I picked up an application for the rec center in my neighborhood and
eagerly filled it out at home. When I first moved to WJ, I created a
fitness-only resume to hand in to gyms when applying to teach. I figured
gyms don't care about my experience working at GAP in high school... so
I pared it down to relevant jobs and my education.
The
following day, I went to the early-morning Pilates class as usual. I
yawned through the whole thing (545a is not my best hour) and was
startled from my drowsiness when the teacher came up to me afterward to
ask about my flexibility.
Although I've kept the
information from my instructors until now, I decided to go ahead and
tell her that I've been practicing Yoga/Pilates for 8 years, and that
I'm certified for both. I didn't want to be treated differently in my
classes, so I hadn't said anything the last two months.
But
as soon as I shared, the teacher asked if I've ever applied to work at
the rec center. I told her I just got an app and was planning to hand it
in after class. She. Was. Thrilled. She said they're always looking for
more teachers, especially since it's currently really hard for anyone
to get a sub.
And not only did the teacher seem
thrilled that I was considering employment with the rec center, but she
announced it to the whole class as we were packing up our mats and
props.
No pressure, right?
When
I showed up for the Power Yoga class the next day, the instructor came
over and introduced herself as the coordinator of aerobics. She asked me
to stay after class and talk with her about my work experience.
She
admitted they don't currently have room in the schedule to give me a
new class, but once I fill out an employment packet I can go on the sub
list. And she has connections with other fitness centers in the area and
will help me get in touch with coordinators here and there as well.
I've found that in this business it really matters to know
someone. Otherwise, you apply online to a gym and your information just
gets sucked into a vacuum and never acknowledged. While I'm nervous to
be teaching again, I'm also really looking forward to it.
