The Fit Pro Show

Are you looking to take your group fitness career to the next level? Whether you're just starting out or aiming for leadership roles, this episode is packed with insider tips from industry expert Nicole Petitto! Nicole, the Director of Franchise Learning & Development at Pvolve, brings over 20 years of experience in talent development, programming, and mentorship. In this episode, we dive into: ✅ How to rise through the ranks from participant to instructor to leadership ✅ The #1 mistake instructors make in auditions—and how to stand out ✅ Exploring new career paths in group fitness beyond teaching ✅ The power of mentorship—why you need one and how to find the right fit Whether you're prepping for an audition, looking for more opportunities, or just feeling stuck in your career, this episode has the insights and motivation you need! 🎙️ Tune in now, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Fit Pro Show! Resources & Links Mentioned: 📌 Connect with Nicole Petitto & Pvolve Pvolve Website: www.pvolve.com Nicole on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/nicolepetitto Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolepetitto   

🚀 Teaching multiple class formats can be exciting and rewarding—but it can also lead to burnout if you’re not careful. In this episode, we’re diving into how to diversify your class offerings while maintaining balance and avoiding overcommitment. Whether you're teaching strength, dance, yoga, or HIIT, these strategies will help you sustain your energy, keep your classes fresh, and avoid exhaustion. You'll learn: ✅ How to structure your schedule to avoid overuse injuries and fatigue ✅ Ways to balance different class formats while keeping your energy up ✅ How to prioritize recovery and movement that supports you ✅ Why setting boundaries with your schedule is crucial for longevity 🎧 Tune in now to learn how to expand your teaching without burning out! 💡 Resources & Links Mentioned:   🎙 Love this episode? 👉 Subscribe & leave a review to help more fit pros find the show! 👉 Share this episode with a fellow instructor who teaches multiple formats! 🔥 Stay tuned for next week’s episode where I talk with Nicole Pettito from Pvolve.  

Ever found yourself in the middle of teaching and suddenly drawing a blank on your next move? Or maybe you’ve memorized your choreography so well that it starts to feel robotic? In this episode of The Fit Pro Show, we’re diving into the art of remembering class content while staying flexible and adaptable to your participants' needs. You’ll learn: ✅ Why memorization matters—but why rigidly sticking to a plan can hold you back ✅ How to strike the balance between structure and adaptability for a better class experience ✅ Practical memory hacks to help you retain choreography without stress ✅ How to avoid sounding robotic while still delivering a well-prepared class ✅ Strategies for adjusting in the moment when things don’t go as planned Whether you struggle with forgetting your sequences or feel stuck in a rigid routine, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you teach with confidence, presence, and flow. 🎧 Tune in now and never worry about blanking on your choreography again!

How you end your fitness class is just as important as how you start! In this episode, we’re diving into the strategies that help group fitness instructors wrap up their classes in a way that leaves a lasting impression. From effective cool-downs to reinforcing key takeaways, celebrating progress, and fostering community, learn how to create class endings that keep participants engaged and eager to return. A strong class closing isn’t just about a quick stretch and a wave goodbye—it’s an opportunity to solidify connections, reinforce key messages, and ensure participants leave feeling accomplished. In this episode, we’ll explore: 🔹 Why your class ending matters and how it impacts participant retention. 🔹 The key elements of a great end to class, including intentional cool-downs, words of encouragement, and community building. 🔹 How to reinforce progress and celebrate wins—no matter how small. 🔹 The importance of gratitude and acknowledgment to foster a positive class culture. 🔹 How to invite participants back for more without feeling pushy. By making a few small tweaks to your class endings, you can create a more memorable experience that keeps participants engaged and coming back. Tune in for actionable tips you can apply right away! 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the show? Leave a review and let me know what topics you’d like to hear next!          

First impressions matter, especially in group fitness! The way you start your class sets the tone for the entire experience, impacting energy levels, engagement, and retention. In this episode, we dive into why your introduction is one of the most important parts of your class and how to make it impactful. You'll learn:✅ The key elements of a strong class introduction✅ How to build connection and trust from the start✅ Ways to boost engagement and make participants feel welcome✅ Real-life examples of great (and not-so-great) intros✅ Simple tweaks that can transform the way you kick off class Whether you're a new instructor or a seasoned pro looking to refine your skills, these strategies will help you start every class with confidence and purpose. Tune in to learn how a great intro can lead to a great class—and keep your participants coming back for more! 🎧 Listen now and let’s level up your introductions! 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow instructors. Your support helps keep The Fit Pro Show going strong!

🔥 Feeling overwhelmed as a fitness pro? Jessica Maurer joins us to talk about the mental wellness shift in fitness, how to create career longevity, and mindset shifts that reignite your passion.  The fitness industry is evolving—and if you want a sustainable, fulfilling career, mindset and strategy are everything. In this episode, Jessica Maurer, a leading fitness business consultant, joins us to discuss: ✅ The mental wellness renaissance and why it’s transforming fitness✅ How to avoid burnout and build a long-term career in the industry✅ Mindset shifts that can reignite your passion and confidence✅ Overcoming impostor syndrome when growing your career✅ How to future-proof your business in an ever-changing industry Jessica shares actionable tips for fitness professionals, instructors, and business owners who want to thrive without sacrificing their well-being. If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, this episode will help you rediscover joy in your work and set you up for long-term success. 🎧 Tune in now! And don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow fitness pro who needs to hear it! Website Instagram The Mental Well-being Certification for Fitness Professionals -   Enjoy 40% off with code: JHM

No matter how experienced you are as a fitness instructor, negative feedback is inevitable. But instead of letting it discourage you, what if you could use it to become an even better leader? In this episode, we break down how to handle criticism without taking it personally, how to distinguish constructive feedback from unhelpful opinions, and how to respond professionally while maintaining your confidence. We’ll cover:✔ Why feedback feels so personal—and how to shift your mindset✔ How to filter useful feedback from noise✔ Professional and respectful ways to respond to criticism✔ Real-life instructor experiences with feedback (both good and bad!)✔ Actionable steps to turn feedback into growth Whether you’ve received tough comments recently or just want to be prepared for the future, this episode will give you the tools to handle feedback with confidence and grace. Tune in, take notes, and let’s grow together! Rep Jasmine Crockett on DEI

As a group fitness instructor, you’re bound to encounter participants who challenge your patience—whether they’re talking through your cues, ignoring safety guidelines, or bringing negative energy into the room. But how you handle these situations can make or break your class atmosphere. In this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies for dealing with difficult participants while maintaining an inclusive and supportive environment. You’ll learn how to address disruptions, set clear expectations, and foster a positive community—without resorting to shame or frustration. Show Notes: In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✔️ How to set expectations early to prevent disruptions✔️ Strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in a professional and inclusive way✔️ When (and how) to have one-on-one conversations with participants✔️ How to create a welcoming environment that minimizes conflict✔️ The importance of leading with empathy while maintaining boundaries Key Takeaways: Setting the tone before class helps prevent most issues before they start. Address disruptions quickly but professionally to maintain class flow. Some participants may not realize their behavior is distracting—giving them the benefit of the doubt can help. Private conversations are more effective than public callouts when addressing repeated issues. Creating a strong class culture makes it easier to navigate difficult situations. Resources & Next Steps:✨ Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review and share your biggest takeaway!✨ Want more strategies? Subscribe to The Fit Pro Show for weekly tips and expert insights.✨ Connect with me on Social Media and let’s keep the conversation going! By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only manage challenging participants more effectively but also create a class culture that keeps people coming back. Let’s build stronger, more supportive fitness communities together! 🎧💪 Learn more about programs with FitProEd  

Keeping Your Classes Fresh: Tips for Creative and Engaging Workouts Welcome to The Fit Pro Show! In this episode, we’re diving into something that most instructors face: keeping your classes fresh, creative, and exciting so participants stay engaged and keep coming back. Whether you’re struggling to mix things up or just need a spark of inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable tips to elevate your teaching. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Power of Planning: Why planning ahead is crucial and how to incorporate themes or seasonal ideas to add variety. Music Matters: The impact of a killer playlist and how to curate music that motivates and energizes your participants. Borrowing from Other Modalities: How stepping outside your comfort zone and incorporating elements from other fitness formats can breathe new life into your classes. Participant-Driven Inspiration: How to listen to your participants’ feedback and preferences to create workouts they’ll love. The Role of Co-Teaching (Bonus Tip!): How teaming up with a fellow instructor can introduce fresh ideas and demonstrate community support. Key Takeaways: Fresh content doesn’t just happen—it’s a result of thoughtful planning and intentional creativity. Music can transform the energy and experience of your class. Use it to set the tone and drive movement. Incorporating elements from other fitness modalities challenges both you and your participants while keeping things fresh. Listening to your participants and involving them in the creative process builds loyalty and keeps them coming back. Co-teaching with another instructor not only introduces new styles but also fosters collaboration and connection within your community. Action Steps: Try planning a themed class for next month and build your playlist around the theme. Attend a class in a different modality this week, take notes, and brainstorm ways to incorporate something you learned into your own teaching. Reach out to a fellow instructor and explore the possibility of co-teaching a class together. Let’s work together to keep our classes innovative, fun, and impactful!   If you found this episode helpful, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Don’t forget to subscribe to the show, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow instructors who might need a little inspiration. Let’s make fitness fun, inclusive, and fresh together! 🎧

Welcome to the very first episode of The Fit Pro Show! I’m Christine Defilippis, a 30-year veteran in the fitness industry and I’m excited to be launching this brand new podcast for group fitness instructors. If you’re a group fitness instructor or thinking about becoming one, this podcast is designed just for you. In this first episode, I share my background, why I started this podcast, and what you can look forward to learning on this show. One of the biggest reasons why I started this show was to help with instructor burnout. Did you know that the turnover rate for fitness professionals is alarmingly high. Many instructors burn out within just a few years of starting. According to a 2021 report, over 40% of fitness instructors consider leaving the industry within their first five years due to burnout, lack of support, or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of the job. This is exactly why I created The Fit Pro Show—to provide the support, tools, and insights that can help you not just survive but thrive in this profession. We’ll explore ways to prevent burnout, maintain your passion, and find the balance you need to sustain a long, rewarding career in fitness. Let’s talk about one of the realities of this job: We are not perfect, and we are going to have off days. There will be times when you feel like your class didn’t go as planned, or maybe you’ve faced a problematic participant who disrupted the flow. It’s important to remember that these moments don’t define you as an instructor. They’re opportunities for growth. In upcoming episodes, we’ll discuss how to handle those tough classes, manage difficult participants with grace, and bounce back stronger. I’ll share strategies for recovering from a bad class and stories from my own experiences. Spoiler alert: I’ve had my fair share of rough classes too! Another challenge we face is dealing with injuries—both our own and those of our participants. It’s crucial to know how to keep going after an injury, how to modify classes when needed, and how to support participants dealing with their own physical limitations. We’ll cover these topics to ensure you’re equipped to handle whatever comes your way. So, what else can you expect from this podcast? Each week, I’ll bring you solo episodes packed with practical tips and lessons I’ve learned throughout my career. We’ll cover topics like creating engaging class content, building a supportive community, staying motivated, and continuously improving your teaching skills. We’ll also dive into the importance of self-care and how to maintain your mental and physical well-being. In addition, I’ll be bringing in seasoned fitness professionals for interviews. They’ll share what’s working in their careers, what’s not, best practices, and advice on next steps for growth. One of the episodes I’m really looking forward to is about building a class environment that is inclusive and welcoming to all participants, regardless of their fitness level or background. We’ll also tackle how to stay fresh with your content so your classes never feel stale and your participants keep coming back for more. I’m so excited to embark on this journey with you. Whether you’re here to refine your skills, find inspiration, or connect with a community of like-minded fitness professionals, The Fit Pro Show is here to support you every step of the way. So, be sure to subscribe to the show, and if you enjoy what you hear, leave a review and share your thoughts. I’d love to know what challenges you’re facing and what topics you’d like us to cover. Together, we can build a thriving fitness community where we lift each other up and continue to grow. Thank you for joining me on this first episode. I can’t wait to dive deeper in the coming weeks. Until next time, keep leading with passion, stay inspired, and let’s make a greater impact together.  

 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: Create a welcoming environment. Foster connection through movement. Keep energy high with music and motivation. 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: Leave a review—it helps other instructors find the podcast. Share your thoughts—tag me on social media and let me know how you’re engaging your participants. 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!  

From Good to Great: Developing Your Signature Style as an Instructor - Ep 3   Welcome back to The Fit Pro Show! Today we’re diving into an exciting topic: how to go from a good instructor to a great one by developing your signature style. Whether you’re just starting out or you've been teaching for years, this episode will help you stand out and build a loyal following. Let’s face it: the fitness industry is competitive. With so many classes and instructors out there, it’s crucial to develop a unique style that sets you apart. So, how do you do that? Today, I’ll share tangible action items that you can put into practice immediately to define and refine your unique teaching style. 1. Embrace Your Authentic PersonalityFirst things first, embrace your authentic personality. Your unique traits and quirks are what will make your classes memorable. Are you naturally energetic and bubbly? Or perhaps calm and grounded? Lean into these traits and let them shine through in your teaching. Example:I know an instructor, Sarah, who is incredibly upbeat and energetic. She uses this energy to create a high-energy, fun atmosphere in her dance classes. Her participants love it because they know they’ll leave feeling uplifted and energized. Action Item:Take a moment to reflect on what makes you, you. What kind of energy do you naturally bring into a room? Write down three adjectives that describe your personality and think about how you can amplify these in your classes. 2. Develop a Signature Move or CueNext, consider developing a signature move or cue that participants will come to associate with you. This can be a specific way you transition between exercises, a motivational phrase you always use, or even a particular exercise variation you’re known for. Example:One instructor I know, Alex, has a signature phrase he uses when the class is about to tackle a tough move: "Let’s conquer this together!" His participants find it motivating, and it’s become a staple of his brand. Action Item:Think about something unique you can bring to every class—a move, a phrase, or even a hand signal. Try it out for a few weeks and see how your participants respond. 3. Create a Consistent Class StructureConsistency is key in building a loyal following. Participants like to know what to expect, so creating a consistent structure for your classes can be a game-changer. This doesn’t mean every class has to be the same, but having a familiar flow can make participants feel comfortable and engaged. Example:Consider how you structure your warm-ups, the main workout, and cool-downs. Maybe you start every class with a quick motivational chat or end with a specific stretch routine. Action Item:Outline the basic structure of your classes. Decide on a format that works for you and stick to it. This consistency helps participants know what to expect and builds a sense of reliability in your classes. 4. Build a Community Around Your ClassesLastly, building a community is one of the most powerful ways to create a loyal following. Encourage interactions before and after class, celebrate milestones, and create opportunities for participants to connect with each other. Example:I’ve seen instructors who create private Facebook groups for their classes where participants can share progress, tips, and support each other. It transforms the class from just a workout to a supportive community. Action Item:Think about how you can foster community in your classes. Could you start a group on social media, celebrate birthdays or fitness milestones, or even organize meet-ups outside of class? Start with one small step and build from there. The key steps to developing your signature style are: embracing your authentic personality, creating a signature move or cue, establishing a consistent class structure, and building a community around your classes. These steps will not only help you stand out but also create a lasting impression that keeps participants coming back. Remember, developing your unique style takes time, so be patient with yourself as you experiment and refine what works best for you. If you found today’s episode helpful, I’d love for you to subscribe to The Fit Pro Show, leave a review, and share your thoughts. What are your signature styles, or what are you working on to develop one? Let’s continue the conversation. Until next time, keep leading with passion and stay inspired!

Hey there, fit pros! Are you finding it challenging to keep your classes full and your content fresh? Do you often feel overwhelmed by the diverse needs of your participants?  Welcome to The Fit Pro Show—your ultimate guide to overcoming these hurdles and building a thriving, sustainable career in fitness. Each week, I’ll bring you invaluable resources, insightful interviews with seasoned professionals, and solo episodes packed with practical tools. We’ll explore strategies to connect more deeply with your participants, keep your classes engaging, and prevent burnout. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your teaching, The Fit Pro Show is here to help you succeed—and enjoy the journey. Subscribe now, and let’s tackle these challenges together to transform your fitness career!