AFAA Group Fitness Instructor

AFAA Group Fitness Instructor

Become a Certified Fitness Instructor

Group fitness instructors lead classes, workshops and experiences in which people work together to attain and improve their physical fitness. They work in gyms, fitness centers and residence facilities. They may also work from a distance using group communication technology. In this 100% online course, you will learn the skills needed to become a certified group fitness instructor.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online. Start anytime!

Course Details


  • Demonstrate comprehension of fundamental scientific concepts related to exercise science.
  • Design a well-structured and balanced fitness class or workout for a diverse group of participants that is both safe and effective.
  • Demonstrate comprehension of key instruction and presentation skills necessary for effective group instruction.
  • Demonstrate key traits of professionalism as a group fitness instructor.
  • Pass AFAA Group Fitness Instructor certification test and earn a nationally accredited certification.

The Group Fitness Industry
Foundations of Exercise Science
The Human Movement System
Integrated Fitness
Teaching Basics
Teaching: Multi-training and Exercise Technique

Class Planning and Preparation
Adapting to Class Dynamics
Communication and Learning
Inclusive Instruction for Special Populations
Class Engagement and Motivation
Professional and Legal Responsibilities

The AFAA-GFI course itself is available to all candidates interested in furthering their education in the field of group fitness. In order to take the AFAA-GFI credentialing exam, candidates must be 18 years or older and meet one of the following eligibility requirements:

  • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Must have current Emergency Cardiac Care (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification prior to sitting for the exam. (All CPR/AED courses must have a hands-on training component. AFAA will not accept a CPR/AED certification card from an online provider).

Hardware Requirements:

  • This course must be taken on a PC. Macs are not compatible.

Software Requirements:

  • PC: Windows 8 or later.
  • Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge is also compatible.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader.
  • Software must be installed and fully operational before the course begins.

Other:

  • Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.

Instructional Material Requirements:

The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment. The following textbooks will be shipped to you approximately 7-10 business days after enrollment:

  • AFAA Principles of Group Fitness Instruction, Jones & Bartlett Learning

This is not an instructor facilitated course; however, support will be provided through email, online forms, and phone.

$695.00 (USD) per person.

This course includes a voucher with enrollment. The voucher is prepaid access to sit for the certifying AFAA GFI Exam upon completion of the course and eligibility.

This class is 100% online.

Course HoursDurationStart Dates
10 hours6 monthsStart anytime!

Job Outlook


According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job demand for fitness trainers and instructors is set to grow by 15% between now and 2029, triple the overall growth rate for all jobs. The BLS cites a growing awareness of the role fitness plays in health and longevity as a driver for this strong growth.

The BLS states that fitness trainers and instructors earn $19.42 per hour or $40,390 per year, on average. According to PayScale.com, group fitness trainers who serve specialized client groups or focus on a certain type of exercise often earn $35-40 per hour or more.

FAQs


WHAT DOES A GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR DO?

IS CERTIFICATION NECESSARY FOR A GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR?

HAS COVID-19 IMPACTED GROUP FITNESS INSTRUCTOR JOBS?

β€œIt was life-changing. I learned so much. It will be so useful in everyday life to make better choices, ‘to live better and help those around me to live better.’ Thanks!”