The Emotional Toll of Showing Up for Others in Fitness

Let’s be honest—being a fitness instructor is so much more than leading squats and playlists. Most days, we’re not just showing up to teach; we’re showing up to set the tone, lift the energy, and be that positive, motivating presence for everyone in the room. And while that can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be… exhausting.

I don’t think enough people talk about the emotional load that comes with being “the energy” all the time. Students look to us not just for good music and solid cueing—but for encouragement, connection, and sometimes, a safe space to escape whatever’s going on in their own lives. And honestly? That’s beautiful. But let’s be real—it’s also a lot to carry when you’ve got your own stuff going on behind the scenes.

I’ll never forget one of the hardest days I had to teach. I spent over two hours at the vet that morning, saying goodbye to my cat—my sweet companion of so many years. It was heartbreaking. I tried to find a sub, but no one was available. So there I was, an hour later, putting on a mic, turning up the music, and leading class like everything was fine. And you know what? It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Smiling, cueing, and keeping the energy high while my heart was completely somewhere else. That moment taught me just how much we, as instructors, often carry silently into the studio.

The truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Your students deserve your best, but so do you. It’s not selfish to recharge—it’s necessary. So if you’re feeling the emotional weight of showing up for others, know that you’re not alone—and taking care of yourself behind the scenes is just as important as showing up for that next playlist drop.