Job Description

Aquila’s Fitness Specialist Intern – Summer 2026

Aquila’s Fitness Specialist Intern Summer 2026 will gain first-hand experience by assisting members in safe and effective exercise programs. Interns will perform a wide range of duties in a health/fitness center, under the supervision of the site manager. The program provides students with a well-rounded experience in the fitness industry, in a professional setting.

Locations:

We currently have openings for Summer 2026 interns for our Washington, DC, Suitland, MD and Arlington, VA locations.

Key Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities:

As a Fitness Specialist Intern, you will have the opportunity to:

• Assist in educating members concerning safe exercise techniques.
• Assist to perform exercise assessments and prescribe exercise upon American College of Sports Medicine guidelines.
• Conduct safe and effective assessments including cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and body composition analysis; evaluate and interpret data and identify high-risk participants and special populations.
• Aid members with spotting and equipment usage.
• Assist in the maintenance, cleanliness, and safety of all equipment.
• Adhere to departmental and club policies and procedures.
• Adhere to client’s policies and procedures.
• Assist in wellness and fitness promotions and external events.
• Perform daily administrative duties under the supervision of the site manager or fitness specialist.
• Assist in memberships, including signing members up and sending out payment reminders.
• Help teach group fitness classes in different styles: step, strength, circuit, Pilates and/or yoga.
• Help clients/members with fitness related questions.
• Perform tours of the facility.
• Personal Training shadowing and writing out mock PT sessions.
• Assist with newsletter, articles, and monthly bulletin board updates.

Compensation:

This is an unpaid internship and does not provide wages. However, at the completion of the program, Aquila sponsors an ACE certification exam for the candidate. The program must be completed in full for eligibility. The exam fees are paid by Aquila.

Requirements:

Academic Requirements:

• Must be an undergraduate Junior or Senior majoring in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Health Promotion or a very closely related major.
• Must have at least a 2.75 GPA.

Required Skills and Attributes:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Customer service oriented.
• Knowledge of fitness training principles.
• Computer knowledge: Microsoft Office Products & Internet.

Additional Requirements:

• All candidates must be able to complete a background check and a federal security clearance check.

About Aquila:

Aquila is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or any other characteristic protected by law.

EOE Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities