Group Exercise Instructor

YMCA of Greater San Antonio•San Antonio, TX

21d•Onsite

About The Position

The Group Exercise Instructor supports the YMCA’s mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. At the Hartman YMCA, an accessible and inclusive YMCA focused on welcoming individuals of all abilities, the instructor works closely with individuals with disabilities, families, and caregivers and helps build community within classes. The instructor leads safe, inclusive group classes that promote wellness, engagement, and community, adapting instruction to participants’ differing fitness levels, abilities, and needs in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures. The role includes building positive relationships with participants, providing general wellness guidance within the scope of the instructor’s role, tracking attendance, and maintaining required certifications and continuing education. Instructors follow safety procedures and emergency protocols, collaborate with YMCA colleagues, and help foster an environment in which participants feel respected, encouraged, and connected.

Requirements

Ability to build effective relationships and communicate professionally with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and social and economic segments of the community.
General knowledge of group exercise equipment, sound systems, cardiovascular and strength training, and health and wellness practices.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, including the ability to encourage group interaction, socialization, and participation in a supportive environment.
National group fitness certification (ACE, ACSM, AFAA, FitTour, ISSA, NETA, or another recognized certification) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification; certification may be obtained within six months of employment.
Additional certification(s) in other areas of expertise, such as Group Cycling, Les Mills Programming, Pilates, Yoga, or ZUMBA.
Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazardous Communications certifications within the first week of hire.
YMCA Healthy Lifestyles and YMCA-approved basic life-saving skills certifications, such as CPR, First Aid, and AED, within the first 60 days of hire.
Ability to safely lead and demonstrate exercises, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting as required for instruction.
Ability to adapt demonstrations, verbal instructions, and class activities to accommodate varying abilities, fitness levels, and learning styles.
Visual and auditory attention sufficient to monitor participant safety, demonstrate movements, and respond to questions or concerns.
Ability to provide clear, respectful, encouraging instruction and address unsafe movements in a supportive, nonjudgmental manner.
Ability to maintain an inclusive class environment that respects participants’ individual needs, preferences, and independence.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience instructing group wellness classes.
Experience working with individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers, or disability-serving organizations, with a demonstrated commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and welcoming experiences for people of all abilities.
Instructor certifications exempting the holder from the National Group Exercise requirement: Les Mills proficiency certification; Yoga Registered Yoga School (RYS) instructor certification; or Pilates certification from a National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA)-accredited Pilates school. These certifications are strongly encouraged as a foundation for movement and group exercise instruction.

Responsibilities

Lead safe, engaging, and welcoming group fitness classes that promote wellness, participation, community, and the YMCA’s mission and goals.
Adapt exercises, instruction, pacing, and equipment to support participants’ abilities, fitness levels, learning styles, and individual needs.
Build positive, professional relationships with participants and foster a supportive environment where people feel respected, encouraged, and connected to the YMCA community.
Provide general wellness guidance and answer member questions within the scope of the instructor’s role; maintain knowledge of current fitness and wellness practices.
Recognize participants’ progress, personal goals, and achievements, and encourage participation and confidence without judgment.
Maintain accurate class attendance records and begin each class with a Higher Thought, story, or inspirational message.
Follow YMCA policies, safety procedures, and emergency protocols to help maintain a safe, inclusive class environment.
Maintain required certifications and continuing education and stay informed about relevant fitness trends and instructional practices.
Avoid diagnosing injuries, providing medical advice, dispensing or endorsing commercial health products, or promoting merchandise or services from outside the YMCA.
Attend required staff meetings and collaborate with YMCA colleagues to support program quality, participant engagement, and the organization’s mission.
Perform other duties as assigned.