Group Exercise Instructor - Cycle

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Heathsville, VA

About The Position

Under the supervision of a designated supervisor and in harmony with the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission, policies, and goals, the Group Exercise Instructor conducts, teaches, and leads classes while establishing a safe and effective group exercise environment and delivering an outstanding member experience. The instructor emphasizes high-quality service and works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff. The role requires preparation and instruction of classes, appropriate equipment setup, knowledge of exercise and safety principles, and continued professional development. The instructor also attends scheduled meetings and trainings, follows YMCA procedures, and responds appropriately in emergencies. Other reasonably related duties may be assigned.

Requirements

  • Minimum age of 18.
  • A nationally YMCA-recognized Group Exercise certification.
  • CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2 certification.
  • Obtain YMCA Healthy Lifestyles (HLP) within the first six months of employment.
  • Complete and maintain required training, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training upon hire and annually thereafter.
  • Satisfactory criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
  • Ability to respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
  • Ability to prepare, choreograph, and teach all required classes.
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, including walking, standing, bending, and reaching for extended periods.
  • Adequate ability to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and project one's voice across distances in normal and loud situations.

Nice To Haves

  • For Specialty I/Level 2: 2–6 years of experience instructing, in addition to a nationally YMCA-recognized Group Exercise certification.
  • For Specialty I/Level 3: 6 or more years of experience instructing, in addition to a nationally YMCA-recognized Group Exercise certification.
  • For Specialty I/Level 4: A nationally recognized Group Exercise specialty certification, at least 6 months of instructing experience, and at least 1 year of experience teaching in a specialty field.

Responsibilities

  • Support the YMCA’s mission, vision, and goals.
  • Promote a professional, values-based culture guided by caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Lead programs that advance youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
  • Prepare choreographed routines for each class.
  • Ensure equipment and supplies are accessible before class begins.
  • Apply knowledge of exercise physiology, kinesiology, injury prevention, cardiovascular and medical considerations, nutrition, and body composition.
  • Maintain group exercise certifications through continuing education and continually upgrade classes to reflect current knowledge.
  • Use effective class formats and leadership skills while being sensitive to differing exercise levels.
  • Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled.
  • Wear proper attire.
  • Lead in emergencies and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
  • Carry out other related duties as needed by the Wellness Department and center operations to support an excellent member experience.
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