Best Group Fitness Classes to Teach as a Busy Professional

Group fitness class training could make your career more fulfilling. There are numerous ways to lead people in fun exercise routines, but only if you choose the right workplace. Compare the best group fitness classes to teach as a busy professional to find companies that support instructors, help them grow and provide flexibility for their lifestyles. You’ll know you’ve found the right place when it has inspirational classes and employee perks that support your career growth.

1. Zumba

Social support could increase your activity levels by making the gym more fun. Luckily, Zumba classes combine community and convenience. Fitness professionals who complete the Zumba Instructor Licensing Program work with like-minded people who foster a family environment. They can then fill their schedule with numerous classes that diversify their routine.

Advanced trainings are available for those who want to develop their skills. The indefinite teaching license, learning opportunities and close-knit workplace empower Zumba instructors to craft the fitness-focused career of their dreams.

2. Jazzercise

People who are passionate about fitness can explore employment opportunities with Jazzercise. The brand accommodates busy professionals with virtual training sessions and digital choreography routines. Instructors don’t have to spend too much time creating class materials because Jazzercise provides everything they need.

Instructors can choose from low, medium, and high-impact classes to change their schedule and accommodate their interests. Dance sessions also provide alternative exercise options, incorporating the latest hits and leading choreography. The numerous locations nationwide ensure fitness class teachers can find multiple places to work on their preferred schedule.

3. Pure Barre

Pure Barre is where people go to leave traditional workouts behind. Its fusion of ballet, Pilates and yoga creates a low-impact workout option for those who want something new. Teachers can attend classes for free if they teach at least five classes per week. High-energy sessions keep attendees on their toes while they move through purposeful, controlled exercises. Each teacher uses their in-house certification lessons to empower students, prevent injuries and tone muscle through full-body workouts.

4. 24-Hour Fitness

24-Hour Fitness has over 240 locations across the country. Anyone interested in an exercise-focused career can apply for group fitness roles to support members needing fitness guidance. Instructors must teach at least two classes per week but otherwise have control over their flexible schedules.

Members can join two kinds of group workouts — intense MODUS sessions and standard options like HIIT and dance classes. The variety also helps instructors achieve their dream schedule. They organize each week by the intensity levels they prefer, helping them ease into their new routine and manage potential burnout before it develops.

5. LA Fitness

People passionate about exercise don’t have to live in Los Angeles to become an LA Fitness instructor. Its national locations train people with certification courses. Instructors can lead classes from beginner to advanced intensities, earning their income per session. Classes also have varying lengths. Depending on preferences, each class can easily fit into any part-time or full-time schedule.

6. Orangetheory Fitness

Orangetheory Fitness has some of the best group fitness classes to teach as a busy professional. The three options support participants’ long-term health while creating a high-energy environment. People who complete the Orangetheory certification course lead science-backed classes that build muscle, burn calories and get results. The welcoming atmosphere and extensive benefits also support each instructor’s well-being outside their classes.

7. Crunch Fitness

Crunch Fitness has a #NoJudgments philosophy that applies to clients and instructors. The company welcomes people from diverse communities, nurturing them with empowering and encouraging guidance. Instructors maintain a fun environment while leading a variety of exercise classes. They also monitor how many attendees will arrive for each session through the Crunch membership app.

People check in online before arriving, removing the mystery about whether each class will happen. Instructors also gain numerous perks, including health insurance. The supportive work environment makes Crunch one of the best places to teach group fitness classes.

8. Les Mills

Employees with Les Mills guide their group exercise students through classes that combine science and music. The resulting joy transforms how people experience each session. Instructors get industry-leading training for group classes of numerous intensities. They also appreciate the choreography and music updates every three months. Anyone tired of leading the same routines they’ve done for years can diversify their gym time with creative Les Mills classes.

9. Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness has multiple group training options for people who want to lead dynamic classes. The sessions happen in large and small settings throughout each week. Trainers teach people how to develop their muscles, burn calories and learn foundational movements that help them avoid injuries. The expert training for new hires makes it a fitness industry leader. They gain everything they need to feel fulfilled as a teacher, along with bonuses and extra commissions.

10. Fitness Connection

People curious about leading group exercise courses could join a local Fitness Connection venue. It provides boutique classes with the latest equipment, creating a high-end environment for everyone who walks through the front door. Trainers can choose from numerous courses to fit their scheduling needs. The national brand is a top consideration as people consider how fitness instruction can fit into their busy routines.

Also Read: What Is the Best-Value Fitness Instructor Certification Program?

Benefits of Teaching a Group Fitness Class

Adding group exercise classes to your schedule is a significant commitment. Feel confident about your upcoming career change by reading about why many love becoming instructors.

You’ll Build a Community

You’re likely used to making friends with co-workers at other jobs. If you work somewhere and want to teach group fitness classes on the side, you could gain twice as many friends. Class instructors get to know the students who attend regularly, plus other instructors. You’ll create new friendships that make life more fulfilling.

The location will become a central part of your community. You might find yourself going on your off-hours to catch up with your favorite people.

Personal Trainers Gain New Clients

Many personal trainers teach group fitness classes as a secondary income. The opportunity also introduces them to potential new clients. Some might take some group lessons and realize they need tailored support. If their instructor also works with people one-on-one, they may sign up for their services rather than looking elsewhere. You could get additional clients without marketing work if you meet with class attendees regularly.

Group Classes Supplement Your Income

The median fitness instructor made $46,180 annually in 2024, which may not be enough to live your desired lifestyle. If you’re already leading classes at a yoga studio or university gym, getting extra work with a group fitness class provider could significantly improve your income. The schedules are flexible, and pay rates are custom to each gym.

You might even work a different, less fulfilling career in a different industry. Leading classes after work could make your financial life more comfortable. You’ll also make your job fit your interests better. You can indulge in your current professional skills and explore the fitness world to embrace both passions.

Your Brand Gets Exposure

People have personal brands for numerous reasons. You might be a fitness influencer, a microinfluencer or someone with a fitness-focused LLC. Your brand will gain instant exposure as students get to know you through group exercise classes. Conversations double as marketing opportunities for your training services or social media accounts. The extra face time could be what you need to continue growing your brand without ads.

You Enjoy a Change of Pace

Fitness instructors often choose their own schedule. You can select different classes each week or month, depending on your employer’s scheduling preferences. If you want to add class instruction to your work life because it’s become monotonous, working at an exercise facility solves that problem. You can experience a new class whenever you want a fresh schedule.

Important Factors to Consider While Looking for Jobs

You can learn how to teach group fitness classes in many places. Remember some key factors that set employers apart while you look. You could have a much better experience if every detail aligns with your interests, like:

• Each entity’s locations: Some gyms are bigger than others. One might have locations near your home, school or workplace. Commuting will be easier if you choose the closest location possible.
• Variety of classes: Exercise enthusiasts appreciate changing their work schedule when they want to teach something new. Your future gym should have numerous class types so you can enjoy the same flexibility.
• Work schedule opportunities: Some gyms require stricter instructor schedules than others. Having more say over your schedule could help you avoid feeling common burnout symptoms from work, personal or client stressors. Compare how each gym arranges instructor schedules to work in an environment that supports your mental health.
• Potential income per class: Class rates vary per gym. If you’re teaching group fitness classes to strengthen your financial life or be your only source of income, you’ll want to work where they pay the best rates.
• Career growth paths: Many gyms offer ongoing learning opportunities for instructors. You could become a fitness leader if your employer provides additional training. See which local gyms offer advanced courses to understand where you can grow.

You might have an easier time selecting a place to work if you make a list. Add your employment priorities, arrange them by importance and use them as a checklist to narrow your options while you look for the best place to support your career.

Compare the Best Group Fitness Classes to Teach as a Busy Professional

Whether you want to teach group exercise classes full-time or as an income supplement, gyms have numerous arrangements available. Compare their hours, pay rates and class types to see where you might want to work. You can support your financial life doing what you love once you find a gym that meets your professional needs.

Also Read: Best Affordable Fitness Programs for Families Near Philadelphia