1

Group Exercise Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Group Exercise Instructor

Geneva, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Group Exercise Instructor Location: Delnor Health & Fitness Center Pay Range: $25-$30/hour Summary ... Our facility is managed by Power Wellness Management, a company that specializes in managing ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Melrose Park, IL ยท On-site

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to ... Offer exercise options frequently. Change music and movements frequently. Seek to make each class ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Melrose Park, IL ยท On-site

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to ... Offer exercise options frequently. Change music and movements frequently. Seek to make each class ...

Group Exercise Instructor

Melrose Park, IL ยท On-site

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to ... Offer exercise options frequently. Change music and movements frequently. Seek to make each class ...

The Group Exercise Instructor supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to ... Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team. Holds staff accountable for ...

The Group Exercise Instructor supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to ... Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of team. Holds staff accountable for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Group Exercise Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19.6K

$57.6K

$101K

How much do group exercise manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for group exercise manager in Chicago, IL is $57,639.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,100.00 and $61,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Group Exercise jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Group Exercise Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,639 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor

Dundee Township Park District

Carpentersville, IL โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary: DOQ

Group Exercise Instructor

Department: Recreation Part-time: Hourly - Non-exempt


Position Description

The Group Exercise Instructor will create and deepen relationships with members that will add value to their membership, enhance their sense of belonging and sense of community within the club. Also, the Group Exercise Instructor will provide a safe, effective, and fun group exercise class taught according to class format guidelines. The Group Exercise Instructor is under the direction of the Group Exercise Coordinator.


Essential Responsibilities

  • Provide a safe and effective Group Exercise Class.
  • Provide an enjoyable and challenging Group Exercise Class.
  • Instruct Members/Participants on proper exercise techniques and modifications.
  • Instruct Members/Participants on proper usage of resistance and cardiovascular equipment.
  • Be able to develop a class format.
  • Be prepared in advance with Group Exercise Class format.
  • Responsible for recording Group Exercise Class attendance.
  • Inform Group Exercise Participants of proper facility conduct.
  • Have Members/Participants feel greater involvement with facility activities and increase adherence and renewal of the Group Exercise Program.
  • Help Members/Participants achieve their health and fitness goals.
  • Promote good Member relations. Interact with Participants and respond to feedback.
  • Maintain surroundings to provide a safe and secure area in which to perform Group Exercise Classes.
  • Help to maintain equipment in a safe and working order.
  • Maintain current certifications.
  • Attend all staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Perform all duties specified by the Group Exercise Coordinator and/or Fitness Center Supervisor.
  • Report all problems, suggestions, and concerns to the Group Exercise Coordinator.
  • Report any harmful conditions to Group Exercise Coordinator or Fitness Center Supervisor.
  • Be knowledgeable of facility emergency procedures.
  • Responsible for complying with all safety and loss prevention policies. Must ensure that all responsibilities and use of equipment is performed in a safe, prudent manner. Must always utilize required Personal Protective Equipment. Inform supervisor of any unsafe conditions or hazardous work procedures. Correct any unsafe condition, if possible, and instruct co-workers on safety procedures.
  • Supports DTPDs Mission Statement, by providing excellent service to the community.
  • Completed all additional duties as prescribed.


Marginal Functions/Responsibilities

  • Assist with District Special Events as required.
  • Assist with Fitness Center Special Events as required.


Supervisory Responsibilities This position has no supervisory responsibilities.


Communication & Customer Service

    • Develops and maintains positive and effective working relationships with coworkers and to promote and maintain high morale and enthusiasm.
    • Provides excellent customer service to both internal and external customers.
    • Communicates matters of importance in a timely manner.
    • Makes recommendations to management for improvements and efficiencies.
    • Employee represents the Dundee Township Park District in a professional manner.


    Safety & Risk Management

    • Maintains a working knowledge of all general and departmental-specific safety rules.
    • Uses material handling equipment or staff assistance when lifting and/or moving objects 50 pounds or heavier.
    • Reports any work-related injuries to supervisor promptly.
    • Immediately reports all accidents and unsafe conditions to the supervisor.
    • Attends all required safety program and in-service education meetings.
    • Corrects unsafe conditions, if possible, alerts co-workers to potential unsafe conditions and/or reports them to supervisor.
    • Instructs co-workers, when necessary, on safety procedures or precautions.


    Qualifications

    • Certified Group Exercise Instructor or ability to obtain certification within 3 months.
    • Certified in First Aid/AED/CPR or ability to obtain certification within 3 months.
    • Evidence of continuing education through seminars, workshops, home studies, and college courses directly related to the field.
    • Physical ability to demonstrate proper equipment usage.
    • Physical ability to demonstrate proper exercise technique.
    • Fluent in English. Communication in Spanish desirable.


    Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

    • Good physical condition, sufficient strength, and mobility required.
    • Mechanical aptitude required, including the use of tools, equipment, and machinery.
    • Ability to speak and understand Spanish strongly preferred.
    • Knowledge and skills in technology, or the ability to learn.
    • Ability to learn additional software and systems required for business transactions.
    • Reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English language.
    • Possess good problem-solving skills and has capacity to act rationally and calmly in high stress and/or emergency situations.
    • Ability to work a varied schedule including some nights and weekends as required.
    • Ability to pay meticulous attention to detail.
    • Ability to execute the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.


    Hours Standards

    • Part-time, non-exempt, year-round hourly position working a pre-determined set schedule of Group Exercise Classes.
    • Weekend or holiday instruction may be required.
    • Work hours are-Depends on availability.
    • Weekend or holiday hours may be required as well as extended hours as needed.