1

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

Our facility is managed by Power Wellness Management, a company that specializes in managing ... exercise classes to drive engagement. 4. Train within standard guidelines of specialty ...

Kickboxing Instructor

Geneva, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Their turnkey method takes away the stress of the development and management process allowing clients to focus on other areas of their business. The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for ...

Our group exercise classes, and educational sessions are based on guidelines from the American ... Strong communication, presentation, time management, and organizational skills. * Proficient use of ...

Aqua Instructor

Geneva, IL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Our facility is managed by Power Wellness Management, a company that specializes in managing ... Preferably an NCCA accredited certification. • Certification for some specialty group exercise ...

Showing results 41-60

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 22, 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 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,639 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Group Fitness Instructor

Naperville Park District

Naperville, IL • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Naperville Park District rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Overview:Under the general supervision of the Wellness Manager, the Group Fitness Instructor is a part time position responsible for planning and instructing group exercise class(es) to all levels and abilities.Essential Duties & Responsibilities:Arrive 15 min before class to prepare equipment and music for class.Demonstrate appropriate exercise techniques and skills to participants in the program and provide a variety of exercises and movements to accommodate participants' different levels of fitness and ability.Ensure instruction of group exercise classes is current with industry standards and in accordance with a professional fitness certifying organization.Remain knowledgeable of class format and follow safety guidelines.Inspect facility, equipment and activity areas for safety; report and correct any unsafe conditions.Promptly report accidents/incidents to the Group Fitness Coordinator and Fitness Center Manager. Accurately complete accident/incident reports in a timely manner.Document all participants for each class, submit accurate records.Instruct assigned classes and make necessary arrangements to find a substitute when needed.Maintain group fitness instructor and CPR/AED certification and provide accurate documentation.Promote program in a positive and motivating fashion.Demonstrate and support park district customer service standards.Maintain a proactive approach to safety and risk management. Participate in the creation, implementation and evaluation of sound risk management policies and procedures. Report all accidents and incidents in a timely manner. Conduct timely accident investigations, complete accurate and timely accident and incident reports. Work collaboratively with the HR Department on claims. Is prepared for and cooperative during the loss control review process and PDRMA field visits.Follow and model compliance with all District, State, Federal and departmental safety and risk management, personnel, administrative policies and procedures, ordinances and regulations.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Strong knowledge of fitness programming, exercise and human physiology.Ability to demonstrate skills and techniques used in fitness and exercise conditioning.Ability to communicate with and instruct adults.Demonstrate attention to detail and organization skills.Demonstrate initiative, flexibility and creativity.Demonstrate excellent communication skills (i.e., professional ability to attend to customer needs).Ability to address complaints and resolve concerns as needed.Education and Experience:Certifications in one or more of the following required: ACE, ACSM, AFAA, NASM, and NSCA or another NCCA accredited organization.Possession of, or ability to obtain, CPR & AED certification within three (3) months of date of hire.Special Considerations:Subject to modified/flexible work schedule.Subject to inside and outdoor environmental conditions.Ability to occasionally lift light weight (20 lbs.) objects. Benefitshttps://npd.sharefile.com/public/share/web-s751fcade1b1746168ccfaafaf8bf98bd To be considered for this position, interested individuals must complete the online application accessible atwww.napervilleparks.org/employment. Materials submitted through mail, email, or fax will not be considered.

What Naperville Park District employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom