Group Exercise Leader – GEL

Join the thousands of passionate individuals who have made their start with the GEL Skill Set—and start changing lives (including your own).

$499.00

Group Exercise Leader – Course Overview

Start your journey into the fitness industry with the SISS00128 Group Exercise Leader (GEL) Skill Set. This nationally recognised qualification provides you with the skills and confidence to lead pre-designed group exercise sessions, opening the door to flexible work opportunities in gyms, studios, and community settings.

Unlike full fitness qualifications, the GEL Skill Set is a fast, accessible entry point. You’ll learn how to deliver structured group classes that follow set formats and choreography — such as Les Mills, Body Pump, Zumba, and other branded programs — ensuring participants enjoy safe, effective, and engaging workouts.

This qualification is ideal if you’re looking to:
– Supplement your income with casual or part-time group instructing,
– Step confidently into the fitness industry before progressing into Certificate III in Fitness, or
– Build leadership skills while being supported with predesigned session content.

With this course, you won’t be expected to design programs yourself — instead, you’ll focus on delivering high-quality classes with energy, safety, and motivation.
Our flexible online study options make it easy to learn at your own pace, while practical support from experienced trainers ensures you’ll be ready to take charge of a group fitness class. Whether you’re aiming for a side hustle or the first step in a fitness career, the GEL Skill Set provides the perfect starting point.

Course Curriculum

SISFFIT036: Instruct group exercise sessions.
BSBOPS304: Deliver and monitor a service to customers.
HLTWHS001: Participate in workplace health and safety.
HLTAID011: Provide First Aid.

What You'll Learn

This course teaches the essential skills required to:
- Safely lead predesigned group exercise classes
- Monitor participant technique and engagement
- Deliver great customer experiences in controlled fitness environments
- Make a safe, efficient and profitable start in the fitness industry

Apply basic first aid and manage risk.

You do not need a First Aid or CPR Certificate to commence the course, however you are required to provide a current First Aid and CPR certificate prior to receiving course certification.

GROUP EXERCISE LEADER

Career Pathway

Group Exercise Leader – Start Your Journey

Upon completion, you’ll be qualified to lead pre-designed group exercise classes in gyms, studios, community centres, and outdoor fitness spaces. This is your entry point into the fitness industry, giving you the skills to inspire and motivate participants in a safe, supportive environment.

Specialised Opportunities

Group Exercise Leader – Work with Diverse Groups

With your GEL qualification, you’ll be equipped to lead sessions across a variety of programs — from high-energy branded classes like Les Mills and Zumba to tailored programs for older adults, aged care, and community wellness initiatives. Meet the growing demand for qualified instructors across Australia.

Career
Opportunities

The Essential Starting Point for a Side Hustle or Career in Group Fitness

Group Fitness Leaders play a vital role in improving physical wellbeing, and creating inclusive, motivating healthy environments for all ages and abilities.

They often work across multiple settings—gyms, studios, community centres, aged care, and rehabilitation facilities—typically in flexible, casual, or part-time roles.

This nationally recognised GEL qualification is the minimum entry requirement to deliver group exercise sessions in supported environments.

NOTE: You will be require to upgrade to a full Cert III when and if you choose to develop and deliver your own group fitness programs outside of a supported environment.

Established 2003

Backed by 22+ years of trusted industry education and support.

At the Academy of Fitness (AOF), we offer nationally accredited fitness courses—backed by a passionate support team at every stage.
Over 22+ years, we’ve helped thousands kickstart fast, flexible careers in fitness—many through group training.
Enrolment gives you access to expert educators, active personal trainers, and a committed student support team.
Our flexible online platform includes responsive professional support—so you’re never studying alone.
Flexible practical assessment options, including online, industry mentorship and face to face

Course Curriculum

Nationally Accredited – Group Exercise Leader.

Delivery

Complete your theory work online – anytime.
Work from the comfort of your own home.
Complete your practical assessment online by video submission, using a validated industry mentor or attending a fun and rewarding face to face workshop.

Payment Options

Interest-free payment plan.
Upfront payment.

Course Length

Self-paced study.
Up to 6 months.
Most complete within 6 – 12 weeks

Eligibility

Over 16 years of age
Australian or NZ Resident

Study Online

Discover how to confidently guide predesigned group exercise classes that are fun, inclusive, and designed to improve overall health—especially for adults looking to stay active as they age.

Key Benefits:

Develop the skills to adjust exercises for different fitness levels and physical needs
Build stronger communities by promoting connection through group movement
Deliver safe, effective training for common mobility and posture challenges
Step into a growing opportunity as a valued group fitness leader for older adults

Self Paced Study

Start your fitness career fast by learning to instruct group exercise classes designed for mature adults—where motivation meets movement, and your leadership makes a lasting impact on lives and longevity.

Key Benefits:

Deliver structured, predesigned programs that meet mature adult fitness needs
Understand how to manage group safety, progression, and participation
Build confidence in communicating clearly and inclusively with older clients
Qualify for work in community centres, wellness programs, and aged care settings

Entry Requirements – Group Exercise Leader (GEL)

+16 years of age & Australian or New Zealand Resident

What you'll need

There are no formal prerequisites for this course.
Students should have a reasonable level of personal fitness, as you’ll be actively participating in group exercise sessions during training.
You’ll need access to a fitness facility, studio, or community environment for the practical components of the course.
Minimum age is typically 16–17 years, with parental or guardian consent if under 18.

Why more students choose AOF

Ready to start your side hustle or career in the fitness industry?

Testimonials

Ours students mean the world to us and we sincerely appreciate the amazing testimonials and reviews we receive.

I want to express my genuine appreciation for the outstanding support and training provided by the college. The training itself is clear, practical, and of a very high standard. Despite being an online course, the Academy has created a learning environment that feels personal, engaging, and highly supportive. I'm truly grateful to be part of a college that values quality education and puts students first. Thank you for making my learning journey so smooth and motivating!

As a student of Academy of fitness, I enjoyed my time studying with them. It challenged my thinking but honestly grew me into a better version of myself, I am now set for my career and I am incredibly grateful for the fact I got to do this course at a young age and got the support to help me succeed. couldn’t recommend this course more!!!

I just completed my Cert 3 in Personal Training. I couldn't recommend a better company to do this with! All the staff have been so helpful throughout my experience and always quick to mark and help you with any queries. I want to say a big thank you to Di, who always responded quickly to needs and emails. thankyou Academy of Fitness, for all your help and for getting me accredited.

Di, coachGrazy, and the team have been incredibly supportive every step of the way. Anytime I had questions, I’d reach out and always receive prompt and helpful responses. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience is well structured, making the learning process engaging and effective. Attending the practical workshops was a game changer! It boosted my confidence and gave me the motivation to push forward in my studies. The flexibility of studying at my own pace has been a huge advantage, allowing me to balance learning with my other commitments. I’m really glad I chose this course, and I’ve already recommended it to others looking to become qualified PTs. Thank you for being a big part of my journey.

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