Group Exercise Instructor (AM)

Valley Shore YMCA; Westbrook (ME); On-site; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA Membership

Discounted family memberships

Tuition discounts

Flexible scheduling

Paid CPR/AED certification assistance

Advancement opportunities

Supportive work environment

Job summary

The Valley Shore YMCA in Westbrook, CT is looking for a Group Exercise Instructor to lead engaging fitness classes and support members’ health and wellness goals.

You will plan safe workouts, adapt to different fitness levels, and promote our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility while enjoying flexible hours and a supportive team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Nationally recognized group fitness certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification is required.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications must be obtained within 30 days of hire.
• Minimum of one year of experience leading group fitness classes is preferred.
• Ability to lead safe, effective, and engaging group fitness classes and maintain current certifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and facilitate structured group fitness classes that are safe, effective, and inclusive for all ability levels.
• Deliver excellent customer service by welcoming members and fostering a positive class community.
• Stay current on industry trends to guide participants and support progress toward fitness goals.
• Address facility, equipment, and member concerns promptly and professionally.
• Collaborate with the Wellness Coordinator and other instructors to ensure program success.
• Build positive relationships with volunteers, members, staff, and colleagues.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings; adhere to all YMCA procedures and standards.
• Perform related duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Inclusive class environment

ADA compliance

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Group fitness certification (ACE/NETA/AFAA/NASM) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: 201 SPENCER PLAINS RD - WESTBROOK, CT 06498Position Type: Part TimeSalary Range: $25.00 HourlyAbout the Role

About the Role

TheValley Shore YMCA is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, and member-focusedGroup Exercise Instructor to support our mission of strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This role creates a welcoming, inclusive, and energizing environment where members of all fitness levels feel supported and inspired.

The Group Exercise Instructor plans and leads safe, effective, and engaging group fitness classes while providing clear instruction, motivation, and modifications as needed. This position promotes healthy lifestyles, builds positive relationships with members, and ensures all classes reflect the YMCA’s core values ofcaring,honesty,respect, andresponsibility.

Job Summary

Join theValley Shore YMCA as a Group Exercise Instructor and be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to improving health and wellness in the community. In this role, you will lead dynamic group fitness classes, encourage member engagement, and create a positive and inclusive experience for participants. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about fitness, enjoy motivating others, and are seeking flexible scheduling. Enjoyfree Valley Shore YMCA membership, training opportunities, and flexible hours while making a difference in your community.

What You’ll Do

• Plan, lead, and facilitate structured group fitness classes that are safe, effective, and inclusive for all ability levels.
• Deliver exceptional customer service by welcoming members, anticipating needs, and creating a positive sense of community within the class environment.
• Stays current in industry trends and best practices to effectively guide class participants, support member progress, and help members achieve their fitness and wellness goals.
• Proactively address facility, equipment, or member concerns and resolve issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Communicate and collaborate consistently with the Wellness Coordinator and fellow instructors to support program success.
• Build and support positive, collaborative relationships with volunteers, members, participants, staff, and colleagues.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
• Follow all Valley Shore YMCA and applicable regulatory procedures and standards.
• Perform other related duties and special projects assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Nationally recognized group fitness certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
• Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications are required within 30 days of hire.
• Minimum of one year of experience leading group fitness classes preferred.
• Prior experience in group fitness instruction, wellness coaching, or customer service preferred.
• Ability to lead safe, effective, and engaging group fitness classes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of fitness trends, exercise science, biomechanics, anatomy, nutrition, injury prevention, and physical education principles, with a commitment to ongoing professional development and maintaining current certifications.
• Demonstrated expertise in overall health and wellness programming, with experience applying these principles in real-world fitness or gym environments.
• Ability to create individualized fitness programs, adapt exercises for diverse populations, and coach clients toward achieving measurable fitness goals.
• Experience providing exceptional customer service, welcoming members, and creating an inclusive class environment.
• Strong people skills with the ability to connect and communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups across all social and economic backgrounds.
• Understanding of inclusion and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Work Schedule

• Part-time, flexible hours available (Includes Weekends and Evenings).
• Ideal for students, early-career professionals, or anyone seeking meaningful part-time work in a fitness environment.

Incentives & Perks

• Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership (includes access to all fitness facilities).
• Discounted family memberships and certain program fees (childcare, swim lessons, camps, etc.).
• Eligible fortuition discounts at selected colleges.
• Flexible scheduling to fit school, family, or other work commitments.
• Paid training and CPR/AED certification assistance.
• Opportunities for advancement into Wellness, Aquatics, or Youth Program departments.
• Supportive, community-oriented work environment that values wellness and personal growth.

Why Work at the Valley Shore YMCA?

At theValley Shore YMCA, we believe work should be more than a job — it should be meaningful. Our culture is built onCaring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility — the core values of the Valley Shore YMCA.

We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where staff are encouraged to learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re helping a member reach their fitness goal or keeping our wellness floor safe and inviting, your work directly contributes to the well‑being of our entire community.

When you join our team, you’re not just improving your career — you’re helping build a stronger, healthier, and more connected Valley Shore.

About the Valley Shore YMCA

TheValley Shore YMCA serves the shoreline community by promoting health, wellness, and youth development through inclusive programs and services. Our mission is to strengthen the foundations of community by nurturing the potential of every individual — in spirit, mind, and body.