Group Ex Instructor I

Crossroads YMCA•Hobart, IN

11d

About The Position

The Group Exercise Instructor leads energetic, safe, educational, and inclusive fitness classes using YMCA guidelines and established class formats. The instructor supports participants of varying ages, fitness levels, abilities, backgrounds, health needs, and experience by demonstrating exercises, providing clear instruction and encouragement, and adapting movements as appropriate. The role also helps members pursue wellness goals, build relationships, and connect with the YMCA community. It involves preparing class spaces and equipment, maintaining attendance records, following safety and emergency procedures, completing training and certifications, attending meetings, and assisting with YMCA events and fundraising as assigned. This is an active role that requires sustained energy, communication, flexibility, and movement throughout classes. Work hours may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on class schedules. Pay starts at $15.00 per hour and increases based on experience and qualifications.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and socioeconomic circumstances.
Ability to read and interpret instructions, procedures, manuals, and other documents.
Passion for health, wellness, fitness, and helping others achieve their goals.
Ability to create a positive, welcoming, and motivating class environment.
Willingness to learn, receive feedback, and continue developing group exercise skills.
Ability to demonstrate exercises safely and effectively and remain active and engaged while teaching.
Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and move throughout classes.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to maintain alertness, concentration, and initiative.
Ability to communicate effectively through visual, auditory, and verbal communication.
Ability to work effectively in fitness and recreational environments and maintain a neat, professional appearance.
Enjoy being active and helping others become more active; be energetic, encouraging, patient, and dependable.
Enjoy teaching, demonstrating, and motivating others; adapt instruction to different fitness levels and abilities; and feel comfortable speaking in front of groups.
Stay calm and focused in busy or unexpected situations and maintain safety expectations while creating a positive experience.
Enjoy building relationships and creating community, and be willing to continuously improve skills.
Be committed to a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Nice To Haves

Previous group exercise, fitness, coaching, sports, or teaching experience is helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

Lead fun, energizing, safe, and educational group exercise classes according to YMCA guidelines and established formats.
Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants with different ages, fitness levels, abilities, backgrounds, and experience.
Demonstrate exercises and provide clear instruction, motivation, and encouragement throughout classes.
Adapt movements and instruction to participants’ abilities, physical conditions, health needs, and experience levels.
Build relationships with members and help participants connect with one another and the YMCA.
Listen to members’ health and well-being goals and provide appropriate support.
Recognize and celebrate members’ progress and achievements.
Maintain current knowledge of wellness, fitness, and group exercise trends.
Maintain accurate class attendance records and support member retention and participation.
Prepare for classes and ensure equipment and space are ready.
Follow YMCA policies, procedures, safety standards, and emergency protocols.
Complete required certifications, staff training, and professional development.
Attend required staff meetings and participate in YMCA events and activities.
Assist with fundraising efforts and special events as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned.