Group Exercise Lead – Fitness in the Parks

Group Exercise Lead

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday priorities are a reflection of the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to practicing inclusion.

Position Summary:

The Group Exercise Lead facilitates safe, engaging, and effective group exercise classes at various parks throughout our community. This role monitors the quality and consistency of the Fitness in the Parks group exercise program, providing feedback to instructors, and filling in for absences. Must be able to teach various formats including Dance, Yoga, Strength, and Pilates.

General Work Schedule:

This is a seasonal position from 6/1 – 8/31.

Benefits:

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara membership, discounted program fees, and an outstanding work environment. Other benefits include paid sick leave, leadership development opportunities, training, and career advancement.

Essential Functions:

• Team Leadership and Collaboration: Build strong relationships with group exercise instructors, fostering communication, collaboration, and teamwork. Encourage the sharing of opportunities and best practices.
• Class Schedule Management: Assist in the evaluation of the group exercise class schedule. Monitor class attendance and capacity, ensure compliance records are current, and manage the input and accuracy of program information in the YMCA app.
• Class Environment Oversight: Ensure group exercise areas are clean, safe, and organized. Manage the inventory, maintenance, and repair of class equipment.
• Quality Assurance and Feedback: Conduct regular audits of group exercise classes to monitor quality and consistency. Provide instructors with constructive, actionable feedback to foster professional growth and program excellence.
• Instruction and Class Leadership: Plan and lead a variety of group exercise classes tailored to participants of all fitness levels, including specialty formats such as yoga, cycling, HIIT, and Zumba.
• Safety and Modifications: Demonstrate proper exercise techniques and offer modifications to ensure safety and effectiveness for participants with varying needs.
• Facility Presence and Member Engagement: Maintain a visible presence during peak group exercise activity hours. Respond promptly to member inquiries, concerns, and feedback to ensure satisfaction.
• Substitute Coverage: Respond quickly to last-minute staff call-ins, arranging substitute coverage or personally facilitating classes to maintain program continuity.
• Program Promotion: Promote YMCA programs and services that support members in achieving their health and wellness goals.
• Professional Development: Stay current with certifications and trends in group fitness to enhance class offerings and maintain high-quality instruction.
• Policy Enforcement: Enforce YMCA policies and procedures, including health, safety, and conduct standards, ensuring a secure environment for all participants. Actively ensure the safety and well-being of all children by adhering to YMCA Buffalo Niagara's Youth Protection Policies. Recognize, respond to, and immediately report any suspected abuse, policy violations, or safety concerns.
• Role Model Behavior: Serve as a positive role model, exemplifying YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Certifications: Current group exercise instruction certification from a nationally recognized organization (e.g., ACE, AFAA, NASM).
• Specialty Certifications: Current Certifications in specialty areas such as yoga, cycling, Zumba, Les Mills, or aquatic fitness.
• CPR, First Aid, and AED Certification: Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or American Safety & Health Institute (ASHI).
• Experience: Proven experience leading group exercise classes or equivalent fitness-related instruction.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to provide constructive feedback effectively.