Group Exercise Instructor - PI

YMCA OF COASTAL CAROLINA•Litchfield Beach, SC

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Healthy Living Director, the Group Exercise Instructor plans and leads safe, engaging, and effective group fitness classes that support members in achieving their health and wellness goals. The instructor creates a welcoming and inclusive environment, builds positive relationships with participants, and promotes YMCA programs. The role requires a current group exercise or specialty certification appropriate to the classes being taught, along with the ability to lead classes for participants of varying fitness levels, ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Previous group exercise instruction experience is preferred but not required. The instructor must be available to teach at least one to three classes per week and hold current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications, or obtain them within YMCA-established timeframes. Work is performed primarily in a fitness and group exercise environment with moderate to high noise levels. The position involves demonstrating exercises for extended periods and requires stamina, mobility, and the ability to move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least one current group exercise or specialty certification from a nationally recognized or YMCA-approved organization appropriate to the class or fitness platform being taught.
Basic knowledge of group exercise principles, class design, exercise safety, modifications, and appropriate progression.
Ability to lead safe, engaging, and inclusive classes for participants of varying fitness levels, ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Strong communication, customer service, relationship-building, and motivational skills.
Ability to accept coaching and feedback and demonstrate a commitment to continued professional development.
Availability to teach a minimum of one to three classes per week.
Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications, or ability to obtain them within YMCA-established timeframes.
Successful completion of required background screenings and YMCA training.
Physical stamina to safely lead classes and model proper form and technique; ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, twist, reach, and demonstrate exercises for extended periods.
Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
Close and distance vision and ability to monitor participant safety throughout class.
For employees and volunteers who directly supervise children: adhere to professional-boundary policies, attend required abuse-risk-management and child-protection training, follow youth-supervision procedures, report concerns, and comply with child-protection protocols.

Nice To Haves

Coursework or education in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health and Wellness, or a related field.
Previous group exercise instruction experience.

Responsibilities

Plan and lead group exercise classes within the scope of certification and training.
Create a safe, motivating, and inclusive class environment by demonstrating proper exercise technique and providing appropriate modifications.
Build positive relationships with participants, provide exceptional customer service, and encourage member engagement.
Promote YMCA health and wellness programs, personal training, and other member services.
Monitor participant safety, equipment use, and class attendance, and enforce YMCA policies and procedures.
Prepare class formats, music, and equipment to support a high-quality participant experience.
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe exercise space before and after each class.
Stay current with industry trends and maintain required certifications and continuing education.
Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and association events.
Support YMCA fundraising efforts and perform other duties as assigned.
Follow YMCA child-safety policies and procedures, complete required training, report suspicious or inappropriate behavior and policy violations, and comply with mandated reporting and youth-protection protocols.