Group Exercise Instructor

Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that promotes member wellness and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
2. Answers questions from members to support them in achieving their goals related to healthy living. Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
3. Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members connect with each other and the YMCA.
4. Keeps accurate class attendance records.
5. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations
6. Teaches scheduled classes, beginning and ending on time; provides adequate warm-up, exercise, stretching, and cool down.
7. Instructs patrons on effective workout methods; explains proper techniques, demonstrates exercises; identifies different muscle groups, and teaches appropriate methods to strengthen specific muscles.
8. Prepares appropriate equipment, and music for each class. 
9. Assists patrons, answers questions, and maintains a positive exercise experience for members and class participants.
10. Keeps management informed of pool activities, facility needs, and significant problems.
11. Ensures that safety standards are met, and that department and facility policies are adhered to.
12. Performs related duties as required

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Organizational Leader):

Mission Advancement: Incorporates the Y’s mission and values into the organization’s vision and strategies. Ensures community engagement; promotes the global nature of the Y. Leads a culture of volunteerism ensuring engagement, inclusion, and ownership. Leads a culture of philanthropy.

Collaboration: Advocates for and institutionalizes inclusion and diversity throughout the organization. Initiates the development of relationships with influential leaders to impact and strengthen the community. Is recognized as an inspirational community leader who navigates complex political and social circles with ease. Communicates to engage and inspire people within and outside the YMCA. Ensures that a talent management system is in place and executed effectively.

Operational Effectiveness: Possesses penetrating insight and strong strategic and critical thinking skills. Invests resources in well-designed innovation initiatives. Creates a structure to deliver organization-wide results to achieve objectives. Develops and implements stewardship strategies. Determines benchmarks and ensures appropriate leadership to meet objectives.

Personal Growth: Creates a learning organization. Effectively drives change by leveraging resources and creating alignment to expand organizational opportunities. Shares authority and demonstrates courage and humility. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
2. Certification in areas of expertise.
3. YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire.
4. At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• Ability to conduct classes and activities.
• Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position; including leading class, walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting