Group Exercise Instructor
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 role creates a welcoming and inclusive environment, builds positive relationships with participants, and promotes YMCA programs. The instructor prepares class formats, music, and equipment; demonstrates proper exercise techniques and modifications; monitors participant safety, equipment use, and attendance; and maintains a clean, organized exercise space. The position also supports member engagement, YMCA fundraising, required training and meetings, and ongoing professional development. Employees share responsibility for protecting children and families and must follow YMCA child safety and protection standards.
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 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.
- Ability to successfully complete required background screenings and YMCA training.
- Ability to follow YMCA policies regarding professional boundaries with youth, child supervision procedures, and child protection protocols.
- Physical stamina to lead classes while modeling proper form and technique.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, squat, twist, reach, and demonstrate exercises for extended periods.
- Close and distance vision and ability to monitor participant safety throughout class.
Nice To Haves
- Coursework or education in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Health and Wellness, or a related field.
- Previous group exercise instruction experience; candidates with demonstrated instructional ability and appropriate certification are encouraged.
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 organized class formats, music, and equipment for 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, youth protection, supervision, reporting, and mandated reporting requirements.
- Complete required background screenings and YMCA training.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
