Cycling Group Exercise Instructor - Abingdon (Ward)

Position Summary

The Cycling Group Exercise Instructor creates a welcoming, safe, and engaging environment by leading high-quality group fitness classes that support the health and well-being of Y members and participants. This position is responsible for delivering effective and motivating classes, building positive relationships with participants, and fostering a sense of community through fitness and wellness.

Essential Functions

• Deliver safe, effective, and engaging group exercise classes that align with Y standards and best practices.
• Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that encourages participation, motivation, and community connection.
• Build positive relationships with members through friendly, professional, and supportive interactions.
• Encourage healthy lifestyles and promote overall wellness during classes and member interactions.
• Recognize and respond to participant needs by offering exercise modifications and alternatives appropriate for varying fitness levels and abilities.
• Promote Y programs, services, and wellness opportunities that support member engagement and retention.

Safety & Operational Excellence

• Maintain all equipment and class spaces clean, organized, and safe before, during, and after each class.
• Monitor participant safety and respond appropriately to emergencies or incidents following Y policies and procedures.
• Report equipment concerns, facility issues, or safety hazards promptly to supervisors.
• Accurately record attendance and complete required administrative tasks in a timely manner.
• Utilize audio and sound equipment appropriately to support class instruction.

Y Competencies (Leader)

• Models and teaches the Y's values.
• Ensures a high level of service with a commitment to changing lives.
• Provides volunteers with orientation, training, development, and recognition.
• Cultivates relationships to support fund-raising.
• Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives.
• Builds relationships to create small communities.
• Empathetically listens and communicates for understanding when negotiating and dealing with conflict.
• Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience.
• Provides associates with feedback, coaching, guidance, and support.
• Provides others with frameworks for making decisions.
• Conducts prototypes to support the launching of programs and activities.
• Develops plans and manages best practices through engagement of the team.
• Effectively creates and manages budgets.
• Holds associates accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.
• Shares new insights.
• Facilitates change; models adaptability and an awareness of the impact of change.
• Utilizes non-threatening methods to address sensitive issues and inappropriate behavior or performance.
• Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

Member Focus

• Creates welcoming experiences and builds positive relationships with participants.
• Delivers exceptional service and encourages member engagement.

Communication

• Communicates clearly and professionally with participants, members, and colleagues.
• Provides instruction and feedback in a positive and encouraging manner.

Teamwork

• Works collaboratively with supervisors and fellow associates to support Y programs and services.
• Contributes to a positive and inclusive culture.

Qualifications

• Current nationally recognized Group Exercise certification required (AFAA, ACE, NASM, ACSM, NETA, YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise, or equivalent).
• Specialty certification preferred for assigned formats such as Yoga, Indoor Cycling, Zumba, Barre, Pilates, HIIT, Strength Training, or similar disciplines.
• Current CPR/AED certification required or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire.
• Previous group exercise instruction experience preferred.
• Ability to safely lead and modify exercises for participants with varying fitness levels and abilities.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and motivational skills.
• Ability to create an engaging and inclusive participant experience.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuing education.

Environmental Factors, Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, stand, climb, kneel, stoop, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods; must be able to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be able to perform physical duties of supervised positions when necessary.
• Must meet all physical certification and training requirements of the Y.

Accountability

• Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks including (but not limited to) CPS, criminal, drug and alcohol testing, and motor vehicle records check.
• All Y associates agree to abide by The Code of Conduct with Youth that sets clear expectations for associates and volunteers to ensure a safe and respectful environment for young people.