The Specialty Group Exercise Instructor leads unique or advanced fitness classes such as or other specialized formats. They are responsible for creating safe, effective, and engaging sessions that cater to a range of skill levels. The instructor brings expertise in their specialty area, offers modifications when needed, and fosters a welcoming, inclusive environment that supports participants' wellness goals.
SALARY RANGE: $29.00 - $40.00/hour
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Design and lead dynamic sports performance classes focused on strength, speed, agility, endurance, and flexibility
- Assess participants' fitness levels and tailor exercises to suit various athletic needs and skill levels
- Provide clear instruction and demonstration of sport-specific drills and functional movements
- Offer modifications and progressions to ensure safety and effectiveness for all participants
- Monitor proper form and technique to prevent injury and enhance performance
- Foster a motivating, inclusive environment that challenges athletes to meet performance goals
- Maintain a clean, organized workout space and ensure equipment is properly set up and stored
- Stay current with trends and research in sports performance and athletic conditioning
- Track attendance and report any incidents or concerns to leadership
- Complete required abuse prevention training.
- Attends all staff meetings
- Performs other duties as assigned.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Ability to stand, walk, and move continuously for extended periods during classes or shifts
- Frequent use of hands and arms for demonstrating exercises and handling equipment.
- Ability to lift, carry, and move fitness equipment weighing up to [insert weight, e.g., 25 lbs].
- Capability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as needed to assist participants or maintain the workout space.
- Good physical stamina and cardiovascular fitness to lead active sessions.
- Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
Qualifications
- Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
- Certification in areas of expertise.
- YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire.
- Orientation to Healthy Living at the Y, Foundations of Listen First, Principles of Member Health & Wellness
- Group Exercise at the Y and Foundations of Group Exercise at the Y (or equivalent certification with another organization) (within 6 months of hire)
- At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
YMCA COMPETENCIES:
Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y's cause.
Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence.
Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, and sound judgement.
Functional Expertise: Executes superior technical skills for the role.
Innovation: Creates and implements new and relevant approaches and activities that improve and expand the Y's work and impact in the community.
Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs.
Developing Self & Others: Develops self and supports others (e.g.: staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential.
Emotional Maturity: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.
