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Group Exercise Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

... with safe exercise guidelines. * Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to accomplish Center mission and goals. Builds effective, authentic ...

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

... with safe exercise guidelines. * Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to accomplish Center mission and goals. Builds effective, authentic ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise ... Handle member concerns or direct to appropriate club management. * Report broken equipment and ...

Showing results 21-40

Group Exercise Director information

What are some common challenges faced by a group exercise director, and how can they be managed effectively?

Group Exercise Directors often juggle multiple responsibilities, including scheduling classes, managing instructor teams, and ensuring the quality and safety of group fitness programs. A common challenge is balancing the needs and preferences of participants with available resources and instructor availability. Effective communication, proactive planning, and regularly soliciting feedback from both staff and members can help address these challenges while maintaining high program standards and team morale.

What is the difference between Group Exercise Director vs Group Fitness Instructor?

AspectGroup Exercise DirectorGroup Fitness Instructor
CertificationsACE, AFAA, or NASM Group Fitness CertificationACE, AFAA, or NASM Group Fitness Certification
Work EnvironmentLeads and manages group classes, oversees instructors, plans programsTeaches group classes, interacts directly with participants
Employer & Industry UsageGyms, fitness centers, wellness programsGyms, fitness centers, community centers

The main difference is that a Group Exercise Director oversees the entire group fitness program, manages instructors, and plans class schedules, while a Group Fitness Instructor primarily focuses on leading individual classes. Both roles require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but the Director has additional responsibilities related to program management and staff supervision.

What is a group exercise director?

Group Exercise Directors are fitness professionals responsible for overseeing group exercise programs at gyms, health clubs, or fitness centers. They hire, train, and schedule group exercise instructors, develop class schedules, and ensure that classes are safe, engaging, and effective. They may also teach classes themselves, handle member feedback, and stay current on fitness trends to enhance class offerings. Their role is crucial in creating a positive and motivating group fitness environment for participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a group exercise director?

To thrive as a Group Exercise Director, you need expertise in fitness instruction, group class programming, and a recognized fitness certification such as ACE or AFAA. Familiarity with fitness management software, scheduling platforms, and safety protocols is typically required. Leadership, motivational abilities, and strong interpersonal communication are crucial soft skills for building an engaged team and fostering member participation. These skills ensure effective program delivery, member retention, and a positive, safe exercise environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Group Exercise jobs in California?

The most popular types of Group Exercise jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Group Exercise Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Group Exercise Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Group Exercise Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Group Exercise Instructor - El Camino

YMCA of Silicon Valley

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. Effectively builds community within the class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs.
SALARY RANGE: $25.00 - $37.00/hour
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
  • Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
  • Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
  • Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
  • Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants' capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
  • Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
  • Keeps accurate class attendance records.
  • Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.
  • Attends all staff meetings
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Visual and auditory ability to observe and to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency situation.
  • Ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills.
  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Ability to climb, push, and pull.
  • Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds.

  • Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
  • Certification in areas of expertise.
  • YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire.
  • Orientation to Healthy Living at the Y, Foundations of Listen First, Principles of Member Health & Wellness
  • Group Exercise at the Y and Foundations of Group Exercise at the Y (or equivalent certification with another organization) (within 6 months of hire)
  • At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.

Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y's cause.
Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence.
Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgement.
Functional Expertise: Executes superior technical skills for the role.
Innovation: Creates and implements new and relevant approaches and activities that improve and expand the Y's work and impact in the community.
Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g.: staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.
Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.