The City of Markham is consistently ranked among Canada’s top municipal employers. In 2026, the City received its sixth consecutive Canada’s Best Employers recognition from Forbes and Statista Inc., placing third among municipalities and 15th overall in Government Services. An award winning municipality, Markham is recognized for its leadership in sustainability, innovative urban planning, and strong fiscal management. Serving a diverse and growing community of more than 370,000 residents, Markham combines rich heritage with a vibrant local economy and offers employees the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, impactful work that helps strengthen the community we serve.
Applications are now being accepted for the temporary part-time position of Specialty Fitness Instructor I in the Recreation Services - Fitness Department, Community Services Commission. To apply, please submit your cover letter and resume online by August 31st, 2026.
Fitness Areas: Spin
Location: Thornhill Community Centre and Armadale Community Centre
Hours of Work: Evening and weekend availability
Join us and make a lasting difference!
JOB SUMMARY
Under the supervision of the Community Program Coordinator, the Specialty Fitness Instructor I will be responsible for planning, organizing, instructing and leading specific fitness classes for various ages and abilities.
The candidate will also be responsible for the training and supervision of a variety of participants of various ages and physical abilities and developing a program that recognizes their capabilities and level of fitness within a community recreation environment. They will also help motivate participants to achieve their fitness goals, while ensuring a positive and safe environment.
KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
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Facilitates, leads and supervises exercise sessions in one or more assigned Fitness areas, including but not limited to Low Impact Aerobics, Stretching/Flexibility, Circuit Training, and General Fitness.
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Provides instruction in a variety of fitness activities.
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Demonstrates correct exercise methods and the proper use of exercise equipment.
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Teaches groups of participants’ flexibility, proper breathing techniques, etc., and how to monitor their progress.
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May also distribute material on proper nutrition, weight control and lifestyle issues.
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Observes participant capabilities and teaches program approach as outlined in program description. May adjust program content specific to the abilities of each group.
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Conducts classes as stipulated by Fitness Supervisor/Fitness Coordinator. Plans routines and chooses appropriate music.
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Sets up and monitors class equipment and ensures its’ return in good condition.
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Prepares and organizes program equipment and supplies, reporting to the Fitness Supervisor/Fitness Coordinator any items needing replacement.
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Gives all new participant names to Fitness Supervisor/Fitness Coordinator.
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Keeps attendance records and checks with participants who have extended absences.
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Ensures that participants have completed a Participant Readiness Questionnaire.
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Ensures all program participants are aware of upcoming events, program changes or cancellations. Advises participants on program/class procedures and policies, as appropriate.
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Distributes handouts and/or program evaluations, answers questions from participants after each session, assists in performing follow up communications with participants as required.
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Advises Fitness Supervisor/Fitness Coordinator of any customer service issues, complaints or inquiries.
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Unlocks and locks facilities as required.
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Ensures the site, equipment and supplies are appropriate to the activity and environment to reduce and minimize risk to other staff and participants.
REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES
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Minimum of one year prior experience instructing a variety of class types such as Cycle-Fit,
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Possess current Group Fitness Certification from a recognized organization (e.g. CanFit Pro, YMCA, etc) and cycle certification
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Minimum age of 16 years old at the start of employment
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Current certifications in Standard First Aid OR Intermediate First Aid with CPR C or AED
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Experience working with a variety of clients and ages.
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Ability to read, understand, follow, and enforce safety procedures.
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Excellent verbal/written communications skills, leadership skills, customer service skills and sensitivity to interact with a diversity of patrons and staff in a courteous and efficient manner.
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The ability to work effectively with a wide range of fitness levels in a diverse community.
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Knowledge of aspects of fitness, wellness, basic training principles, fitness theory (skeletal, muscular, neurological, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems and components of a workout from warm- up, cardiovascular and resistance training to cool-down.
CORE BEHAVIOURS
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Service Excellence: Meets or exceeds service standards when interacting with customers in the community and in the organization.
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Change & Innovation: Responds positively and professionally to change and helps others through change.
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Teamwork & Relationship Building: Interacts with others in an inclusive, collaborative and respectful way that creates effective working relationships.
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Communication: Communicates in a clear, professional and respectful way; demonstrates active listening.
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Accountable & Results Oriented: Demonstrates ethical behaviour and accountability, aligns with City values, and abides by relevant policies and legislation.
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Management & Leadership: Demonstrates self-management, professionalism and engagement; leads by example.
The City of Markham is committed to inclusive, accessible and barrier free employment practices and to creating a workplace that reflects and supports the diversity of the community we serve. Please let us know if you require an accommodation and we will work with you to ensure a barrier-free hiring process.
Please respect our scent free area by not wearing scented products when visiting the office.
AI Disclosure
At the City of Markham, we value transparency and fairness in recruitment. While our system (ADP Workforce Now) includes AI-powered features, we do not use AI to screen, assess, or select applicants. All evaluations are conducted by people.
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