Group Fitness Instructor

rockriverymca; Loves Park (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

The YMCA in Loves Park, IL is hiring part-time Group Fitness Instructors to lead Yoga, Bodypump, Cycle/Spin, Urban Line Dance and more. Instructors teach in a safe, inclusive environment aligned with YMCA policies and wellness goals, fostering member engagement and community.

Qualifications include national certifications (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise, CPR/First Aid within 90 days; prior group fitness experience preferred; compensation is $15–$20 per hour plus $1

Qualifications

• Certification in areas of expertise required.
• National certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification required.
• At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• CPR, AED and First Aid certifications required within 90 days.
• Praesidium Academy trainings.
• Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.
• Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.

Responsibilities

• Lead group exercise classes that support YMCA wellness goals.
• Motivate members and guide them to reach fitness goals.
• Build authentic relationships and create a welcoming community in every class.
• Adapt workouts to meet participant abilities and offer modifications.
• Keep classes fresh with varied music, movement, and programming.
• Maintain attendance records for all scheduled classes.
• Attend trainings and meetings to stay current on fitness trends and best practices.
• Follow YMCA policies and report safety concerns promptly.

Skills

Group fitness instruction

Member engagement

Safety awareness

Education

ACE/NETA/AFAA/NASM YMCA Foundations cert

Job description

BUILD STRENGTH, BALANCE AND COMMUNITY -- HIRING FOR:

• Yoga


• Les Mills Bodypump


• Cycle/Spin


• Turn Up


• Silver Sneakers


• Urban Line Dance

YOUR IMPACT

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. At the Y, we purposefully engage members throughout their health and wellness journeys. Group exercise is one of many ways the Y supports members on their path to achieving health and wellness goals. The Group Fitness Instructor teaches class in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that promotes member wellness and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE

No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on motivating members, creating an energizing class experience, and helping people feel stronger, healthier, and connected.

• Lead fun, engaging, and safe group exercise classes that support YMCA wellness goals


• Motivate members and provide guidance to help them reach their fitness goals


• Build authentic relationships and create a welcoming sense of community in every class


• Create a noncompetitive, inclusive environment where all fitness levels feel comfortable


• Adapt workouts to meet participant abilities and offer modifications regularly


• Keep classes fresh and engaging with varied music, movement, and programming


• Maintain accurate attendance records for all scheduled classes


• Secure qualified substitutes when needed and maintain strong attendance reliability


• Keep wellness spaces clean, organized, and safe before and after classes


• Attend trainings and meetings to stay current on fitness trends and best practices


• Follow YMCA policies, respond to emergencies, and report safety concerns promptly

If you love leading others, bringing energy to every room, and helping people enjoy fitness and community — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 5 Positions

Positions 1, 2 & 3: Northeast Family YMCA

Part Time, Non-Exempt

Class Type: Yoga, Les Mills Bodypump, Cycle/Spin

Schedule Varies

$15.00-$20.00 per hour

The base wage is $15.00 per hour. Instructors are eligible for additional compensation of $1.00 per hour for professional certifications held for classes they teach at the YMCA.

Positions 4 & 5: Good Shepherd YMCA

Part Time, Non-Exempt

Class Type: Urban Line Dance, Yoga

Schedule Varies

$15.00-$20.00 per hour

The base wage is $15.00 per hour. Instructors are eligible for additional compensation of $1.00 per hour for professional certifications held for classes they teach at the YMCA.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certification in areas of expertise required.


• National certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification required.


• At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.


• CPR, AED and First Aid certifications required within 90 days.


• Praesidium Academy trainings.


• Prefer knowledge of, and previous experience with, diverse populations.


• Proven track record of developing authentic and deepened relationships with others.

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility