Fitness Specialist

Major Responsibilities:

• Implements and leads safe and effective physical fitness services, programs, and classes for members of the fitness center.
  •     1)Develops individualized and group exercise programs and exercise prescription based on he individual health history, results of the testing profile, personal goals of the member and physician input when necessitated.
  •     2)Provides instruction and orientation to the member regarding proper technique, program information, and usage of recommended equipment. Incorporates the five fitness components (flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, muscle endurance, strength, and body fat %) when prescribing exercise.
  •     3)Orientates members and guests on the proper use of equipment with consideration of correct body mechanics.
  •     4)Monitors day-to-day individual responses to program recommendations, modifying as necessary.
• Performs exercise testing according to the American College of Sports Medicine and/or Aquatic Exercise Association guidelines as adapted for the Wellness Center.
  •     1)Evaluates and documents client’s fitness levels, including cardiovascular fitness, height, weight, flexibility, body composition and strength measurements.
  •     2)Monitors heart rate, blood pressure, and rating of perceived exertion during exercise testing.
  •     3)Identifies and refers abnormal results to individuals personal physician.
  •     4)Consults with Exercise Physiologist or Manager, Fitness Programs, on individuals who can be considered high risk.
• Implementation and coordination of annual events and incentive programs designed to educate and maintain membership compliance.
  •     1)Evaluates need and member interest in program.
  •     2)Researches information to be presented to members thoroughly before implementing program.
  •     3)Uses creative strategies to market the program.
  •     4)Promotes member involvement in activity-based events (i.e. local competitive races and sports tournaments).
• Maintains high level of customer, hospital associate, and physician satisfaction regarding fitness programs, equipment and interaction with fitness associates.
  •     1)Promotes positive, customer-focused relationships with all customers of the Health and Wellness/Fitness Center.
  •     2)Responds promptly to all satisfaction issues of member requests.
  •     3)Actively, promotes the medical model philosophy, encouraging each member in functioning optimally and independently within the limits of his/her condition.
  •     4)Ensures that all associates are fully cognizant of Advocate's Mission, Vision, and Philosophy and Behaviors of Excellence and can clearly communicate these to customers. Facilitates communication between associates, physicians and customers to maximize cooperation and ensure the development of high quality services and programs.
  •     5)Supervises interns and volunteers.
  •     6)Provides Manager on Duty responsibilities to uphold member safety and satisfaction.
  •     7)Continually improves equipment safety, facility maintenance process and follows safety procedures according to facility policy.

Education/Experience Required:

• - Bachelors degree in Exercise Physiology, Exercise Science or Physical Therapy.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• - Strong communication skills. - Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills. - General teaching knowledge. - Basic understanding of exercise physiology, therapeutic exercise prescriptions, kinesiotherapy, kinesiology, human anatomy, exercise prescription. - Basic computer knowledge in spreadsheet and word processing.
• -CPR - National certification (land or water) within 6 months of hire.

Physicial Requirements and Working Conditions:

• - Highly energetic, motivated, resourceful and self-directed. - Ability and flexibility to manage multiple tasks simultaneously; well organized. - Strong ability to motivate others to initiate behavior change. - Ability to work with diverse groups and special populations. - Strong customer service orientation. - Ability to work collaboratively in team environments. - Ability to work varied schedules with rotating hours. - Innovative problem solving skills.
• If position has direct patient care or direct patient contact the following lifting requirement supersedes any previous lifting requirement effective 06/01/2015. Ability to lift up to 35 pounds without assistance. For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient handling equipment is expected to be used, with at least one other associate, when available. Unique patient lifting/movement situations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.