Leadership Lessons from a Group Fitness Instructor

 I’ve always been into fitness, and one of the things I’ve come to love is ClassPass. It’s an app that allows you to try out different fitness studios without being tied to just one. Through this, I’ve experienced a variety of boutique fitness classes, and the leadership qualities I’ve observed from group fitness instructors have stuck with me. Here are some key lessons I’ve learned that apply not only to fitness but also to leadership in any organization.

Motivation and Inspiration Are Key

Whether in fitness or leadership, people expect their leaders to be motivating and inspiring. The best fitness instructors push you to go beyond what you thought you could achieve. Similarly, a good leader inspires their team to take on challenges that may seem impossible. It’s not about doing the work for them but creating the belief that they can achieve more than they thought possible.

Leaders Are Pace Setters

In both fitness classes and organizations, a leader sets the pace. A good fitness instructor lets you know where you are in the workout and what’s coming next, helping you mentally prepare for the challenge ahead. The same applies in the workplace—leaders must communicate clearly, set benchmarks, and establish timelines so their team knows what to expect and can maintain the momentum needed for success.

 Psychological Safety Matters

Creating psychological safety is crucial, whether it’s in a fitness class or the workplace. If people don’t feel safe or cared for, they’ll leave. In fitness, it’s often the instructor’s responsibility to create a welcoming environment where participants feel comfortable trying new things and pushing themselves. Similarly, leaders must foster a sense of safety so their teams can thrive. When employees feel neglected or unsupported, the cost of losing them can be significant.

People Crave Experiences

One of the biggest takeaways from my fitness journey is that people remember experiences, not just tasks. In the studios I’ve visited, they go out of their way to create an immersive experience—whether it’s dimmed lights in a cycling class, personalized notes for first-time participants, or lavender-scented towels after hot yoga. These little touches create a memorable atmosphere that keeps people coming back. The same principle applies to leadership. Successful leaders create experiences through celebrations, cultural rituals, and meaningful interactions that make people feel valued.

 Seamless Processes Matter

Another standout lesson is the importance of seamless processes. Many of the fitness studios I’ve visited have perfected their onboarding, from signing up to the in-person experience to follow-up. This reminds me of how essential it is in leadership to ensure that new employees are well onboarded. Are their computers set up? Do they have the software they need? A smooth start sets the tone for their success and engagement.

 Turning Customers into Advocates

Finally, one of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned is how fitness studios turn their customers into advocates. The culture these studios create extends beyond the staff to the participants themselves. Members become advocates of the brand, welcoming new participants and helping them feel at ease. As leaders, we should aim to create a culture where employees are not just passive participants but active promoters of the organization’s values and mission.

These leadership lessons from group fitness classes have been eye-opening. Whether you’re running a team or a business, these principles—motivation, pace-setting, psychological safety, creating experiences, seamless processes, and turning team members into advocates—are universal.