POSITION SUMMARY: The Group Exercise Instructor is responsible for the design and instruction of safe, high-quality, effective, challenging, and fun group exercise classes as determined by the class format and description. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Design and teach effective, safe and enjoyable exercise classes using proper exercise progressions and cueing techniques, according to guidelines. * Select appropriate music and tempo suitable for the class format and population served * Oversees the proper use, maintenance, and cleaning of equipment and supplies. * Attends all mandatory staff meetings. * Design classes that adhere to the designated format and are appropriate for the participants' abilities. Teach classes with energy and enthusiasm. * Accurately demonstrate skills being taught in class, explain them clearly, and work at skill level and intensity level appropriate for the particular class. Instructors must emphasize the members' workouts, not their own. * Frequently and consistently demonstrate multiple movement modifications, and repeatedly encourage members to modify movements and work at their own pace. Monitor participants' intensity, technique, proper form, and hydration throughout the class. * Consistently utilize clear and easy-to-follow verbal and physical cues in advance of a movement change. * Plan in advance the specific composition/choreography of each class, consistently changing music and routines. * Ensure that the class attendance of each member is accurately recorded in the designated manner. * Begin and end class on time. Be available in the classroom with proper music and all equipment set up and ready no fewer than 5 minutes before class is to begin. Leave program area in a safe "closed-down" manner with all equipment and materials properly cleaned and neatly returned to their proper places. * Maintain positive rapport with participants (and parents of participants, if applicable). * Encourage member involvement in YMCA programs, events and Annual Campaign. Reads announcements to class when requested. * Learn participants' names, engage them in conversation, and conduct classes in such a way as to encourage members to interact with and get to know each other. * Find a certified and competent substitute instructor if unable to teach assigned class. Notify supervisor of substitute coverage. * May be required to travel to multiple branches and offsite locations to lead classes. * May be required to lead classes in a live or recorded virtual environment. * Responsible for following the child abuse and neglect reporting process including completion of Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect reporting form, calling children protective services (696-Kids) and notifying immediate Supervisor, Branch Executive, Risk Management and Human Resources Departments. All employees of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland are mandated reporters for any signs or suspicion of child abuse and neglect. QUALIFICATIONS: Education: * High school diploma or GED required; Associates degree preferred. Certification(s)& Requirements: * Certification in CPR at the level of Basic Life Support or Professional Rescuer, Basic First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Administration and associated-determined safety training required within 30 days of hire. * Current national NCCA-accredited Group Exercise Instructor certification, or YMCA Group Exercise Instructor certification. *

If not currently certified, must obtain within 90 days of hire. * If applicable, current certification/proof of training in the specialty class format to be taught (e.g., Zumba, yoga, Tai Chi, SilverSneakers, LiveSTRONG at the YMCA, Real You, aquatic, etc.) * If not currently certified or trained, must obtain certification or training within 90 days of hire. Instructor must be actively supervised in class by wellness leadership or designee until requirement is fulfilled. * Must Maintain all required certifications. Technical Skills and Knowledge: * Demonstrate commitment to the mission, cause of the YMCA, and uphold its values and ethics. * Ability to work effectively work with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions * Willingness and ability to be a mandated reporter for any signs or suspicion of child abuse and neglect. All employees are required to follow the child abuse and neglect reporting process: completion of Suspected Child Abuse/Neglect reporting form, calling children protective services (696-Kids) and notifying your immediate supervisor, branch executive, risk management and human resources department (s).