Group Ex Instructor I

Crossroads YMCA•Whiting, IN

About The Position

The Group Exercise Instructor leads safe, energetic, educational, and inclusive classes using YMCA guidelines and established class formats. The instructor demonstrates exercises, gives clear instruction and encouragement, and adapts movements for participants with different fitness levels, abilities, health needs, and experience. The role also involves building relationships and community, supporting members' health and well-being goals, celebrating progress, and maintaining a welcoming class environment. The instructor prepares the class space and equipment, keeps accurate attendance records, follows YMCA safety policies and emergency protocols, and completes required training and professional development. The position may involve staff meetings, YMCA events, fundraising efforts, and other assigned duties. It is active work that includes extended periods of standing, moving, demonstrating exercises, and participating in classes. Hours are flexible and 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 of age.
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 and movements safely and effectively.
Ability to remain active and engaged while teaching group exercise classes.
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 a variety of fitness and recreational environments.
Ability to maintain a neat and professional appearance.
Ability to adapt instruction to different fitness levels and abilities and maintain safety while motivating participants.

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

Lead fun, safe, educational, and energizing group exercise classes using YMCA guidelines and established class formats.
Create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment for participants of varied ages, abilities, backgrounds, and fitness levels.
Demonstrate exercises and provide clear instruction, motivation, and encouragement throughout each class.
Modify movements and instruction to support participants' differing 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, achievements, skills, and overall well-being.
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 appropriate 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.