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

HealthFitness

Health Fitness Professional

Durham, NC

$16 - $20/hr

Industry recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification from ACE, AFAA/NASM, ACSM, NCCPT or NETA (if not current will be required within 90 days of hire). * NCCA Accredited Personal Trainer ...

Town of Garner

Instructor (Group Fitness)

Garner, NC · On-site

$30/hr

The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department for the Town of Garner is seeking an experienced, energetic, group fitness instructor for its adult exercise program. Examples of Duties:

Life Time, Inc.

Group Instructor and Coach

Apex, NC

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

Life Time, Inc.

Group Instructor and Coach

Cary, NC

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

Life Time

Group Instructor and Coach

Raleigh, NC

Energetic group fitness instructors and performance-minded coaches Key Focus: Functional strength ... Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field * Experience teaching across ...

SAS

Fitness/Wellness Specialist

Cary, NC

$17 - $19/hr

Certified Group Exercise Instructor * Strong planning and organizational skills * Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse population * Equivalent combination of ...

SAS

Fitness/Wellness Specialist

Cary, NC

$17 - $19.25/hr

Certified Group Exercise Instructor * Strong planning and organizational skills * Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse population * Equivalent combination of ...

Invited

Fitness Trainer

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$11.25 - $13.75/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

ClubCorp

Fitness Trainer

Wake Forest, NC

$11.25 - $13.75/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

ClubCorp

Fitness Trainer

Raleigh, NC

$13 - $15.50/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

Invited Clubs

Fitness Trainer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$11.50 - $13.75/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

Invited

Fitness Trainer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

Invited Clubs

Fitness Trainer

Wake Forest, NC

$11.25 - $13.75/hr

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness, exercise ...

ClubCorp

Fitness Center Floor Staff

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA, ISSA, NETA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness ...

Invited

Fitness Center Floor Staff

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

Certification in CPR, First Aid and AED within the last 6 months as well as being a certified group exercise instructor with AFAA, ISSA, NETA or ACE. Preferred * A college degree in health, fitness ...

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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 Jun 23, 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 fitness instructors typically earn between $20 and $50 per class, depending on factors such as location, experience, certification, and the type of facility. Pay can vary widely, with some instructors earning more through private sessions or specialty classes.

How to become a group workout instructor?

To become a group exercise instructor, you typically need to obtain a certification from a recognized organization such as ACE, NASM, or AFAA, which involves completing a training course and passing an exam. Relevant skills include knowledge of exercise techniques, good communication, and the ability to motivate participants. Many instructors also need CPR/AED certification and may require a background check depending on the 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.

Are group fitness instructors in demand?

Yes, group fitness instructors are in demand due to the growing popularity of fitness classes and wellness programs. Employers seek certified instructors skilled in various formats like aerobics, yoga, and strength training, often requiring CPR certification and a flexible schedule. Job opportunities are available in gyms, community centers, and corporate wellness programs.

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 CPR certification are often required, and some employers may prefer prior teaching experience or specialized training in specific exercise formats. Maintaining current certifications and staying updated on fitness trends are important for career advancement.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,188 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Health Fitness Professional

Health Fitness Professional

HealthFitness

Durham, NC

$16 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

HealthFitness rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 61 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

HealthFitness, a Trustmark company, is a proven leader in providing fitness solutions that engage and connect people both on-site and online, to create a strong community of health. Our work focuses on creating meaningful connections with each of our participants to help them move forward. We foster each individual's journey by creating communities of health within the organizations we serve - so that everyone is supported. As an employee of HealthFitness you will enjoy a variety of health and financial benefits and receive competitive pay. We provide personal and professional support, training and development and flexible employment opportunities.
About the role
HealthFitness is looking for a Health Fitness Professional to join the team at our fast-paced corporate fitness recreation facility located in Durham, NC. In this role, you will make a direct impact on the health and well-being of our members through the coordination, implementation, and delivery of health and fitness improvement programs and services, fitness center promotions and outreach activities. You will provide individual and group exercise instruction, monitor fitness facility and conduct fitness testing and assessments, advising participants of the results and designing individualized programs to meet the members' interests, abilities and goals.
Coordinates, implements, and/or delivers health and fitness programs and services, promotions and outreach activities. Responsible for providing outstanding service to members & program participants to maximize participation, outcomes and customer satisfaction.
Key Accountabilities:
  • Supervises facility; interacts with participants and monitors equipment and participant safety.
  • Provides individual and group exercise instruction; educates participants on proper techniques to maximize exercise safety and effectiveness.
  • Coordinates and leads a variety of HealthFitness and program-specific health improvement programs & promotions.
  • Conducts fitness testing and assessments and advises participants of results; designs individualized programs to meet the participant's interests, abilities and goals.
  • Researches health & fitness educational topics and identifies appropriate participant educational materials; conducts health education seminars/presentations.
  • Participates in membership drives to acquire new participants; enrolls new participants and conducts facility, program and equipment orientations.
  • Promotes program offerings and conducts outreach activities to increase participation and re-engage inactive participants.
  • Creates and maintains bulletin boards, newsletters and other marketing & communication materials.
  • Other duties as needed/assigned.

Minimum Requirements:
  • Associate's degree in a related field (Kinesiology, Exercise Science, etc.) or 2+ years' fitness and wellness industry experience, along with fitness industry certification(s) from a HealthFitness approved provider.
  • OSHA compliant Adult First Aid/CPR/AED from American Red Cross, American Heart Association, National Safety Council, or American Safety & Health Institute.
  • Industry recognized Group Exercise Instructor certification from ACE, AFAA/NASM, ACSM, NCCPT or NETA (if not current will be required within 90 days of hire).
  • NCCA Accredited Personal Trainer certification from an Industry recognized and HealthFitness approved agency (if not current will be required within 6 months of hire).
  • Proficiency in fitness assessment and exercise prescription.
  • Strong interpersonal communication and customer service skills including the ability to motivate others.
  • Competency in the delivery of HealthFitness and site-specific programs and services.
  • Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office programs including at minimum Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work demands including project coordination.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team with enthusiasm, initiative and creativity.

Applicants must meet hiring requirements including but not limited to pre-employment drug test. The compensation range for this role is $16/hr - $20/hr. The final wage offer will be determined based on factors such as location, qualifications, experience, skill set, and other relevant factors. We understand that compensation is an important factor when considering a new opportunity, and we strive to provide a competitive wage within the market.
Brand: HealthFitness
Come join HealthFitness! Join a team that will not only utilize your current skills but will enhance them as well. We offer a comprehensive benefit package that includes Medical/Dental/Vision plans including HSA, PPO and FSA options, retirement/401(k) with employer matching program, fitness and wellness programs incentivized with medical plan discounts, certification reimbursement program, tuition reimbursement, paid new parent leave, paid Holidays and PTO (starting at 3 weeks for full-time associates), volunteer paid time off and much more.
HealthFitness is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our people and our business. We are an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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