Group Exercise Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Healthy Living Director, the Group Exercise Instructor delivers safe, engaging, and effective group fitness classes for participants of varying ages and fitness levels. This role executes and leads dynamic workout sessions that promote health, well-being, and community connection. Instructors ensure all activities align with YMCA values and safety standards while fostering an inclusive, motivating, and supportive environment that encourages members to achieve their personal fitness goals.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Design and deliver engaging fitness classes that align with YMCA and program standards by developing or learning choreographed routines and adapting them to meet diverse participant needs, resulting in safe, high-quality, and effective workouts that improve participant health and satisfaction.
2. Ensure participant safety and proper technique by demonstrating correct movement patterns, observing performance, and providing verbal and visual cues or modifications, resulting in reduced risk of injury and increased participant confidence.
3. Motivate and inspire participants by using positive reinforcement, music, and group engagement strategies to create an energetic and inclusive environment, resulting in enhanced enjoyment, member retention, and sense of community.
4. Maintain current certifications and professional development by completing required coursework, attending YMCA and external trainings, and staying informed on industry best practices, resulting in consistent delivery of evidence-based and effective fitness instruction.
5. Collaborate with team members and leadership by maintaining open communication regarding class schedules, attendance trends, and participant feedback, contributing to coordinated program operations and organizational success.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. An enthusiastic and engaging personality with a willingness to learn is essential.
2. Must be at least 18 years of age.

COMPETENCIES:

1. Accountability: Takes ownership of decisions, actions, and results. Follows through on commitments and accepts responsibility. Completes assigned tasks on time and accepts feedback without defensiveness. Adheres to established policies and procedures.
2. Situational Awareness: Recognizes participant abilities, energy levels, and potential safety concerns in real time to make appropriate adjustments that ensure a positive and safe class experience.
3. Motivating Others: Inspires and energizes participants through enthusiasm, clear communication, and encouragement, leading to sustained engagement and improved outcomes.
4. Adaptability: Adjusts class intensity, format, or approach to meet participant needs or respond to environmental or equipment changes without compromising program quality.
5. Innovation: Introduces new exercises, music, or formats to maintain participant interest and promote continuous improvement.
6. Time Management: Arrives punctually, begins and ends classes on schedule, and balances class preparation with other responsibilities.
7. Relationship Building: Creates genuine, supportive relationships with participants and colleagues to foster belonging and connection to the YMCA community.
8. Collaboration: Works effectively with peers and leadership to ensure cohesive programming, mutual support, and alignment with organizational goals.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Actively lead and demonstrate exercises or choreography for up to 60 minutes per class.
2. Lift or move up to 50lbs. regularly.
3. Speak clearly and project voice while performing physical activity.
4. May require travel between YMCA centers or off-site locations.
5. Teach a minimum of 2 classes per week.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, or qualifications. Additional tasks may be assigned as needed to support organizational goals. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Pay Range: $15 per hour