Group Fitness Instructor - Aqua Instructor

YMCA of South Hampton Roads; Franklin (VA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA of South Hampton Roads invites applications for a Group Fitness Instructor who will energize members through engaging, inclusive, and safe group exercise experiences across a variety of formats. The role emphasizes motivation, technique, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Applicants must hold current CPR/First Aid and O2 certifications or be within 30 days of hire, plus a current group exercise certification.

Qualifications

• CPR, First Aid, and O2 certification required or expected within 30 days of hire.
• Current Group Exercise certification (YMCA, AFAA, ACE, Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Cycle, Reebok, etc) or training within 30 days of hire.
• Candidates must pass a group exercise interview and audition.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, engaging group exercise classes for YMCA members.
• Demonstrate proper technique and motivation across class formats.
• Update choreography and music to keep classes fresh and energetic.

Skills

CPR Certification

First Aid Certification

O2 Certification

Job description

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission comes to life through our culture at the YMCA, where we are dedicated to strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality. We are welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined—empowering individuals and building a stronger community, starting with you.

Description

"Energize, inspire, and lead with us at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads as a Group Fitness Instructor! Join our vibrant team and ignite our community's passion for health and wellness. Bring your expertise and enthusiasm to a diverse range of classes, from high-intensity workouts to mind-body disciplines. With state-of-the‑art facilities and a supportive environment, you'll have the tools you need to shine. If you're ready to motivate, uplift, and make a difference, let's move together towards healthier, happier lives!"

Position Summary:

The Group Fitness Instructor is responsible for leading safe, engaging, and effective group exercise classes that promote health, well‑being, and community among YMCA members. This role creates a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants of all fitness levels feel encouraged to achieve their goals.

Instructors will deliver classes that reflect the Y’s commitment to healthy living, ensuring proper technique, motivation, and member connection. They serve as role models for healthy behavior, uphold YMCA values, and contribute to the overall member experience by building relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide outstanding customer service with a positive, proactive attitude.
• Demonstrate knowledge of wellness principles and promote a healthy lifestyle through words and actions.
• Adhere to ACSM and YMCA guidelines for all group exercise classes, including BPM standards and class‑specific terminology (e.g., Zumba).
• Regularly update choreography and music selections to keep classes fresh and dynamic.
• Positively support YMCA national standards and guidelines in all interactions with members and team members.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Must have a current CPR, First Aid and O2 certification, or be certified within 30 days of hire.
2. Current relevant national Group Exercise certification (YMCA, AFAA, ACE, Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Cycle Reebok, etc), or be trained within 30 days of hire.
3. Candidates must pass group exercise interview and audition.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:

1. Walk, stand, kneel, and stoop.
2. Maintain continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi‑tasking.
3. Must be able to lift, pull and move up to 50 pounds.
4. Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
5. Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications.

EFFECT ON END RESULT:

• Help shift the focus from post‑care to preventive care by encouraging YMCA members and team members to adopt lasting healthy lifestyle habits.
• Be an active and supportive part of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads Group Fitness team and the broader association.
• Create positive experiences that lead to happy and satisfied members, reflected in survey feedback.
• Support the YMCA's mission by helping members grow in body, mind, and spirit.

BACKGROUND CHECKS:

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet the minimum requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks, E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS). 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/or maintain the requirements of this position.