Description
The Group Exercise Instructor reports to and takes day-to-day direction from the Group Exercise/Wellness Coordinator and/or the Wellness Director. The Group Exercise Instructor is an exceptional motivator as well as great at relationship building in our member-centered environment. The group exercise instructor will deliver multiple options and a great experience during each class by presenting a positive image of the YMCA through quality fitness programs designed to meet the needs of the community. Classes may include, but not limited to: Les Mills, Cycling, Step, Body Sculpting, Zumba, Yoga and Water Exercise classes.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Instruct members in maintaining exertion levels to maximize benefits from exercise routines.
• Monitor member's progress and adapt programs as needed.
• Observe members and inform them of corrective measures necessary for skill improvement.
• Evaluate individuals' abilities, needs, and physical conditions, and develop suitable training programs to meet any special requirements.
• Offer variations of the routine to accommodate all fitness levels.
• Proactively provide appropriate direction to members performing dangerous or harmful exercises.
• Solicit feedback from participants about the class and answer questions from members to support them in achieving their goals related to healthy living.
• Maintains accurate class attendance records.
• Adhere to the Association operating policies and procedures by operating the programs within the guidelines set forth.
• Maintains and cleans equipment according to the schedule or as requested by supervisor and reset instruction space.
• Design and lead special programs as needed to include, but not limited to, assist with: planning, coordinating, presenting and/or promoting programs, classes, and events.
• Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations governing sports, recreational activities, and the use of exercise equipment.
• Responsible for own class coverage when unavailable to attend.
• Performs any other duties as assigned by the Group Exercise Coordinator and/or the Wellness Director.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures regarding the safety, health and welfare of members, program participants, guests and staff; responds to emergency situations in accordance to facility policies and certification requirements.
• Completes all job related meetings and trainings as required.
• Supports the missions message during Annual giving events.
• Water exercise classes must be taught from the pool deck.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Education/Experience Required:

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
• National certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM, Les Mills, Zumba) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
• Yoga Instructors must have a current Yoga specific certification 200 hrs.
• Water Exercise Instructors must have a current water instructor certification.
• At least one year of experience instructing group exercise classes preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to develop positive, authentic relationships with groups and/or individuals from different backgrounds.
• Must be well-organized and prepared to teach classes.
• Represent the YMCA in a positive manner.

Certifications/Trainings Required:

• Must obtain within 30 days of employment and then maintain current certifications in community CPR/AED and First Aid.
• Have and maintain position-specific required certifications as stated in the training matrix - Relevant Group Ex certs

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
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 includes, but not limited to:

• Ability to plan, lead, and participate in classes and activities.
• Ability to verbally and physically communicate program content
• Ability to hear participant discussion and questions.
• Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position, including, but not limited to, leading class, walking, standing, bending, reaching, teaching from the pool deck and lifting.
• Ability to lift equipment and perform all physical aspects of the position, including, but not limited to, leading class, walking, standing, bending, lifting, and reaching.
• Hear noises and distress signals in the program environment, including in the classroom and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
• Must have flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Ability to lift and move a minimum of 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for an extended period of time.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme humidity/dampness, heat and cold.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• Occasional travel for training may be required
• Availability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed, and support class coverage
• Must wear appropriate fitness attire and footwear at all times; should not prohibit participants from seeing proper form, alignment and movement of the body. However, clothing should not be revealing in an inappropriate and/or unprofessional manner. Mid drifts (uniform code)