10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming A Group Fitness Instructor
Last month I wrote a post about the things I wish I knew before becoming a personal trainer. A lot of people resonated with it, so I wanted to do a slightly different one about the things I wish I knew before becoming a group fitness instructor. While they’re both related, there are several key differences.
I have a habit of either jumping into things without thinking them all the way through or I try to figure out every detail and don’t do anything because I get overwhelmed. Embarking on my teaching journey fell into that first category. I love what I do, but there were definitely some things that I didn’t know when I started.
I teach high-intensity interval training or bootcamps, which means that I run through the workout format, demonstrate movements, and then correct form throughout the class. This is my experience with that format, so those of you who teach more choreographed classes may have some different things to add in the comments below!
1. It’s not your sole source of income
I started teaching group fitness before I did personal training. I didn’t really know what to expect and hadn’t really thought the whole thing through. I figured I would teach a bunch of classes and that would be my job.
If you work at a studio or a gym, there are usually a number of other coaches or instructors. There are only so many days and classes in a week, which all need to be divided between those people. This means you most likely won’t be able to make it a full time job working at one place. You can accumulate classes by teaching at more than one location, but more than likely it’ll end up as a part time or supplemental income.
2. It’s more complicated than it looks
Whenever I attend fitness classes, the instructors always make it seem so effortless. When I actually started teaching, however, I realized there were way more things I needed to pay attention to than I realized. Making sure the music is correct, watching the clock for timing cues, reminding people of what movement they have coming next, all while trying to offer a modification for someone with an injury is a lot all at one time.
Group fitness is an exercise in multi-tasking to the extreme, and thankfully I’ve gotten the hang of it as I go along.
3. There are no sick days
Similar to personal training, you don’t accumulate sick time when teaching group fitness. If you’re sick or go on vacation, those are classes that you lose as well as the income that goes along with it.
4. No one is listening to you
I don’t mean this as harshly as it sounds. What I mean by no one listens to you is that often people are so involved in their own workouts that they don’t pay attention to every phrase you say. I would always worry that I could never repeat myself or people would judge me, but soon I realized (from others as well as myself), that people will pick up on those motivational cues maybe once out of every three times you say them.
5. Playlists take a LONG time
I thought that making playlists for my workouts would be a no-brainer and I would be done in no time. This is not the case. Finding songs that fit my class style actually takes MUCH longer than you’d think. You then have to think about warm up and cool down songs and plan the playlist in such a way that the music builds to a certain point in the workout when people need those beats to help carry them through to the end.
I can’t even imagine how long spinning playlists take to create because they are so beat-dependent. Props to you guys.
6. Writing workouts takes longer than you think
Along the same lines as the playlists, writing actual workouts takes more time than I originally thought. The workouts at Sweat are all preprogrammed for us, but now that I have taken on this corporate role, I need to write my own workouts for the week. I teach at least six different classes, so I need to make sure that each one is different both in movements and format to avoid doing many of the same moves during the week.
7. It’s easy to fall into a routine (and how to get out of it)
When teaching classes, it’s easy to fall into the same warm up and cool down routine. It’s something we know and doesn’t require you to think much about it. The same goes for the motivational phrases used throughout the class. I have a whole bank of different ones that I pull from, but after awhile it feels like I’m always saying the same things.
The best way I’ve found to break out of that cycle is to take other group fitness classes yourself. By seeing how other instructors carry out their workouts, I always leave with a new sense of inspiration and a different way of viewing the workout as a whole. Plus, I get to stock up on new phrases. 🙂
8. Get to know your clients for a better workout (for both of you)
The better I know the people in my class, the more I can converse with them, see how they’re progressing, and just have a good time during class. I try and make a point to get to know people I see regularly so that way I can help advise them on weight choices and be able to motivate them directly while the workout is going on.
9. You have to be present
The job of a group fitness instructor is to teach and motivate you through the class. Sure, you can show up as an instructor and give a lackluster performance, but chances are slim that you will get good reviews or return visits. No matter what kind of day you’re having, you need to be able to switch on your instructor persona and provide the best workout you can for those people paying you for it.
Classpass, for example, requires that their members rate their instructor after every class they take. Poor ratings not only make you look bad, but also the studio as a whole. It’s important to be fully present during class and provide the best service you can, even if you’re having an off day.
10. Your body is your job — take care of it
Before working in the fitness industry, I felt like things like massage were frivolous expenditures. Now that my job depends on the health of my body, I see how important it is to take care of it on a regular basis. The fact that I injured my back and still need other people to demonstrate movements for me over a week later means I’m not able to do my job to the best of my ability. I’m stubborn when it comes to doctors and things like stretching until something serious comes up, but as I get older and continue in this field, self-care is something I need to make a priority.
This is still a lesson I’m learning, but this injury is making me shift some priorities around. Rather than sit and let an injury go away on its own without knowing what caused it, I made an sports injury appointment in order to avoid this type of thing in the future. I go in today, so hopefully I’ll have some news for you in Friday’s post!
Questions:
- Are you a fitness instructor? Do you have anything to add?
- What’s your impression of fitness instructors?
I made another a spin playlist yesterday but I have a truck to it! I actually get the music and routine in my head while working out myself and then later go back and fine tune with the cuing etc. It breaks it up and makes it a lot easier.
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious recently posted…Greek Strawberry Cheesecake Bars {GF, Low Cal}
I meant trick not truck lol!
Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious recently posted…Greek Strawberry Cheesecake Bars {GF, Low Cal}
Oh yeah that’s a good plan!
Thanks for being an amazing instructor Erin! I was intimidated going into my first class and you made me feel right at home. Now I can’t stop going! Keep up the awesome work and I hope you have a speedy recovery
Aw thanks Allison! So glad you’ve become a familiar face!
This is 100% spot on! Excellent post. I have experienced all of the same thoughts and as an instructor and trainer. I’m about to start teaching 3 Jillian Michaels BODYSHRED classes a week, I’m a little rusty at teaching. This post came right on time, thanks Erin.
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Oh good I’m glad it helped! Woo good luck with those classes! Are they ones you have to do the entire routine with the class?
I have so much respect for group fitness instructors (but seriously, any fitness professional), and think the energy and encouragement you bring class after class is incredible. 😀
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…Double Chocolate Berry Ice Cream Sandwiches
It’s always worth it to help other people on their journey! If you’re ever in the city, let me know and I’ll get you a free class!
I used to think that I wanted to teach group fitness – but after getting to know trainers betters and just taking group fitness classes for a few years – I am not so sure! Haha.
I have a lot of respect for trainers who do! From being subject to other peoples schedule, to making up the workouts, to managing likely a wide range of fitness abilities in every class, to having constant energy and encouragement… it’s a tough job.
Danielle @ Wild Coast Tales recently posted…What I ate during the Whole30 challenge: 30 days of meal ideas
It definitely gets easier though. Now that I’ve done it for awhile, it’s easier to write workouts and to have a feel for timing and things. At the begin gin I was so busy overthinking that I made it more stressful on myself!
Completely relating, Jan 20 was my one year as Zumba instructor, an after 10 months my students were ready to see me teaching another format. Needless to say i picked up an aerobics and weights class, yea I learned fast that, fitness class routines are much more difficult than non-verbal dancing routines!! wow. yes. i do over think the workouts, im so eager to have 3 years of routines in my pocket! After reviewing your site, speaking with fitness mentors and gurus, I’m growing patience with learning one fitness class format at a time and developing multiple routines there before moving on!
Yay! So glad you’re growing in your teaching!
This comment has nothing to do with today’s post but I just started subscribing to your blog on my feedly and so far I am so impressed.
I listened to your podcast and realize I have lots in common with you though I am still struggling with the painkiller addiction as well as “disorders”.
It is inspiring to read your story and find hope that there is another way to live.
Thanks and I’ll keep reading (:
Thank you so much for your kind words; they mean a lot!
I was seriously looking into becoming a fitness instructor because it sounded so “fun,” but I totally can see how it looks effortless but isn’t. I got into photography instead, which is proving to be just as not-so-glamorous behind the scenes but is also one of those professions that looks easy when you don’t see what it takes to really do it. Photography is also one of those things that can hardly ever be your sole source of income. I was shocked to find out what some of my group fitness instructor friends were making. It was almost not worth it for them to even teach!
Melissa @ Melissa in the Making recently posted…A Day in the Life in Waikiki
Totally. It was an increase in pay from my admin days, but definitely not enough to support myself.
This is true, you have to teach a lot classes or find another full time job. I got lucky after my 1 year anniversary of teaching zumba and found a place that gives me full time hours in the gym as a personal trainer and teach a 3 classes twice a week. Being an instructor is way different than just taking the class.
As someone considering getting my group fitness cert, this is awesome to read! I can sympathize with how long it probably takes to create the workout as I used to have to choreograph dances which also takes forever!
Heather @ Polyglot Jot recently posted…6 Adulting Realizations
Oh yeah I can imagine! It gets easier, but since it was all new in the beginning it took a lot longer.
This was a great read, and spot on! I’ve been teaching fitness classes for several years now (I teach a bunch of pre-choreographed classes now like BODYPUMP, Les Mills GRIT, POP Pilates & others), and the points about knowing your class, prepping for classes taking more time than you think, and being present are SO true. I have a blast teaching because we’re all in it together, and I know my classes. I try hard to introduce myself to new people, check in with how races & other personal things are going, and say names during class (to those who like it), and I’ve noticed that people love all of this. The community it builds is basically magical!
heal up soon!
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Isn’t it great?! Props to you for teaching those classes. I was always worried about having to do the whole workout with them, but it’s prob just fear of the unknown haha.
See, this is why I could never be a fitness instructor (even though my BodyPump instructors keep encouraging me to get certified – pretty sure they’re telling all the “regulars” that, not just me, to keep the class going).
I think it’s great you’ve learned these lessons because it’s never too late to apply them to your practice. I’m sure you do a great job and if I’m ever vacationing in Chicago, I am totally hitting up Sweat! 😉
Catherine @ foodiecology recently posted…Top 3 Friday #5
Do it. Also, I didn’t mean to dissuade anyone from doing it, just want to manage expectations. Definitely get certified if its something you want to do!
This is awesome Erin. Until July I can only sub to teach yoga but I can already tell that several of these would fit a “10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Yoga Teacher” post. Not that knowing it all before would change anything. I love it!
Playlists take forever!
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Right?? I was like there’s a million songs to choose from; it’ll be a piece of cake! Wrong.
Seriously have tons of respect for group fitness instructors because I know it is a whole heck of a lot harder than it looks. I want to become a yoga instructor after college when I have the time and more money to afford training
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You may also want to check and see if any studios offer work/training exchanges. See if you could work a few hours at the studio in exchange for attending training.
You know I understand the fear behind “your body is your job.” Even as a personal trainer! And zomg playlists take FOREVER
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Sweet & Smoky BBQ Chicken Sausage Guacamole
Man I know. I need to make a new one soon the other ones are getting played too much haha
Yes! You nailed it on all counts! I just started teaching cycle classes in May and whoaaaaaaa what a dose of reality I got. I spent hours upon hours making playlists and choreographing each class, and if I taught more than 2 that was my whole week! I finally communicated with my manager and she helped me get better organized. My perfectionist self really came out and I was obsessing too much on each class being amazing and fun. But you’re right. Many people don’t care about those details I was spending so much time on. I found that classes went better when I tried a little less and had fun, rather than trying to be this super cycle instructor drill sergeant!
I love the students and just want to give the best experience possible but I know I need to manage my time better. It shouldn’t take me 6 hours to prep for a 1 hour class. It does but I’m working on it. Lol. Work in progress!! Great post!
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I don’t envy you for having to figure out those cycling playlists. It gives me anxiety just thinking about it!
Hi Erin! Totally agree with all of this. I became a group fitness instructor long before I was a trainer, and I did it as a side job while working in the corporate world. I must say that preparing takes WAY more time than people think — for a choreographed class or one you make up on your own. And as far as building a following and community — that’s what has surprised me the most. People start to feel like they know you when you teach their class regularly and they NEED you there. It’s a big responsibility, and I love it. 🙂
Ashley @ A Lady Goes West recently posted…Favorite things: Les Mills video shoot, Must Have box, food and more
Yeah! I had one of our interns teach my class the other day and someone came up and said that they wished I was teaching. People definitely get used to one person or way of doing things and don’t like that change!
Hi Ashley,
I read this blog a minute ago and scrolled past your comment about teaching and working in the corporate world. Do you have any tips for someone who wants to teach group fitness but also still has an 8:30-5 job?
Thanks
Hi Tessa! Yes, I definitely think it’s worthy to start teaching group fitness as a side hobby while keeping your day job. Early morning classes, evenings and weekends are the best. If you know the type of class you want to teach, attend it REGULARLY and get as good as you can. It’s best to be proficient in the style you like before getting certified in it. But remember, that it takes a lot of time to practice and prepare for classes. I will write a post on my own blog on this topic soon because I get a lot of questions about how I do it. Good luck!! Remember, time management is key and if you’re okay with giving up free time to practice and teach, you can do it!
Ashley @ A Lady Goes West recently posted…Three great things from the weekend and my weekly workouts
I don’t have anything to add….you covered all the bases! Hahaha you are right – NO ONE LISTENS. No matter how many different ways I say a safety cue, hardly anyone actually hears me.
Jess @hellotofit recently posted…Pistachio Almond Banana Ice Cream
Haha totally. Then I have to go over and fix them. IN THE ZONE.
This is great! I’ve run into instructors who tell me i spend too much time on my playlists for spin class. Sometimes i really do make a science project out of it, but the structure and music is so important. If I’m not on my game, how can I improve everyone else’s??
Separately, the studio owner and I are friends & I am one of her top instructors. She shares all future business plans with me including and upcoming expansion (from spin only to a wider array of classes, juice bar, retail, etc). Her plans are so exciting and she wants me to get certified in additional areas, such as barre, but I am hesitant due to some of the above! I do not have much more time in my life to teach more classes, juggling my full time job and my own workouts etc. I love my job, but I’d also love to ditch a 9-5 and just make health & fitness my life because its my passion. But I’m wondering if multiple jobs running full cylinder 24/7 could turn out to be less dependable and more exhausting.
Another thing you need to think about is… health insurance!
It’s definitely a tough decision and I and many other people in the industry I know have multiple gigs since it’s hard to make it a full time thing at one place unless you have a role like manager or director of something.
I’d make sure to weigh the pros and cons and figure out what works best for you. Feel free to shoot me an email if you ever want to talk about it!