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Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

HealthFitness

Aquatic Fitness Instructor

Hartford, CT · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Aquatic group exercise instructor certification required. * Adult CPR/AED and First Aid certifications from American Heart Association, American Red Cross or American Safety & Health Institute ...

Big Sky Fitness

Group Fitness Instructor

Newington, CT · On-site

Big Sky Group Exercise Instructors help thousands of members change their lives every single day. If you think you have what it takes to be part of our team teaching classes in our world-class group ...

YMCA

Health And Wellness Director

Waterbury, CT · On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

National certification in group fitness instruction (e.g., ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) or YMCA group exercise instructor certification required. Certification in area of expertise required. * Ability to ...

Premise Health

Cycling Instructor (GEX)

Ridgefield, CT · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

Provide group exercise class instruction to our corporate fitness center participants * Design and deliver routines for members of all ability levels and provide multi-level modifications * Provide a ...

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All JobsGroup Exercise Instructor JobsGroup Exercise Instructor Jobs in Connecticut

Group Exercise Instructor information

See Connecticut salary details

$9

$22

$32

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Connecticut is $22.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $27.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a group exercise instructor?

A Group Exercise Instructor is a fitness professional who leads group workouts in various formats such as aerobics, cycling, yoga, or strength training. Their main responsibilities include designing safe and effective exercise routines, demonstrating proper techniques, motivating participants, and ensuring a positive and inclusive environment. Group Exercise Instructors often work in fitness centers, gyms, or community centers and may specialize in specific types of classes. They typically hold certifications in group fitness and maintain up-to-date knowledge of health and exercise trends. Their role is crucial in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals in a supportive group setting.

What does a group exercise instructor do?

A group exercise instructor teaches fitness classes. They lead classes at gyms, health care facilities, community centers, though some offer private lessons at their home or office. As a group exercise instructor, you coach and motivate the group while performing the exercises with them. You often teach students proper exercise techniques and provide detailed informational materials on fitness and healthy lifestyles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a group exercise instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Group Exercise Instructor, you need a solid understanding of exercise science, class programming, and group leadership, often supported by a fitness certification such as ACE, AFAA, or NASM. Familiarity with sound systems, online class platforms, and heart rate monitors is commonly required. Strong communication, motivational skills, and adaptability help create engaging and inclusive class environments. These skills ensure participant safety, enhance class effectiveness, and foster client retention in a competitive fitness industry.

How does a group exercise instructor typically collaborate with other fitness staff and trainers?

Group Exercise Instructors often work closely with other fitness professionals, such as personal trainers, gym managers, and wellness coordinators, to ensure a cohesive experience for gym members. They may coordinate schedules, share feedback on participant progress, and support gym-wide fitness initiatives. Collaboration also includes attending staff meetings, participating in continuing education, and sometimes co-leading special events or workshops. This teamwork fosters a supportive environment and enhances the overall quality of the fitness program offered to members.

What is the difference between Group Exercise Instructor vs Personal Trainer?

AspectGroup Exercise InstructorPersonal Trainer
CertificationsCPR/AED, group fitness certifications (e.g., ACE, AFAA)CPR/AED, personal training certifications (e.g., NASM, ACE)
Work EnvironmentFitness classes, gyms, community centersOne-on-one client sessions, gyms, private studios
Employer & Industry UsageGyms, fitness clubs, recreation centersGyms, private studios, wellness centers
Primary FocusLeading group fitness classes for multiple participantsCreating personalized fitness plans for individual clients

While both roles promote health and fitness, a Group Exercise Instructor specializes in leading group classes, whereas a Personal Trainer focuses on individualized training programs. The certifications and work environments overlap, but their primary responsibilities differ significantly.

Are group exercise instructors in demand?

Yes, group exercise instructors are in demand as fitness and wellness industries grow, with job opportunities increasing in gyms, community centers, and private studios. Certification in fitness instruction and strong interpersonal skills can enhance employability in this field.

What qualifications do I need to teach group exercise classes?

Group exercise instructors typically need a relevant certification from a recognized organization, such as ACE, AFAA, or NASM, which demonstrates knowledge of exercise techniques and safety. Many employers also require CPR and AED certification, and a background in fitness or related fields can be beneficial. Strong communication skills and the ability to motivate participants are important for success in this role.

What type of fitness instructor makes the most money?

In the fitness industry, specialized roles such as strength and conditioning coaches or personal trainers with advanced certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Group exercise instructors generally earn less than personal trainers or those with niche expertise, especially if they work in upscale gyms or private settings. Earnings can also increase with experience, additional certifications, and a strong client base.
More about Group Exercise Instructor jobs

What are popular job titles related to Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Connecticut?

For Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Group Exercise Instructor jobs in CT?

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Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, and 80% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,160 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Aquatic Fitness Instructor

HealthFitness

Hartford, CT • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

HealthFitness rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

HealthFitness, a Trustmark company, is a proven leader in providing fitness solutions that engage and connect people both on-site and online, to create a strong community of health. Our work focuses on creating meaningful connections with each of our participants to help them move forward. We foster each individual's journey by creating communities of health within the organizations we serve - so that everyone is supported. As an employee of HealthFitness you will enjoy a variety of health and financial benefits and receive competitive pay. We provide personal and professional support, training and development and flexible employment opportunities.
About the role
Aquatic Group Fitness Instructor - Part-Time
HealthFitness is seeking a passionate Aquatic Fitness Instructor to join the aquatics team at our community client site in West Hartford, CT.
Schedule:
  • Teach 5 classes per week
  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00-11:00 AM
  • Saturday: 10:00-11:00 AM

Lead fun, engaging classes and inspire participants of all fitness levels. If you're passionate about aquatics and helping others stay active, we'd love to hear from you!
Responsible for providing fun, effective, and aquatic exercise to members and guests.
Minimum Requirements
  • Aquatic group exercise instructor certification required.
  • Adult CPR/AED and First Aid certifications from American Heart Association, American Red Cross or American Safety & Health Institute required within 30 days of hire.
  • 2+ years aquatic group exercise instruction experience strongly preferred.
  • Ability to demonstrate aquatic exercises both in and out of the water.
  • Ability to work in varying pool temperatures, humidity levels, and outdoor weather conditions (if applicable).
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move continuously on wet pool decks for extended periods.
  • Ability to navigate electronic onboarding and timecard systems required.

Applicants must meet hiring requirements including but not limited to pre-employment drug test. The compensation range for this role is $15 - $17/hour. The final wage offer will be determined based on factors such as location, qualifications, experience, skill set, and other relevant factors. We understand that compensation is an important factor when considering a new opportunity, and we strive to provide a competitive wage within the market.
Brand: HealthFitness
HealthFitness is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our people and our business. We are an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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