How do I become a fitness instructor
Get qualified to work as a fitness instructor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Fitness Instructor.
Common questions
In Australia, a full time fitness instructor generally earns $1,380 per week ($71,760 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
Courses.com.au Team
The fitness instructor industry has been strong and looks set to continue growing. As of May 2019, there were 37,800 people employed as fitness instructors. That number is only expected to climb, with an expected rise up to 43,900 by May 2024. There is likely to be more than 4,000 job openings a year across that span.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Australian Government Job Outlook
Courses.com.au Team
Most students must complete a Certificate IV in Fitness in order to have the qualifications to be a group fitness instructor. A Certificate IV of Fitness will often require 9-12 months to complete. Exactly how long it takes depends on if you study full time or part time and whether you choose to study in-person, online or use a mix of study modes. You will also often need to complete a practical placement, as well as earn first-aid and CPR certificates.
Courses.com.au Team
Further reading
What can you do with a Certificate IV in Fitness?
15th October 2020
What can you do with a Certificate III in Fitness?
27th May 2021All fitness instructor courses
- CUAWHS411 Apply movement and behavioural principles to conditioning
- Master of Sport and Exercise Science
- SIS20419 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation
- SIS30313 Certificate III in Fitness
- SIS30315 Certificate III in Fitness
- SIS30321 & SIS40221 & 10967NAT Triple Certificate III in Fitness & Certificate IV in Fitness & Diploma of Nutrition
- SIS30321 & SIS40221 & BSB50120 Triple Certificate III in Fitness & Certificate IV in Fitness & Diploma of Business
- SIS30321 & SIS40221 Dual Certificate III in Fitness & Certificate IV in Fitness
Fitness Instructor careers
Fitness instructors lead group exercise classes in an effort to help people achieve their fitness goals. Whether it be at a local gym or fitness centre, a studio for specific types of exercise, in a park or elsewhere, these fitness professionals lead by example. Working with attendees of varying ages, fitness levels and skill, you'll set up class schedules, perform workouts and show attendees how to perform moves and use any equipment that's required.
As a fitness instructor, you'll help Australians work toward fitness goals, answer questions about form and injury and also work to provide an inclusive, welcoming and challenging environment. You might specialise in a certain type of exercise, whether it be boxing, HIIT training, cycling, aqua aerobics, yoga or multiple activities. Your job can take you to various locations, potentially giving you the power to make your own schedule and decide on key aspects of each class.
