Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors

Instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.

SOC: 39-9031.00

Common Job Titles

  • Aerobics Instructor
  • Fitness Instructor
  • Group Fitness Instructor
  • Personal Trainer

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

303,620

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $27,580. 25th percentile: U.S. $34,090. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,180. 75th percentile: U.S. $60,920. 90th percentile: U.S. $82,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$27,580
10% of workers earn the following or more$82,050
Workers on average earn$51,360

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • English Language3.8/5
  • Education and Training3.5/5
  • Psychology3.1/5
  • Sales and Marketing2.8/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Appointment scheduling software
  • BioEx Systems Exercise Expert
  • BioEx Systems Fitness Maker
  • BioEx Systems Nutrition Maker Plus
  • Blink
  • DaySmart Software Appointment-Plus
  • DietMaster Systems DietMaster
  • EZFacility Trainer Management System
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Automated external defibrillators AED
  • Balance boards
  • Balance disks
  • Body fat measurement calipers
  • Elliptical trainers
  • Emergency first aid equipment
  • Exercise bands
  • Exercise steps
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment