POSITION SUMMARY:

The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for delivering high-quality, safe, and engaging group exercise classes that promote fitness, wellness, and community interaction. Instructors are expected to create dynamic class programming, adjust instruction to accommodate a variety of fitness levels, and foster a motivating group environment. Group Exercise Instructors must maintain current certifications in their specialty areas and obtain complementary certifications to broaden class offerings.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Design and lead effective, safe, and engaging group exercise classes that align with Y wellness standards.
  
  

• Develop and maintain class programming based on member needs, fitness trends, and specialty certifications.
  
  

• Adapt exercises and instruction to meet the diverse abilities and goals of participants.
  
  

• Build positive, supportive relationships with members through energetic and solution-focused engagement.
  
  

• Promote overall wellness concepts and healthy lifestyle habits during classes and member interactions.
  
  

• Maintain up-to-date primary group exercise certification and at least one complementary certification related to specialty formats (e.g., Yoga, Cycling, HIIT, Strength Training).
  
  

• Complete required continuing education credits (CECs) and maintain certification status as required by governing bodies and Y policies.
  
  

• Record class attendance and submit required administrative reports accurately and timely.
  
  

• Ensure all equipment is properly cleaned, maintained, and set up safely before and after classes.
  
  

• Report equipment needs, safety concerns, or facility challenges promptly to supervisors.
  
  

• Actively participate in scheduled meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
  
  

• Maintain a professional, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Models and teaches the Ys values. Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives. Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition. Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.

Collaboration: Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Build relationships to create small communities. Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict. Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience. Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance and support.

Operational Effectiveness: Provides others with frameworks for making decisions. Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities. Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of the team. Effectively creates and manages budgets.

Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.

Personal Growth: Shares new insights. Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change. Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance. 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:

• Current nationally recognized group exercise certification (e.g., AFAA, ACE, NASM, ACSM, or Y Foundations of Group Exercise Certification) required.
  
  

• At least one complementary or specialty certification required (e.g., Zumba, Yoga, Indoor Cycling, Kickboxing, Barre).
  
  

• Current CPR/AED certification required (or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire).
  
  

• Prior experience teaching group exercise classes strongly preferred.
  
  

• Ability to design effective, progressive, and safe group exercise programs.
  
  

• Strong interpersonal and motivational skills with the ability to energize participants of all fitness levels.
  
  

• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
  
  

• Ability to work effectively with individuals of diverse ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

1. Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds.

2. While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions.

3. Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking.

4. Will be exposed to cleaning supplies.

5. Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time.

6. Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications.