Instructor - Group Ex

South Shore YMCA; Hanover (MA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

The South Shore YMCA in Hanover is seeking a Group Exercise Instructor to deliver high-quality exercise programs to members and the community. Responsibilities include leading various classes—from Zumba to Yoga—while ensuring a welcoming environment. Ideal candidates will have relevant certifications and a passion for engaging with participants.

Applicants should possess strong communication skills and the ability to inspire members. A positive attitude and customer service orientation are vital for creating an inclusive space.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of group exercise instruction preferred.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Enthusiasm and effective customer service are essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead group exercise classes in various formats.
• Engage members and ensure a safe environment.
• Communicate regularly with the Health and Wellness Director.
• Build positive relationships with members.

Skills

Group exercise instruction

Communication skills

Ability to engage and inspire members

CPR and First Aid certification

Education

Required certifications (Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, etc.)

Tools

Scheduling and training apps

Job description

Under the guidance of the Director of Health and Wellbeing, the Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for the delivery and quality of the Group Exercise programs to members, program participants and the community. This position works independently under general direction and is expected to lead group exercise classes across a range of formats.

Responsibilities

• Lead group exercise classes across a range of formats, from high‑energy sessions like Zumba, Cycle, and Les Mills to mindful practices like Yoga and Pilates, providing a welcoming experience for participants of all levels.
• Engage members in each session, adapting classes as needed to meet participant needs, and ensuring a safe and positive environment.
• Communicate regularly with the Health and Wellness Director to provide updates on class attendance, member feedback, and equipment or facility needs.
• Work with fellow YMCA staff members and treat all with respect.
• Perform other duties as delegated by the supervisor on duty, Health and Wellbeing Director, and any directors associated with the YMCA.
• Attend all staff meetings and complete skill training.
• Build positive relationships with members, create a warm and welcoming environment, and support new members as they connect with our community and mission.
• Serve as a friendly and approachable point of contact, encouraging ongoing participation and fostering a supportive atmosphere.
• Collaborate with branch staff to keep exercise spaces clean, well‑equipped, and ready for classes.
• Identify and communicate equipment needs or facility issues to the Health and Wellness Director to maintain a high‑quality experience.

Competencies

• Mission and Community Oriented – Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values, works effectively with people of all backgrounds and levels, and serves community needs.
• People Oriented – Remains calm in challenging situations, seeks to understand underlying causes, and relates well while taking initiative to assist in developing others.
• Results Oriented – Discovers ideas to create and deliver a high‑value member experience, makes sound judgments, establishes goals, plans work, supports fundraising, and adheres to budgeting procedures.
• Personal Development – Recognizes personal strengths and limitations, pursues self‑development, and demonstrates flexibility.

Qualifications

• Certification: Required certifications specific to the type of class being taught (e.g., Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Cycle, Les Mills, ACE, AFAA), as well as CPR and First Aid certification.
• Experience: 1‑2 years of group exercise instruction preferred, with the ability to engage and inspire members.
• Technical Skills: Comfortable using technology for scheduling, timecards, and training apps.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and relationship‑building skills, creating an inclusive, positive environment.
• Professionalism: Enthusiasm, effective teaching, customer service, and passion for creating a welcoming space are essential.

Physical Demands

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must be ready to demonstrate exercises, move through various postures, and actively lead classes.