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Exercise Assistant Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ann Arbor YMCA

Group Exercise Instructor

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$19.72 - $22.17/hr

Work as a Group Exercise Instructor at the Y and discover your true purpose. POSITION SUMMARY ... Must be able to lift and/or assist participants up to 180 pounds in weight. * Must be able to lift ...

ymcadetroit

Water Exercise Instructor

Macomb, MI · On-site

Now Hiring Water Exercise Instructors at the Macomb Family YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE ... YASA (YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant) and YMCA Water Fitness Instructor Certifications.

ymcadetroit

Water Exercise Instructor

Macomb, MI · On-site

Now Hiring Water Exercise Instructors at the Macomb Family YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE ... YASA (YMCA Aquatic Safety Assistant) and YMCA Water Fitness Instructor Certifications.

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Exercise Assistant information

What is an exercise assistant?

Exercise Assistants are professionals who support fitness instructors, physical therapists, or exercise programs by helping clients perform exercises safely and effectively. Their responsibilities often include setting up equipment, demonstrating exercises, monitoring participants, and providing encouragement or basic guidance. Exercise Assistants commonly work in gyms, rehabilitation centers, or community wellness programs. They play a key role in ensuring a safe and motivating environment for individuals working towards their fitness or recovery goals.

What are some common challenges exercise assistants face when supporting clients during fitness sessions?

Exercise Assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting workouts to meet individual client needs, especially for those with injuries or limited mobility. They must balance providing encouragement while ensuring safety and proper technique. Additionally, they may need to adjust to varying energy levels and motivation among clients, requiring strong communication and observation skills. Collaborating closely with trainers and other staff is essential to deliver effective support and a positive experience for all participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exercise assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exercise Assistant, you need a basic understanding of exercise science, human anatomy, and fitness instruction, usually supported by a relevant certification such as CPR/AED and sometimes a fitness-related qualification. Familiarity with gym equipment, fitness assessment tools, and client management software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and the ability to communicate clearly help create a positive environment and encourage client participation. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring client safety, promoting effective workouts, and supporting overall wellness goals.

What is the difference between Exercise Assistant vs Physical Therapy Aide?

AspectExercise AssistantPhysical Therapy Aide
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentGyms, fitness centers, rehabilitation facilitiesPhysical therapy clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageFitness and rehab industryHealthcare and rehabilitation industry
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in fitness/rehabAssisting physical therapists in patient care

Exercise Assistants and Physical Therapy Aides often work in similar environments, supporting fitness and rehabilitation activities. While both roles require basic certifications and involve assisting clients or patients, Exercise Assistants focus more on fitness and general rehabilitation, whereas Physical Therapy Aides work directly under physical therapists in clinical settings. The choice depends on your career interest in fitness versus healthcare support roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Exercise jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Exercise jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Exercise Assistant jobs in Michigan?

For Exercise Assistant jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exercise Assistant jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Exercise Assistant jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Exercise Assistant jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Exercise Assistant job openings:

Exercise Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exercise Assistant job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Group Exercise Instructor

Ann Arbor YMCA

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site

$19.72 - $22.17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description

Find Your Purpose.  Find Your Y. 


Imagine going to work each day knowing that what you do positively impacts people's lives. Work as a Group Exercise Instructor at the Y and discover your true purpose.


POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Director of Healthy Living and in accordance with the mission and purpose of the Ann Arbor YMCA, the Group Exercise Instructor will be responsible for conducting a safe and effective specified group exercise class in compliance with the standards, policies and procedures of the Ann Arbor YMCA. It is expected that instructors will possess leadership, organizational and communication skills as well as the ability to develop and implement effective lesson plans. Instructors must demonstrate a thorough and accurate knowledge of their field or discipline. 


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Plans and prepares for all classes with the goals and abilities of the students in mind and communicates effectively with participants.
  2. Ensures safety of all participants by following best practices.
  3. Arrive no later than 10 minutes prior to the start of class (will receive pay for up to 20 minutes in addition to their class time). 
  4. Ensure all program participants are registered and have completed all program forms.
  5. Put the health and well-being of the class participant first in all aspects, providing exercise modifications for participant safety and success.
  6. Provides proper cuing and gestures to participants to motivate and facilitate improvement.
  7. Inspects and immediately notifies appropriate staff of any broken equipment or unsafe aspects of the studio.
  8. Secures a qualified substitute when needed.
  9. Utilizes all necessary equipment as related to the program in the proper manner.
  10. Maintains all certifications and follows proper requesting procedures for further/advance certifications. 
  11. Maintains a positive attitude and acts in a professional manner when interacting with members, participants and staff at all times. 
  12. Sets up the facility and equipment needed and puts away all equipment upon completion of classes. 
  13. Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures. Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.

Our Culture:

Every day and in everything we do, we strive to create a culture that is welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing and determined for all our staff, members, program participants and volunteers. 


Full job description is available upon request. 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. CPR/AED Certification is required or ability to obtain within 60 days.
  2. High school diploma or equivalent is required. 
  3. Six (6) months experience working in a related field is preferred. 
  4. Certification in group exercise or personal training from a nationally recognized organization e.g. ACE, ACSM, NASM, AFAA, NETA, is required on the date of hire.
  5. Must be flexible to work with a wide variety of people. 
  6. Multi-lingual ability is a bonus.


WORKING CONDITIONS:

  1. Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time.
  2. Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids.
  3. Must be able to lift and/or assist participants up to 180 pounds in weight.
  4. Must be able to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
  5. Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time.
  6. Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.
  7. Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate.
  8. Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency


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