Parkour & Gymnastics Instructors

We are willing to train athletics coaches in the sport of Parkour!

Calling all experienced or future Parkour and/or Gymnastics coaches that have commitment and experience working with children! Have you ever ran through a ninja warrior obstacle course, played on a playground, or simply walked creatively through a  busy space? If so, you may have what it takes to learn how to teach children PARKOUR!!! 

Join the vibrant athletics department at the New Canaan YMCA where we are looking forward to bringing our community introductory Parkour & Gymnastics programming from ages 3-14!

By joining the New Canaan YMCA, you can expect to enjoy a welcoming environment open to ideas and ever-evolving programs, along with a passionate group of colleagues who are inspiring children and adults daily to be physically active in a wide range of offerings! Pay rates range from $20-$26.53 based on experience.

Staff also enjoy the perk of becoming a member of the New Canaan YMCA. Be a part of the growth, excitement, and development of introductory Parkour & Gymnastics programming at the New Canaan YMCA!  

Position:              Parkour/Gymnastics Instructors

Supervisor:         Assistant Director of Programs

FLSA Code:          Non - Exempt   

General Function

Parkour & Gymnastics instructors teach specialized, semester-based and workshop-based curriculum in their specialty area and help ensure a safe, organized, and positive environment for all participants. This position involves teaching semester-based classes, private lessons, open gyms, and workshops as needed, and ensuring that all students learn the fundamentals of their specialty program area. We are primarily seeking individuals that can teach on weekday afternoons/evenings and weekends.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ability to create and deliver age-appropriate lesson plans to groups of up to 12 children.
• Ability to safely arrange equipment as needed and report any equipment issues to the Assistant Director.
•  Ability to ensure that children are listening and following rules. Must have a strong coach presence.
• Must have a willingness to participate in staff training sessions specific to building more advanced   parkour and gymnastics curriculum.
•  Must be comfortable demonstrating skills and spotting skills when necessary.
• Take attendance for all classes taught and alert the Assistant Director of extended absences.
• Ensure the gym and equipment are clean, organized, and secure before leaving.
• Communicate students’ progress with parents at a once-per-semester showcase.
• Report injuries or incidents promptly to the Director.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Assistant Director of Programs.

Physical Demands:

• Must be able to stand for extended periods of time, shift and re-arrange equipment as needed,     and support children with skill-building as needed.
•  Work is performed indoors; minimal outdoor exposure expected.

Impact and Outcomes

• Participants enjoy a high-quality, safe, and engaging experience in a class focused on Aerial Silks, Gymnastics or Parkour.
• Participants should be able to develop strong fundamental skills from introductory level courses and have the opportunity to continue to grow within the sport as space permits.
• Positive representation and reinforcement of the YMCA mission and values.
• Support a community-centered athletics program that emphasizes the curiosity to try new skills, and helps create a positive relationship between children and physical activity.

• Experience (or willingness to do training) teaching at least one specialty area of Gymnastics, and/or Parkour.
• Experience teaching children is required.
•  Specialization certifications, such as USA Gymnastics Certification, is preferred but not required.
• Ability to supervise and teach youth classes in a recreational setting.
• CPR certification required within 6 months of employment.
•  Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to identify and respond to safety concerns in a gymnastics studio environment
• Comfortable communicating and teaching safety rules and the fundamentals of the specialization area with children, as well as progressing children appropriately through more advanced skills.
• Serve as a positive role model and consistently demonstrate the YMCA’s Four Core Values: Honesty, Responsibility, Respect, and Caring
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming environment for all participants and families.