Instructor Jobs in Illinois
A Fitness Instructor, also known as a Fitness Trainer, serves a pivotal role in the fitness and recreation industry through facilitating exercise routines and advising clients on health and nutrition. They design and lead fitness programs tailored to individual or group needs, ensuring proper exercise techniques, equipment use, and safety. Fitness instructors also motivate clients to achieve their fitness goals, provide feedback, and adjust fitness plans as needed. They may work in various settings such as gyms, fitness studios, or clients' homes. A fitness instructor should be physically fit, have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and possess a deep understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
A Fitness Instructor should ideally have a certification in personal training or a related field from a recognized organization like the American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), or International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). Some may even have specialized certifications for specific types of training, such as yoga or pilates. First aid and CPR certifications are also crucial for fitness trainers, as they may need to handle emergency situations during training sessions. Prior to becoming a Fitness Instructor, a person might work as an Exercise Instructor, Fitness Assistant, or even a Sports Coach, roles that provide valuable experience and knowledge in physical training and client interaction.

- Avondale Pilates
- Chicago, IL
- 1 day ago
- Avondale Pilates
- Chicago, IL
- 1 day ago
Overview: We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Reformer Pilates Instructor to join our boutique fitness studio....
Summer Sports Camp Instructor- Both Basketball and Soccer
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
POSITION SUMMARY: A Sports Instructor is responsible as part of the clinic staff team for the set-up, take-down, site supervision, safety and welfare of the youth and spectators making sure that all...
Must demonstrate swim instructor skills in accordance with YMCA of Springfield standards. 4. Ability to learn quickly. 5....
Land/Water Group Exercise Instructor (Springfield and Lincoln Locations)
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
Exercise Instructors!...
Job Description: Assistant Cheerleading Coach (PT) Part-time Support Staff Sugar Grove Campus Join our dynamic team at Waubonsee Community College, where your career can flourish. Be part of a...
Cycling Instructor Pedaling for Parkinson's (Land/Water Group Exercise Instructor)
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
- Springfield, IL
- 9 hours ago
If not currently certified, must obtain a National Certification or the YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise Certification within 1 year of employment. 3) At least one year of experience teaching group...
Position Type: Aquatics/ Swim Instructor (Training Provided!)...
Silver Sneakers/Chair Yoga Group Fitness Instructor
- Homewood, IL
- 18 hours ago
- Homewood, IL
- 18 hours ago
The Instructor will keep the Fitness Operations Supervisor informed of all problems and concerns....
Position Requirements Responsibilities: Instruct a variety of group exercise classes. Knowledge of fitness equipment and exercises. Maintain all mandatory education certifications....
Kids Instructors may also host parties and other events....
Ideally, you would be a former dance instructor. However, if you ar an Advanced Tango Follower or Silver Level Ballroom, than you can do this job....
Position Type: Athletic Coach/ Flag Football Date Posted: 8/12/2025 Location: Streamwood High School Date Available: 08/12/2025 Closing Date: Until Filled    Position / Title: High School...
Position Type: Athletic Coach/ Swimming Date Posted: 8/11/2025 Location: Larkin High School Date Available: ASAP Closing Date: Until Filled    Position / Title: High School Assistant Coach...
Ability to independently plan and lead group exercise routines. Must be dependable, professional, and enthusiastic. Capable of maintaining confidentiality and using discretion....
Attachment(s): Certified Pilates Instructor 8.19.2025.pdf...
Demographic Data for Illinois
Moving to Illinois? Find some basic demographic data about Illinois below.
Instructor Online Courses and Training Opportunities
Salary for Instructor Jobs in Illinois
Required or preferred licenses and certifications for Instructor positions.
Highest Education Level
Instructors in Illinois offer the following education backgroundQualifications / Skill Sets
The following top skills are often required or desired to land a Instructor position
- Group Exercise
- Athletics
- Swimming
- Basketball
- Group Training
- Aquatics
- Exercise
- High Intensity Interval Training
- Flag Football
- Zumba
- Choreography
- Football
- Ballet
- Gymnastics
- Kickboxing
- Cheerleading
- Baseball
- Tennis
- Soccer
- Weight Training
- Volleyball
- Pilates
- Lacrosse
- Dance
- Fitness
- Program Design
- Instructing
- Yoga
- Automated External Defibrillator
- Music
- First Aid
- Personal Training
- Wellness
- Curriculum Development
- Computer Programming
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
- Events
- Coaching
- High School Diploma
- Teaching
- Policy Development
- Regulations
- Staff Supervision
- Organization
- Customer Service
- Scheduling
- Leadership
- Communication Skills
Other Career Titles
Here are some other career titles that require similar skills
Instructor Related Career Advice Articles

9 Essential Skills for a Successful Fitness Instructor Career
Discover the essential skills and qualities needed for a successful fitness instructor career, from communication and creativity to adaptability and empathy.
Read article »