Water Fitness Instructor
Objective: To instruct fitness classes, develop class participation, and support and enhance the aquative program and American Family. To provide class instruction at club and industry standard levels, serving members as role models, teachers, coaches, and motivators, making a special effort to reach individual participants on a personal level.
Reports to: Aquatic Coordinator/Water Fitness Coordinator and Aquatic Director
Game plan:
1. Keep CPR current. Maintain a strong knowledge base and awareness of emerging trends by attending all mandatory meetings, participating in training workshops, and being certified through a national certifying body as a water fitness instructor.
2. Know club emergency response protocols and know club rules as shown in the company policy manual and the aquatic manual.
3. Communicate with Aquatic Coordinator as required and in a timely manner for scheduling and other issues concerning classes.
4. Pick up your schedule prior to the beginning of the month and double check the schedule for any problems. You are required to teach any classes for which you are scheduled.
5. To keep substitutions to a minimum, teach all classes for which you are scheduled unless there is an emergency. Keep a current phone list at your disposal in the event that it might be needed. It is your responsibility to find a sub and to inform the Aquatic Coordinator and the Front Desk of the change.
6. Scan pool area to be sure that policies are being followed, checking for safety as well as anything that might disrupt class (children in the pool). Enforce any pool rules politely and by explaining the reason behind the rules. Avoid engaging in any dispute with members (call in management if necessary).
7. Wear appropriate attire including any uniform as required.
8. Active 5 to 10 minutes prior to class start time to greet members, set up music, equipment, log-i sheets and "Class in Progress" signs.
9. Introduce class type and self. Make any special announcements and address any special concerns.
10. Set example for others by showering prior to entering pool.
11. Start class on time.
12. For aerobic level classes, check heart rate (bpm or perceived exertion) at beginning, middle, and end of class.
13. Provide appropriate instructions per class format & guidelines. Must be able to recognize the need to modify class format to accommodate temperature variations , class population, etc.
14. Choose a variety of appropriate exercises per class type. Making sure they are safe and effective.
15. Provide appropriate and timely cueing: visual, vocal, and directional. Instruct the class by giving explanations about the exercises when appropriate.
16. Demonstrate individual exercises both on deck and again water as is appropriate for the class, personal safety, and effectiveness. Use and cue for correct alignment.
17. Use safe and effective application of water physics, water fitness principles and correct terminology.
18. If music is used, choose music that is appropriate per class type for both context and bpm. Adjust music volume at an acceptable level and check with class to be sure that the volume is acceptable for them.
19. Motivate the participants. The classes should be fun and enjoyable as they exercise.
20. Periodically scan pool area for safety hazads and enforce pool rules.
21. End class on time, encourageing participant feedback. Be available for questions and/or comments after class.
22. Put away all equipment appropriately and make sure equipment closets, bins, and music cabinets are locked.
23. Complete log sheets and timesheets.
24. Make sure the pool is presentable and inviting fo rour members prior to leaving.
25. Check skimmers and maintain tiles around inside of the rim of pool.
26. Be aware of pool chemistry reporting any problems to management.
Freqently Asked Questions
Earning nationally recognized water fitness certifications, like those from Aquatic Exercise Association or American Red Cross CPR, significantly enhances credibility for Mechanicsville instructors. These credentials align with local safety protocols and demonstrate expertise, helping Water Fitness Instructors meet the industry standards expected by gyms such as American Family Fitness.
Mechanicsville's growing interest in wellness and aquatic exercise contributes to steady demand for Water Fitness Instructors. While competition exists, especially among facilities offering swim lessons and aqua fitness, candidates with up-to-date certifications and strong interpersonal skills tend to stand out locally.
Beyond instructing exercises, Water Fitness Instructors must master effective cueing, motivational techniques, and pool safety vigilance. Proficiency in adapting workouts for varying fitness levels and managing group dynamics are key skills that elevate class engagement and participant satisfaction.
Absolutely. Starting as a Water Fitness Instructor often opens pathways to specialized roles like aquatic coordinator or swim coach. Gaining experience and certifications can lead to leadership positions within fitness centers or opportunities to design aquatic programs, especially in community-focused gyms.
Daily routines include preparing class materials, greeting members, leading water-based workouts with safety in mind, and monitoring participant exertion. Post-class responsibilities involve equipment maintenance, logging attendance, and collaborating with aquatic staff to ensure smooth scheduling and pool readiness.
American Family Fitness encourages continuing education by offering mandatory training workshops and covering certification renewals. Instructors receive support through access to updated aquatic manuals, scheduled meetings for trend discussions, and management that fosters professional development in water fitness.
Water Fitness Instructors in Mechanicsville typically earn between $15 to $22 per hour, depending on experience and certifications. Facilities like American Family Fitness offer competitive wages aligned with regional fitness markets, with potential for increases based on tenure and additional aquatic expertise.
Yes, Mechanicsville enforces strict pool safety protocols including emergency response readiness and regular water chemistry monitoring. Instructors need to be familiar with these local guidelines to ensure participant safety and compliance, often coordinating closely with pool management.
Seasonal shifts can alter pool temperatures and member attendance in Mechanicsville, prompting instructors to adjust class intensity and exercise selection. During colder months, indoor pool maintenance and participant motivation strategies become crucial for maintaining engagement and safety.
American Family Fitness emphasizes personalized member interaction and continuous instructor development, creating a supportive environment. Their aquatic programs are designed with industry standards in mind, offering instructors structured schedules and access to resources that foster both teaching excellence and career growth.
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