Fitness Instructor - SMART Program

Job Summary:The Fitness Instructor is responsible for providing client-centered, evidence-based, efficient care to individuals in their homes and community. The instructor delivers exercises to clients under the direction of the Program Supervisor and/or designate associated with the program and in line with certification standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sets up physical class environment (chairs, equipment, etc.).
• Develops, modifies and delivers low-impact, safe and effective group or in-home exercises that prevent injury, reduce risk of falls and provide therapeutic benefits for older adults, addressing underlying medical issues and associated risks for high-risk and/or frail older adults.
• Identifies and effectively utilizes tools and resources for relevant work (i.e., resistance bands, exercise balls, weights, music and other program enhancers).
• Utilizes effective communication skills to obtain information from clients, as applicable.
• Promotes client independence through fitness and health promotion.
• Works toward fulfillment of client goals.
• Participates in ongoing review of service delivery process and evaluation.
• Attends educational in-services deemed appropriate by the Program Supervisor.
• Provides fall prevention education as directed.
• Ensures all incidents are reported in a timely manner in accordance with legislation and VON policies and procedures.
• Other duties as assigned.

Common Responsibilities:

• Promotes the goals and values of VON and their role as an integrated community care provider.
• Promotes a safe and healthy workplace ensuring conduct and activities are in accordance with the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations and compliant with the VON Safety Management System.
• Abides by all VON policies and work practices.
• Abides by all confidentiality and protection of personal information policies, regulations, and practices.
• Works in collaboration with other staff in a team approach to service delivery.

External and Internal Relationships:

• Collaborates and engages with Clients, Program Coordinators, Program Supervisors, Kinesiologists, other Fitness Instructors, and Program Assistants to ensure client and program needs are addressed appropriately.
• Communicates with community partners as it pertains to client care and program delivery.

Education, Designations and Experience:

• High school graduate.
• First Aid and CPR are required.
• Certification as a Seniors Fitness Instructor or equivalent required at hire or within 3 months. VON may offer training opportunities.
• Experience promoting health and well-being through physical activity.
• Post-secondary education in a healthcare setting is an asset.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience teaching group fitness classes for older adults, including specialized classes for chronic conditions, is an asset.
• Experience in a retirement home or assisted living environment 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 a current driver’s license and proof of insurance.
• A satisfactory criminal records check including a vulnerable sector screen is required.
• Ability to speak French is an asset in French designated areas.
• Must be able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:This role requires a detail-oriented approach in a dynamic environment, with physical activity including lifting, carrying, bending, reaching, kneeling, and other movements that emphasize good body mechanics. Individuals must walk, sit, stand, and climb stairs throughout the day, with some tasks requiring fine hand movements.