Position Summary
The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for embodying the YMCA's core values of
caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility while delivering wellness services that positively
impact participants. This role focuses on promoting the YMCA’s Commitment to Community
and Wellness Pledge, aiming to enhance the health and wellness of YMCA members and the
surrounding communities.
The Group Exercise Instructor position requires enthusiasm and a commitment to
motivating others to achieve their health and wellness goals. The instructor ensures that
programs are conducted safely and in alignment with guidelines set by the YMCA of the
USA, ACE, AFAA, or other recognized fitness governing bodies. As a Cause-Driven Leader,
the Group Exercise Instructor serves as an ambassador for YMCA culture and a model of our
service and engagement principles.
Job Responsibilities
Class Preparation and Management
- Ensuring timely arrival and proper preparation with all necessary equipment and
materials. - Managing attendance and class schedules, adhering to payroll and administrative
procedures.
Creating a Positive, Inclusive Environment
- Greeting and welcoming participants while fostering an atmosphere of support and
inclusivity. - Using clear, motivating communication and addressing participants by name to
enhance engagement.
Safety and Adaptability
- Leading warm-ups, cool-downs, and exercises that accommodate various fitness
levels. - Following safety protocols and providing modifications to ensure a safe and
effective class for everyone.
Member Engagement and Retention
- Connecting participants to wellness resources and responding to feedback to
improve the class experience. - Creating an engaging, enjoyable atmosphere that promotes class retention and
ongoing participation.
Leadership and Teamwork
- Demonstrating leadership by mentoring new staff and substituting for other
instructors when needed. - Supporting the YMCA’s mission and fostering community engagement through your
role.
Qualifications
- Must hold and maintain a nationally recognized Group Fitness Instructor certification
(such as AFAA, NETA, ACE, etc.) or a specialized fitness certification (such as Zumba,
Les Mills, Yoga, Barre, Pilates, etc.). - Must possess strong communication, program planning, team building and
leadership skills. - Must have a good understanding of the YMCA movement, mission, and vision.
- Within 30 days of hire obtain Y approved CPR/AED/First Aid certification
- See “Group Exercise Instructor Certification requirements” addendum for list of
required fitness certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, or other languages.
Work Environment & Physical Demands
The Group Exercise Instructor is primarily indoors in a fitness studio or gym. The role
involves standing, walking, and demonstrating exercises for extended periods. Instructors
may need to lift and set up heavy equipment such as weights, resistance bands, or exercise
mats.
The Group Exercise Instructor should be physically capable of demonstrating various
exercises, which may involve lifting, bending, or holding positions for prolonged periods. The
position requires clear communication and the ability to monitor and guide participants
effectively while ensuring their safety. Instructors may also work in varying temperature
environments, depending on the location of the class.
Disclaimers
- Must successfully complete a background screening, including criminal and
employment verification. Some positions may also require a credit check. - All duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable
accommodation. The YMCA of Greater San Francisco promotes an equal employment
opportunity workplace, which includes reasonable accommodation for otherwise
qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please contact your manager if you
have any questions about this policy or these job duties. - This job description may not be all-inclusive, and employees are expected to perform
other duties as assigned by management. Job descriptions and duties may be
modified by management as needed. - Job offers are conditional and contingent upon background clearance. Pursuant to the
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and CA Fair Chance Act, we will consider
qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.
Salary Description
The Group Ex Instructor position offers a compensation range of $31.60 - $50.60 per hour.
This rate is based on salary benchmarking for similar roles and is aligned with grant fund
approvals and requirements for the position.
Qualifications
- Must hold and maintain a nationally recognized Group Fitness Instructor certification
(such as AFAA, NETA, ACE, etc.) or a specialized fitness certification (such as Zumba,
Les Mills, Yoga, Barre, Pilates, etc.). - Must possess strong communication, program planning, team building and
leadership skills. - Must have a good understanding of the YMCA movement, mission, and vision.
- Within 30 days of hire obtain Y approved CPR/AED/First Aid certification
- See “Group Exercise Instructor Certification requirements” addendum for list of
required fitness certification
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual in Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, or other languages.
