Wondering whether becoming an Exercise to Music (ETM) instructor is the right option for you? 

It’s one of the most popular ways for people to work out, thanks to high-energy music and a lively environment – but ETM instructors need to have certain personality traits and a willingness to learn skills vital for the job. 

In this guide, we’ll explore what ETM instructors do, how to get qualified, and whether it’s the right career move for your goals. 

What Do ETM Instructors Actually Do? 

ETM instructors plan and lead music-based group workouts. These workouts can take different forms, including strength training, step classes, aerobics, HIIT, and low-impact exercises. 

While some classes are for mixed abilities, others might focus on older adults, people with mobility issues, or children’s classes that encourage young people to get active. 

Daily Responsibilities of an ETM Instructor Include: 

• Structuring classes to match the tempo and beat of the music so each session includes a full workout.
• Providing clear instructions to a room of people, ensuring they can follow the moves quickly.
• Offering options for individuals with varying fitness levels, such as adapting lifts or complex moves.
• Maintaining health and safety at all times and identifying potential risks.

Many ETM instructors work in standard gyms, private health clubs, and leisure centres. Some instructors also choose to rent a space where they run regular classes.

How to Qualify as an ETM Instructor

To become a certified instructor, you’ll need a CIMSPA-endorsed Level 2 ETM qualification. 

When you study with The Fitness Circle, you gain a qualification that employers and clients recognise, giving you access to working in gyms, health centres, and as a freelance specialist.

You also won’t need prior qualifications, so anyone can embark on a new fitness career.

Is Teaching Group Exercise to Music Classes Right for You?

As a fitness instructor, music is probably a core part of your day, but ETM instructors need to know how to use it effectively. 

It’s not just about choosing songs you like; it’s about selecting songs for the right audience and making sure they match the class tempo.

Here are some signs that an ETM career is a good move:

You Love Music

If you find yourself noticing the beats in a song and love working out to music, you probably already have a natural affinity for an ETM career.

You’re a Confident Person

Success as a group instructor requires confidence. You’ll need to speak clearly to the group and lead from the front. Many ETM instructors find that their confidence grows with practice.

You Enjoy Being Creative

When you’re an ETM instructor, your role involves designing workouts that fit the music. For example, you can use your aerobics instructor qualification, integrate strength training, or use HIIT workouts.

However, people keep coming back to classes when the sessions are interesting, so you’ll need to incorporate different moves and music.

You’re OK With Shift Work

Exercise-to-music instructors rarely have a 9-5 job, since many people attend classes in the evening and on weekends. If you’re not OK with working different hours, then you may want to find another job.

How Much Does an ETM Instructor Earn?

The amount you earn as an ETM instructor depends on your experience, location, and contract. 

For example, many instructors work as both Level 2 Gym Instructors and ETM instructors, which means they have a full-time salary which can range between £20,000 and £30,000 a year.

Hourly rates can range from £14 to £30 according to Total Jobs.

Career Progression Options 

While some ETM instructors focus solely on teaching group classes, others diversify their skills and move into different career paths. 

Here are some options available: 

Personal Trainer 

Investing in a Level 3 PT qualification gives you access to advanced career opportunities. You’ll be able to work with individual clients, helping them reach their fitness goals. 

Some PTs work with general clients, while others specialise in professional athletes, older adults, or people with obesity-related health issues. 

Trademarked Qualifications 

As a qualified fitness instructor, music is only part of the job. You’ll sometimes find that you prefer teaching certain moves or using class formats that determine your future career options. 

For example, some ETM instructors love indoor cycling and become official spinning instructors, while others might want to explore Zumba qualifications. 

Self-Employment 

Freelancing can be ideal if you enjoy flexibility, but there’s also the opportunity to start your own business where you rent a studio and run group classes. 

Or, if you invest in further training, you can combine your ETM knowledge with nutrition and other principles to run bootcamps. 

Should You Become An ETM Instructor?

If you genuinely appreciate music and love helping people to remain active, then becoming an ETM instructor can be an excellent career move.

Once you earn your Level 2 ETM certification, you can teach classes and find work at a gym or health club. 

And if you decide to diversify your skills later on, there are plenty of courses available at The Fitness Circle. When you study with us, you can benefit from affordable courses that come with flexible payment options. 

Each course is 100% online and comes with ongoing tutor support. If you’d like to explore our courses or need advice, please book a free call today.