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How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Georgia is $20.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $24.38 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.
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Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,860 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor I

Brookhaven, GA • On-site

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 5 - 10K employees

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

651st of 781 rated non-profit organizations

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

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Learn more about YMCA OF METRO ATLANTAexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest and most essential non-profits serving in Atlanta. Today, we're looking for you to join us as we carry out our mission to positively impact lives and communities across the state.
At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the forefront of a movement to ensure that everyone -- especially children -- experience an equal opportunity to reach their full potential. In the course of a year, we provide more than 3,000 children, ages 6 weeks through Pre-K with high-quality literacy and STEAM-infused learning; give 58,000 youth and teens access to sports, aquatics, day and resident camps, teen leadership development programs, and employment opportunities; provide over 200,000 members with programs, services, and facilities to enjoy connection and maintain wellness regardless of age; and engage over 25,000 volunteers and donors from across Atlanta to share in the gift of supporting their communities.
Nature and Scope:
Under the direct supervision of the Wellness Director, the Group Exercise Instructor-Level I Land and/or Water shall be part of a staff team who is responsible for conducting YMCA group exercise classes both on land and water. The Level I Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for appropriate music selection, for class set-up and take-down, and for class members' education about THE COACH APPROACH® and other health and wellness-related issues. The Level I Group Exercise Instructor must perform program responsibilities in accordance with the policies, organizational competencies, mission, and values established by the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. The Level I Group Exercise Instructor will have a key leadership role in YMCA of the USA initiatives to "strengthen the foundations of community" through healthy living.
Minimum Requirements:
  • High school or GED degree required.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
  • May have less than one year of experience in teaching group exercise classes or one or more years of group exercise participation.
  • Land instructors must obtain YMCA/ACE online Group Exercise Instructor Certification (or equivalency) and supplemental courses required by Y-USA/Y-Metro Atlanta within 60 days of hire date. If teaching group strength and/or conditioning classes, the YMCA Strength and Conditioning Instructor Certification is also required.
  • Water instructors must obtain all YMCA/AEA online certification and supplemental courses required by Y-USA/Y-Metro Atlanta, including the Y-Metro Atlanta Water Fitness Specialty Course (Prerequisite: YMCA Group Exercise Instructor Certification) or the AEA Aquatic Fitness Professional (AFP) Certification, within 60 days of hire date.
  • Must obtain/maintain full access to Y-Link (link.ymca.net) and to the Metro Atlanta YMCA Workday account: https://www.myworkday.com/wday/authgwy/ymcaatlanta/login.htmld.
  • Must maintain certifications by uploading continuing education credits via Y-Link (link.ymca.net) prior to date of expiration.
  • Must possess current CPR/AED certification and renew it every two years prior to date of expiration. Updated licenses shall be uploaded via Y-Link (link.ymca.net).
  • Must obtain and maintain Specialty Certifications (e.g., Y-Metro Atlanta Pilates, Group Cycling, Active Older Adult) or outside certifications approved by Metro Atlanta Y (e.g., TRX, Barre, Zumba, Pound) prior to teaching the designated format.
  • Must pass group exercise audition based upon the format(s) of group exercise instruction for which the instructor is being hired.
  • Must be knowledgeable about fitness-related issues including but not limited to aerobic vs. anaerobic exercise, nutrition, benefits of exercise, injury-prevention, and THE COACH APPROACH®.
  • Must obtain THE COACH APPROACH® Orientation within 30 days of hire date.
  • Must possess a high degree of human-relations skills, must be able to facilitate class interaction and socialization, and should be considered a team player by members, co-workers, and management staff.
  • Exemplify YMCA ideals and leadership qualities.
  • Possess ability to handle multiple tasks, to work independently, and to problem-solve. Possess effective time-management skills.
  • Possess strong customer-service skills and personal commitment to service and hospitality.
  • Pass a criminal background and drug-screening check.

Responsibilities:
  • Carry out daily program tasks related directly to the position's scope and responsibilities.
  • Stay updated on current issues regarding group fitness/wellness programs.
  • Promote, monitor, evaluate, and ensure that group exercise classes run smoothly with a high level of service to participants.
  • Maintain branch and association certifications in CPR/AED and any other certifications/training required by the Metro Atlanta YMCA.
  • Maintain all wellness certifications by meeting continuing education requirements. YMCA Health & Well-Being certifications require 10 CECs every two (2) years from YMCA/ACE continuing education courses or other courses provided by/approved by national group exercise certifying organizations, which are recognized by Y of the USA, e.g., ACE, ACSM, AFAA, or NETA per Y-Link (link.ymca.net).
  • Attend all required staff meetings and trainings.
  • Secure his/her own music and select music that is suitable for a family setting.
  • Assist as needed in all aspects of the YMCA and its community.
  • Participate in and partner with wellness cabinet activities.
  • Ensure the follow-through of incident/accident reporting procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Must log class attendance in GroupEx PRO by 11:59 p.m. of the night that the class is taught. Classes may be logged via the GroupEx PRO App or GroupEx PRO website.
  • Must log in to GroupEx PRO a minimum of two times/week to check for facility updates, subbing opportunities, and other important information.
  • Must secure his/her own substitute instructor in a timely manner (using the GroupEx PRO App or other process outlined by supervisor) if he/she is unable to teach a YMCA class. Substitute request must be accepted and approved before the instructor is relieved of responsibility for the class.
  • Must know, understand, and consistently apply Metro Atlanta YMCA risk and safety guidelines, best practices, and branch emergency procedures.
  • Adhere to strength training and nutrition guidelines in alignment with
  • Refrain from diagnosing injuries, offering medical advice, and dispensing or endorsing any and all commercial health products, especially nutritional supplements, vitamins, performance-enhancing substances, and/or pain relievers.
  • The Group Exercise Instructor knows, understands, and consistently applies Metro Atlanta YMCA risk and safety guidelines, best practices, and branch emergency procedure.

EFFECT ON END RESULT:
This position has a primary impact on the overall effectiveness of the wellness department and the success of services to the community. The effectiveness of this position is primarily measured by the stated satisfaction of members and by ensuring a safe, clean, controlled, and fun environment in accordance with the Metro Atlanta YMCA Philosophy.
ERGONOMICS:
Sitting, bending, stooping, standing, 15% repetitive keyboard work, seeing, verbal communications, lifting up to 25 pounds, and exposure to noise levels at an average of 90 decibels (music) over an eight-hour day.
Employment and Benefits package for this job posting is offered through the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, Inc.
Employment Requirement:
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check including Criminal Record check, Drug Screening, motor vehicle record (MVR) and reference check according to company policy.
  • Must be legally eligible to work in the US without current or future sponsorship.

This job posting is subject to change at any time.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta offers excellent benefits and career opportunities as part of our culture of excellence. The opportunities to serve are vast, and we're looking for like minded people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY to join us and do their best work.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law.
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Cowart Family Ashford Dunwoody YMCA

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