If you need help studying for the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam or just want some more information about what the test is like, you’ve come to the right place.
Click below to take a free ACE GFI practice test!
Exam Eligibility
Before you can register to take the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old and meet the following requirements:
- You need current CPR and AED certificates
- You need a high school diploma or an equivalent
If you meet these requirements, you’re set to begin the registration process!
What’s on the Exam?
First, let’s talk about the questions on the exam. There are 150 multiple-choice questions total, but only 125 of the questions will count toward your score. Why is that?
The 25 unscored questions on the ACE GFI exam are called “experimental” questions. These are added to the exam to determine if they’re good enough questions to add to future versions of the test.
The trick is that you won’t have any way of knowing which questions are scored and which ones are experimental. They will appear just like the scored questions throughout the test.
The time limit for the exam is 3 hours. There aren’t any scheduled breaks, but you’re free to take restroom breaks as needed.
Let’s take a closer look at the different sections of the exam.
1. CLASS PREPARATION
34% of the exam
- Creating a plan to establish a structure for safe and effective experiences
- Selecting and organizing exercises in sequences to meet class objectives
- Reducing the risk of injury, improving performance, and creating an inclusive class environment by identifying appropriate exercise options
- Rehearsing the class content and refining as needed
2. GROUP INSTRUCTION AND LEADERSHIP
39% of the exam
- Identifying potential issues by assessing the space, equipment, and participants
- Making adjustments to the class plan
- Communicating with participants to build rapport and promote class adherence
- Demonstrating proper exercise movements and modifications
- Using verbal and nonverbal communication to improve technique and performance while reducing the risk of injury
- Motivating class participants
- Educating participants on general health and fitness principles and the benefits of physical activity
3. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND RISK MANAGEMENT
27% of the exam
- Soliciting and incorporating feedback to enhance professionalism and future classes experiences
- Responding to class incidents and high-risk situations to ensure safety and reduce liability
- Staying current on science-based research, technology, and best practices
- Managing risk and liability by adhering to recognized standards, laws, regulations, guidelines, and policies
How to Register
Once you’ve ensured that you meet the eligibility requirements, you can register for the exam.
To get started, you’ll need to submit your registration on the ACE Fitness website. You’ll be asked for your contact information and any documentation to prove your eligibility (among other things).
When you submit your registration form, you’ll also need to submit the testing fee, which is $249.
ACE Group Fitness Instructor Study Guide and Flashcards
Get practice questions, detailed study lessons, and complex subjects broken down into easily understandable concepts.
Exam Scores
The test is scored using a scaled scoring method. Here’s how it works:
You will need a score of 500 to pass the test.
The reason your raw score is converted to a scaled score is because everyone who takes the test is given a slightly different set of questions. Since everyone has a different arrangement of questions, and because some questions are harder than others, converting your raw score to a scaled score ensures a more even playing field.
Retaking the Exam
If you didn’t get a passing score on your first try, that’s okay! You can retake the test after a 10-day waiting period.
Keep in mind that you will have to pay the $199 testing fee every time you retake the test.
FAQs
How many questions are on the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam?
The exam contains 150 questions.
What is the time limit for the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam?
The exam is timed at 3 hours,
What is the passing score for the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam?
You’ll need to get a final scaled score of at least 500 to pass.
How much does the ACE Group Fitness Instructor exam cost?
The testing fee is $249.