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

UNC HEALTH

Group Exercise Instructor (Per Diem)

Cary, NC · On-site

$19.11 - $27.16/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor position pays $35.00 per class Summary: The Group Exercise Instructor leads members through group exercise activities. The Group Exercise Instructor educates ...

Gold's Gym

Dance Cardio Instructor

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Group Exercise Instructor will also serve as a resource to educate members on various aspects of fitness. Pre-class Preparation: Arrive at class location 10 to 15 minutes ahead of scheduled start ...

O2 HOLDINGS LLC

Group Fitness Instructor

Raleigh, NC

O2 Fitness offers the best in fitness equipment, personal training and group exercise throughout ... A group fitness instructor will lead and direct participants of all levels to feel successful in a ...

O2 HOLDINGS LLC

Group Fitness Instructor

Raleigh, NC

O2 Fitness offers the best in fitness equipment, personal training and group exercise throughout ... A group fitness instructor will lead and direct participants of all levels to feel successful in a ...

O2 Fitness

Group Fitness Instructor

Carrboro, NC · On-site

O2 Fitness offers the best in fitness equipment, personal training and group exercise throughout ... A group fitness instructor will lead and direct participants of all levels to feel successful in a ...

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All JobsGroup Exercise Instructor JobsGroup Exercise Instructor Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Group Exercise Instructor information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

$23

$32

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Raleigh, NC is $23.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $28.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do group fitness instructors make per class?

Group exercise instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per class, depending on factors such as location, experience, and the type of facility. Many instructors are paid hourly or per session, and additional income may come from tips or private classes.

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.

How do I become a group exercise instructor?

To become a group exercise instructor, you typically need to obtain a relevant certification from organizations like ACE, AFAA, or NASM, which involves completing a training course and passing an exam. Additionally, strong communication skills, fitness knowledge, and the ability to motivate participants are important, and some positions may require CPR/AED certification. Gaining experience through volunteering or assisting classes can also help build your credentials.

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.

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 personal trainers with advanced certifications or experience tend to earn higher salaries than group exercise instructors. High-paying roles often require one-on-one training, niche expertise, or working in upscale facilities, with income influenced by location, client base, and additional certifications. Group exercise instructors generally earn less than personal trainers or those with specialized skills.

How do I become a group fitness instructor?

To become a group fitness instructor, you typically need to obtain a certification from a recognized organization such as ACE, AFAA, or NASM, which involves completing a training course and passing an exam. Additionally, strong communication skills, knowledge of exercise techniques, and CPR certification are often required; some employers may also prefer prior fitness experience. Once certified, instructors can start teaching classes at gyms, community centers, or fitness studios, often requiring ongoing education to maintain certification.

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 Raleigh, NC? For Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Group Exercise Instructor jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Group Exercise Instructor job openings:
Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,188 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Group Exercise Instructor (Per Diem)

Group Exercise Instructor (Per Diem)

UNC HEALTH

Cary, NC • On-site

$19.11 - $27.16/hr

Full-time, Per diem

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Become part of an inclusive organization with over 40,000 diverse employees, whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of the unique communities we serve.
The Group Exercise Instructor position pays $35.00 per class
Summary:
The Group Exercise Instructor leads members through group exercise activities. The Group Exercise Instructor educates participants about useful and safe exercises, assists them in achieving exercise goals and creates a fun workout environment for all populations pursuant to the fitness standards. Instructor leads members through group exercise activities in a classroom setting.
Responsibilities:
1. Educates members on safe techniques and guidelines. Greet all members and orients new participants. Instructs class to the ability level of the students participating. Monitor participants through perceived rate of exertion. Works with participants to achieve fitness goals. Encourages new participants and orients them to class.
2. Instructs group exercise classes according to schedule and according to company standards. Starts and finishes class on time as scheduled. Stores all equipment neatly and appropriately. Documents equipment problems in club maintenance log and reports problem to Service Manager. Attends instructor trainings and supervisor's meetings.
3. Participates in all Wellness Center events, promotions and marketing events.
Other Information
Other information:
Education Requirements:
• High School diploma or GED
Licensure/Certification Requirements:
• Aerobic or group exercise instruction certification
• For exercise classes where certification does not exist, verified training may be considered as a substitute for certification in areas of: Tai Chi, Pre-Natal Yoga, Senior Fitness, Children's Fitness, Adolescent Fitness, Hip Hop, WSI, Line Dancing, and the like.
Professional Experience Requirements:
• Six (6) months experience in leading group exercise activities
Knowledge/Skills/and Abilities Requirements:
• Ability to deal with a diversity of individuals. Ability to communicate with people of all age groups. Strong Communication skills. Knowledge of safe exercise technique and principles. Ability to effectively demonstrate all skills being taught to participants.
Job Details
Legal Employer: STATE
Entity: UNC Medical Center
Organization Unit: Northwest Cary Wellness Center
Work Type: Per Diem
Standard Hours Per Week: 20.00
Salary Range: $19.11 - $27.16 per hour (Hiring Range)
Pay offers are determined by experience and internal equity
Work Assignment Type: Onsite
Work Schedule: Variable
Location of Job: US:NC:Cary
Exempt From Overtime: Exempt: No
This is a State position employed by UNC Health Care System.
Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
UNC Health makes reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as applicants and employees with disabilities. All interested applicants are invited to apply for career opportunities. Please email applicant.accommodations@unchealth.unc.edu if you need a reasonable accommodation to search and/or to apply for a career opportunity.

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