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Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in Charlotte, NC (NOW HIRING)

YMCA of Upper Palmetto

Group Exercise Instructor

SC · On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Group Exercise Instructor-Part Time POSITION SUMMARY: Part Time Under supervision of the Fitness Coordinator/Director or Branch Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the ...

Gold's Gym

Les Mills Body Pump Instructor

Harrisburg, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

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

Gold's Gym

Les Mills Body Combat Instructor

Harrisburg, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

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

Crunch Fitness

HIIT Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor will also serve as a resource to educate members on various aspects of fitness. Additional Responsibilities: * Make sure that class begins and ends promptly. If ...

Exos

Cycle Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Exos

Cycle Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Exos

Kickboxing Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

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Group Exercise Instructor information

See Charlotte, NC salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Charlotte, NC is $21.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $26.49 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 Charlotte, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Charlotte, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Charlotte, NC are:

What cities near Charlotte, NC are hiring for Group Exercise Instructor jobs?

Cities near Charlotte, NC with the most Group Exercise Instructor job openings:

Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Charlotte, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,548 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor

YMCA of Upper Palmetto

SC • On-site

$19 - $25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Group Exercise Instructor-Part Time
POSITION SUMMARY:
Part Time
Under supervision of the Fitness Coordinator/Director or Branch Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the group ex instructor is responsible for instructing safe, effective and fun group exercise classes, as well as enhancing the quality and growth of the program and retention of the participants of the fitness programs. The group exercise instructor will assist the Fitness Coordinator/Director or Branch Director with various branch activities such as special events, and other activities that occur on various occasions.
  • Provide a safe and effective workout in the class format scheduled, in accordance with current accepted practices of exercise physiology.
  • Supervise and guide the participants through a workout that incorporates appropriate warm-up, cardiovascular endurance, cool down, strength and flexibility. Be aware of the various abilities of the participants and potential problems associated with poor form.
  • Provide a safe and clean environment by keeping workout area clean and free of obstacles.
  • Reduce the risk of injury by adhering to national YMCA safety guidelines.
  • Responsible for cleaning, organizing and maintaining all equipment especially following class.
  • Demonstrate variations or modifications to encourage participants to pace themselves, and keep movements pain free.
  • Know and follow emergency procedures as situations warrant.
  • Start and finish classes on time. If unable to teach a scheduled class, instructor will find a substitute to cover assigned classes.
  • Encourage the practice of healthy lifestyles, NOT special diets or supplements
  • Develop member relations and member involvement
  • Providing individualized exercise and fitness instruction based on the overall needs of the class
  • Increase exposure of YMCA to non-member participants
  • Participate in staff activities (meetings, staff functions)

Qualifications:
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Current CPR/AED/Blood Borne Pathogens/First Aid certifications
  • Experience in teaching group exercise classes
  • Must hold a current national certification from one of the following national accrediting agencies: ACSM, ACE, AFAA,AFPA, ISSA, NASM, NSCA, WITS, YMCA Foundations of Group Fitness, Cooper Institute, NESTA, ISCA, and/or FiTOUR or a Bachelor's Degree in fitness related field
  • Must maintain nationally recognized certification in the type of class you are teaching.
  • Must be willing to teach a minimum of one regular scheduled group exercise classes per week
  • Must maintain all appropriate certifications and provide copies of all certifications and required CEC's to fitness director or branch director each year
  • Excellent human relations and communication skills
  • Team player (be willing to substitute teach for other instructors)
  • Physical requirements for this position include: Walking, Sitting, Climbing, Seeing, Crouching, Stooping, Standing, Hearing, Speaking, Kneeling, Lifting (50lbs), Carrying (50lbs), Pushing (50lbs) and Pulling (50lbs)

Pay Range: $19 - $25 per hour

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