The Group Exercise Instructor reports to and takes day-to-day direction from the Group Exercise / Wellness Coordinator and / or the Wellness Director.
The Group Exercise Instructor is an exceptional motivator as well as great at relationship building in our member-centered environment.
The group exercise instructor will deliver multiple options and a great experience during each class by presenting a positive image of the YMCA through quality fitness programs designed to meet the needs of the community.
Classes may include, but not limited to : Les Mills, Cycling, Step, Body Sculpting, Zumba, Yoga and Water Exercise classes.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
- Instruct members in maintaining exertion levels to maximize benefits from exercise routines.
- Monitor member's progress and adapt programs as needed.
- Observe members and inform them of corrective measures necessary for skill improvement.
- Evaluate individuals' abilities, needs, and physical conditions, and develop suitable training programs to meet any special requirements.
- Offer variations of the routine to accommodate all fitness levels.
- Proactively provide appropriate direction to members performing dangerous or harmful exercises.
- Solicit feedback from participants about the class and answer questions from members to support them in achieving their goals related to healthy living.
- Maintains accurate class attendance records.
- Adhere to the Association operating policies and procedures by operating the programs within the guidelines set forth.
- Maintains and cleans equipment according to the schedule or as requested by supervisor and reset instruction space.
- Design and lead special programs as needed to include, but not limited to, assist with : planning, coordinating, presenting and / or promoting programs, classes, and events.
- Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations governing sports, recreational activities, and the use of exercise equipment.
- Responsible for own class coverage when unavailable to attend.
- Performs any other duties as assigned by the Group Exercise Coordinator and / or the Wellness Director .
- Follows YMCA policies and procedures regarding the safety, health and welfare of members, program participants, guests and staff;
responds to emergency situations in accordance to facility policies and certification requirements.
- Completes all job related meetings and trainings as required.
- Supports the missions message during Annual giving events.
- Water exercise classes must be taught from the pool deck.
- Performs all other duties as assigned.
Education / Experience Required :
- Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
- National certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM, Les Mills, Zumba) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
- Yoga Instructors must have a current Yoga specific certification 200+ hrs.
- Water Exercise Instructors must have a current water instructor certification.
- At least one year of experience instructing group exercise classes preferred.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with groups and / or individuals from different backgrounds.
- Must be well-organized and prepared to teach classes.
- Represent the YMCA in a positive manner.
Certifications / Trainings Required :
- Must obtain within 30 days of employment and then maintain current certifications in community CPR / AED and First Aid.
- Have and maintain position-specific required certifications as stated in the training matrix Relevant Group Ex certs
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS :
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job includes, but not limited to :
- Ability to plan, lead, and participate in classes and activities.
- Ability to verbally and physically communicate program content
- Ability to hear participant discussion and questions.
- Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position, including, but not limited to, leading class, walking, standing, bending, reaching, teaching from the pool deck and lifting.
- Ability to lift equipment and perform all physical aspects of the position, including, but not limited to, leading class, walking, standing, bending, lifting, and reaching.
- Hear noises and distress signals in the program environment, including in the classroom and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
- Must have flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Ability to lift and move a minimum of 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand for an extended period of time.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme humidity / dampness, heat and cold.
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
- Occasional travel for training may be required
- Availability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed, and support class coverage
- Must wear appropriate fitness attire and footwear at all times; should not prohibit participants from seeing proper form, alignment and movement of the body.
However, clothing should not be revealing in an inappropriate and / or unprofessional manner. Mid drifts (uniform code)