Most fitness managers know that the key to a great group exercise instructor is a blend of personality and passion. This combination is guaranteed to be a winner. But the big question is: How do we find these people? And, most importantly, how do we recruit and retain them?
During the pandemic, fitness instructors figured out ways to make ends meet by teaching online. This struggle wasn’t one-sided, as we all know. When fitness clubs, spas and wellness centers finally reopened their doors, they found that virtual classes were all the rage—and instructors had shifted away from clubs and wellness centers entirely.
So, how do we get our exercise instructors back? These strategies will help you find and build a talented fitness team for your business.
Connect with Your Talent
The first place to look for group fitness instructors is your pre-pandemic roster. Reconnect with the professionals who pulled in the most attendance and were most beloved by your members.
Group fitness instructors view their profession as their passion and mission, so connecting with them requires respect and finesse. Reach out to your best instructors and remind them how much the students need and worship them. This is not merely playing to their ego; this is securing your club’s future and clients’ satisfaction.
You can also offer to pay your best and hardest working teachers more. Let them know it’s OK and even encourage them to keep their personal online training businesses, but ask them respectfully and honestly to return.
Continue Reading our Digital Magazine to learn more about finding ideal fitness instructors...
Sara Kooperman, JD, is CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION and S.E.A.T. Fitness. Kooperman won the 2022 Most Innovating Fitness Pro by Fitness Industry Technology Council and is an inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. She is also an esteemed panelist for IHRSA’s Talks & Takes Monthly Talk Show.
