For every group fitness instructor who’s ever considered going solo, here’s the real talk about starting small, building smart, and stepping into ownership.

Already Running a Business — Time to Own It

If you teach classes, you’re already running a business. You show up, deliver value, keep clients coming back, and juggle admin behind the scenes. That is a business. The real shift is treating it like one.

• Teaching group fitness already includes key business skills
• You’re already marketing, managing, and delivering services
• A mindset shift is the starting point for real growth

Small Steps, Big Impact

This post is for every group fitness instructor who’s wondered about going solo, whether it’s teaching from your backyard pool, running community hall circuits, or launching a signature class series. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to start small and smart.

• Going solo doesn’t require a huge leap
• It’s possible to start small and grow with demand
• Small steps build momentum without the overwhelm

Find Your Focus — Why Specialising Matters

You may have heard people say you need to “niche down.” What that means is finding a clear focus or specialisation that makes your offering easier to promote. That could be a class style, a specific demographic, a location, or even a personal teaching philosophy. When people know exactly what you do and who it’s for, they’re more likely to trust and book with you.

• Specialising helps you stand out in a crowded market
• Focus makes it easier for people to say, “That class is for me”
• You don’t have to limit yourself — start with clarity

The Pros and Cons of Going It Alone

Let’s be real about the pros and cons. Running your own business means you might not always have a guaranteed income. You’re responsible for finding your clients, filling the class, and wearing all the hats — from marketing to admin to teaching. It can feel a lot, especially at first. But the flip side is powerful. You call the shots. You set your schedule. You choose the format, the focus, and the feel of your classes. You can even earn more per session than you ever would working for someone else. For example, $100 or more for a class isn’t just a dream — it’s very possible when it’s your business.

• No income guarantee, but full control over your earning potential
• You handle everything, but you also make all the decisions
• Higher earnings are achievable when the class is yours

Tech Doesn’t Have to Be Terrifying

One of the myths that stops instructors from starting is the idea that it requires a big tech setup. These days, with the help of AI and user-friendly platforms, you can have a website up in an hour using tools like Wix, Squarespace, or even Durable. Canva makes branding accessible, and Fiverr is full of affordable freelancers. You don’t need a production studio either. Your smartphone is good for recording promo videos or class snippets that help potential clients get a feel for you.

• AI tools make websites quick and accessible
• Branding and design can be done easily with Canva or freelancers
• Use your phone to create simple, authentic content

Getting paid is another area where people hesitate. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Square makes it easy to accept cards on the go. Stripe and PayPal are great for online payments. You might start with casual $10 drop-ins and later move into class packs or term-based pricing. Some instructors keep it simple by offering ten-class passes that include a bonus class. Others prefer upfront term payments, which help with cash flow and consistency.

• Use modern tools like Square, Stripe, or PayPal for payments
• Keep pricing simple with casual, packs, or term options
• Payment consistency helps build sustainability

Don’t Rely Only on Social Media

Something I can’t stress enough is this: don’t rely only on social media. While it can be a great way to build visibility, you don’t own those platforms, and they can change at any time. The most valuable asset you can build is your email list. That list is yours. You can reach out directly to people who have shown interest in what you offer. Start by offering a freebie — maybe a short video, a mini workout, or a helpful guide — and use a tool like Mailchimp to collect names and emails. It’s free to get started and an easy way to build a long-term connection.

• Social platforms can change anytime — don’t rely solely on them
• Your email list is your most valuable asset
• Use a freebie to collect names and build trust

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Of course, running a business doesn’t mean doing it all alone. It helps to have a circle of support. You might know someone who’s great with graphics. Maybe you have a friend or family member who can help with the admin. Or perhaps it’s time to find a mentor who understands the fitness industry and can help you make sense of the big picture. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it usually means you need a bit of structure and guidance.

• Ask for help — graphic design, admin, or business strategy
• Surround yourself with people who understand your goals
• Overwhelm often comes from doing it all alone

Take your time. You don’t have to have the entire business built in a month. Start with one class. Pick up some basic equipment. Try a seasonal promo. Explore what works best for you and your clients. Some instructors love the freedom and flexibility, while others realise they prefer being part of a team. Either way, you don’t have to guess. You can try, reflect, and adjust.

• Start small and build gradually
• Test what works and adjust as needed
• Flexibility is part of the process

Want Support? Aqua Mentoring Is Here

If you’re a water-based instructor ready to explore this path more seriously or just want to be in the company of others figuring it out, the Aqua Mentoring Membership is a great place to start. It’s designed for instructors like you — those who want to grow, connect, and get solid support as they navigate business ownership.

To find out more about the Aqua Mentoring Membership, click here.

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Click here to join now for 30 days free

You’re already doing the work. Now it’s time to own it.