Ego. Simply can simply be defined as self. Being concerned with ones self awareness and personal gains irregardless of others. Ego is something that a fitness instructor should not possess.

Reason being is that as a fitness instructor your primary goal is to be concerned about the health of the individuals that you instruct. When you are focused on yourself as an instructor you negate the needs of the participants in the class. Think about it. As a group fitness instructor, if I was so focused on myself or my needs in the class then how am I benefiting anyone else? It would be like me being a teacher and teaching a class subjects that I am interested in Vs. what they need to learn to pass a test.

As an fitness instructor. You are to beware at all times of the participants in your class. If you are focused on yourself this is not achievable. You are to be cognizant that someone may be performing a move in a way that can injure themselves. That someone may have a health condition that can cause themselves harm. I have seen where instructors would be instructing a class and the whole time they are looking at themselves in the mirror admiring their physique. Meanwhile Jill is in the corner laying on the floor passed out.

What steps can one take toward becoming a better fitness professional?

1. Assessing the needs of your clientele. Find out what their goals are as well as any limitations that they may have. You can do this by simply talking to your clients and asking questions.

2. Be concerned about the people you are instructing. Be observant and aware at all times. Look for signs of any health issues in your classes. Red faces, someone who suddenly limps, a participant that stops in the middle of class etc. Go to them and see how they are doing and how you can aid them.