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

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 Clubs

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 ...

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 ...

Snap Fitness

Group Fitness Instructor

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$25/hr

Develop group exercise programs in your area of expertise. * Continually monitor and assist members ... Instructor certification from a nationally accredited organization. * Experience in leading group ...

24 Hour Fitness

BODYPUMP

North Hollywood, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise experience through delivering pre-choreographed or freestyle group exercise programs to members and guests.

24 Hour Fitness

BODYCOMBAT

Mission Hills, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise experience through delivering pre-choreographed or freestyle group exercise programs to members and guests.

24 Hour Fitness

Silver Sneakers

Mission Hills, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise experience through delivering pre-choreographed or freestyle group exercise programs to members and guests.

24 Hour Fitness

Group X Coach

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

JOB SUMMARY The Group X Coach creates an inviting, inspiring and motivating group exercise experience through delivering pre-choreographed or freestyle group exercise programs to members and guests.

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Group Exercise Instructor information

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$10

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$36

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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 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 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% Full Time, and 73% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,077 per year, or $26 per hour.

Instructor, Healthy Lifestyles (Dance Instructor) (4420)

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.
See more jobs at YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.external

$19 - $28/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that promotes member wellness and engagement. The Healthy Lifestyles Instructor is responsible for leading Group Exercise classes teaching the specific skills affiliated with each particular course design, while maintaining the health and safety of each class participant.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Program Delivery
  • Create a welcoming environment by greeting members by name with a smile and eye contact.
  • Plan and lead exercise sessions in one or more assigned fitness areas, such as aerobics, stretching/flexibility, yoga, circuit training, general fitness, weight training, and/or specialty training by implementing effective teaching methods, giving equal attention to all participants.
  • Responsible for administering professional and effective program-specific skills according to course description.
  • Address members who are not performing exercises correctly by demonstrating proper form and techniques.
Member Engagement
  • Responsible for building small communities by facilitating connections with and between members.
  • Develop positive relationships with participants and provide motivational support and guidance to support members in their healthy living goals.
  • Encourage member involvement and identify potential volunteers.
  • Respond promptly and courteously to all member inquiries/needs.
Administration & Compliance
  • Set up and monitor class equipment, ensuring equipment remains in working condition. Report all equipment repair needs to supervisor immediately.
  • Advise participants on program and class procedures and policies, as appropriate.
  • Distribute handouts and/or class evaluations, if appropriate, and answer questions from participants after each session.
  • Record number of participants per class for every class taught.
  • Complete additional projects and reports as required.
  • Attend staff meetings and trainings as required.
  • Uphold YMCA policies for safety, supervision, mandated reporting and risk management.
  • Demonstrate the Six Pillars of Character (Trustworthiness, Citizenship, Respect, Responsibility, Caring, and Fairness) as well as the YMCA Core Values of Caring, Respect, Honesty and Responsibility in all dealings with members, guests, volunteers and fellow staff.
  • Demonstrate competencies in and willingness to develop in the Cause Driven Leadership areas of mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness and personal growth.
  • All other duties as assigned by your supervisor.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES
The Y's Leadership Competency Model is comprised of 14 Leadership Competencies (leadership knowledge, skills, and behaviors required for success in the Y), organized by the four disciplines of Cause-Driven Leadership:
  • Advancing Our Mission & Cause: Provide visionary leadership to the organization and to ensure that all resources are mobilized to adapt to new challenges and needs in the community
    • Competencies Include: Change Leadership, Engaging Community, Philanthropy, & Volunteerism
  • Building Relationships: Connect people to the Y's cause by developing inclusive relationships, partnerships and collaborations so that Ys can co-create solutions to pressing social needs
    • Competencies Include: Collaboration, Communication & Influence, & Inclusion
  • Leading Operations: ensure relevance, effectiveness, and sustainability of the organization so that we can continue to fulfill our promise to the community
    • Competencies Include: Critical Thinking & Decision Making, Fiscal Management, Functional Expertise, Innovation, & Program/Project Management
  • Developing & Inspiring Others: support the holistic development of self and others so that everyone can embrace the Y's cause, sustain the Y's culture, and inspire others to take individual and collective action to further our impact
    • Competencies Include: Emotional Maturity & Developing Self & Others

While all competencies are significant, the following are critical to success in this position:
  • Engaging Community
  • Inclusion
  • Functional Expertise
  • Developing Self & Others

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • CERTIFICATIONS: CPR; Foundations of YMCA Group Exercise or equivalent ACE, AFAA, or ACSM Health Fitness Instructor o As current non-Y certifications lapse and/or require renewal/recertification via CEC's through a 3rd party vendor (whether ACSM, NSCA, AFAA, Pilates, or other) staff may keep those certifications current at their own expense.
    • If staff choose not to keep their non-Y certifications current, as a condition of employment to continue to work for the Y, staff will be required to complete the Y-ACE certifications.
    • Y-ACE has an equivalency certification provision. Anyone holding an equivalent certification from another recognized entity can apply for an equivalency.
  • SPECIALIZED SKILLS: Strong character values; communication skills
  • RELATED EXPERIENCE: Previous experience as a fitness instructor preferred
WORK ENVIRONMENT/MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • You must have the physical, visual, and auditory ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations.

Req# 4420

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