Group Exercise Instructor

This position supports the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The West Cook YMCAs Group Exercise Instructors provide instruction for group exercise classes onsite and offsite and may assist with special events. Group Exercise Instructors offer participants planned programs to advance their workout efficiency, improve fitness abilities, increase strength, and most importantly improve their overall well-being.

OUR CULTURE

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. The West Cook YMCAs strictly follows a zero-tolerance policy regarding child abuse.

• Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as aligned with the annual goals of the YMCA, 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, improvement of specific skills and/or overall health and well-being.
• Keeps accurate class attendance records.
• Increases class attendance, retention rates, and enrollments.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Group exercise certification from one of the following certifying bodies – AFAA, ACSM, ACE, YMCA, ADAA, NSCA, or other reputable national organization
• Certification or willingness to receive certification within 60 days of hire in CPR/AED, First Aid, and Blood borne Pathogens through the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross
• Certification or willingness to receive certification in Child Abuse Prevention
• Understanding of the ACSM/Ace Safety Guidelines of contraindications and how they relate to yoga
• Willingness and ability to work early morning, daytime, evening, and weekends

• Medical and Dental Insurance Plans
• YMCA Retirement Benefits
• Life Insurance Policy, Long-Term Disability, and additional coverage options 
• Free Household Membership
• Program discounts
• Paid Sick Time

OUR CULTURE:   
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.