Aqua Fit Instructor

## Description

**MISSION:**

The mission of the YMCA of the Foothills is to organize, develop, finance, and conduct programs for an association of persons of all ages that will, by putting Christian principles into practice, enrich the quality of their lives spiritually, mentally, physically and socially.

Under the guidance of the Aquatics Director, the Water Fitness Instructor (WFI) will have primary responsibility for delivering water fitness programs, including cardiovascular exercise, muscle conditioning and flexibility (according to accepted YMCA Fitness standards and guidelines), to help members reach their health and fitness goals. Classes are lead in a safe, effective and timely manner, appropriate to the fitness level of the participants in the class, to enhance the physical, mental and spiritual health of each individual. The WFI is responsible for carrying out variety of tactics and programs that are aligned with the Association’s strategic direction. The staff member will work effectively with members and program participants in meaningful and safe programs and activities that allow and provide for the best possible experience. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  The WFI is responsible for implementing and monitoring Healthy Living/fitness programs appropriate for the class level and in compliance with the Association’s specific class breakdown and guidelines at all times.  Maintain optimal student participation for specific class time. (Student ratio determined by Healthy Living Department).  Supplying information about the YMCA programs, activities, policies and procedures, as well as keeping areas neat at all times. Utilizing handouts, charts and other material to motivate, educate and retain members.  The WFI is responsible for providing members with a clean, hazard-free and pleasant environment at the YMCA OF THE FOOTHILLS. Report any equipment problems and unsafe conditions to supervisor immediately after class.  Work as a member of a team to design and implement healthy living programs and activities aligned with the Association’s strategic direction.  The WFI is expected to provide leadership that keeps the YMCA in the forefront of the healthy lifestyles and service Industry.  Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including but not limited to those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, time keeping, dress guidelines, and cleanliness standards.  Maintains positive relations and rapport with members, staff and volunteers at all times.  Supports other staff and volunteers through good communications skills.  Attends staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and required  Act as representative of the YMCA of the Foothills at all times.  Other duties as assigned YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader): Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to s

## Qualifications

**QUALIFICATIONS:**

• Position requires a friendly, enthusiastic, conscientious and people oriented leader with excellent knowledge and skills in the areas of membership involvement and in health and fitness.
• The individual must possess a professional image and ability to provide excellent leadership, up-to-date instruction and high-energy motivation.
• She/he must hold CPR PRO, O2 and First Aid certifications.
• National Aquatics Fitness Instructor Certification (YMCA, AFI, AEA, etc.) or 4-year degree in fitness related field at time of hire.
• Minimum 1 year experience leading water fitness classes preferred.
• For instructors with classes geared toward youth participants, the instructor must have at least 1 year experience leading youth fitness classes or education and/or training the areas of youth fitness.
• Specialty instructors will require specific certifications and /or licensing in their related specialty (Zumba, AFYAP, etc)
• Physical ability to lead and participate in exercise/fitness activities.
• A Bacherlors Degree in health and fitness related field is a plus.
• Must be able to model the core values; Caring, Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty.
• Ability to follow and accept instruction, and relate well with peers.
• Must have commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA and uphold its values and ethics.
• Ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions

**PHYSICAL DEMANDS**

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee frequently is required to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, hear, stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift, push, pull, and/or move up to [40] pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Physical ability to lead and participate in exercise/fitness activities. Ability to communicate verbally to large and small groups of members. Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency.