Group Fitness Certification Guide
Certification options for aspiring group fitness instructors
Quick Comparison
| Certification |
Cost |
Format |
Best For |
| ACE-GFI |
$399-699 |
Online + Exam |
General group fitness |
| AFAA-GFI |
$299-599 |
Online or Live Workshop |
Traditional formats |
| NASM-GFS |
$499-799 |
Online |
Corrective exercise integration |
| Les Mills |
$300-400/program |
Live Training |
Pre-choreographed programs |
Detailed Certification Information
ACE Group Fitness Instructor (ACE-GFI)
Cost: $399-699 depending on package
Prerequisites: 18+, CPR/AED certification
Exam: 150 questions, 3 hours
Recertification: Every 2 years, 2.0 CEUs required
Curriculum Highlights:
- Exercise science fundamentals
- Class design and programming
- Music and cueing techniques
- Participant safety and modifications
- Behavior change coaching
AFAA Group Fitness Instructor
Cost: $299-599 depending on format
Prerequisites: 18+, CPR/AED certification
Format: Online self-study or 2-day live workshop
Recertification: Every 2 years, 15 CEUs required
Curriculum Highlights:
- 5 Questions approach to class design
- Basic exercise science
- Class formats (step, cardio, strength, flexibility)
- Cueing and communication
- Safety and emergency procedures
Specialty Format Certifications
After obtaining a primary GFI certification, consider specialty certifications in specific formats:
Indoor Cycling
Schwinn, Spinning, Les Mills RPM
Pilates
PMA, Balanced Body, STOTT
HIIT/Bootcamp
ACE, NASM, specialty programs
Aqua Fitness
AEA, ACE Aquatic
Senior Fitness
SilverSneakers, ACE Senior
Les Mills Certifications
Les Mills offers certifications in specific pre-choreographed programs used worldwide:
- BODYPUMP - Barbell strength training
- BODYCOMBAT - Martial arts-inspired cardio
- BODYATTACK - High-energy cardio
- RPM - Indoor cycling
- BODYSTEP - Step-based cardio
- BODYBALANCE/BODYFLOW - Yoga/Pilates/Tai Chi fusion
Pro Tip: Many gyms prefer instructors with Les Mills certifications because they can teach branded classes. However, getting a general GFI certification first gives you more flexibility and foundational knowledge.
Getting Started: Recommended Path
- Get certified in CPR/AED (required for all certifications)
- Obtain a primary GFI certification (ACE or AFAA recommended)
- Gain teaching experience through volunteering or subbing
- Add specialty certifications based on your interests and job market demand
- Continue education to stay current and expand your skills
Job Opportunities
- Commercial gyms (LA Fitness, 24 Hour, Equinox)
- Boutique studios (SoulCycle, OrangeTheory, F45)
- Community recreation centers
- Corporate wellness programs
- Senior living facilities
- Virtual/online fitness platforms
Salary Range: Group fitness instructors typically earn $15-50 per class depending on location, facility type, and experience. Full-time positions with benefits are available at some facilities, especially in fitness director roles.