Parkinson's Exercise Program Instructor

YMCA•Hoover, AL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Parkinson's Exercise Program Instructor designs and delivers group and personalized exercise programs for individuals with Parkinson's, following Parkinson's Exercise Guidelines and disease-specific considerations. The instructor assesses participants' abilities, safety needs, and goals; adapts exercises and class plans to different fitness levels and health concerns; and creates an encouraging, inclusive environment that supports safe participation, motivation, and community. The role includes communicating with participants and care partners, understanding Parkinson's symptoms and treatments, responding to medical incidents, and collaborating with the interprofessional care team when participants' health status changes. The instructor also handles class attendance and announcements, helps arrange substitute instructors, participates in meetings and training, promotes YMCA programs and services, and follows professional, health, safety, and emergency procedures.

Requirements

Certified instructor.
Specialized training in Parkinson's exercise programs.
Experience working with individuals with Parkinson's disease.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
CPR and First Aid certification.
Current certification (such as Rock Steady or Personal Training) and continuing education credits specifically related to the class taught.

Responsibilities

Design and implement group and personalized exercise plans that account for disease-specific considerations and follow Parkinson's Exercise Guidelines.
Lead safe group exercise sessions tailored to people with Parkinson's and modify activities for varying fitness levels and abilities.
Communicate with participants and care partners about Parkinson's symptoms, treatments, and the positive impact of exercise.
Conduct health-risk screenings and assessments, and select exercises based on participants' abilities, safety, and personal goals.
Create a supportive and inclusive environment, adapt class design for different ability levels, and follow safety protocols.
Respond to medical incidents, demonstrate exercises, and educate participants to support understanding and engagement.
Use behavior-change strategies to foster community, motivation, and program adherence.
Recognize changes in participants' health, collaborate with the interprofessional care team, and adjust exercise plans as appropriate.
Adapt classes for participants who need special attention because of health concerns.
Follow professional responsibilities and health and safety regulations to mitigate legal risk and maintain a safe exercise environment.
Encourage and support participants and foster a positive, inclusive atmosphere.
Stay current on Parkinson's exercise guidelines and recommendations, attend training or workshops as needed, and communicate to maintain program alignment.
Acquire substitute instructors for scheduled classes when needed.
Participate in scheduled staff meetings, training, and development.
Take accurate attendance at every class.
Disseminate class announcements before every class and promote activities, events, training programs, and services.
Build a sense of community, autonomy, and camaraderie among participants.
Understand safety and emergency procedures and report any issues immediately.