Fitness Instructor - Group Exercise Instructor

YMCA of Greater Bergen County; New Milford (NJ); On-site; USD 34,440 - 48,216; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Complimentary use of YMCA facilities

Job summary

A leading community-focused nonprofit in New Jersey is seeking a Group Fitness Instructor to lead classes that foster well-being and community engagement. The ideal candidate should have a group fitness certification and experience in teaching various class formats. The role involves creating a positive environment, building relationships with members, and adapting classes to meet diverse needs. Professional development opportunities and use of YMCA facilities are included.

Qualifications

• Current group fitness certification from a nationally recognized organization.
• Minimum one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• Ability to teach two or more class formats desired.

Responsibilities

• Lead energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes.
• Build effective relationships with members.
• Celebrate achievements of program participants.

Skills

Group fitness instruction

Customer service

Relationship building

Knowledge of wellness trends

Education

Current group fitness certification

Minimum one year of experience

Job description

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. Effectively provides customer services, leadership and guidance to all members while building community within classes. Instructor will modify class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
• Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
• Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
• Instructors are expected to adhere to the scheduled format and description of the class.
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
• Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
• Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program and personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergencies.
• Keep accurate class attendance record.
• Contact supervisor with any equipment issues.
• Music selection must be appropriate and in line with the YMCA’s position as both a community and family-based organization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund‑raising.

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high‑value experience for members.

Personal Growth: Pursues self‑development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. 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.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current group fitness certification from a nationally recognized organization in specialized activity.
• Minimum one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• Ability to teach two or more class formats desired.
• Certifications subject to annual audit.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions. Ability to conduct classes and activities and exemplify the designated class modalities. Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position; including leading classes, walking standing, bending, reaching and lifting. The ability to move equipment is necessary in many class formats. Ability to follow musical beats is a requirement. In addition, verbal cues are needed to assist members to follow along. Instructors must visually identify participants in need of modifications and cue proper format.

Professional development opportunities and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA/employer M/F/D/V. Employment is subject to extensive background check.