Dance Fitness & Mind-Body Instructor

Old Town School of Folk Music • Chicago, IL

5d • $37 • Onsite

About The Position

The Old Town School of Folk Music seeks versatile and inspiring instructors to join our Dance Fitness and Movement. We are looking for educators certified or highly experienced in formats such as, Nia, The Groove, BeMoved, Yoga, and/or Pilates. Ideal candidates are passionate about the intersection of music, movement, and wellness, with the ability to lead inclusive group classes that prioritize both physical health and creative expression. Utilizing the Old Town School’s community-focused model, this position relies on a teacher’s ability to foster a non-competitive, welcoming environment for adult learners of all fitness levels and backgrounds.

Requirements

• Strong proficiency in one or more specialized movement formats such as (Zumba, Nia, The Groove, BeMoved, Yoga, or Pilates).
• Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to provide clear, rhythmic, and anatomical cues.
• Deep understanding of musicality and the ability to curate or follow playlists that enhance the movement experience (e.g., utilizing Latin and world rhythms for Zumba).
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build a supportive community within a group class.
• Ability to demonstrate movements clearly while maintaining a high level of engagement with the class.
• Relevant certification in the specific discipline being taught (e.g., Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN) license, RYT for Yoga, Pilates Certification, Nia Certification, or BeMoved Certification).
• Ability to teach in person at both Lincoln Park and Lincoln Square locations.
• Evening and weekend (daytime) availability is required.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Dance, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of two years of teaching experience in a group fitness or dance studio setting.
• Experience working with adult learners and seniors in a community-forward environment.
• Bilingual Spanish is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Teach group dance fitness or mind-body classes (e.g., Zumba, Nia, Yoga, Pilates, BeMoved) across multiple skill levels.
• Develop and adapt lesson plans that emphasize proper alignment, rhythmic awareness, and the joy of movement.
• Modify exercises and movements to accommodate diverse physical abilities, injuries, or age-related needs in a community-based setting.
• Incorporate musicality and somatic awareness into instruction, aligning with the Old Town School’s mission of celebrating global music and movement traditions.
• Participate in and engage students to participate in Old Town School traditions such as Second Half and community wellness events.
• Maintain a positive, inclusive, and supportive classroom environment that encourages lifelong wellness and community connection
• Available to teach weekend mornings and select weekday evenings.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees