Overcoming Fear of Rejection as a Group Exercise Instructor

I know this is a fitness site, but let’s take a few moments to talk about rejection as it pertains to teaching group exercise.

When you audition for a class, you are showing up and, in essence, competing for a teaching spot. Other people will be showing up too, displaying their skill sets and talents, also competing for the same spot.

When you show up to a class, whether new or established, you will stand on a stage in front of 20 to 60 people (sometimes more), demonstrating those very same skills and talents. When you are subbing for someone or starting a new class, you are essentially auditioning yourself to the group. You hope that they like what you do, enjoy your class, and return.

In the first scenario, you must understand there is only one spot and about 20 of you competing for it. That means at least 19 of you will not be selected. Does that mean you are not good enough? Or does it simply mean the odds were against you? Perhaps the manager preferred something about another candidate, a style, a personality, or something else entirely. There are countless reasons why someone else was chosen, none of which necessarily reflects on your ability.

In the second scenario, some participants will think you are fantastic. They will come over at the end of class, thank you, and say your class is the best. Others might seem disinterested or leave early. Does that mean you are not good, or just that your style might not be what they prefer? Maybe they weren’t expecting a challenging workout. Either way, it’s not about you. It’s about them. Let it go and keep moving forward.

I recently auditioned for Zumba at one gym. The immediate manager approved me and loved what I brought. However, her manager has not yet given final approval. Does that delay or decision discourage me? Absolutely not. While recognition is nice, it doesn’t define me as an instructor. What matters are the smiling faces and participants enjoying their workout. I teach Zumba at several gyms across the five boroughs, and they all appreciate what I do. That’s enough for me. I’d like to get in at this new place, but it won’t make or break my career or spirit.

At another location, a Zumba slot opened up. I submitted my name because I feel qualified and well suited for the position. To me, it seemed clear that once I expressed interest, the spot should have been mine. But managers may see things differently, and that’s okay. There are instructors with seniority who have more experience and skill. Still, I don’t let that stop me from trying and believing I’m a great fit, even if I’m not the absolute best candidate.

Rejection is tough and none of us like it. But without trying, you won’t gain or achieve anything. So when faced with the choice to try and risk rejection, or not try and miss the opportunity, I’ll take my chances with trying. You might have a 50% chance of success by trying, but if you don’t try, you have a 100% chance of missing out. That’s the bottom line. If you try, you may succeed. If you don’t try, you will never succeed.