The purpose of this research was to explore what appearance-focused messages were conveyed by aerobic instructors in aerobic classes for women. This qualitative research was influenced by the concept of wellness and how feminist pedagogy can be applied to promote individuals' well-being in aerobic classes. The practices of five aerobic instructors working at two facilities were explored through 14 observations and five interviews. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method. Findings indicated aerobic instructors often associated health with appearance while promoting messages of physicality for women. The aerobic instructors' emphasis on the association of health and appearance was displayed through the following three categories: portraying a healthy image, being comfortable with appearance and raised awareness of health and appearance. The categories of focusing on appearance, inflicting gaze on self and participants and encouraging body modification disclosed attention to appearance in the aerobic classes. Another finding of this research was that aerobic instructors promoted physical activity by creating a safe, comfortable learning environment for women. Suggestions, informed by feminist pedagogy, on how to apply a wellness-focused model of aerobic instruction are provided. (Contains 1 table.)