Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fun and effective group exercise classes while promoting healthy lifestyles.
- Company: Join the YMCA, a community-focused organisation with a mission to enhance lives.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, flexible hours, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Inspire others to stay fit and healthy while building a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, certified in CPR/AED, and have experience teaching group classes.
- Other info: Great entry-level role with potential for career advancement in fitness.
Under supervision of the Fitness Coordinator/Director or Branch Director and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the group exercise instructor is responsible for instructing safe, effective and fun group exercise classes, as well as enhancing the quality and growth of the program and retention of the participants of the fitness programs. The group exercise instructor will assist the Fitness Coordinator/Director or Branch Director with various branch activities such as special events, and other activities that occur on various occasions.
Responsibilities include:
- Provide a safe and effective workout in the class format scheduled, in accordance with current accepted practices of exercise physiology.
- Supervise and guide the participants through a workout that incorporates appropriate warm-up, cardiovascular endurance, cool down, strength and flexibility.
- Be aware of the various abilities of the participants and potential problems associated with poor form.
- Provide a safe and clean environment by keeping workout area clean and free of obstacles.
- Reduce the risk of injury by adhering to national YMCA safety guidelines.
- Responsible for cleaning, organizing and maintaining all equipment especially following class.
- Demonstrate variations or modifications to encourage participants to pace themselves, and keep movements pain free.
- Know and follow emergency procedures as situations warrant.
- Start and finish classes on time. If unable to teach a scheduled class, instructor will find a substitute to cover assigned classes.
- Encourage the practice of healthy lifestyles, NOT special diets or supplements.
- Develop member relations and member involvement.
- Providing individualized exercise and fitness instruction based on the overall needs of the class.
- Increase exposure of YMCA to non-member participants.
- Participate in staff activities (meetings, staff functions).
Qualifications:
- 18 years of age or older
- Current CPR/AED/Blood Borne Pathogens/First Aid certifications
- Experience in teaching group exercise classes
- Must hold a current national certification from one of the following national accrediting agencies: ACSM, ACE, AFAA, AFPA, ISSA, NASM, NSCA, WITS, YMCA Foundations of Group Fitness, Cooper Institute, NESTA, ISCA, and/or FiTOUR or a Bachelor’s Degree in fitness related field
- Must maintain nationally recognized certification in the type of class you are teaching
- Must be willing to teach a minimum of one regular scheduled group exercise class per week
- Must maintain all appropriate certifications and provide copies of all certifications and required CECs to fitness director or branch director each year
- Excellent human relations and communication skills
- Team player (be willing to substitute teach for other instructors)
Physical requirements for this position include: Walking, Sitting, Climbing, Seeing, Crouching, Stooping, Standing, Hearing, Speaking, Kneeling, Lifting (50lbs), Carrying (50lbs), Pushing (50lbs) and Pulling (50lbs).
Seniority level: Entry level
Employment type: Part-time
Job function: Education and Training
Industries: Wellness and Fitness Services
Group Exercise Instructor employer: YMCA of Upper Palmetto
Contact Detail:
YMCA of Upper Palmetto Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Exercise Instructor
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts and instructors on social media or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show up in person! If you can, visit the YMCA branch where you want to work. Chat with the staff, express your interest, and maybe even offer to demonstrate a quick workout. It’s a great way to make a memorable impression.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your skills! Prepare a short demo class that highlights your teaching style and ability to engage participants. This could be your chance to shine during an interview or casual meet-up.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to join our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Exercise Instructor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Fitness: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fitness shine through! Share why you love group exercise and how you can inspire others to lead healthier lives. We want to see your personality and passion in your words!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to mention any previous experience you have in teaching group exercise classes or working in fitness environments. We’re looking for instructors who can bring their skills to our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your qualifications!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read the job description carefully and tailor your application to match. Use keywords from the description to show that you understand what we’re looking for. This will help us see that you’re a great fit for the role!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA of Upper Palmetto
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re familiar with the latest exercise trends and safety guidelines. Brush up on your knowledge of exercise physiology and be ready to discuss how you would adapt workouts for different fitness levels.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for fitness shine through! Share personal stories about how you’ve helped others achieve their fitness goals or how you’ve created a fun atmosphere in your classes. This will show that you’re not just about the workout, but also about building community.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to demonstrate your teaching style during the interview. Prepare a mini-class or a few exercises you can showcase. Think about how you would handle various participant abilities and potential injuries, as this will highlight your expertise and adaptability.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few questions ready about the YMCA’s fitness programs or community involvement. This shows you’re genuinely interested in the role and want to contribute to their mission, which is key for any position within the organisation.
