Adaptive and Inclusive Fitness Instructor

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges•Livingston, NJ

About The Position

Provide safe, inclusive, and person-centered fitness experiences for individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, developmental, neurological, or behavioral disabilities in accordance with YMCA inclusion principles. Adapt exercises, activities, instruction, equipment, and class environments to support individual abilities, goals, communication styles, and participation needs while promoting safety, independence, confidence, and physical well-being. Use clear and supportive instruction, appropriate modifications and progressions, and a respectful, strengths-based approach that encourages participation and meaningful engagement. Foster a welcoming environment where every participant feels valued, respected, supported, and included in the YMCA community.

Requirements

National Group Exercise Certification
CPR/AED First Aid Preferred
Experience working with individuals with disabilities.
Knowledge of adaptive fitness principles.

Nice To Haves

Adaptive Fitness, Inclusive Fitness, or Special Populations certification preferred
Experience with Autism, Down syndrome, Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke recovery, Cerebral Palsy, or other special populations is preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead safe, effective, engaging, and inclusive group exercise classes in accordance with YMCA and nationally recognized industry standards.
Prepare for and deliver classes appropriate for participants of varying ages, abilities, health conditions, fitness levels, and experience, including appropriate exercise modifications and progressions.
Provide clear verbal and visual instruction, demonstrate proper exercise technique, and maintain current knowledge of exercise science, assigned formats, and industry best practices.
Arrive prepared with appropriate music, equipment, and class materials, and begin and end classes according to the scheduled times.
Create a welcoming, supportive environment in which participants feel seen, valued, encouraged, and connected to the YMCA community.
Build positive relationships with members by learning and using names when possible, encouraging interaction, recognizing achievements, celebrating milestones, and providing exceptional service.
Respond to member questions regarding fitness, wellness programming, and YMCA services within the scope of practice, and connect or promote members to programs and services that support their wellness goals.
Support member engagement and retention through consistent relationship building and a positive class experience.
Maintain a safe exercise environment before, during, and after each class; inspect equipment before use and promptly report damaged or unsafe equipment.
Monitor participants throughout each class and respond appropriately to signs of fatigue, discomfort, injury, or other health or safety concerns.
Follow YMCA emergency procedures, incident reporting requirements, risk management practices, confidentiality standards, and professional boundaries.
Accurately record class attendance and complete required reports and documentation in designated YMCA systems and within established timelines.
Clock in and out using Paylocity in accordance with Association procedures.
Communicate schedule conflicts, availability concerns, and substitution needs promptly to the appropriate supervisor.
Support YMCA special events, wellness initiatives, branch promotions, and other activities as requested.
Adapt exercises to meet individual abilities.
Collaborate with caregivers, support staff, and healthcare providers when appropriate.
Utilize adaptive equipment safely.
Foster independence, confidence, and social connection.
Maintain participant dignity and confidentiality.
Support universal design principles within fitness programming.