1

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

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 ...

Group Excercise Instructor

Melrose Park, IL ยท On-site

$18.16 - $28.14/hr

... with safe exercise guidelines. * Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes as directed by Fitness Manager to accomplish Center mission and goals. Builds effective, authentic ...

... in managing state-of-the-art medically integrated health and fitness centers. The Aquatic Group Fitness Instructor is responsible for teaching aquatic exercise classes in a professional and safe ...

... in managing state-of-the-art medically integrated health and fitness centers. The Aquatic Group Fitness Instructor is responsible for teaching aquatic exercise classes in a professional and safe ...

CENTERS' management approach is customized for each client yet retains our uniform quality. Our ... Safely instruct an effective and creative group exercise class at the Health and Recreation Center

CENTERS' management approach is customized for each client yet retains our uniform quality. Our ... Safely instruct an effective and creative group exercise class at the Health and Recreation Center

PT Group Fitness Instructor

Palatine, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $40/hr

CENTERS' management approach is customized for each client yet retains our uniform quality. Our ... Safely instruct an effective and creative group exercise class at the Health and Recreation Center

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 6, 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 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 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 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 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 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,639 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Group Exercise Instructor - Part Time

Elk Grove Park District

Elk Grove Village, IL โ€ข On-site

$26 - $60/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 13 hours ago


Job description

Salary Range: $26.00 - $60.00 DOQ
Hours: Various hours based on the needs of the facility
JOB SUMMARY
Under the general supervision of the Fitness Manager, oversee all participants of their respective group exercise classes, which include planning and preparation, attendance tracking of classes, class instruction/implementation and other influences of the program.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Maintains communication link between Fitness Center Members and Guests, Fitness Center Management Team, Fitness Center Equipment Maintenance, Fitness Center Membership Services, and Fitness Center Part Time Staff. This includes announcements regarding class or program changes.
  • Provides a high level of personalized attention, encouragement and motivation to group exercise program participants.
  • Evaluates and instructs class participants new techniques/ and oversees classes for safety concerns
  • Assists Fitness Center Management in establishing a marketing plan for the group exercise program and specific classes.
  • Tracks participation in the group exercise program.
  • Performs the job safely and in compliance with district policies, procedures, work and safety rules.
  • Familiarizes self with the safe operation of any equipment necessary in accomplishing required tasks.
  • Plan instruction related to the class title and description.
  • Communicate with parents regarding child's participation and progress (if you are instructing a youth/teen program).
  • Communicate any concerns to the Fitness Manager regarding participants and class numbers, or other issues pertaining to the strength and integrity of the group exercise program.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS
  • Assists the Fitness Center Management Team in providing a high level of personalized attention and leadership for the Fitness Center Members and Guests
  • Assists in tracking positive and negative responses/comments involving all facets of the Fitness Center.
  • Assists in conducting member and participant surveys
  • Must be trained on PDRMA procedures
  • Attends team meetings to review organizational goals and objectives
  • Adheres to all Park District, departmental and Fitness Centre policies and procedures.
  • Attend workshops and training to promote knowledge in related areas of responsibility.
  • Stimulate good relationships with other instructors to promote a fun team atmosphere.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
  • The general work area is indoors, in a smoke-free environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting.
  • Must work around the general population
  • Subject to modified/flexible work schedule
  • Able to work under stressful situations when First Aid or CPR/AED is required, including the ability to respond quickly and accurately to any and all emergencies
  • Physical agility to maintain mobility from site to site
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Must work closely with co-workers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Energetic, enthusiastic, and motivating
  • Enjoys contact with people.
  • Excellent verbal communication, promotional and leadership skills
  • Teamwork attitude
  • Progressive traits: goal oriented to continuously improve
  • Self Motivation /Problem Solver / Takes the initiative
  • Good knowledge of pertinent safety precautions.
  • Know developmentally appropriate fitness activities for the age of the participants
  • Ability to maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • Currently hold a National Certification from one of the following Nationally Accredited program such as, but not limited to:
    • NASM, ACE or ISSA
  • Advanced knowledge of proper training techniques in equipment and exercise instruction, and safety standards
  • Current CPR/AED Certification.

Elk Grove Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Summary of Benefits