What to Expect at a Group Fitness Audition

So, you’ve landed an interview with a local fitness studio or gym and now they’ve asked you to come in for an audition. Whether it’s your first or your first in quite some time, it can calm your nerves to know what the process is like. Here’s what you can expect at a group fitness audition.

First Up: The Demo

In the world of group fitness, an audition is your opportunity to show the general manager and fitness director what you can bring to the class setting. That means, they will ask you to lead a mini demo class, which will likely include.

• A brief introduction
• A warm-up
• A main block of exercises
• A cool down

Know that you will likely be auditioning in a room alone with the people evaluating you, but some larger fitness centers like to host group auditions where you are required to participate as students for the other instructors while you await your turn to teach. I love group auditions because it’s much easier to teach to a room with energetic people rather than to imaginary students. The exact exercises/choreography you teach will be based on the format you are being hired for.

Second Level Criteria: Proficiency

Anyone can memorize a sequence of exercises, but what your assessors are looking for during a group fitness audition are:

• Aligned movements a.k.a. good form and technique in your physical demonstrations.
• Strong, efficient verbal cues that guide students from one exercise to the next smoothly and safely.
• The ability to offer options for modifications when needed and corrections for students whose form and technique are off.
• Smooth transitions from one section to the next, without a ton of note checking or stammering.

These elements show off your experience and expertise, which they know is key to helping students feel safe in the classroom.

Final Level: Energy

Last, but certainly not least, group fitness instructors are expected to bring a positive, vibrant spirit to every class they teach. GMs want people people on their teams who will make students feel like they had an amazing experience, even if the workout was hard! Bring a TON of energy to the table during your audition and, as long as the other elements are in place, you are sure to blow them away.

If you need more help crushing your audition, check out my blog titled: How to Rock Your Group Fitness Audition. And just remember, if you’re super new, it may take a handful of auditions before a studio gives you a chance to work for them. Don’t take it personally. Just refine your routine for the next audition and try again.

Good luck!

Nadia

PS – If any of these tips helped you rock your audition, I’d love to know! Leave a note in the comments below 🙂 Also, follow me on Instagram.