"I have always been interested in fitness. I played several sports in high school, but never anything that I thought I would do in college. I just really had a love of working out, being fit, and learning everything I could about health and fitness. But what really sparked my interest was helping friends with their fitness goals. I realized that people could succeed with my advice and training. Before I knew it, I had a list of clients that I began training regularly. This career path started with just a passion for all things health. Now, I show up daily to help others reach their fitness goals."

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Job Description

SOC Code: 39-9031

Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors instruct or coach groups or individuals in exercise activities for the primary purpose of personal fitness. Demonstrate techniques and form, observe participants, and explain to them corrective measures necessary to improve their skills. Develop and implement individualized approaches to exercise.*

*Source: This information is based on O*NET™ data. O*NET is a trademark registered to the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

Top Job Skills:

• Customer service
• Fitness assessments
• Risk management
• Knowledge of anatomy
• General maintenance

General Work Activities:

• Mental Processes
  • Evaluate capabilities or training needs
  • Develop educational or training programs
• Interacting With Others
  • Explain regulations, policies, or procedures
  • Demonstrate activity techniques or equipment use
  • Administer first aid
  • Teach health or hygiene practices
  • Maintain supply or equipment inventories
  • Organize recreational activities or events
  • Promote products, services, or programs
• Work Output
  • Enforce rules or regulations
  • Perform basic equipment maintenance
  • Maintain client information or service records

Source: SC Works Online Services (SCWOS)

*All data is factual, but names, Images, and quotations have been adapted to protect the Identity of employees and businesses.

Job Statistics

 

Examples of Workforce Areas with Job Openings

• Catawba
• Trident
• Greenville
• Midlands
• Pee Dee
• Lowcountry

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area.

Examples of Employers with Job Openings

• YMCA of Upper Palmetto
• Gold's Gym International, Inc.
• 9Round Fitness
• McLeod Health
• OneLife Fitness
• Planet Fitness

Source: SC Works Online Services. Ask an SC Works representative for more information about postings in your area

Related Occupations

• Coaches and Scouts
• Exercise Physiologists
• Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
• Recreational Therapists
• Self-Enrichment Teachers
• Physical Therapist Aides

NOTE: All data based on state averages. Information may vary depending on region, experience, and specific employment situation. Last Updated: 2025

Learn More with SCWOS

SC Works Online Services (SCWOS) is the state’s largest job database and provides all of South Carolina's job postings from all major sites, including Monster and Career Builder, in one resource. SCWOS has thousands of positions listed by employers all over the state. To access SCWOS, visit jobs.scworks.org.

Find in-depth breakdowns of occupational statistics such as necessary job certifications, job skills and abilities, current job openings, overview of general work activities, and more by visiting O*NET.org.