Health and fitness instructors are responsible for teaching people how to exercise in a safe and effective manner. They may work in private gyms, independent health clubs, leisure centres and village halls. Instructors may deliver group exercise classes, such as group indoor cycling and aerobics and circuit training, or they may give one-to-one tuition.
Depending on where they work and their level on the Register of Exercise Professionals, a health and fitness instructor may be responsible for:
- running initial assessments or consultation sessions with members
- writing individual training programmes
- inducting members and showing them how to use the equipment
- adapting training programmes for members with health problems or fitness injuries
- offering advice and guidance on healthy eating and lifestyle
- implementing marketing initiatives to motivate members to use the gym or attend classes
- supervising customers, ensuring they are correctly using the equipment.
They may instruct in a range of activities and in one centre or several. They devise routines for their exercise classes, choose music and check that the necessary equipment is available, such as weights, steps and mats. They need to change routines on a regular basis and ensure that their routines are appropriate for the level of class they are teaching.
Instructors may also carry out jobs such as:
- keeping the exercise areas clean and tidy
- general administration and record keeping
- health and safety checks
- co-ordinating and running children’s clubs.
Hours and environment
Fitness instructors often work 38 to 40 hours a week in a shift pattern, which includes early mornings, evenings and weekends. Gyms are usually open from 7.00am until 11.00pm. Many instructors work part time or on a freelance basis.
Freelance instructors may take classes in more than one location, such as school halls or community centres, and may work for various private gyms or health clubs. They may also work in clients’ homes and run personal training sessions.
A uniform normally consists of a polo shirt and tracksuit bottoms. Instructors running classes adapt their clothing accordingly.
The job requires a high degree of physical fitness. Bending, standing and lifting are all part of the work.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Health and fitness instructors may start at around €18,500 a year.
- Experienced instructors may earn around €20,000 to €25,000 a year.
- Personal trainers, exercise referral specialists or fitness managers may earn salaries over €30,000 a year.
Useful Links:
Register of Excercise Professionals