Group Exercise Instructor

YMCA Virginia Peninsulas•Hartfield, VA

About The Position

Under the supervision of a designated supervisor, the Group Exercise Instructor conducts, teaches, and leads classes while creating a safe and effective group exercise environment and delivering an outstanding member experience. The instructor works with staff to welcome, connect, support, and engage members, guests, and staff, in support of the YMCA of the Virginia Peninsulas’ mission and goals. The role requires preparation and choreography for classes, knowledge of exercise and safety principles, and the ability to teach effectively to people at all exercise levels. The instructor contributes to member satisfaction, retention, a positive YMCA image, and a safe, clean, and enjoyable facility. Other reasonably related duties may be assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must hold a nationally YMCA-recognized group exercise certification.
  • Specialty I/Level 2: Must have a nationally YMCA-recognized group exercise certification and 2–6 years of instructing experience.
  • Specialty I/Level 3: Must have a nationally YMCA-recognized group exercise certification and at least 6 years of instructing experience.
  • Specialty I/Level 4: Must have a nationally recognized group exercise specialty certification, 6 months of instructing experience, and at least 1 year of experience teaching in a specialty field.
  • Must obtain YMCA Healthy Lifestyles (HLP) within the first 6 months of employment.
  • Must hold certification in CPR, First Aid, AED, and O2.
  • Must complete and maintain required trainings, including New Employee Orientation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Child Abuse Prevention, and Sexual Harassment training, upon hire and annually thereafter.
  • Must satisfactorily complete a criminal background check and Child Protective Services check.
  • Must be able to meet the physical requirements of the position, including walking, standing, bending, and reaching for extended periods.
  • Must be able to hear noises and distinguish distress signals.
  • Must be able to communicate verbally and project voice across distances in normal and loud situations.

Responsibilities

  • Support the mission, vision, and goals of the YMCA.
  • Promote a professional, values-based culture by demonstrating caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Lead programs that advance the YMCA’s cause of strengthening community through 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.
  • Continue education to maintain group exercise certifications and upgrade classes based on current knowledge.
  • Use effective class formats and leadership skills, with sensitivity to participants at all exercise levels.
  • Attend scheduled staff meetings and trainings.
  • Wear proper attire.
  • Act as a leader in emergencies and report accidents or incidents according to the Emergency Communication Action Plan.
  • Carry out other related duties deemed necessary by the Wellness Department and center operations.
  • Respond effectively to inquiries or complaints.
  • Properly prepare, choreograph, and teach required classes.
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