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Group Exercise Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Group Exercise - Mat Pilates Instructor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$125/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Enthusiastic about group exercise classes and enjoy creating and delivering new, fresh and ... Our employer solutions include fitness center management, on-site coaching and classes, and the ...

Enthusiastic about group exercise classes and enjoy creating and delivering new, fresh and ... How do we do it? Our employer solutions includefitness center management, on-site coaching and ...

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change or rescind related duties and work assignments ... group exercise instruction experience. Health club experience strongly preferred. Additional ...

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Group Exercise Manager information

What is a group exercise manager?

A Group Exercise Manager is a fitness professional responsible for overseeing group exercise programs at gyms, health clubs, or fitness centers. They manage class schedules, recruit and supervise instructors, ensure classes meet quality standards, and develop new fitness offerings to meet member needs. Group Exercise Managers also handle administrative duties, monitor attendance, and may teach classes themselves. Their goal is to create a motivating, safe, and effective group fitness environment for all participants.

What is the difference between Group Exercise Manager vs Group Fitness Instructor?

AspectGroup Exercise ManagerGroup Fitness Instructor
CertificationsCPR/AED, group exercise certificationCPR/AED, group exercise certification
Work EnvironmentOversees classes, manages staff, plans schedulesLeads fitness classes, interacts directly with participants
Employer & Industry UsageFitness centers, gyms, health clubsFitness centers, gyms, community centers
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles in group fitnessFinding fitness class instructors

The main difference between a Group Exercise Manager and a Group Fitness Instructor is that the manager oversees the entire group fitness program, manages staff, and handles scheduling, while the instructor focuses on leading fitness classes and engaging participants. Both roles require similar certifications, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by a group exercise manager, and how can they be overcome?

Group Exercise Managers often face the challenge of balancing class schedules, instructor availability, and member preferences to ensure high participation and satisfaction. Managing a diverse team of instructors and maintaining class quality standards can also be demanding. These challenges can be overcome by fostering open communication among team members, regularly gathering feedback from participants, and staying up-to-date with fitness trends to keep the class offerings fresh and engaging. Effective time management and organizational skills are key to successfully navigating these responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a group exercise manager?

To thrive as a Group Exercise Manager, you need expertise in fitness programming, group exercise instruction, and team leadership, usually supported by certifications like ACE, AFAA, or NASM. Familiarity with class management software, scheduling tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, motivational leadership, and adaptability help foster a positive environment and drive member engagement. These skills are essential for ensuring high-quality classes, staff development, and member satisfaction in a dynamic fitness setting.

What are the most commonly searched types of Group Exercise jobs in California?

The most popular types of Group Exercise jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Group Exercise Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Group Exercise Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Group Exercise Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Group Exercise Instructor - Central

YMCA of Silicon Valley

San Jose, CA • On-site

$25 - $37/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. Effectively builds community within the class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs.
SALARY RANGE: $25.00 - $37.00/hour
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
  • Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
  • Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
  • Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
  • Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants' capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
  • Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
  • Keeps accurate class attendance records.
  • Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.
  • Attends all staff meetings
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Visual and auditory ability to observe and to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency situation.
  • Ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills.
  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Ability to climb, push, and pull.
  • Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds.

  • Upon hire, required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED and YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certifications.
  • National certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction is an acceptable substitute for YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
  • Certification in areas of expertise.
  • YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire.
  • Orientation to Healthy Living at the Y, Foundations of Listen First, Principles of Member Health & Wellness
  • Group Exercise at the Y and Foundations of Group Exercise at the Y (or equivalent certification with another organization) (within 6 months of hire)
  • At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):
Change Leadership: Facilitates, co-creates, and implements equitable change for the good of the organization and/or community.
Engaging Community: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y's work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit.
Philanthropy: Secures resources and support to advance the Y's work.
Volunteerism: Engages volunteers and promotes social responsibility at all levels of the organization.
Collaboration: Creates sustainable relationships within the Y and with other organizations in service to the community.
Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y's cause.
Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence.
Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgement.
Fiscal Management: Manages the Y's resources responsibly and sustains the Y's nonprofit business model.
Functional Expertise: Executes superior technical skills for the role.
Innovation: Creates and implements new and relevant approaches and activities that improve and expand the Y's work and impact in the community.
Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g.: staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.
Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.