SUMMARY OF POSITION: 

Instructs group exercise classes in a safe, enjoyable, and positive environment that welcomes people of all skill and fitness Instructs safe, engaging, and effective reformer-based Pilates workouts for participants, focusing on control, breath, proper alignment, and concentration to build strength, stability and flexibility.

PURPOSE OF POSITION: 

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. This position instructs safe, engaging, and effective reformer Pilates group workouts for participants, focusing on control, breath, proper alignment, and concentration to build strength, stability and flexibility. Effectively builds community within the class. Modifies class as needed to meet varied health, ability and cultural needs. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: 

• Leads safe, effective, uplifting, and educational group reformer Pilates classes, as directed by the supervisor, to accomplish the YMCA mission and goals of a healthier spirit, mind, and body for all.
• Maintains required certifications and a working knowledge of best practices in Pilates to provide effective information and support to members. 
• Builds effective, authentic relationships with members; helps members and program participants connect with each other and the YMCA. 
• Observes and adjusts approach to support all participants’ capabilities, physical conditions, health, and culture. 
• Provides appropriate and supportive feedback to participants to promote skill development, alignment, and help them toward their health and wellness goals.
• Celebrates achievement of class participants related to class or personal goals, mastering of specific skills or overall health and well-being to create a positive class environment.
• Tracks and records attendance accurately for classes.
• Attends YMCA meetings and training related to Reformer Pilates and/or group exercise. 
• Leads introductory reformer classes to showcase the reformer Pilates program, explain the benefits, and recommend packages for purchase to new participants
• Promotes group reformer Pilates classes by engaging with members, inviting them to attend classes and bring friends.
• Commits to a schedule of weekly classes on a quarterly basis, finds substitute instructors to cover absences, and helps cover classes for other instructors to avoid cancelled classes and provide a consistent member experience.
• Follows YMCA policies and procedures; responds to emergency situations. 
• Performs other duties as assigned.  

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: 

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising. 

Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others. 

Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members. 

Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology. 

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: 

• CPR, First Aid, AED, national certification 
• Pilates Mat and Pilates Reformer certifications
• Suspension trainer Pilates, Advanced Reformer and Mat and other specializations may be required depending on group formats taught
• At least one year of experience teaching group exercise classes is preferred. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
• Ability to conduct classes and activities.  Ability to perform all physical aspects of the position; including leading class, walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting.