YMCA MISSION

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that enhance personal growth and improve health of spirit, mind and body for all.

GENERAL FUNCTION

Personal Training is a comprehensive one-on-one educational fitness program. The purpose of this program is to assist the individual in setting realistic goals and to encourage lifelong adherence to a safe and effective exercise program. It is the goal of the personal trainer to educate the member on the basics of proper execution of both cardiovascular and resistance training machines and to produce independent exercisers due in part to your instruction, guidance and motivational techniques. Safety, exercise selection, and meeting individual needs are all part of the education process. The primary aspects in personal training include: a thorough review of the client’s personal health history, fitness evaluation and consultation, and proper program design.

KNOW HOW

• Required: Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Required: Must meet requirements of current National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) certified personal training certification. 
• Preferred:  A degree in physical education, exercise science or other health related field.
• Preferred:  Professional experience in personal training.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding personal information on children, family and YMCA staff.
• Current certifications in CPR, First Aid, Safety & Risk Management, Child Abuse Prevention and New Employee Orientation or the ability to obtain within 60-90 days of employment.
• Administrative skills including the ability to maintain required program and department documentation and records.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• May work a minimum of 1 wellness department shift per week as deemed by the wellness center. 
• Conducts self in accordance with the YMCA mission and Code of Conduct.
• Be knowledgeable of and support YMCA Personal Training Guidelines and Protocols.
• Arrive at least 5 minutes before scheduled appointments, prepared and dressed in uniform, including nametag.
• Schedule a meeting place for you and each client, especially if he/she is a new member to the YMCA.
• Review health history forms for each client prior to evaluation or first training session.
• Perform fitness evaluations, goal setting sessions, program design and proper training technique with all clients.
• Keep accurate records of all sessions.
• Make appropriate personnel contact (director, physician, physical therapists) if warranted.
• Exhibit good communication and listening skills.
• Encourage follow-up evaluations to track and monitor progress.
• Continue to sharpen and upgrade skills and knowledge in the field of personal training.
• Be available to accept new clients on an as-needed basis.
• Accurately record and turn in signed time sheets with receipts attached.
• Continuously review emergency procedures and protocol.
• Never miss and appointment without notifying the client and rescheduling.
• Provide safe programs and environment for all participants, volunteers and staff. 
• Actively participate in the annual campaign. 
• Attend all staff meetings and training associated with the Personal Training Program.
• Assist with other projects or activities as needed.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and transport equipment if needed.
• Visually inspect the strength and cardio-respiratory areas for equipment in need of repair and report problems to the Wellness Director.
• Demonstrate exercises and proper use of equipment as needed in the Wellness Department.
• Assist in cleaning and maintaining the equipment.
• Interpret association goals, objectives and policies to the community and membership.
• Maintain Continuing Education Credits and other requirements to keep all certifications current.
• Ability to visibly observe participants.
• Ability to concentrate even when distracted by noise and activity.
• Ability to communicate effectively with participants, staff and volunteers.
• Ability to reason, solve problems and make independent judgment and decisions.
• Ability to observe and promote safety and security procedures.
• Ability to physically and mentally respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.

MEMBER INVOLVEMENT SKILLS

• Be informed and up to date on the latest developments in your field.
• Acquaint members with other YMCA programs and benefits.
• Develop relationships that promote the building of small communities.
• Recommend participation in a variety of YMCA programs.
• Support our YMCA annual campaign by inviting members to participate.
• Be able to articulate the role and importance of volunteers.
• Be informed about volunteer opportunities.
• Provide an environment in which valuing diversity is encouraged and the 40 Developmental Assets can be built and emphasized.

EFFECT ON END RESULT

1. Evidence of knowledge of strength training programs, cardio-respiratory training programs and effective training techniques.
2. Achievement of positive member evaluation.
3. Overall cleanliness and organization of strength and conditioning area.
4. Positive attitude toward members, position and staff.
5. Program participants will experience a safe and nurturing environment as evidenced by developmentally appropriate practices.
6. Participants will enjoy the program and feel positive about being involved in the YMCA.
7. Effective department management as evidenced by program coverage at all times.
8. Creation of a safe and nurturing environment for program participants, members, volunteers and staff.
9. A strong mission-driven Personal Training program with a clear commitment to character development and the four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.