Group Exercise Instructor, Stillwater YMCA

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts the lives of people in your community. Imagine sharing your passions and unique talents to build a better future for yourself and others. This is what it means to work at the Y. The Y offers more than a job—we offer the chance to make a difference in a fun, flexible environment, where our mission and values drive every decision we make.

About the Role

Arrive to class 5 minutes prior to scheduled start time to prepare participants for class. Instruct group exercise classes and/or related classes. Stay 5 minutes after scheduled end time to answer questions and build community. All YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Group Exercise Instructors will be paid for the listed scheduled class time, plus 10 minutes of additional required time.

Responsibilities

• Physically and mentally fit in order to demonstrate all levels of aerobic, toning, and/or yoga/pilates exercises while being alert to recognize potential hazards and accidents and administer CPR/AED/O₂ and First Aid effectively.
• Complete Bloodborne Pathogen, Sexual Harassment, Child Abuse Prevention, Slips Trips and Falls, and Safe Lifting training within 30 days of hire date and renew annually.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to handle complaining or demanding individuals without internalizing or personalizing such comments.
• Ability to lead and motivate others.
• Demonstrate the skills specific to the class and have knowledge of muscle groups and body mechanics.
• Attend two mandatory association Health and Fitness meetings each year.
• Attend staff meetings as designated by your supervisor.
• Maintain current certifications.
• Record class attendance on designated form.
• Enforce safety standards, procedures, and guidelines according to branch procedures.
• Secure a substitute instructor when unable to teach scheduled class, remind substitute at least 24 hours in advance, and notify supervisor of change.
• Assist with Y special events when needed.
• Maintain appropriate class records on Paycom.
• Maintain accurate incident/accident reports.
• Positively support the Y and its mission.
• Provide adequate notice to supervisor when vacating scheduled class.
• Demonstrate and teach these attributes of personal character: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Maintain a good rapport with fitness program participants to respond to their needs and represent the Y.
• Encourage member involvement and identify potential volunteers.
• Educate participants on proper form, contraindicated exercises, and modifications of moves.
• Increase participant’s awareness of all healthy lifestyle factors.
• Report equipment in need of repair.
• Develop positive relationships with members and provide motivational support and guidance.
• Develop meaningful and sustainable relationships with members, donors, and volunteers.

Requirements

• Must be certified in CPR, AED, O₂, and First Aid (training provided by the Y, if needed).
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High School education or equivalent preferred.
• 6 months or 60 hours of practical experience in group exercise classes.
• Must be able to lift in excess of ten pounds.
• YMCA Healthy Lifestyles certification within 6 months of hire date.
• YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise or National Certification within 12 months of hire date.

Pay

Starting at $15.00 - $21.00 per hour.

Effect on End Results

• Increase membership retention and membership numbers.
• Increase volunteer involvement in the Y through special events.
• Increase volunteer base for the Annual Campaign.
• Increase awareness of wellness and strength in the community.
• Introduce and encourage participation in other Y activities.