Aquafit Instructor

Description

Position Overview:
The Aquafit Instructor is responsible for delivering safe, engaging aquatic fitness classes, ensuring participant safety, and fostering a welcoming community atmosphere. This role includes setup and tear-down responsibilities, adherence to YMCA policies, and maintaining open communication with the Senior Aquatic Director.
 

YMCA Mission and Core Values:

The mission of the YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs, services, and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The Core Values of the YMCA are Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. At the Bloomington-Normal YMCA we are a team of employees dedicated to advancing the mission and values of the YMCA through service and support of all members in our unique community. 

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. 

YMCA Required 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 fundraising.

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.  

Relationships: Builds authentic relationships in the service of enhancing individual and team performance to support the Y’s work. 

Communication: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a manner that reflects a true understanding of the needs of the audience.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities: 

• Plan and lead Aquafit classes tailored to participants' fitness levels.
• Demonstrate proper techniques and offer modifications to accommodate various abilities.
• Monitor participants during classes to ensure their safety.
• Enforce YMCA safety policies and pool regulations.
• Respond to emergencies following YMCA protocols and maintain required certifications.
• Create a welcoming environment for participants of all backgrounds.
• Build positive relationships to encourage regular attendance and community engagement.
• Record and report class attendance as required.
• Inspect and maintain equipment, reporting issues to the Senior Aquatic Director.
• Stay informed on aquatic fitness trends and complete required training sessions.
• Demonstrate YMCA values in interactions with members and staff.
• Communicate all program needs and concerns to the Senior Aquatic Director.
• Assist with lap lane removal, class setup, and tear-down.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the aquatic area before and after classes.

Necessary Skills and Qualifications:

• Group Fitness (e.g., AFAA, ACE), Aquafitness (e.g., AEA), CPR/AED, First Aid.
• Aquatic exercise principles (resistance, buoyancy).
• Strong communication, interpersonal skills, safety awareness, ability to adapt exercises.
• Demonstrate and lead exercises effectively.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Prior group fitness or Aquafit teaching; working with diverse populations.
• Build rapport and foster inclusivity.
• Yoga, Pilates, strength training, or rehab knowledge.
• Design engaging and flexible routines.

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION AND REQUIRED TRAININGS & CERTIFICATIONS

The Bloomington-Normal YMCA adheres to the strictest regulations pertaining to Child Abuse Prevention and requires all staff and volunteers to complete Child Abuse Prevention Training at time of hire and on an annual basis. Other required trainings and certifications, provided by the YMCA during on-boarding or within the first 60 days of employment, include: Illinois Mandated Reporter Certification, Illinois Sexual Harassment and Discrimination Training, CPR/AED/First Aid certification, and OSHA training including Bloodborne Pathogens.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER  The Bloomington-Normal YMCA is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

For a full listing of employee benefits, please visit: www.bnymca.org/workatthey