Water Exercise Instructor

Description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direct supervision of the Aquatics Director, the Water Exercise Instructor creates and leads an inclusive water exercise program that motivates members and participants to work to their highest potential. The Water Exercise Instructor will also monitor the condition of participants to maintain a safe environment. 

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Assistant Teacher at the Edwardsville YMCA ECDC intentionally fosters a cause-centered culture that is welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined. 

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are WELCOMING: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are GENUINE: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are HOPEFUL: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are NURTURING: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are DETERMINED: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

Essential Functions 

1. Demonstrates a commitment to continuing education: takes courses to expand the knowledge base and practical skills.
2. Attends all required meetings as directed by their supervisor.
3. Screens students carefully for risk factors, and any health problem or medical limitation that would prevent them from participating.
4. Gives pre-class instructions; explains goals of aerobics, how to take a pulse, and determine target heart rate range.
5. Is competent at demonstrating safe and effective exercise techniques. Can modify exercises for those with low-back discomfort or musculoskeletal problems, as well as pregnant, de-conditioned, or overweight individuals.
6. Assess levels of fitness and direct students to appropriate classes, beginning through
7. advanced.
8. Is conscientious of how the environment is affecting the class; ensures everyone is wearing appropriate footwear and permeable clothing. Is aware of ventilation and temperature. Insists on safe flooring for impact aerobics, play music at a level that motivates but doesn’t overpower cues
9. Maintains visual contact, monitors each individual’s level of fatigue, and looks for signs of overexertion.
10. Guides students skillfully through transitions with easily understood cues.
11. Encourages students to progress when appropriate; applies principles of overload and rest.
12. Set up equipment and store it securely after class and maintain the cleanliness of the wellness area.
13. Responsible for securing own subs if the instructor cannot attend scheduled class times.
14. Performs all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Qualifications 

1. 18 years or Older
2. High School Diploma or equivalent
3. One or more years experience as a class participant, leader, instructor, or equivalent
4. Water Exercise Instructor certification preferred

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. 

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.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. 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.
2. Physically perform all skills required of a lifeguard.
3. Hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility.
4. Remain alert with no lapses of consciousness.
5. See and observe all sections of an assigned zone or area of responsibility.