Fitness Instructor

Job Description

Sacred Heart Village

                                                            JOB TITLE:  Fitness Instructor                 REPORTS TO: Building Manager

Position Summary

Sacred Heart Village I & II is a low-income apartment community serving seniors. Our on-site fitness center is designed to promote health, mobility, independence, and overall well-being for our residents.

The Fitness Instructor is responsible for creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment while developing and implementing individualized and group fitness programs tailored to older adults. The instructor will assess resident needs, accommodate medical limitations, monitor progress, and promote safe, active lifestyles in accordance with physician guidance and best practices for senior fitness.

Essential Responsibilities

• Resident Fitness & Program Development
• Conduct initial fitness assessments, including health history review and physician clearance verification.
• Develop individualized exercise programs based on resident goals, functional ability, and medical considerations.
• Provide instruction, supervision, and corrective guidance to ensure safe and effective exercise techniques.
• Monitor resident progress and modify programs as appropriate.
• Design and lead small group classes suitable for seniors (e.g., balance, flexibility, low-impact strength training, chair exercise, walking programs).
• Identify opportunities for educational workshops (e.g., fall prevention, nutrition basics, stretching for arthritis, heart health).

Safety & Emergency Response

• Ensure all participants have appropriate medical clearance prior to participation.
• Observe residents during facility use to promote safe equipment operation.
• Respond promptly to injuries or medical emergencies.
• Administer CPR, First Aid, and AED assistance as needed until emergency personnel arrive.
• Complete incident reports and notify management of any injury, illness, or safety concern.

Facility Oversight & Equipment Management

• Oversee daily operations of the fitness center, including opening and closing procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free environment.
• Inspect equipment regularly and report repair needs promptly.
• Establish and manage fair usage procedures to ensure equitable access to equipment.
• Recommend equipment upgrades or value-added services that enhance resident wellness.

Resident Engagement & Outreach

• Promote participation in fitness programs and encourage consistent attendance.
• Follow up with residents whose participation has declined to offer support and encouragement.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere for individuals of all ability levels.
• Communicate regularly with property management regarding usage trends, concerns, and program effectiveness.
• Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain accurate and confidential resident fitness records.
• Track attendance and participation.
• Document program outcomes and provide periodic reports to management.

Qualifications & Education

• Current Fitness Instructor or Personal Trainer certification from an accredited organization. REQUIRED
• CPR, First Aid, and AED certification. REQUIRED
• Experience working with older adults or special populations. REQUIRED
• Degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, Athletic Training, or related field. PREFERRED
• Experience in senior fitness, rehabilitative settings, or community-based wellness programs. PREFERRED
• Knowledge of chronic conditions common in older adults (arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, balance impairment). PREFERRED