trainer, earning $400 a month is generally considered low, as many trainers charge hourly rates ranging from $30 to $100 or more, depending on experience and location. Income can vary based on client base, certifications, and whether the trainer works independently or for a gym, with full-time trainers often earning significantly more than this amount monthly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Exercise Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Instructor, you need a solid understanding of exercise science, anatomy, and fitness programming, often supported by a relevant certification such as ACE, NASM, or ACSM. Familiarity with fitness equipment, group class management software, and heart rate monitoring tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, motivational skills, and the ability to adapt workouts for diverse participants are important soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure safety, maximize client engagement, and support positive health outcomes for clients.
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What cities are hiring for Exercise Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Exercise Instructor job openings:
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What states have the most Exercise Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Exercise Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Exercise Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,870 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Exercise Instructor

Exercise Instructor

YMCA of Greater Kansas City

Tacoma, WA โ€ข On-site

$18.67 - $20.67/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is seeking an Exercise Instructor to join our team.
The YMCA focuses on empowering people in all forms, by improving health and well-being and inspiring action in and across our neighborhoods.
This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading non-profit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
As an Exercise Instructor, you will create a safe and positive atmosphere that promotes member safety and engagement as you teach group exercise classes.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct fun, safe and educational classes
  • Design classes to improve one or more of the four components of fitness; flexibility, strength, muscular endurance, and cardio-respiratory conditioning
  • Demonstrate techniques with different intensity levels.
  • Build relationships with members
  • Maintain equipment organization
  • Assist in compiling program statistics

Are you a good fit?
  • You have at least one year of experience leading challenging, yet safe, classes.
  • You have knowledge of the fitness components of a group exercise class.
  • You have a certification in Group Exercise or related specialty (preferred).
  • You have YMCA Foundations of Strength and Conditioning and/or Foundations of Group Exercise certification or equivalent, such as ACE, ACSM, or AFAA certifications (preferred).
  • You have a positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.
  • You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • You have current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certifications (preferred).
  • Must be able to pass Background and Reference checks (in accordance with the WA State Fair Chance Act).
  • You are committed to valuing and promoting diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.
  • Able and willing to complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day, and other online and in-person training as required.

Wage: $18.67 to $20.67 per hour, depending on qualifications
Hours: Part-Time, Up to 25 hours per week
Location: Tacoma Center YMCA, Tacoma, WA
Benefits:
All YMCA Employees receive the below benefits:
  • A Personal YMCA membership and YMCA360 virtual streaming membership
  • Flexible scheduling around school and extracurricular activities Paid Sick Leave accrued at 1.23 hours for every 40 hours worked per year
  • Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Digital mental health counseling platform, Wellness program, and LifeMart employee discount center
  • Professional training, education, and certification opportunities
  • 20% discount on YMCA programs, childcare services and merchandise

Part-Time employees who work more than 20 hrs./week are eligible for the below voluntary benefit options:
  • HealthiestYou: by Teladoc (24/7 virtual general medical care access for non-emergency conditions)
  • Willamette Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan

Ignite your Passion, Live the Y Cause, and Join our Team! To apply visit our website at www.ymcapkc.org.
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is committed to diversity and inclusion throughout our organization and is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled.
Exercise Instructor Job Description
Position Summary
The Exercise Instructor provides direct leadership, instruction, and motivation for all members in group exercise classes. Develops, organizes, and implements high quality YMCA program(s). Provides a quality experience to members and participants focused on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
โ€ข Conduct energizing, fun, safe, and educational classes.
โ€ข Design the class to improve one or more of the four components of fitness; flexibility, strength, muscular endurance, and cardio-respiratory conditioning.
โ€ข Perform aerobic/fitness techniques that demonstrate different intensity levels to meet the various fitness levels of participants and to provide clear directions of these techniques.
โ€ข Be available before and after classes to build relationship with members to increase class retention.
โ€ข Maintain equipment organization.
โ€ข Assist in compiling program statistics. Support monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of and participation in program.
โ€ข Meet performance measurement by telling the Y story and raising charitable dollars to fulfill our mission.
โ€ข Assist staff leadership team in reaching campaign goals through recruiting campaigners, making personal asks and supporting branch events.
โ€ข Cleaning and sanitation protocols will be required of all staff.
โ€ข Staff will be responsible for frequent touchpoint cleaning and sanitizing in specific areas.
โ€ข Staff are expected to adhere to all safety protocols and procedures, including the use of PPE.
โ€ข Embraces and actively promotes an inclusive and equitable work environment.
โ€ข Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
โ€ข Two years related experience in teaching group exercise classes.
โ€ข National Fitness Certification, YMCA Foundations of Strength and Conditioning, Foundations of Group Exercise or equivalent, such as ACE, ACSM, or AFAA certifications.
โ€ข Positive attitude and previous experience with diverse populations.
โ€ข Current CPR for the Professional Rescuer, First Aid, AED, and Oxygen certifications.
โ€ข Complete online Child Abuse Prevention training on first day. Complete other online and in-person training as required.
Working Conditions/Physical Demands
โ€ข Regularly required to talk or hear.
โ€ข Frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
โ€ข Occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
โ€ข Must frequently lift or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift or move a higher amount.
โ€ข Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
โ€ข Ability to demonstrate and conduct activities relating to fitness.
โ€ข Ability to plan, lead and participate in program activities.
Employee Acknowledgement
This job description indicates the general nature and levels of work, knowledge, skills, abilities and other essential functions expected of this position. This document is not an exhaustive list and other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or assigned at any time with or without advanced notice.
This job description does not constitute a contract of employment and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties may exercise employment-at-will rights at any time.
By signing below, you are acknowledging that you have read the document in its entirety and that you understand the requirements, essential functions, and job duties of this position. Further, you acknowledge that you are able to perform the duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation(s), and that should you need assistance, that you are responsible for notifying your Director, Executive Director, and/or Human Resources.