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Tai Chi Instructor Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Tai Chi Instructor (Part-Time)

Summit, NJ · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Retirement

Job Type Part-time Description The Summit Area YMCA is seeking a knowledgeable and engaging Tai Chi Instructor to lead a weekly class for members of varying ages and abilities. This position plays an ...

Tai Chi Instructor

New York, NY · On-site

$20 - $125/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Tai Chi Instructor

New York, NY · On-site

$20 - $125/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for a dynamic, energetic, and experienced Group Exercise Instructor to join our team. If you are passionate about health and wellness, love motivating others, and have a talent for ...

Tai Chi Instructor information

See Elizabeth, NJ salary details

$5

$24

$29

How much do tai chi instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for tai chi instructor in Elizabeth, NJ is $24.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.26 and $27.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tai Chi instructor?

Tai Chi Instructors are professionals who teach the ancient Chinese practice of Tai Chi, a form of exercise that combines gentle physical movements, mental focus, and deep breathing. Their role involves guiding individuals or groups through Tai Chi routines, explaining the benefits, and ensuring proper technique to maximize health benefits and prevent injury. They may work in community centers, gyms, wellness studios, or private settings. Instructors often adapt routines for different skill levels and may also incorporate elements of meditation and mindfulness into their classes.

What does a Tai Chi instructor do?

Tai chi instructors teach students the basic techniques of the martial art of tai chi. Classes may involve introducing new participants to the moves and themes of tai chi, adjusting lessons to account for physical limitations, and providing personalized encouragement to each of your students. Tai chi instructors usually conduct live sessions, but some also record videos and teach online classes or offer remote lessons to students. Fulfilling the responsibilities of a tai chi instructor requires maintaining the qualifications and certifications to teach in your area, excellent communication skills, and several years of experience practicing tai chi under another trainer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tai Chi instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tai Chi Instructor, you need in-depth knowledge of Tai Chi forms and principles, often supported by certification from recognized Tai Chi organizations or schools. Familiarity with fitness instruction tools, class management software, and first aid certification is typically beneficial. Excellent communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors engage students of varying abilities and backgrounds. These skills are essential for ensuring students' safety, fostering progress, and creating a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Tai Chi Instructor vs Yoga Instructor?

AspectTai Chi InstructorYoga Instructor
CertificationsTai Chi certification, instructor trainingYoga certification (e.g., RYT), teacher training
Work EnvironmentGyms, wellness centers, community classesYoga studios, gyms, wellness centers
Industry UsageFocus on martial arts, health, and balanceFocus on flexibility, mindfulness, and fitness

Both Tai Chi Instructor and Yoga Instructor roles require specialized certifications and are often employed in wellness and fitness settings. While Tai Chi emphasizes martial arts, balance, and health benefits, Yoga focuses on flexibility, mindfulness, and physical fitness. They share similar work environments and industry usage, making them comparable for those interested in holistic health careers.

What are some common challenges faced by Tai Chi instructors when leading group classes, and how can they be managed?

Tai Chi Instructors often encounter classes with participants of varying skill levels, physical abilities, and learning speeds. Managing these differences requires patience and adaptability, such as offering movement modifications and individualized feedback. Instructors should foster an inclusive atmosphere by encouraging questions, demonstrating techniques clearly, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable participating. Building rapport and maintaining clear communication help create a supportive learning environment where all students can progress.

What are popular job titles related to Tai Chi Instructor jobs in Elizabeth, NJ?

For Tai Chi Instructor jobs in Elizabeth, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tai Chi Instructor job openings in Elizabeth, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,860 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Tai Chi Instructor (Part-Time)

The Summit Area YMCA

Summit, NJ • On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

The Summit Area YMCA is seeking a knowledgeable and engaging Tai Chi Instructor to lead a weekly class for members of varying ages and abilities. This position plays an important role in supporting healthy living by creating a welcoming environment that promotes balance, flexibility, mindfulness, and overall well-being. 


You May Be the Right Fit If You:

  • Have experience teaching Tai Chi to adults of varying skill and fitness levels.
  • Enjoy helping others improve their physical and mental well-being.
  • Create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all participants feel comfortable and supported.
  • Communicate effectively and build positive relationships with participants.
  • Are dependable, professional, and committed to providing a high-quality member experience.

Responsibilities:

  • Plan and lead safe, effective, and engaging Tai Chi classes. 
  • Provide instruction, demonstrations, and modifications to meet the needs of participants with varying abilities and experience levels. 
  • Foster a positive, supportive, and inclusive class environment. 
  • Build relationships with participants and encourage ongoing engagement in YMCA wellness programs. 
  • Monitor participant safety and respond appropriately to emergencies or incidents. 
  • Maintain attendance records and communicate class needs or concerns to the supervisor. 
  • Report facility, equipment, or safety concerns promptly. 
  • Attend required trainings and staff meetings as assigned. 
  • Uphold the YMCA mission, values, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Salary & Benefits:

Compensation for this position is $30.00-$40.00 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and certifications.


This is a part-time position with a schedule to be determined. The instructor will initially teach one class per week, with the potential for additional classes as participant interest and program needs increase. Classes may be scheduled at either the Summit YMCA or Berkeley Heights YMCA.

The Summit Area YMCA offers generous employee benefits including a free YMCA membership, discounts on family membership, continued professional development training, and 12% salary contribution to your retirement plan upon eligibility.


At the Summit Area YMCA, we are committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation. Our main purpose is to strengthen community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone can reach their full potential and we strive to live our cause with purpose every day. No matter who you are or where you're from, we believe that we're stronger when we come together.

Requirements

  • Previous experience teaching Tai Chi required.
  • Formal Tai Chi training, certification, or equivalent experience required.
  • Current CPR/AED and First Aid certification required, or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to safely instruct and modify movements for participants of varying ages, abilities, and physical limitations.

About the Summit Area YMCA:

We were founded as the Young Men's Christian Association in 1886, but today, we are The Y. Part of a world-class organization, we are one of the area's leading nonprofits, that values, and is made stronger by, its diverse people. The Summit Area YMCA is committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose, and each other. Working locally, we focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across communities. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, we ensure that we all have access to the opportunities, relationships, and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.