Yoga Instructor - Abingdon (Ward)

The Y in Central Maryland•Abingdon, MD

49d•$20 - $26

About The Position

The Yoga Instructor creates a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment by leading high-quality yoga classes that promote physical wellness, mindfulness, and overall well-being for Y members and participants. The position delivers engaging and effective instruction, builds positive relationships, fosters community, and encourages healthy lifestyles. Classes are adapted for participants of varying ages, abilities, and experience levels to ensure a supportive experience for all. The instructor prepares for and leads assigned classes in accordance with Y standards, approved formats, and best practices. The role also includes maintaining a safe and organized class environment, monitoring participant safety, completing attendance and administrative tasks, maintaining required certifications, and contributing to the Y's mission and positive team environment.

Requirements

Current nationally recognized Group Exercise certification, such as AFAA, ACE, NASM, ACSM, NETA, YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise, or equivalent.
Current CPR/AED certification, or ability to obtain it within 60 days of hire.
Ability to safely lead and modify exercises for participants with varying fitness levels and abilities.
Strong communication, interpersonal, and motivational skills.
Ability to create an engaging and inclusive participant experience.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education.
Ability to walk, stand, climb, kneel, stoop, and lift up to 50 lbs.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to perform physical duties of supervised positions when necessary.
Must meet all physical certification and training requirements of the Y.
Successful completion of required background checks, which may include CPS, criminal, drug and alcohol testing, and motor vehicle records checks.
Agreement to abide by the Code of Conduct with Youth and complete child abuse prevention training and applicable legal reporting requirements.

Nice To Haves

Specialty certification for assigned formats such as Yoga, Indoor Cycling, Zumba, Barre, Pilates, HIIT, Strength Training, or similar disciplines.
Previous group exercise instruction experience.

Responsibilities

Lead safe, effective, and engaging yoga classes aligned with Y standards, best practices, and the principles of yoga.
Create a welcoming, inclusive environment that encourages participation, motivation, and community connection.
Build positive relationships with members through friendly, professional, and supportive interactions.
Encourage healthy lifestyles and promote overall wellness during classes and member interactions.
Recognize participant needs and provide exercise modifications and alternatives for varying fitness levels and abilities.
Promote Y programs, services, and wellness opportunities that support member engagement and retention.
Arrive prepared to lead assigned classes and deliver instruction aligned with class objectives.
Maintain current knowledge of relevant fitness trends, exercise techniques, and specialty formats.
Follow approved class formats, guidelines, and Y standards.
Use music, equipment, and instructional techniques to create a positive participant experience.
Demonstrate proper exercise techniques and provide clear verbal and visual instruction.
Ensure equipment and class spaces are clean, organized, and safe before, during, and after each class.
Monitor participant safety and respond to emergencies or incidents according to Y policies and procedures.
Promptly report equipment concerns, facility issues, or safety hazards to supervisors.
Accurately record attendance and complete required administrative tasks in a timely manner.
Use audio and sound equipment appropriately to support instruction.
Maintain required certifications and continuing education requirements.
Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
Stay current on Y policies, risk management practices, and industry standards.
Demonstrate the Y character values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
Support the Y mission and contribute to a positive team environment.
Perform other duties as assigned.