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Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in Virginia Beach, VA

pmymca

Group Exercise Instructor

Hampton, VA

With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Group Exercise Instructor will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests ...

pmymca

Group Exercise Instructor

Hampton, VA · On-site

With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Group Exercise Instructor will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests ...

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Group Exercise Instructor information

See Virginia Beach, VA salary details

$9

$22

$32

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Virginia Beach, VA is $22.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $27.36 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 Virginia Beach, VA? For Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Virginia Beach, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Virginia Beach, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Virginia Beach, VA are:
Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Virginia Beach, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,048 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor

pmymca

Hampton, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

General Function:
    
Under the supervision of designated supervisor, and in harmony with the mission and purpose of the established policies and goals of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas, the Group Exercise instructor is responsible for conducting, teaching and leading classes while establishing a safe and effective group exercise environment and delivering of an outstanding member experience. With an emphasis on ensuring the highest quality service to members and guests, the Group Exercise Instructor will work with all staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage all members, guests, and staff.
 
Qualifications:
 
1. Minimum of 18 years of age.
2. Must have a nationally YMCA recognized Group Exercise (GE) certification.).
        -Specialty I/Level 1 requirement: Must have a nationally YMCA recognized GE certification.
        -Specialty I/Level 2 requirement: Must have a nationally YMCA recognized GE certification and 2-6 years’ experience instructing. 
        -Specialty I/Level 3 requirement: Must have a nationally YMCA recognized GE certification and 6 or more years’ experience instructing. 
        -Specialty I/Level 4 requirement: Must have a nationally recognized GE specialty certification, 6 months’ instructing experience and at least 1 year experience teaching in a specialty field.
3. Must obtain YMCA Healthy Lifestyles (HLP) within first 6 months of employment.  
4. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2.
5. Complete and maintain required trainings to include but not limited to: New Employee Orientation (NEO), Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention (CAP), and Sexual Harassment upon hire and annually thereafter.
6. Satisfactory completion of a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
 
Essential Functions:
 
1. Support the mission, vision and goals of the YMCA.
2. Promote a professional values-based culture by leading with the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
3. Lead in a manner that advances our cause to strengthen the foundations of community through programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
4. Be prepared with choreographed routing for each class.
5. Ensure all equipment and supplies are accessible prior to class beginning.
6. Demonstrate knowledge in exercise physiology, kinesiology, injury prevention, cardiovascular and medical considerations, nutrition, and body composition.
7. Commit to continuing education to maintain GE certification(s) and continually upgrade classes to reflect knowledge.
8. Demonstrate effective class formats, leadership skills, and sensitivity to all levels of exercise.
9. Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
10. Wear proper attire.
11. Act as a leader in emergency situations.  Report any accidents or incidents according to Emergency Communication Action Plan.
12. Carry out other related duties as deemed necessary by the Wellness Department and center operations to ensure an excellent member experience.
 
 
YMCA Competencies (Leader):
 
Engaging Community, Communication & Influence, Inclusion, Collaboration, Functional Expertise
 
Skills and Ability Requirements:
 
1. Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints. 
2. Ability to properly prepare, choreograph, teach all required classes. 
3. Must be able to meet the physical aspects of the position, including walking, standing, bending, and reaching for extended periods.
4. Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
5. Ability to communicate verbally, including projecting voice across distance in normal and loud situations.
 
Effect on End Results: 
 
1. The membership growth and retention plan for the center is achieved.
2. A high degree of member satisfaction is achieved as measured by Net Promoters. 
3. A positive image of the YMCA is portrayed to members, staff, volunteers and the community.
4. A pleasant and comfortable working environment is maintained for all staff.
5. Relationships are strengthened through intentional interactions.
6. The facility will be safe, clean and an enjoyable place as measured by Q Checks and Risk Management Audits.
7. Superior quality standards are met as evidenced by department’s Association Audit Scores.
 

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