How much does a Group Fitness Instructor make?

You’ve got the drive, the energy and the skills to lead an awesome workout that keeps people coming back for more. But what about your pay? 

The more value you bring to your clients, the more opportunities you’ll have to up your income. From learning new skills to offering more services, there are plenty of ways to boost your fitness instructor earnings. This article shares what Group Fitness Instructors in Australia actually earn and gives you some easy-to-action advice to bump up your earnings.

How much do Group Fitness Instructors actually earn?

Here’s what fitness instructors can earn across Australia according to 2024 research from Indeed. Keep in mind that rates vary based on your experience, location and whether you’re freelance or employed. 

New South Wales (NSW)

In NSW, fitness instructors get paid an average of $53.72 per hour. You’ll earn the most in Sydney — the city’s bustling fitness scene and higher living costs meaning higher rates for skilled instructors.

Victoria (VIC)

Victoria has slightly higher rates, with instructors earning around $55.61 per hour. Melbourne has the most fitness opportunities, so it’s a great place to be if you’re looking to grow your fitness career.

Queensland (QLD)

In sunny Queensland, the average hourly rate is $54.80. Cities like Brisbane and the Gold Coast have a vibrant fitness culture with plenty of opportunities to build your career. 

Western Australia (WA) 

In WA, Group Fitness Instructors earn about $47.02 per hour, with Perth being the central hub for fitness jobs.

South Australia (SA)

Instructors in SA earn an average of $47.55 per hour. You’ll have the most luck finding high-paying work in Adelaide.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) 

The ACT has some of the highest rates in the country, with instructors earning around $57.15 per hour. The demand for fitness classes in Canberra helps drive these competitive rates.

Tasmania and Northern Territory (NT)

While data for Tasmania and the NT is less specific, you'll likely earn around the national average of $47.55 per hour. Like anywhere, what you make can go up or down based on how many people want classes in your area.

5 ways you can increase your Group Fitness Instructor earnings

If you’ve completed your Group Exercise Instructor certification and are getting a lot of good feedback, you’re probably wondering what else you could do to earn more. But isn’t just about working harder or longer hours — it’s about working smarter. Here’s how you can increase your fitness instructor earnings and stand out in the industry.

1. Expand your skillset

With new skills, you’ll be able to train more people in different kinds of sessions. When you can apply things like exercise science principles to your group fitness sessions, you’re providing people with more bang for their buck.

If you’re ready to step up, our SIS40221 Certificate IV in Fitness is designed to give you extra skills in both PT and group environments. 

1. Specialise in high-demand classes

Remember when Zumba was all the rage? Spot trends and capitalise on them or teach classes that are always in demand, like High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), functional fitness or reformer Pilates. Teaching popular classes helps you build a reputation, attract more clients and earn higher rates. 

1. Build your personal brand

People love to connect with their instructors! Use social media to show people what you can do and respond to comments to engage with your followers.  A strong personal brand can mean more repeat bookings and even referrals from your regulars.

1. Offer one-on-one sessions

Once you’ve nailed your group classes, offer one-on-one or small group sessions. Your loyal clients will be the first to jump on this opportunity, so make them feel like it’s worth it. And anyway, private training often pays more per hour and lets you customise your sessions to each person’s goals — just make sure you’re qualified.

1. Offer online classes

Virtual fitness has changed the game for group instructors. Now you can teach both online and in-person classes, giving you more ways to earn. Running virtual classes lets you reach more clients, grow your income and enjoy the flexibility of earning without the hassle of commuting or tight schedules.

Make your move into group fitness

While earning more is great, the real rewards come from the flexibility, balance and the satisfaction of helping people smash their goals. If you’re ready to take the next step, AIPT’s nationally recognised Fitness Courses can help you get there.

Get started with AIPT's SIS30321 Certificate III in Fitness or call 1300 616 180 today and chat with our Career Advisors about how to get started in group fitness training.