Under the guidance and supervision of the Director, the instructor provides guidance and leadership in a group exercise setting to all members and guests. Develops and monitors fitness programs, including cardiovascular exercise, resistance training, and flexibility. Maintenance of equipment, sound system, and the class area is a requirement of this position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have current Adult CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications, or complete them within the first 60 days of employment.
• Must hold current group exercise certification from the accredited body general (YMCA, ACE, AFAA, NASM, NSCA, ACSM) and/or specialty, as approved by the YMCA, within the first 60 days of hire.
• This position requires a friendly, enthusiastic, and conscientious leader with excellent knowledge and skill in the area of group exercise. The individual must possess a professional image and the ability to provide excellent leadership, up-to-date instruction, and motivation.
• An understanding of physical education principles including the proper segments in group exercise classes according to the identified class description.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency.
• Ability to adequately observe participant activities, enforce safety regulations and apply appropriate policies and procedures.
• The physical ability to lead and interact with group activities and perform related physical skills.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and maintain professional relationships with members utilizing member involvement strategies.
• Conduct planned, organized, and fun classes by beginning and ending on time welcoming new participants to class and proper introduction.
• Inform participants on what to expect in a class by explaining and demonstrating the correct and safe way to perform all the exercises. Offer modifications for all exercises.
• Explain and demonstrate how to monitor intensity by pulse palpitation using a 10-second count and /or Rate of Perceived Exertion scale.
• Be conscious at all times of the fitness level of participants in the class, teaching at the level of the class.
• Must secure a qualified substitute, with supervisor’s knowledge, when unable to teach the assigned class.
• Assist in all aspects of promotion of your class, other YMCA classes, and special events.
• Utilize tools and information to increase member knowledge of fitness as well as other fitness programs provided through the Middle Tyger Family YMCA (i.e. handouts, current brochures, charts).
• Incorporate character development and member involvement into all program areas.