Let’s Talk About Stealing Programming 🛑

Episode 88 of the Confessions of a Group X Instructor podcast, hosted by Ellen Elisabeth de Werd, titled "Let’s Talk About Stealing Programming 🛑" was published on November 10, 2025 and runs 18 minutes.

November 10, 2025 ·18m · Confessions of a Group X Instructor

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Summary

In this solo episode, #88, Ellen gets real about something that happens far too often in the fitness industry — instructors “borrowing” or flat-out stealing programming from other brands, formats, or creators.If you’ve ever seen a class that felt a little too familiar, or had your own work copied and renamed, this one’s for you. Ellen breaks down what’s really going on, why it matters, and how to navigate it with integrity.The difference between inspiration and imitationWhy stealing programming hurts everyone — including the instructor doing itWhat ethical inspiration looks like in the group fitness worldHow to set boundaries and call it out professionally when it happensWhy originality and authenticity will always outlast copycatsCreating something original takes time, courage, and heart — but it’s worth it. The industry doesn’t need more clones; it needs more leaders willing to put their unique stamp on fitness.Ellen reminds us that when you teach from your truth, no one can copy that.Learn more about WARRIOR formats: warriorinstructors.comFollow Ellen on Instagram: @ellendewerdSubscribe to Confessions of a GroupX Instructor wherever you listen!

Episode Description

In this solo episode, #88, Ellen gets real about something that happens far too often in the fitness industry — instructors “borrowing” or flat-out stealing programming from other brands, formats, or creators.

If you’ve ever seen a class that felt a little too familiar, or had your own work copied and renamed, this one’s for you. Ellen breaks down what’s really going on, why it matters, and how to navigate it with integrity.

The difference between inspiration and imitation
Why stealing programming hurts everyone — including the instructor doing it

What ethical inspiration looks like in the group fitness world
How to set boundaries and call it out professionally when it happens
Why originality and authenticity will always outlast copycats

Creating something original takes time, courage, and heart — but it’s worth it. The industry doesn’t need more clones; it needs more leaders willing to put their unique stamp on fitness.

Ellen reminds us that when you teach from your truth, no one can copy that.