Getting Paid What You're Worth: The Instructor Pay Shift Artwork

Group Fitness Real Talk

Feel like being a Group Fitness Instructor is a lot tougher than it used to be? You’re not alone! From being thrown into virtual classes to seeing ‘fitness models’ everywhere and watching the rise of the boutique studio, it’s easy to see why you might feel overwhelmed and struggling to find your place as an Instructor. But we’re here to help. Host Will Brereton has worked in Group Fitness for over 20 years as an International Presenter for Les Mills and Beachbody and now runs his own Group Fitness brand SH1FT Fitness. He’s seen it all and he’s ready to get REAL about what it’s like to be a Group Fitness Instructor in 2022. Join Will and as he interviews some of the biggest names in Group Fitness about the topics that others shy away from. Each episode will provide you with tips, advice, stories, inspiration and a lot of real talk to help you not only survive, but thrive in the world of Group Fitness in 2022 and beyond.

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Group Fitness Real Talk

Getting Paid What You're Worth: The Instructor Pay Shift

March 24, 2025 • SH1FT Fitness

0:00 | 10:23

Instructor pay has been stagnant for two decades, but that might finally be changing. Why? Because gyms are dropping expensive licenses and redirecting budgets elsewhere.

Today on the podcast, Will Brereton examines the shocking decline in instructor compensation (when adjusted for inflation), analyzes the three major factors that have driven pay down, and provides actionable strategies for instructors to earn what they're truly worth in today's evolving fitness landscape!

Plus don't forget to download your Group Fitness Triple Threat Action Plan right here.

Enjoy the episode!

Highlights: Here's a glance at this episode...

(00:00) Introduction to Part 3: The business of being an instructor
(01:30) The stark reality of instructor pay stagnation
(03:15) How inflation has eroded instructor compensation
(04:45) Gym budget pressures and license format costs
(06:15) Boutique gyms leading the charge in pay increases
(07:30) Why "finding your why" doesn't justify low pay
(08:45) Three major reasons instructor pay has been stuck
(09:30) Actionable tips for earning more as an instructor

Links and References mentioned in this episode: