Group Exercise Instructor (Internal candidates only)

Willamalane Park and Recreation District • Springfield, OR

3d • $21

About The Position

General Statement of Duties: Demonstrates and instructs group exercise classes; does related work as required.

Distinguishing Features Of The Class: An employee in this classification is responsible for preparing and instructing group exercise classes. Work is performed under the supervision of a Supervisor who reviews work primarily on the basis of direct observation and feedback from participants. Instructors work closely with Fitness Coordinator on planning, development, class evaluation and implementation. Supervision is not a responsibility of position in this classification.

Distinguishing Characteristics: Pay level between a group exercise instructor and group exercise specialist are distinguished by level of education, curriculum development experience, classroom experience, professional & specialized certification obtained and proprietary rights to a trademarked format or franchise including formats created and registered under their legal or business name.

Requirements

• Essential knowledge of fitness/exercise program components; principles of cardiovascular fitness, kinesiology, neuromotor, balance, flexibility, muscular endurance and strength training; safety practices and precautions in performing exercises. Knowledge and skill to suggest modifications of exercise to participants with injuries or limitations. Principles of group dynamics and group interaction and emergency procedures and accident site management.
• Instruct and demonstrate fitness exercises safely and effectively to groups of varied ages and abilities; ability to perform and instruct all exercises of assigned specialization. Maintain neat and clean appearance. Follow and give instructions in a courteous and professional manner. Interpret, explain, follow and apply District policies, keep accurate records and establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, other staff members, program participants and the general public.
• Communicate directions/instructions both verbally and by demonstration; observe and correct improper techniques; modify exercises for individual needs; select movements and/or music that is appropriate, safe and interesting to participants; counsel and motivate participants during class. Ability to provide good customer service in challenging situations. Ability to administer First Aid and CPR and follow emergency procedures. Identify and prevent hazards and maintain safe environment.
• Two years of college or vocational training emphasis in exercise physiology, anatomy, kinesiology, or related field; AND 2) Two year of professional level experience in specialty area with some teaching experience in instructing/leading group fitness and exercise classes, supplemented with a nationally recognized certification and training as a 200 hr yoga instructor, group exercise instructor, certified personal trainer, certification specific to branded class format; OR any satisfactory combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the above-described duties.
• Possession of or ability to obtain current First Aid and CPR/ AED certificates and other certifications as required prior to start date. Current certification for all branded formats.

Nice To Haves

• Spanish speaking is preferred; a bilingual rate adjustment is contingent upon passing a proficiency test.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize and instruct group exercise classes and/or provide coaching/training in assigned specialization with appropriate exercises, sequences, and/or routines; provides and prepares appropriate music for format.
• Provides class instruction and demonstrates knowledge, skill and ability in specific area(s).
• Design and implement exercise class curriculum based on current research and includes warm-up, workout and cool-down periods
• Collaborates with Coordinator/Supervisor staff to develop, plan and schedule classes.
• Includes and instructs multiple levels of modifications for each workout to allow participation by multiple fitness levels or those with past injury.
• Practices safe work habits and maintains a safe environment. Monitors participant safety during class and if necessary provides first aid. Follows standard procedure for emergencies for the facility where class is held. Complete and submit patron incident reports.
• Address program specific risk management/safety issues.
• Greets students as they enter the class area. Responds to questions from participants regarding purpose of specific exercises/routines and other fitness-related topics.
• Provides excellent internal and external customer service. Offers a positive experience for patrons and co-workers.
• Distributes program evaluations to participants. Maintains confidentiality and respects patron privacy during evaluation process. Submits evaluations to supervisors and remains open to student feedback. Reviews feedback and utilizes information to enhance program.
• Ensures all participants are signed in and maintain appropriate records regarding class participation. Set up and maintain computer and scanning station prior to class as required.
• Prepares facility for class including equipment, lights, fans, water station and sound equipment. Cleans up area and returns all equipment to appropriate storage area at end of work shift.
• Communicate with staff regarding facility, equipment and supply needs. Request purchase of supplies, coordinating expenditures with District policies.
• Monitor participant behavior to ensure an environment where everyone feels welcomed, included, safe and respected while participating.
• Respond professionally to questions, suggestions, and concerns from participants and staff regarding programs, activities, policies and practices.
• Remain personally accountable in seeking resolution to misunderstandings, conflicts, or performance of self or others. Respond positively to correction and accepts direction.
• Attend staff orientations and trainings, as required.

Benefits

• Annual cost of living increase (up to 4% as approved by the Board).
• Merit increase (3%) upon successful completion of probationary period and then annually.
• Additional $1/hour increase upon successful completion of a Spanish or American Sign Language (ASL) competency test.
• Discount on selected childcare programs (see Policy Manual for restrictions).
• 25-percent discount on certain recreation programs.
• Free use of pools for lap and play swim for employee only. Discount for household members.
• Free use of fitness center for employee only. Discount for household members.
• Free Wellness programs for employee.
• Payroll direct deposit is available.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree