An insightful new report from Group Fitness Leaders reveals what may be holding back future fitness trainers
Today’s young fitness enthusiasts who log hours in the gym and linger in the protein powder aisle may one day become top group fitness instructors, but Les Mills warns: While guidance is lacking, solutions exist.
That’s the theme of International Group Fitness Leaders’ landmark report, “Developing the Next Generation: A Blueprint for Instructor Recruitment,” which is filled with insights from 2,500 young people interested in working in the fitness industry.
Positive Fitness Career Outlook
In fact, the job market for emerging fitness instructors and trainers is hot, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects that job prospects in the fitness training field will grow 14% through 2033—much faster than the average for all other occupations.
This assessment isn’t entirely surprising given the overall interest and passion for health and fitness among Gen Z. However, Les Mills’ report delves deeper into what motivates future trainers and offers insights for fitness operators on how to attract and retain the next generation of talent.
According to Les Mills, nearly 73% of the next generation of fitness prospects are current gym members, more than half (60%) participate in group training, and nearly half (49%) attend weekly.
However, making the transition from fitness consumer to trainer can be tricky. Les Mills’ report aims to provide valuable insights and solutions to help fitness enthusiasts become the professionals who will drive club profitability in the future.
From member to mentor
Phillip Mills, managing director of Les Mills, said: “A key driver of the industry’s recovery post-pandemic will be the ability of operators to attract younger members to their facilities, but there are still huge opportunities for growth and this report aims to help clubs unlock those opportunities.”
He noted that the boom in on-site fitness shows that fitness is still a “people-oriented business” and that celebrity trainers are the backbone of a health club’s success.
Mills added: “The strongest coaching staff is a solid mix of young and experienced quality coaches, so developing new talent through the guidance of the main coaches is a foolproof strategy for the club’s continued success.”
The report is available for download via the Les Mills Insight Hub here.
Group fitness leaders also create a Interactive Gamified Quiz So health clubs can see if they are on track and identify where they need help.
