Senior Fitness Instructor

Metro YMCAs; Livingston (NJ); On-site; USD 28,000 - 50,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid sick leave

Retirement benefits (403(b))

Metro Y program discounts

Complimentary YMCA facility use

Job summary

Metro YMCAs in Livingston, NJ seeks a part-time group exercise instructor to lead safe, engaging classes for participants of varying ages and abilities.

You will prepare, demonstrate, modify, and pace routines; maintain equipment; build rapport; and promote YMCA programs. Required certifications include National Group Exercise Certification and CPR/AED.

We offer a supportive environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for growth within the YMCA program family.

Qualifications

• National Group Exercise Certification required.
• Senior Fitness Certification or equivalent preferred.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certifications required.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe, engaging, and inclusive group exercise classes per YMCA standards.
• Prepare and deliver classes suitable for varying ages and abilities with modifications.
• Provide clear instruction, demonstrate technique, and maintain current knowledge of exercise science.
• Record attendance and report as required in YMCA systems.
• Create a welcoming environment that fosters social engagement and community.

Skills

Group exercise leadership

Public speaking

Customer service

Education

National Group Exercise Certification

Senior Fitness Specialty Certification

Enhance Fitness

Moving For Better Balance/SAIL (or equivalent)

CPR/AED

First Aid

Job description

Description

• Lead safe, evidence-based, and age-appropriate exercise programs designed to promote independence, functional fitness, balance, strength, mobility, flexibility, cognitive health, and social engagement. Provide clear instruction, demonstrations, and appropriate modifications to accommodate participants with varying abilities, fitness levels, health considerations, and levels of experience. Incorporate exercises and activities that support everyday functional movement, confidence, fall prevention, and overall quality of life while creating a welcoming, supportive, and socially connected environment that encourages continued participation and healthy aging.

Requirements

Role and Responsibilities

• Lead safe, effective, engaging, and inclusive group exercise classes in accordance with YMCA and nationally recognized industry standards.
• Prepare for and deliver classes appropriate for participants of varying ages, abilities, health conditions, fitness levels, and experience, including appropriate exercise modifications and progressions.
• Provide clear verbal and visual instruction, demonstrate proper exercise technique, and maintain current knowledge of exercise science, assigned formats, and industry best practices.
• Arrive prepared with appropriate music, equipment, and class materials, and begin and end classes according to the scheduled times.
• Create a welcoming, supportive environment in which participants feel seen, valued, encouraged, and connected to the YMCA community.
• Build positive relationships with members by learning and using names when possible, encouraging interaction, recognizing achievements, celebrating milestones, and providing exceptional service.
• Respond to member questions regarding fitness, wellness programming, and YMCA services within the scope of practice, and connect or promote members to programs and services that support their wellness goals.
• Support member engagement and retention through consistent relationship building and a positive class experience.
• Maintain a safe exercise environment before, during, and after each class; inspect equipment before use and promptly report damaged or unsafe equipment.
• Monitor participants throughout each class and respond appropriately to signs of fatigue, discomfort, injury, or other health or safety concerns.
• Follow YMCA emergency procedures, incident reporting requirements, risk management practices, confidentiality standards, and professional boundaries.
• Accurately record class attendance and complete required reports and documentation in designated YMCA systems and within established timelines.
• Clock in and out using Paylocity in accordance with Association procedures.
• Communicate schedule conflicts, availability concerns, and substitution needs promptly to the appropriate supervisor.
• Support YMCA special events, wellness initiatives, branch promotions, and other activities as requested.
• Utilize age-friendly teaching techniques.
• Incorporate fall prevention strategies.
• Monitor participants for fatigue and medical concerns.
• Encourage social interaction and community building.
• Provide chair-based and standing exercise modifications.

Qualifications and Education Requirements:

• National Group Exercise Certification
• Senior Fitness Specialty Certification
• Enhance®Fitness
• Moving For Better Balance, SAIL, or equivalent preferred
• CPR/AED
• First Aid

Part Time Benefits:

• We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes paid sick leave, a legal plan, disability insurance, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.