Teaching Tips for Group Fitness Instructors – How to Maximize Engagement

 Teaching Tips for Group Fitness Instructors – How to Maximize Engagement (Ep 2)

 In this week's episode, we talk about something that’s at the heart of group fitness success: engagement.

January is such an exciting time. New faces, packed rooms, and lots of energy. But as instructors, we know that getting people in the door is only half the battle. The real magic is in keeping them coming back. How do we turn those first-time attendees into loyal fans?

That’s what we’re diving into today—how to engage with your participants in a meaningful way, keep their energy high, and create the kind of classes people rave about. And of course, we’ll approach this with a weight-neutral lens—because at the end of the day, it’s about celebrating movement and creating a positive space for everyone.

So, whether you’re a seasoned instructor or just starting out, stick with me for the next 20 minutes as we explore some practical ways to connect with your participants and make your classes the highlight of their week. Let’s get started!

1: Create a Welcoming Environment 

Let’s start with the very first thing participants notice: the vibe of your class. From the moment they walk in, people should feel welcomed and included.

A simple, powerful way to do this is by learning names. I know it can be tricky when you’ve got a full class, but even just greeting a few people by name each week can make a world of difference. For example, I had a participant named Lisa who came to her very first barre class in January last year. After the workout, I made a point to say, “Great job, Lisa! I hope to see you again next week.” Not only did she come back, but she brought a friend—and now they’re both regulars!

Another tip: Make your space feel safe and judgment-free. Avoid comments like, “This move will burn off all those holiday treats!” Instead, frame things positively, like, “This move is great for building strength and stability!” That shift in language sets the tone that your class is about feeling good, not punishment or shame.

2: Foster Connection Through Movement 

Next, let’s talk about creating connection—both between you and your participants and among the participants themselves. One way to do this is by encouraging interaction.

For example, if you’re leading a bounce class, you can say something like, “Turn to your neighbor and give them a quick high-five—we’re in this together!” Little moments like that build community and make the class feel more personal.

Another idea is to use inclusive cues that invite everyone to participate at their level. For instance, instead of saying, “If you’re advanced, you can add this,” try, “Here’s an option to level up, and here’s a great option if you’re feeling it more low-key today.” This approach helps everyone feel successful and included, regardless of their fitness level.

3: Keep Energy High with Music and Motivation

Music is such a game-changer when it comes to energy. A well-curated playlist can set the tone and keep participants engaged from start to finish. Think about songs that match the intensity of the workout and include tracks that people can’t help but move to.

Here’s a quick tip: Ask your participants for song suggestions! Not only does this show that you value their input, but it also creates a sense of ownership and excitement. For example, last January, I had a participant suggest a Lizzo song for our dance class. When I played it the next week, the energy was through the roof.

And don’t forget the power of encouragement. Phrases like, “You’re doing amazing—just keep moving!” or “Take a moment to notice how strong you feel right now,” can go a long way in keeping people motivated and present in the moment.

4: Build Loyalty with Follow-Up 

Finally, let’s talk about what happens after class. Following up with your participants is a fantastic way to build loyalty.

For example, if someone mentions they’re new, send them a quick follow-up message through your studio’s platform or social media. Something like, “It was great seeing you in class today! I hope you had fun, and I’d love to see you again soon.” That little touchpoint can turn a one-time visit into a long-term connection.

You can also create loyalty through community. Host a fun event, like a post-class coffee meetup or a challenge that encourages consistency. I’ve seen this work wonders in January when people are already motivated to build new habits.

So, there you have it—four ways to maximize engagement in your group fitness classes:

1. Create a welcoming environment.
2. Foster connection through movement.
3. Keep energy high with music and motivation.
4. Build loyalty with follow-up.

Remember, it’s not about having the fanciest moves or the most intense playlist—it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, supported, and excited to come back.

If you found today’s episode helpful, I’d love for you to do three things:

1. Leave a review—it helps other instructors find the podcast.
2. Share your thoughts—tag me on social media and let me know how you’re engaging your participants.
3. Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Thank you so much for tuning in, and here’s to a January full of packed classes and happy participants. Keep doing the amazing work you do, and I’ll see you in the next episode!