Group Exercise Instructor

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is seeking a Group Exercise Instructor-Level I (Land and/or Water) under the direct supervision of the Wellness Director. The role is part of a staff team responsible for conducting YMCA group exercise classes on land and in water, managing class setup and takedown, music selection, and educating class members about THE COACH APPROACH and other health and wellness topics.

The position supports the YMCA mission and aligns with YMCA USA initiatives to strengthen the foundations of community through healthy living.

Position:
Group Exercise Instructor-Level I (Land and/or Water)

• Carry out daily program tasks related directly to the position's scope and responsibilities.
• Stay updated on current issues regarding group fitness/wellness programs.
• Promote, monitor, evaluate, and ensure that group exercise classes run smoothly with a high level of service to participants.
• Maintain branch and association certifications in CPR/AED and any other certifications/training required by the Metro Atlanta YMCA.
• Maintain all wellness certifications by meeting continuing education requirements as specified by YMCA/ACE or equivalent organizations.
• Attend required staff meetings and trainings.
• Secure and manage music appropriate for a family setting.
• Assist in all aspects of the YMCA and its community as needed.
• Participate in wellness cabinet activities and follow incident/accident reporting procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Log class attendance in Group Ex PRO by 11:59 p.m. on the night of the class and check for updates at least twice weekly.
• Secure substitute instructors in a timely manner when unable to teach, with substitute requests approved before relief of responsibilities.
• Know, understand, and apply Metro Atlanta YMCA risk and safety guidelines, best practices, and branch emergency procedures.
• Adhere to strength training and nutrition guidelines as applicable.
• Avoid diagnosing injuries or giving medical advice and refrain from endorsing inappropriate health products.
• Apply Metro Atlanta YMCA risk and safety guidelines consistently in all duties.

• High school or GED required.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• May have less than one year of teaching experience or one year of group exercise participation.
• Land instructors: obtain YMCA/ACE online Group Exercise Instructor Certification (or equivalent) and required courses within 60 days of hire. If teaching strength/conditioning classes, obtain YMCA Strength and Conditioning Instructor Certification as well.
• Water instructors: obtain YMCA/AEA online certification and required courses within 60 days of hire, including the Y-Metro Atlanta Water Fitness Specialty Course or AEA AFP Certification (Prerequisite: YMCA Group Exercise Instructor Certification).
• Must obtain/maintain access to Y-Link and Metro Atlanta YMCA Workday account.
• Must maintain certifications by uploading continuing education credits via Y-Link before expiration date.
• Must possess current CPR/AED certification and renew every two years; licenses uploaded via Y-Link.
• Must obtain and maintain Specialty Certifications (e.g., Pilates, Group Cycling, Active Older Adult) or other approved certifications prior to teaching the designated format.
• Must pass a group exercise audition for the format(s) being hired.
• Must be knowledgeable about fitness-related topics (aerobic/anaerobic exercise, nutrition, injury prevention, THE COACH APPROACH®).
• Must complete THE COACH APPROACH® Orientation within 30 days of hire.
• Strong human-relations skills; ability to facilitate class interaction and teamwork.
• Exemplify YMCA ideals and leadership qualities.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, work independently, and problem-solve; strong time-management skills.
• Strong customer-service orientation and commitment to service and hospitality.
• Pass a criminal background and drug-screening check.

This position impacts the effectiveness of the wellness department and the success of services to the community. Success is measured by member satisfaction and by maintaining a safe, clean, and engaging environment aligned with the Metro Atlanta YMCA Philosophy.