Group Exercise Instructor - Aquatics

YMCA of Greater Hartford Job Description 

Job Title: Group Exercise Instructor - Aquatics 

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Job Grade:  

Primary Department: Wellness 

Reports to: Wellness Director 

Revision Date: 05/22/2025

Leadership Level: Leader 

The YMCA of Greater Hartford is an association open to all committed to helping people reach their potential in spirit, mind, and body.  Our commitment is based on the belief that the purpose of this three-fold development is to live out the values of Caring, Honest, Respect and Responsibility. 

POSITION SUMMARY: 

Looking for a Group Exercise Instructor to expand our Aquatics program. Under the supervision of the Wellness Director, the ideal candidate is certified to teach one of the following: WaterinMotion, Aqua Zumba, or Silver Sneakers Splash to a large group of individuals in our Lap Pool. The position is responsible for ensuring that the mission, purpose, image and core values of the YMCA of Greater Hartford is conveyed 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

1. Conducts group exercise classes according to the YMCA of Greater Hartford Program Quality Guidelines, as well as the specific class format.
2. Expand his/her knowledge by seeking out and attending at least one YMCA training or other approved training in the health and fitness industry.
3. Supervise class participants and activities to ensure safety and report any irregularities to supervisor immediately.
4. Distribute handouts, announcements and evaluations to participants as assigned by supervisor.
5. Acknowledge new members by addressing their concerns, informing and educating them on YMCA’s programs.

1. Maintain active interest in and knowledge of current branch programs and shares information with members and community.
2. Be a professional representative of the YMCA.
3. Be able to work as a team member, assisting fellow staff when necessary.
4. Make yourself available to all members regardless of age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, or fitness level. Share your knowledge and be a resource for sound health and fitness information.
5. Take responsibility to keep studio/exercise classroom and equipment neat and clean. Report any equipment issues to Wellness staff and/or coordinator.
6. Be familiar with emergency procedures. Responds promptly and appropriately.
7. Maintain good attendance. Give supervisor at least two week notice of schedule changes.
8. Assume total responsibility for obtaining qualified substitutes when needed and inform supervisor.
9. Allow at least ten minutes to prepare for class and allow for at least five minutes after class to be available for members.
10. Arrive for assigned class well-groomed and in proper uniform.
11. Attendance at staff meetings is mandatory.
12. Products or services that are not a part of the YMCA program(s) shall not    be promoted or endorsed by an employee to any member or guest whether the employee is “on the clock” or not.
13. All other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Possess and maintain current CPR certifications and Association Pre-Practicum approved.
• Certification in WaterinMotion, Aqua Zumba or Silver Sneakers Splash.
• At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• Group Exercise Pre-Hire Practicum.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT: 

• Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time.
• Must be able to stand for the duration of the shift
• Must be able to bend and stoop occasionally
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds occasionally
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.