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Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

HealthFitness

Hip Hop/Step Instructor

Torrance, CA · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

Current group exercise instructor certification from ACE, AFAA/NASM, ACSM, NETA, NCCPT, or other NCCA nationally accredited specialty class certification required. * Adult CPR/AED and First Aid ...

ClubCorp

Fitness Instructor

Tarzana, CA · On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Maintain a service-oriented environment within the group exercise classroom, through the personal ... instructor with AFAA, ISSA, NETA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

Invited

Fitness Instructor

Northridge, CA · On-site

Maintain a service-oriented environment within the group exercise classroom, through the personal ... instructor with AFAA, ISSA, NETA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

Invited

Fitness Instructor

Tarzana, CA · On-site

Maintain a service-oriented environment within the group exercise classroom, through the personal ... instructor with AFAA, ISSA, NETA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

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All JobsGroup Exercise Instructor JobsGroup Exercise Instructor Jobs in Pasadena, CA

Group Exercise Instructor information

See Pasadena, CA salary details

$10

$25

$36

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Pasadena, CA is $26.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.89 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 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 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 specialized fitness professionals, especially those working in private settings or with additional certifications and experience.

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.

More about Group Exercise Instructor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Pasadena, CA? For Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Pasadena, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Pasadena, CA are:
What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Group Exercise Instructor jobs? Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Group Exercise Instructor job openings:
Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Pasadena, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,077 per year, or $26 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor

Santa Monica Family YMCA

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Healthy Living Coordinator and in accordance with established Association policies, procedures and goals, the Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for building positive relationships among members, participants, volunteers, and staff by actively greeting and providing excellent customer service, guidance, and leadership. The Instructor creates and leads group exercise classes in a safe, effective, and timely manner, appropriate to the level of the participants in class, to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual health.
POSITION DETAILS
  • Availability must be consistent (Once or twice per week, on the same day & time)
  • Ability to teach a variety of group exercise formats preferred

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Create a positive member experience through welcoming participants, learning names, and ensuring they are actively engaged in their workout
  • Plan and lead exercise sessions in one or more assigned fitness areas, such as aerobics, stretching/flexibility, circuit training, general fitness, weight training, and/or specialty training by implementing effective teaching methods, giving equal attention to all participants
  • Provide a safe workout routine by demonstrating proper form and technique, appropriate modifications, and cueing
  • Monitor participants' progress and provide ongoing feedback, encouragement, and support to promote improvement and goal attainment
  • Modify exercises and routines as needed to accommodate injuries, limitations, or varying skill levels while maintaining participant safety
  • Ensure all instruction prioritizes proper alignment, body mechanics, and injury prevention at all times.
  • Operate and manage studio sound equipment, ensuring music is appropriate for the class format, participant demographics, and YMCA standards
  • Maintain a clean and safe workout area
  • Effectively utilize scheduled class time
  • Properly set up and breakdown class equipment in allotted timeframe
  • Build community through forming positive relationships through learning names, and helping members reach their health & wellness goals
  • Adhere to the core functions of the YMCA and exemplify Y Group Exercise Class Guidelines
  • Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency
  • Physical ability to lead and participate in exercise/fitness activities
  • Ability to communicate verbally to large and small groups of members
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Nationally Accredited Group Exercise Instructor Certification (ACSM, NASM, ACE, AFAA) required
  • Minimum one year of experience teaching in a class setting
  • All job required trainings within 30 days from date of hire
  • Strong communication skills and the capability to work with members of all fitness levels and abilities
  • Knowledge of fitness principles and practical applications required
  • Licensing, state law and our government funders require that staff within Santa Monica Family YMCA be fingerprinted, prior to reporting to work, and include subsequent arrest notifications
  • CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations:
    • American Red Cross
    • American Heart Association
    • American Safety & Health Institute

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