Group Fitness Instructor

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids; Greenville (MI); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free YMCA Individual Membership

Retirement Savings

Paid Sick Time

Professional Growth

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Job summary

YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids is seeking a Group Exercise Instructor to lead and demonstrate a variety of classes at the Greenville Rec Center, Saint Joseph Church, and Frugthaven Farm locations.

Candidates should be available for morning and evening shifts; a YMCA background is preferred. The role emphasizes hands-on leadership, safety, and engaging member experiences across programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED; one year of instructor experience preferred.
• Ability to interact with people of all backgrounds and ages.

Responsibilities

• Lead and demonstrate group fitness classes with engaging instruction.
• Ensure correct posture, safety, and exercise form.
• Monitor intensity using target heart rates and perceived exertion.
• Develop routines and support members in fitness programs.
• Maintain clean and safe exercise spaces and address concerns.

Skills

Group fitness instruction

Public interaction

Safety awareness

Heart rate calculation

Scheduling flexibility

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Description

This position will support our Greenville Rec Center, Saint Joseph Church, and Frugthaven Farm locations. Candidates should have availability to work both morning and evening shifts, as scheduling needs may vary by location.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Group Exercise Instructor leads and/or demonstrates a variety of group fitness classes while creating a welcoming and engaging experience for participants. This position requires hands‑on, face‑to‑face leadership and flexibility to teach classes during midday, and evenings, based on program and scheduling needs.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

• Creates, maintains, and leads exercise routines
• Demonstrates correct posture alignment
• Follows safety standards
• Calculates target heart rates using the age adjusted method
• Follows “Perceived Exertion” methods of monitoring exercise intensity
• Provides feedback on exercise adherence
• Develops fitness regimens to member needs
• Supports members in fitness routines
• Demonstrates proper exercise form
• Implements Character Development in programs
• Maintains all areas in clean, presentable fashion
• Handles member complaints
• Stays current with advances in the health and wellness field

Performs any other functions deemed necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids

COMPENSATION

$20.22 - $24.96 ; Part Time; Non Exempt

BENEFITS

• Free YMCA Individual Membership – Enjoy full access to facilities.
• Retirement Savings – 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility) and a 403(b) savings plan.
• Paid Sick Time – Earn paid sick leave so you can focus on feeling your best when it matters most.
• Professional Growth – Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential resources and counseling for you and your family.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED); general knowledge of exercise training with one year of experience as an instructor; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Ability to interact with people of all ethnic backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. YMCA experience preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATION

• National Certification from ACE, AFAA, YMCA or Cycle, Keiser or Johnny G., required Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (required)
• First Aid Certification required within the first 60 days
• Blood Borne Pathogen training
• State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

TRAVEL

0-5% of local travel within the state of Michigan; occasional out-of-state travel may be required for educational conferences or training.