Adult Fitness Specialist

About the role

Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ), a world-renowned education and poverty-fighting organization based in New York, seeks an enthusiastic, dedicated, and mission-aligned Activity Specialist to support our Healthy Harlem programming. The Activity Specialist will bring a passion for breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty through comprehensive programming that supports the health and well-being of children, families, and the community.

The Evening Adult Community Fitness Activity Specialist will lead high-quality group fitness classes and training sessions for adults ages 25-75, helping community members build strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, reduce stress, and develop sustainable health habits. This role is ideal for a motivational coach who understands how to work with beginner to intermediate adults, modify exercises for different abilities, and create a welcoming environment where participants feel supported and challenged.

Responsibilities

• Lead adult community fitness classes focused on:
  • Strength training
  • Functional fitness
  • Cardiovascular conditioning
  • Mobility and flexibility
  • Bodyweight and resistance workouts
• Design safe, progressive workouts that can be adapted for different fitness levels
• Demonstrate exercises and provide coaching on proper form and technique
• Offer modifications for beginners and progressions for advanced participants
• Motivate participants to stay engaged and committed to their health goals
• Create a supportive and inclusive class environment
• Monitor participant safety and ensure exercises are performed properly
• Assist with youth after-school fitness programming and community wellness initiatives
• Collaborate with Healthy Harlem staff to promote participation in fitness programs
• Support special events, community health initiatives, and wellness programming
• Maintain the cleanliness of fitness room and equipment

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or related field (preferred) or High School Diploma or GED (required)
• Nationally recognized fitness certification preferred: NASM, CEN, NSCA, ISSA, ACSM
• CPR/AED certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire; certification provided)
• Minimum 2 years of experience leading group fitness or personal training for adults
• Experience working with diverse populations in community, gym, or recreation settings
• Knowledge of:
  • Strength training fundamentals
  • Mobility and injury prevention
  • Cardiovascular conditioning
  • Exercise modifications for different fitness levels
• Ability to lead engaging, safe, and inclusive fitness sessions

Qualifications

• A passionate advocate for community health and wellness
• A coach who knows how to motivate adults who may be new to exercise
• Comfortable leading groups of 2-20 participants with varying fitness levels
• Energetic, positive, and encouraging while maintaining professional structure
• Skilled at demonstrating exercises, correcting form, and modifying movements
• Committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive fitness environment
• Reliable, punctual, and organized in planning fitness sessions
• A strong communicator who can build relationships with participants and staff

Physical Requirements

• Ability to demonstrate exercises and lead physical activity for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50-75 lbs of equipment
• Ability to stand, move, and instruct classes for 60-90 minutes

Schedule

• Part-time (20-25 hours per week)
• Evening Academic Year (September - June): 4-8pm, 5-8pm
• Summer (July - August): 1-6pm, 2-6pm, 3-6pm, 4-6pm
• Saturday (Academic Year): 10am-1pm (preferred but not required)

Pay

The hourly rate for this position is $25-$30 per hour.