Aerobics Classes at Rec Centers and Studios

Adults looking for an affordable, social workout, including older adults, busy parents, and people new to exercise.

Drop-in fees, class packs, or monthly memberships paid by participants, minus any room rental or revenue share with the venue.

• Leading and motivating a group
• Choreography and music timing
• Safe exercise coaching
• Basic marketing and scheduling

• General liability insurance, and check whether the venue requires you to be named on your policy
• Music licensing: playing copyrighted music in paid classes may need licenses (such as ASCAP, BMI, SESAC), so check what the venue already covers or use a fitness music service
• Check your city or county for a business license requirement
• Participant injury risk: use a signed waiver and keep your certification and CPR current

Startup costs are typically around $400 to $2,000, depending on your sound equipment, certification and insurance, and any room rental you pay up front. Many instructors begin with a few classes a week.

Monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $3,000, depending on how many classes you teach, how many people attend and what you charge. These are revenue estimates, before room rental and other costs.

Check general liability insurance and whether the venue wants to be named on your policy. Also check music licensing, such as ASCAP, BMI and SESAC, or use a fitness music service, plus your local business license, signed waivers, and current certification and CPR.