About the Role
At the YMCA of Greater Boston, Water Fitness Instructors teach classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes all skill and fitness level while effectively building community within class. Instructors modify classes as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs.
The YMCA is actively seeking a water fitness instructor who can be a leader in developing sound healthy habits with our members through engaging leadership in our classes. We are currently accepting applicants for all varieties of water fitness offerings as we continue to build the offerings to meet the needs of our growing members We welcome Shallow Water, Deep Water, Arthritis, High Intensity, Therapy and all specialized licensed Aquatic Modalities.
Description
The qualified candidate will have the ability to lead a group of participants through a series of movements and exercises in a safe and effective manner and must hold a current certification in Group Exercise from a nationally certifying body, such as AEA, SCW & USWF.
Key Responsibilities
Essential Functions:
1. Leads energizing, fun, safe, and educational group classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals.
2. Asks and answers questions from program participants and members to support them in achieving their goals related to health and well-being.
3. Maintains working knowledge of wellness and trends to provide effective information and support to members.
4. Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA.
5. Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture.
6. Celebrates achievement of program participants related to program or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being.
7. Keeps accurate class attendance records.
8. Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in exercise science, or a related field from an accredited college or university, preferred.
- At least two years of experience teacher Group Exercise classes
- Experience in personal training, and health and wellness programming.
Certifications Accepted:
Nationally Ranked Water Fitness Certs Accepted:
- AEA (Preferred)
- United States Water Fitness
- SCW fitness Aqua Specialty
- Water Art
- IFTA Aqua Certification
Instructors with Land Base Group Exercise Certification & Aqua Continuing Education:
Specialty Certifications:
Specialty certifications may be taught with accrediting and active license. A pre-rec of AEA will not be required (though strongly encouraged) but the candidate will not be eligible to sub other formats. Instructors may only teach in the format they are licensed in. Accepted Specialty Certs include: Aqua Zumba, Aqualogix, Aqua Body Strong, Aquastrength, Glide Fit, Hydro Pilates, Aqua Drums, Hydro Pole, Hydro Rider, Lablast Splash, Wet Barre
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES/KNOW HOW:
- Understand the relationship of the general public to the association, of staff to volunteer, and of staff to staff, and be able to effectively enhance and cultivate those relationships.
- Ability to interpret, carry out and implement into classes/programs, the mission and goals of the YMCA.
- Work as an integral member of a staff team.
- Ability to communicate effectively with adults, youth, teens, seniors and special populations.
- Degree in exercise Science or Physical Education
- ACE,AFAA,FRA,NSCF or ACSM personal trainer certification
- CPR/AED and First Aid certifications
- A minimum of 1-2 years of experience in fitness
Benefits
Why work at the Y?
The YMCA of Greater Boston is an incredible place to have a fulfilling career or enjoy part-time employment — all while we are supporting and strengthening our communities, because our community is our cause. When you join us in your career here, you can look forward to:
- Developing your leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment.
- Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions.
- Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities and each other.
- Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who have the same passion.
- A healthy work/life balance
- Comprehensive benefits including:
- FREE YMCA Membership for you.
- Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons.
- Discounted or FREE family membership.
- Robust Retirement Plan up to 10%. (see eligibility requirement)
- Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package.
- Vacation and Sick Time (PT receive sick time)