Social Media Reality Check: What Actually Works 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

Social Media Reality Check: What Actually Works

March 28, 2025 • SH1FT Fitness

Social media is warping our perception of what's actually working in fitness classes. One viral clip can make an old-school workout explode overnight, but does that translate to real-world class attendance?

Today on the podcast, Will Brereton explores the disconnect between social media trends and actual gym schedules, provides a framework for evaluating what's real growth versus temporary hype, and shares practical strategies for instructors to use social platforms effectively without getting caught in the fad cycle!

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

This is the last episode of our 10-part series - we hope you've found it valuable and we can't wait to share more great content with you across 2025.

Enjoy the episode!

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

(00:00) Introduction to social media's impact on fitness trends
(01:45) The Step Aerobics revival case study: 78 million hashtag views
(03:00) Search trends versus actual class schedules
(04:30) Les Mills Auckland City data: only 1.5% of classes are step-based
(05:45) Niche step brands building engaged communities
(07:00) Three key takeaways for instructors about social media realities
(08:15) How to differentiate between viral instructors and growing formats
(09:30) Actionable tips for using social platforms effectively
(10:45) Final thoughts on navigating the three biggest shifts in group fitness

Links and References mentioned in this episode:

Will’s Facebook, Instagram
SH1FT Fitness Website
Download your 2025 Action Plan
124% increase in Step Aerobics search interest
Les Mills Auckland City class schedule
Niche step brands: Xtreme Hip Hop Step, Meccca, Club Cardio NC