Personal Trainer Tier 3: Simmons YMCA

Under the direction of Healthy Living Leadership and in alignment with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Tier 3 Personal Trainer is a highly experienced fitness professional responsible for delivering individualized, goal-based exercise programming. Trainers at this level possess deep technical expertise and deliver high-volume client service while promoting wellness and safety through consistent, engaging, and effective fitness coaching.

Culture Statement

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day to collectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead with Love and Serve with Purpose.

We Love unconditionally – showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interaction meaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevate Hope – promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion – listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a sense of belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity – sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace – showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith – staying grounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greater purpose. We treasure Honesty – communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when they occur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility – leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing the needs of others above our own.

We live with Joy – celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect – addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. We value Responsibility – performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselves accountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service – going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions:

• Deliver a minimum of 10 personal training sessions per week, creating customized programs based on client assessments, goals, and health needs.
• Provide safe and effective coaching in cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and functional training methods.
• Demonstrate proper use of fitness equipment and ensure client understanding of safe movement patterns.
• Conduct client assessments and track body composition, performance, and progress using YMCA standards.
• Build strong member relationships through ongoing motivation, guidance, and encouragement.
• Actively promote YMCA personal training services and wellness offerings to increase participation and client retention.
• Maintain accurate records of client attendance, sessions, and program notes, report safety concerns promptly.
• Participate in staff meetings, required trainings, and YMCA initiatives including Annual Giving Campaigns.
• Remain current with industry trends through continuing education and relevant certifications.
• Maintain a neat and professional appearance in compliance with departmental uniform guidelines and YMCA policies.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Qualifications:

• Must hold a nationally recognized personal training certification (e.g., ACE, NASM, ACSM, NSCA).
• Minimum of five (5) years of personal training experience averaging at least 10 sessions/week, or a four-year degree in a health-related field, or equivalent education/experience.
• Completion of all YMCA of Greater Charlotte mandatory trainings by required deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a passion for client service and wellness.
• Proven ability to motivate, educate, and retain clients through consistent, personalized coaching.
• High level of professionalism, reliability, and self-motivation.
• Strong customer service orientation and ability to promote YMCA wellness programs.
• Flexible availability including mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and ability to learn YMCA-specific applications.

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Working Conditions:

• Ability to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Ability to walk, stand, kneel, bend, lift, and move actively throughout the shift.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and assist clients as needed.
• Visual and auditory ability to respond to emergencies and ensure client safety.
•  Ability to demonstrate and “spot” exercises with proper technique.
•  Exposure to bodily fluids, exercise equipment, and communicable diseases.
• Ability to sit or stand at a computer for extended periods to complete documentation.

Competencies

1. FUNCTIONAL EXPERTISE: Executes superior technical skills for the role
2. ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y’s work is community-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit.
3. EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively in all situations.
4. DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers, members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential. 

To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here: