Group Exercise InstructorYMCA of Greater San Antonio

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. At the Hartman YMCA, a first-of-its-kind accessible and inclusive YMCA, with a focus on creating an exceptional, welcoming experience for individuals of all abilities, this position works closely with individuals with disabilities, families, caregivers, and effectively builds community within the class. The Group Exercise Instructor leads safe, inclusive group classes that promote wellness, engagement, and community while adapting to diverse fitness levels, abilities, and needs in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.  

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. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

1. Lead safe, engaging, and welcoming group fitness classes that promote wellness, participation, and community while supporting the YMCA’s mission and goals. 
2. Adapt exercises, instruction, pacing, and equipment as appropriate to support participants with varying abilities, fitness levels, learning styles, and individual needs. 
3. Build positive, professional relationships with participants and foster a supportive environment where individuals feel respected, encouraged, and connected to the YMCA community. 
4. Provide general wellness guidance and answer member questions within the scope of the instructor’s role, maintaining knowledge of current fitness and wellness practices. 
5. Recognize and celebrate participants’ progress, personal goals, and achievements while encouraging participation and confidence without judgment. 
6. Maintain accurate class attendance records and begin each class with a Higher Thought, story, or inspirational message. 
7. Follow YMCA policies, safety procedures, and emergency protocols to help maintain a safe and inclusive class environment. 
8. Maintain required certifications and continuing education, and stay informed about relevant fitness trends and instructional practices. 
9. Refrain from diagnosing injuries, offering medical advice and dispensing or endorsing any commercial health products especially nutritional supplements, vitamins, performance-enhancing substances and pain relievers/treatments/therapies. Refrain from the promotion of any merchandise or services from outside the YMCA.  
10. Attend required staff meetings and collaborate with YMCA colleagues to support program quality, participant engagement, and the organization’s mission. 
11. Performs other duties as assigned. 

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: 

• Communication & Influence 
• Engaging Community 
• Inclusion & Belonging 
• Developing Self & Others  

QUALIFICATIONS: 

1. At least one year of experience instructing group wellness classes is preferred. 
2. Experience working with individuals with disabilities, their families, caregivers, or disability-serving organizations is strongly preferred, along with a demonstrated commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and creating welcoming experiences for people of all abilities. 
3. Ability to build effective relationships and communicate professionally with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds, abilities, and social and economic segments of the community.   
4. General knowledge of group exercise equipment, sound systems, cardiovascular and strength training, and health and wellness practices. 
5. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to encourage group interaction, socialization, and participation in a supportive environment. 
6. National group fitness certification (ACE, ACSM, AFAA, FitTour, ISSA, NETA, or other recognized certification) or YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise certification required, or obtainable within six months of employment. 
7. Additional certification(s) in other proficiencies/areas of expertise (i.e., Group Cycling, Les Mills Programming, Pilates, Yoga, ZUMBA, etc.) are required. 
8. Certifications required within the first week of hire: Bloodborne Pathogens and Hazardous Communications. 
9. Certifications required within the first 60 days of hire: YMCA Healthy Lifestyles, YMCA approved basic life saving skills such as CPR, First Aid, AED. 

*The following instructor certifications are exempted from the National Group Exercise requirement.  However, you are strongly encouraged to obtain this type of certification as it serves as a foundation for movement and provides other basic education information needed for leading any group exercise class: 

• Les Mills proficiency certification 
• Yoga - Registered Yoga School RYS instructor certification 
• Pilates - National Commission for Certifying Agencies NCCA accredited Pilates school certification  

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

1. Work is generally performed indoors in a health and wellness facility using fitness equipment, with occasional outdoor activities as approved by a supervisor. 
2. Ability to safely lead and demonstrate exercises, including standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting as required for instruction. 
3. Ability to adapt demonstrations, verbal instructions, and class activities to accommodate varying abilities, fitness levels, and learning styles. 
4. Visual and auditory attention sufficient to monitor participant safety, demonstrate movements, and respond to questions or concerns. 
5. Ability to provide clear, respectful, and encouraging instruction and address unsafe movements in a supportive, nonjudgmental manner. 
6. Ability to maintain an inclusive class environment that respects participants’ individual needs, preferences, and independence.