Fitness Instructor - SMART Program

Job Summary: The SMART Program (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) provides exercise sessions for older adults living independently in the community. It is designed to promote an active, healthy lifestyle and reduce the risk of falls. All client visits are scheduled by the Coordinator. The Exercise Leader will implement the program in accordance with VON Standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leads fitness classes.
• Works toward fulfillment of client goals as outlined on assessment.
• Participates in on-going review of service delivery process and evaluation.
• Attends educational in-services that are deemed appropriate by PT and/or coordinator.
• May provide fall prevention education as directed by Coordinator and/or regulated professionals.
• Reports any situations that are deemed inappropriate to their PT/coordinator.
• Ensures all incidents are reported in a timely manner in accordance with legislation and VON policies and procedures.
• Reports any defect in any equipment which may endanger themselves or others.
• Functions and reports in compliance with the OHS legislation, regulations, and VON policies and procedures.

External and Internal Relationships:

• Frequent interaction with Coordinator, Physiotherapist and clients.

Education, Designations and Experience:

• High school graduate.
• CCAA Certification as a Seniors Fitness Instructor and/or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching group fitness classes for older adults including experience teaching specialized classes for chronic conditions i.e. Osteoporosis, Parkinson Disease, Diabetes, Osteoarthritis etc. is an asset.
• Experience promoting health and well-being through physical activity.
• Experience working in an assisted living environment i.e. recreation therapy is an asset.
• Bilingual in French/English is an asset.

Skill Requirements:

• Respect for privacy and confidentiality.
• Dependability and trustworthiness.
• Good communication and active listening skills.
• Capacity to remain calm in unexpected situations.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.

Other:

• Must have access to a personal vehicle for business use and possess both a current driver’s license and proof of vehicle Insurance.
• Current criminal background check including a vulnerable sector screen is required.
• The use of Personal Protective Equipment will be required.

Working conditions and physical demands: This role requires a detail-oriented approach in a dynamic environment, with physical activity including lifting, carrying (using proper techniques), bending, reaching, kneeling, and other movements that emphasize good body mechanics. Individuals in the role are required to walk, sit, stand, and climb stairs throughout the day, with some tasks requiring fine hand movements.