How to Sub for Another Instructor's Fitness Class

While subbing for another instructor's fitness class is a good way to earn extra money it can turn into a total nightmare. Fortunately, most fitness class participants have a realistic attitude about their instructors. However, there are always some participants that wish that their instructor would never get sick or take a vacation.With the right people skills, you can survive any sub experience. In some cases, they might even like you better than their regular teacher.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A sub assignment
• A workout plan
• A sense of humor
• The patience of a saint

1. Take the instructor's class beforehand to determine the class level, music and exercise preferences and general 'tone'. Note whether the instructor takes an entertaining or an informative approach. While you don't want to create a clone of his class, you don't want to stray too far from the general format.

2. Chat with the students. Be casual and friendly. Ask them what they like about this class. Your goal is to gain friends and influence people before you sub the class.

3. Arrive early. Spend some more time talking to the students. Ask about goals, injuries and anything else that may be pertinent to their preference for this particular class.

4. Introduce yourself. Sounds obvious, but many people avoid this step. Explain that you are subbing. In some cases, you may need to reassure people that you are are only subbing.

5. Praise the instructor for whom you are subbing. For example: "I am so honored to be subbing for Sally. She is by far the best instructor at this gym." Do this even if you don't believe it.

6. Praise the students.

7. Smile and be charming, humorous and friendly.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't take nasty complaints personally. Some people have issues.
• Never bad mouth the instructor for whom you are subbing.
• If you can't make it at the last minute, it is your responsibility to find another sub.
• Ask for feedback at the end of the class. If they tell you what they didn't like about it, they are less likely to tell management.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.