Pilates Reformer Instructor Tier 1: Dowd YMCA

Under the direction of the Healthy Living Leadership and consistent with the Christian mission of the YMCA, the Specialty Trainer is a certified fitness professional who provides individualized and group instruction within a specialized modality (e.g., TRX, Pilates Reformer, or similar disciplines). The Specialty Trainer is responsible for developing and delivering safe, effective, and progressive training programs tailored to client goals while maintaining a welcoming and professional environment.

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

• Design and deliver specialty training programs customized to individual client goals using TRX,
Pilates Reformer, or other designated disciplines.
• Teach a minimum of two sessions per week, offering clear instruction and real-time guidance.
• Conduct movement assessments, track progress, and adjust programs as needed to ensure safe, effective outcomes.
• Motivate clients by offering support, encouragement, and expert feedback throughout each session.
• Maintain a safe training environment by spotting exercises, demonstrating proper form, and enforcing YMCA safety protocols.
• Promote specialty services through member engagement and marketing activities to grow participation.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and manage necessary administrative tasks.
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions, staying current on industry trends and YMCA protocols.
• Support YMCA fundraising initiatives (e.g., Annual Giving Campaign) and uphold the organization’s values and mission.
• Present a professional appearance and demeanor in accordance with departmental guidelines.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership. 

Required Qualifications

• Completion of a comprehensive training program in assigned specialty (e.g., TRX, Pilates
Reformer), including any required equipment certifications.
• One or more of the following: at least one year of training experience (2+ coaching hours/week), a four-year degree in a health-related field, or a national Personal Training or Group Exercise certification.
• Completion of all required YMCA of Greater Charlotte trainings by required deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of fitness programming, exercise science, and injury prevention.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Positive, energetic, and self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Demonstrated professionalism, strong customer service orientation, and ability to build lasting member relationships.
• Flexible schedule availability, including mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications (Outlook, Word, Excel)

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. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced qualifications are required including but not limited to: At least 1 year of personal training experience, averaging 2 hours of coaching per week or more, OR a 4 year degree in health or a related field or the equivalent education/experience, OR Personal Training or Group
Exercise certification preferred. 

Working Conditions

• Ability to teach sessions at varied times, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move for extended periods while actively leading sessions.
• Capable of lifting, carrying, or moving up to 50 pounds.
• Visual and auditory acuity to respond quickly and appropriately to emergency situations.
• Ability to spot participants, physically assist with positioning, and demonstrate proper form.
• Exposure to communicable diseases, bodily fluids, and exercise environments.
• Ability to use computer systems for scheduling, communication, and data entry.

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

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