Aqua Fitness Instructor - Central

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Instructs group classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness levels. Effectively builds community within the class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
• Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
• Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
• Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants' capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
• Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
• Keeps accurate class attendance records.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.
• Attends all staff meetings
• Performs other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Visual and auditory ability to observe and to respond to critical incidents and the physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency situation.
• Ability to lead and interact in group activities and perform related physical skills.
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Ability to climb, push, and pull.
• Ability to lift and carry objects up to 20 pounds.

Qualifications

• Required certifications: CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification (ACE, NETA, AFAA, NASM) in group fitness instruction or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification.
• Certification in areas of expertise.
• YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 60 days of hire.
• Orientation to Healthy Living at the Y, Foundations of Listen First, Principles of Member Health & Wellness
• Group Exercise at the Y and Foundations of Group Exercise at the Y (or equivalent certification with another organization) (within 6 months of hire)
• At least one year of experience teaching group wellness classes preferred.
• This requires aqua-specific format certification such as the AEA (Aquatic Exercise Assn) OR WaterInMotion OR Aqua Zumba.