Ever wonder what it would be like to lead your own class, but aren’t sure you’ve got what it takes to be an effective instructor? I pondered that very question nearly 20 years ago, and I’m so glad I challenged myself to become an instructor, because seeing others reach their fitness goals has filled my soul.
Here are eight signs you’re ready to step up from the front row and step into the role of a certified group fitness instructor.
Given the choice, you would absolutely pick a group workout over hitting the elliptical machine, even if you’re streaming your favorite show! You’re energized by the camaraderie and friendly competition that come with a group. You’re genuinely happy being around other people.
Great instructors lead by example. It takes courage to lead a group fitness class and great leaders know how to bring out the best in others.
To be a great teacher, you need to be a great student, too. The fitness industry is constantly evolving with new research about ways to make physical activity enjoyable. There are endless growth opportunities, from learning to teach different formats to re-thinking class design and music.
You’re a glass half full kind of person. Your Instagram is full of fitness photos and you browse Pinterest for exercise tips and healthy recipes to share with friends and family. You find yourself high-fiving people even for the smallest victories.
You have the ability to laugh at yourself and to adapt to your environment. Teaching keeps you on your toes and requires you to wear many hats, from public speaker and motivator to stand-up comedian. You’ll have 30+ people counting on you for a fun and balanced workout.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, work in an office or have a knack for teaching, leading classes adds some excitement to your day. Early bird, night owl, or weekend warrior? Take a look at any health club schedule and you’ll see classes scattered throughout the entire day, 7 days a week.
Becoming a group fitness instructor requires no prior professional fitness experience, but many personal trainers are able to build a clientele from teaching group fitness classes. If you’re already a personal trainer, teaching group fitness will make you a better trainer. It works the other way around, too!
In just one hour as a group fitness instructor, you have this amazing ability to impact lives for the better. Telling people that they “need” or “should” get physical activity every day isn’t enough. The only way that physical activity can truly start to become a habit is for it to be enjoyable. You can empower others to want to live healthier and to feel good from the inside and out.
We’ve launched an all new, world-class ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification study experience. Featuring an interactive, digital learning component that takes you step-by-step through the fundamentals of group fitness—from exercise programming and music selection to engagement and motivation techniques—our study experience will empower you to make every class world-class. Learn more about it right here.
ANDREA WARDINSKY Contributor
Andi Wardinsky, M.S., has been inspiring the world to fitness for over 15 years as a fitness professional and educator based in Seattle, WA. Known for her infectious energy and love of music & movement, Andi holds a master’s degree in physical education, numerous specialty certifications, and is a Master Trainer for the American Council on Exercise. As an ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer combined with her past experience as a general manager and group fitness director, Andi loves to educate fitness professionals on various topics in the industry through local establishments, national conferences, and various publications.
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