Group Exercise Instructor - Arnold (Greater Annapolis)

The Y in Central Maryland; Arnold (MD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

The Y in Central Maryland is seeking a Group Exercise Instructor to deliver high-quality classes that promote fitness and community engagement. Instructors create dynamic programming, adjust to varying fitness levels, and maintain current certifications to expand offerings.

The role emphasizes safety, participant motivation, and inclusive instruction, with opportunities for professional growth within a mission-driven organization committed to well-being for all.

Qualifications

• Current nationally recognized group exercise certification required.
• At least one complementary or specialty certification required (e.g., Zumba, Yoga, Indoor Cycling).
• Current CPR/AED certification required or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
• 6 months to 1 year prior experience teaching group exercise preferred.
• Ability to design effective, progressive, and safe group exercise programs.
• Strong interpersonal and motivational skills to energize participants of all fitness levels.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead safe, engaging group exercise classes that align with Y wellness standards.
• Develop and maintain class programming based on member needs and trends.
• Adapt exercises to accommodate diverse abilities and goals.
• Build positive relationships with members through energetic, solution-focused engagement.
• Promote wellness concepts and healthy lifestyle habits during classes.
• Record class attendance and submit required administrative reports accurately.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Motivation & energy

Education

Group exercise certification (AFAA/ACE/NASM/ACSM/NETA/Y Foundations)

CPR/AED certification

Complementary certification (Yoga, Indoor Cycling, Zumba, etc.)

Tools

Audio/stereo tech basics

Job description

Overwhelmingly, people who decide they want to be a part of the Y in Central Maryland tell us they do so because it reflects their values and a conscious decision, they've made about how they choose to live their lives. The happiest and most fulfilled Y associates are those who are motivated to help others and who want to be a part of something larger than themselves. If this speaks to your heart, then we invite you to join our team. Be a part of a charitable, mission-driven organization that works for individual and community well-being for all, for a better us.

At the Y in Central Maryland, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Enjoy flexible schedules, competitive pay, and generous paid time off, alongside medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as dependent care FSA. We offer a generous employer contribution to the Y retirement fund, and opportunities for career advancement. Our commitment to fostering a positive work environment means you'll have access to training and development programs that align with our mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities. Join us and bring your passion to a fulfilling career where you can truly make a difference!

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.
• Basic knowledge of audio/stereo technology for use in class environments

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, NETA 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).
• 6 months - 1 year 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.

Physical Demands

• Will be required to walk, stand, kneel, stoop, push, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• While performing duties the employee may occasionally work in the outside weather conditions, and is exposed to wet, cold and /or humid conditions.
• Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking.
• Will be exposed to cleaning supplies.
• Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
• Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications.

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum requirements for the position. They may include a background check, drug test, driver's license record, CPS, and/or Criminal Background check.

Additional driver's license check, CPS, Criminal Background check, alcohol and/or drug testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and maintain the minimum requirements of this position.

All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people. It emphasizes treating youth with respect and fairness, avoiding inappropriate physical or verbal interactions, and adhering to established standards of affection. The policy strictly prohibits any form of abuse, bullying, or harassment and mandates the reporting of suspected mistreatment. Additionally, associates and volunteers must complete training on child abuse prevention and comply with legal reporting requirements to safeguard youth.