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Group Exercise Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

Exos

Group Exercise Instructor

Chevy Chase, MD · On-site

$20 - $125/hr

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Exos

Group Exercise Instructor

Chevy Chase, MD

$20 - $125/hr

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Exos

Group Exercise Instructor

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$20 - $125/hr

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Exos

Group Exercise Instructor

Ashburn, VA

$20 - $125/hr

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

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All JobsGroup Exercise Instructor JobsGroup Exercise Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

Group Exercise Instructor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$26

$38

How much do group exercise instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for group exercise instructor in Washington, DC is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $32.69 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 Washington, DC? For Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Group Exercise Instructor jobs in Washington, DC are:
Group Exercise Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,149 per year, or $27 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor/Les Mills Instructors

Gold's Gym

Crofton, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Group Exercise Instructor
The Group Exercise Instructor will lead members, in a group environment, through a pre-arranged format of exercises designed to enhance overall fitness, strength and endurance, while ensuring that the safety of the members is not compromised. The Group Exercise Instructor will also serve as a resource to educate members on various aspects of fitness.
Major Responsibilities:
Pre-class Preparation:
Arrive at class location 10 to 15 minutes ahead of scheduled start time to be available to interact with members, answer questions, inquire about their fitness progress, introduce and orient new participants. Group Exercise Instructors should know their participants on an individual basis and have a good sense of their fitness capabilities.
Clothing should be appropriate fitness attire. It should not prohibit participants from seeing proper form, alignment and movement of the body. However, clothing should not be revealing in an inappropriate manner. When possible, Group Exercise Instructors should wear Gold's Gym branded attire. Proper footwear should be worn at all times.
Prepare appropriate music for class. Refrain from using music with offensive language.
Ensure all equipment is functioning correctly and have microphones ready.
During Class Responsibilities:
  • Introduce yourself and the format of the class.
  • Inquire if there are any "first-timers" in the group and if so, assess their fitness level in as private a manner as possible.
  • Make sure all verbal instructions are clear and that the volume, tempo of music and overall atmosphere is conducive to hearing, teaching, learning and having fun.
  • Continually monitor participants to ensure all participants are using correct form. Offer variations of the routine to accommodate all fitness levels.
  • Create a motivational and fun environment for all participants.

After Class Responsibilities:
  • Remove all music and return microphone to proper place.
  • Make sure room is in order for the next class to begin.
  • Answer any questions/concerns participants may have.
  • Solicit feedback from participants about the class.

Additional Responsibilities:
  • Make sure that class begins and ends promptly. If necessary, make adjustments to the flow of the class to ensure adherence to the schedule.
  • If the Group Exercise Instructor is teaching the last class of the day, please follow proper closing procedures as outlined by the Group Exercise Director for the individual facility.
  • In the event that a Group Exercise Instructor cannot fulfill a scheduled class, it is his/her responsibility to find a qualified/approved substitute and notify the Group Exercise Director if there is a problem finding a substitute.
  • Group Exercise Instructors must be dependable and consistent in their class schedules. Anyone committing to teach a class should make all arrangements so that substitutes or cancellations are a rare occurrence.
  • Attend all required staff meetings as necessary.
  • Ensure that proper time recording procedures are followed correctly and in a timely manner.
  • Prepare any incident and/or witness reports as necessary in the event of accidents.
  • Maintain a positive and professional attitude towards his/her responsibilities, fellow employees, and members.
  • Promote Gold's Gym and GGX as much as possible.

Qualifications & Requirements:
  • Knowledge of safe exercise technique and group exercise principles.
  • Knowledge of basic physiology and body mechanics.
  • Performance of a variety of exercise routines.
  • Positive and effective interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to operate and troubleshoot audio equipment
  • Instructors having a specialized skill such as Body Pump, Body Attack,Body Combat, Body Step, Sh'Bam, RPM, Sprint, Grit, Body Jam etc. must provide verifiable proof of education
  • Current CPR certification and basic first aid training is required.
  • Physical demands include, but are not limited to the ability to lift light weights, bending, squatting, jumping, running, reaching, walking, hopping, spinning and kicking.

Compensation: $0.25 per hour
From a single gym in Venice Beach, California in 1965 to a global symbol of strength and performance, Gold's Gym has defined serious training for nearly six decades. What began as a sanctuary for bodybuilders became the birthplace of modern fitness. With over 550 locations across six continents, our legacy has evolved while staying true to it's roots- serious training, community and results. As the industry shifts, Gold's Gym continues to lead, honoring our heritage while building the next generation of members and fitness experiences.
We attribute much of our success to our company culture. We're grounded, reliable, and entrepreneurial - - but also enthusiastic, collaborative, and creative.
If this feels like you, we can't wait to get your application!

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