Faculty Biographies – IDEA World Fitness Convention™
We've chosen over 140 world-renowned educators, researchers, leaders and visionaries to help you learn more program ideas, the latest research and trends, in-depth training, business and career advice—so you can get the tools you need to Inspire the World to Fitness®.
Biray Alsac, MS, is the owner of FITTmaxx Institute, a consulting company for health organizations and fitness/wellness professionals interested in learning how to integrate Web-based tools and interactive technologies (exergames) into their programming. She holds a master’s degree in exercise and wellness.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
Nicki Anderson is the owner of Reality Fitness, Inc., an award-winning private training studio in Naperville, Illinois. She is the recipient of the 2008 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award, the author of 101 Ways to Motivate Your Clients and Increase Retention, and is the health and fitness columnist for Chicago Suburban Newspapers.
Certification: NASM
Ryan Andrews, MA, is the executive director for the office of physical education, recreation and sports at the University of California, Santa Cruz and the co-owner of The Invisible Gym.
Certification: ACE and NSCA
Lenita Anthony, MA, is an exercise physiologist, Reebok master trainer and national coach for the Reebok Women’s Triathlon Series. She is also a contributing editor for IDEA publications.
Certification: ACSM
Abbie Appel is an international fitness educator with 20 years experience in the fitness industry. In addition to being a motivational speaker and consultant for Resist-A-Ball® and the Pilates Institute of America, Abbie has designed workouts and contributed material for videos, magazines and journals such as Self, Prevention and IDEA Fitness Journal.
Certifications: ACE, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Juliane "Julz" Arney is a dance-fitness expert who has created class formats for club chains like Crunch® and 24-Hour Fitness®, and has choreographed several DVD programs for consumers and instructors. She is the lead master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling and is a committed student of yoga. With more than 20 years in the fitness industry, Julz is an accomplished presenter, author and marketing consultant who is also the 2003 Can-Fit-Pro International Fitness Presenter of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Yoav Avidar is a Nike elite trainer and co-owner of B.Education, Israel's leading fitness and dance certification institution. He is also Israel's 2001 Instructor of the Year. Yoav’s instructional skills, creativity, dynamism and charisma have made him a popular presenter in more than 15 countries.
Don Bahneman, MS, is the fitness and spa director of John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, Florida. Primarily working with special populations and post-rehabilitation, Don has success with professional and amateur athlete performance enhancement.
Certification: NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, AFAA, NASM and NSCA
Clara Bassett is the owner of Personal Best Enterprises, a fitness and wellness consulting company in Southern California. With over 30 years experience, she is a choreographer and program developer for Kathy Smith; Jake Steinfeld of Body by Jake; Dosho Design, creators of Bowflex®; and others. Cuban born, Clara is the creator of Mambo Mania®.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Tanya Beardsley is an international education specialist and presenter for Zumba® Fitness, a co-host of the Zumba DVD series and she choreographs for Zumba’s instructor network. In addition to presenting for IDEA, Tanya has shared her special skills with instructors and audiences at several other industry events.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Sally Belanger is a project specialist and certified instructor trainer for STOTT PILATES®. She holds a degree in physical and health education and has over 15 years experience in the fitness industry. In addition to traveling the world as a presenter and trainer, Sally is a certified fitness consultant in association with the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists.
Certification: ACE
Debbie Bellenger, MA, is the director of Health Directions at Lexington Medical Center in South Carolina. She currently oversees two wellness centers, two corporate contracts and the LMC employee wellness program. Debbie holds a masters degree in exercise science and is a professor at the University of Southern Carolina.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Jenna A. Bell-Wilson, PhD, RD, is the co-author of Energy to Burn: The Ultimate Food and Nutrition Guide to Fuel Your Active Lifestyle and co-founder of the sports nutrition consulting group, Swim, Bike, Run, Eat! Jenna holds a master’s degree in nutrition and a PhD in exercise physiology. She is an Ironman triathlete, a frequent contributor to IDEA Fitness Journal and a presenter at IDEA events.
Leslee Bender is the founder of the Pilates Coach and the Bender Method of Training. With over 25 years experience, Leslee has presented internationally, produced over 25 DVDs and written several articles for IDEA and many other fitness publications. Leslee is the creator of the Bender Ball®, which was voted the 2007 Best Fitness Short Form infomercial.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Lawrence Biscontini, MA, is a world-renowned presenter, trainer, author, movement specialist and spa consultant. He represents several fitness programs and companies, including Gliding™, BeamFit™, Bender Ball®, Resist-A-Ball®, and Power Systems®. Lawrence is the creator of Yo-Chi®, star of the television program PurposeFit®, and his most recent books are Running the Show and Cream Rises. In addition, Lawrence won the 2005 ECA Best Mind-Body Presenter, and Instructor of the Year awards from ACE (2002) and IDEA (2004).
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NASM
Jay Blahnik is a contract athlete for Nike and an advisory board member for Nautilus®. He serves on the BOSU® development team and is a program developer for the Schwinn® indoor cycling program. Jay is also the group exercise spokesperson for IDEA, the recipient of the 1996 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award and the 2005 Can-Fit-Pro Presenter of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Sandy Blumberg is an accomplished road cyclist and fitness professional who presents various workshops on fitness and the fundamentals of cycling. He is a cycling coach for multiple outdoor endurance cycling events on the West Coast.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Connie Borho has over 20 years experience in the fitness industry. She is the owner of Balance Pilates and Yoga Centers in Florida, a Sunshine Fitness Resources affiliate, and is a Peak Pilates® national teacher trainer.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Douglas Brooks, MS, is the head exercise physiologist and strength and conditioning coach for Mammoth Power Sports. Coach Brooks was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2007, is the author of 11 books and is a Twist Conditioning senior master coach.
Certification: ACE
Margie Caldwell-Cooper is a member of the Hydro-Fit education team, a master trainer for The Pilates Coach, a registered yoga teacher and is a frequent guest instructor at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico. With over 28 years in the fitness industry, Margie has worked with a variety of exercise participants as a personal trainer, group fitness and aquatics instructor and program director. She is the recipient of AEA’s 2006 Global Aquatic Fitness Professional of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AEA
Anthony Carey, MA, holds a master’s degree in biomechanics and athletic training and owns Function First in San Diego, California. He is an internationally-recognized speaker on biomechanics, posture, and motor control and their relationship to musculoskeletal pain and function. Anthony is also a published author and the inventor of the Core-Tex™. His work has been featured in the New York Times, Time magazine and Oprah’s “O” magazine.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Annika Carlson develops and designs new education programs and videos for instructors and consumers. With over 14 years as a fitness educator and instructor, she consults for several fitness companies, including efi Sports Medicine®. Annika teaches at international conferences and at select clubs in Orange County, California.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nicole "Nica" Cavegn, MA, is the owner of Move2Grow—Life Coaching and Cardio Dance. As an NLP life coach and educator, Nica is an international presenter whose powerful and sensual dance workouts unify body, soul and mind. She is the 2007 Female Presenter of the Year in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
Scott Cheatham, DPT, is the owner of Bodymechanix Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy in Torrance, California. He holds a doctorate in physical therapy, is a board-certified specialist in orthopedics and a certified athletic trainer. The author of several chapters and articles on the topics of orthopedics, vestibular balance, and health and fitness, Scott is also a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Athletic Training, and the Strength and Conditioning Journal, and on the editorial review board for NSCA’s Performance Training Journal.
Certifications: ACE, BOC, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Christina Christie, PT, is the president of Pelvic Solutions, LLC and inventor of the Pelvicore™. She is a senior physical therapist at the outpatient rehabilitation department of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. Christina specializes in the evaluation and treatment of women’s health issues, orthopedics and sports-related injuries. She is also a childbirth educator and has lectured extensively on the evaluation and treatment of women’s health for the APTA, IDEA and in other settings.
Laurie Cingle, MEd, is a fitness business success coach and club consultant. She specializes in creating successful club program champions, developing non-dues revenue profit centers (especially personal training and weight management), establishing club market differentiation and designing programs that result in profit and retention. Laurie is the recipient of the IHRSA Fitness Director of the Year award and has led highly successful clubs to break industry records and set them on a path for long-term success in programming.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Paul Ciske, PhD, owner of Your Well-Being, has more than 20 years experience as an exercise physiologist, personal trainer and movement specialist. He holds a doctorate in physiology, is certified as a Resistance Training Specialist® and Muscle Activation Techniques™ specialist, both at the mastery level. Paul is also a MAT Jumpstart and RTS® “1,2,3” instructor, as well as a Level 3 Z-Health professional trainer.
Certification: ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Nicole Clancy has been an independent certified fitness trainer and medical exercise specialist in Santa Barbara, California since 1990. She specializes in designing exercise programs for those with chronic injury and illness concerns.
Certifications: ACE and NASM
Peggy Cleland is the BODYFLOW™ program coach for North America and has been part of the Les Mills International team since 1997. She is a master trainer and has been featured as a presenter on the international DVDs for BODYFLOW and BODYPUMP™ and is also a master trainer for the BODYCOMBAT™ and BODYJAM™ programs.
Education provider for: ACE
Michele Clemens-Silence, MA, is a 23-year fitness professional, trainer, educator, writer and CEC provider. She is the president of Aerobic Fitness Consultants and the creator of KID-FIT™ physical education classes for preschoolers. Her KID-FIT program has been piloted nationwide and been featured in the Los Angeles Times, on numerous television news shows and is listed by Action for Healthy Kids as a program that works.
Certification: ACE
Matthew Comer, MS, is a STOTT PILATES® instructor trainer, and the founder and co-owner of Pilates South Beach. He holds a master’s degree in dance and movement therapy and is a continuing education provider for the Florida Physical Therapy Association. Matthew specializes in the postrehabilitation applications of Pilates. With over 20 years in the industry, he blends his knowledge of performance enhancement, movement analysis, dance, physical therapy and Pilates into one practice.
Certifications: ACE and NASM
Kathy Corey is the owner and director of West Coast Pilates. She has been a Pilates teacher and an active member and leader in the Pilates community for almost 30 years. Kathy serves on the advisory boards for Inner IDEA® and Pilates Style magazine. In addition, Kathy was selected by IDEA as one of 10 people in the world “Who Inspire the World to Fitness®” for 2007.
Rodney Corn, MA, is an adjunct faculty member at the California University Pennsylvania and the University of San Francisco in the schools’ exercise science departments. He has extensive international experience in teaching and developing curriculum for fitness, athletic performance and corrective exercise. Rodney is a former collegiate athlete, a bodybuilder, a published author and a contributor to numerous industry publications.
Certifications: NASM and NSCA
Leigh Crews is the owner of Think-GPS™ Adventure Training and Dynalife, Inc. She is a licensed corporate WellCoach, a Yoga Alliance-registered yoga teacher, and a master trainer for Fitness Anywhere®, LeMond Academy and Gliding™. Leigh is also a spokesperson for ACE and ACSM, and is the group fitness director for Rome Athletic Club. An international presenter for several years, Leigh has starred in more than 10 videos and DVDs, including Reebok Final Cuts and The Flow Yoga series.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and Cooper Institute
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Josh Crosby is the creator of Indo-Row®, a growing international group fitness program created for intense, full-body, team-oriented workouts using custom-designed rowing machines. Indo-Row has been featured in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Journal, Shape, on CNN and on Extra! Josh is a multisponsored Ironman triathlete and world-champion rower.
Certification: ACE
Michol Dalcourt is an educator, author, trainer, inventor and industry leader in human movement and performance training. Based in San Diego, California, Michol is the author of numerous articles on human design and function, the creator of a series of performance videos and the developer of an athletic model for high-performance training (the RMA model). He holds a degree in exercise science, is adjunct faculty with the University of San Francisco and is PTontheNET.com’s 2003 Presenter of the Year.
Laurie Denomme is the assistant director of operations for the Aquatic Exercise Association as well as a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer. She is the director of program development for Aquatic Options Education and the co-author of a book on aquatic fitness for special populations and postrehabilitative clients. Laurie travels internationally to share her unique aquatic training methods.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Natalie Digate Muth, MD, MPH, RD, is a registered dietitian and a recent graduate of the UNC School of Medicine. She has made several appearances as a nutrition expert on CW's San Diego 6, been quoted as a fitness expert in the New York Times, and is an ACE master trainer and award-winning author. She is currently pursuing a residency in pediatrics.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and NSCA
Amy Dixon is the group fitness manager for Equinox in Santa Monica, California, and is the official spokesperson for Women’s Health magazine. She holds a degree in exercise science and has been in the fitness industry for more than 15 years. Amy is also a fitness DVD star and choreographer, a BOSU®, Schwinn® Cycling, Gymstick and GRAVITY® master trainer, and the writer and former director of a wellness program established for the national organization Senior Friends.
Certification: AFAA
Shawn Dolan, PhD, RD, is an assistant professor in the kinesiology department at California State University, Long Beach. Shawn’s research focuses on the role nutrition and exercise play in performance and wellness with an emphasis on endurance athletes and fitness professionals.
Todd Durkin, MA, is a human performance specialist and owns Fitness Quest 10, a world-class training facility in San Diego, California. An international teacher through Todd Durkin Enterprises, he has 26 videos on athlete performance, massage therapy and bodywork. Todd trains dozens of elite, high-profile NFL and MLB athletes and is the head of the Under Armour® performance training council. He is the 2004 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year and 2005 ACE Personal Trainer of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Chris Ecklund, MA, is the owner of Prevail Conditioning in Santa Barbara, California. He works with amateur and elite athletes and specializes in enhanced performance, injury reduction and improved movement function. Chris holds a master’s degree in kinesiology and is an instructor at Westmont College and the University of California, Santa Barbara. He has been featured in several publications, including Muscle & Fitness magazine, SportsVision Magazine, SB Fitness Magazine, and on the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN).
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Terry Eckmann, PhD, is an associate professor at Minot State University and has over 25 years experience in the fitness industry. She authored chapters for the ACSM personal training manual and health fitness management text. Terry also serves on the ICAA advisory board and hosts KX Eye on Fitness for her local CBS TV network station. In addition, Terry received the IDEA Make Fitness Happen Award, the Club Industry Distinguished Business Award and an MSU Faculty Achievement Award.
Certification: ACE
Carrie Ekins, MA, is the owner and education coordinator of Global Wellness, a fitness and wellness consulting company. She is the founder and creator of Drums Alive® and the Life Fitness “ABC” (All Body Cycling) programs throughout Germany and the Atlantic region of Europe. Carrie’s articles have been featured in a variety of trade magazines including IDEA Fitness Journal, FitPro Business, Sport und Fitness, Shape, WellFit, Brigitte, and the Augsburg Journal.
Certification: ACE and Cooper Institute
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Leah Esplen is the owner of MommyMoves Pre- and Postnatal Fitness in Vancouver, British Columbia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and works with moms and moms-to-be in maintaining or improving their fitness levels. Leah teaches fitness instructor courses and presents at workshops and conferences in British Columbia.
Jolyn Esquerre brings 34 years of customer relationship management experience in the financial services and agribusiness industries to IDEA. She has established her credibility by being a commission-only business professional for this period of time. In addition, Jolyn has over 20 years in the fitness industry as an educated consumer.
Bob Esquerre, MA, is a world-renowned fitness business planner, and a leading educator, personal trainer and indoor cycling instructor. He specializes in training managers and personal trainers and has enjoyed great success as a “turn-around” business expert. Bob is an active participant in the national and international lecture circuits, and has been recognized by IHRSA as a subject-matter expert on personal training.
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Shannon Fable is the founder and CEO of Sunshine Fitness Resources, a fitness consulting firm providing services for fitness professionals; the owner of Balletone®; and operates the group fitness department at Life Time Fitness® in Westminster, Colorado. She is a PowerBar®-sponsored athlete, a presenter for Nautilus®, BOSU®, Power Systems® and ACE, and is the recipient of the 2006 ACE Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Lizbeth Garcia is the owner of Tilcia Studios in San Diego, California and is a faculty member of Balance Body® University. With 15 years experience, she has been featured in several fitness DVDs and has gained recognition for her On The Ball Pilates Workout for Beginners video. She appears on Exercise TV and is the co-star of Totalmete En Forma, the Spanish language fitness TV show for ESPN International.
Certification: AFAA
Josie Gardiner is the co-creator of the Zumba® Gold instructor training program for active older adults. With over 40 years in the fitness industry, Josie has choreographed over 20 best-selling DVDs and is the co-author of The Breast Cancer Survivors Fitness Plan and The Workout Book. She is the recipient of the 2002 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award and the 2005 ACE Group Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
John Garey, MS, is the owner of John Garey Pilates in Long Beach, California, which was voted Best Pilates Studio in Los Angeles in 2007 and 2008 by My Fox LA Hotlist, and is the only STOTT PILATES®-licensed training center in Los Angeles. John holds a master's degree in adult fitness and has studied Pilates for more than 15 years. He is an international presenter, a STOTT PILATES master instructor, and is featured in more than 25 fitness and Pilates DVDs. In addition to being a regular contributor of Pilates and fitness articles for many national publications, John was named one of the top six most notable instructors in the United States by American Fitness magazine.
Certification: ACE Education provider for: ACE
James Gekko is a master trainer for both Nautilus® and Schwinn® cycling and circuit training programs. He is a certified program director and group fitness management specialist and holds numerous training certificates in land and water fitness programs. James shares his knowledge and expertise throughout North America, South America and the Middle East. Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Rob Glick is an internationally-acclaimed fitness professional and a professional fitness consultant for Global Fitness Solutions. He is the recipient of Can-Fit-Pro’s 2006 International Presenter of the Year award and ECA’s 2005 Best Male Presenter award. He holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, and is a star trainer on Exercise TV, a leader of many fitness videos, and a master trainer for efi GRAVITY® Training, BOSU® and Schwinn® Cycling.
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nico Gonzalez is the area wellness manager for Mercy HealthPlex, a hospital-based wellness facility in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a Balanced Body® University faculty trainer who certifies Pilates instructors across the United States. Nico can be seen in commercial fitness DVDs and on television leading home-based workouts on a weekly basis in the greater Cincinnati area.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
MaDonna Grimes, MFA, is the founder and director of the MaDonna Grimes Dance Fitness Theatre Company in Los Angeles, California. Her state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to creating new and innovative avenues for dance and exercise. With her bachelor’s degree in dance education and a master’s degree in dance performance and choreography, MaDonna is a performer, choreographer, instructor, dance video instructor and performer, dancer, model and actress. She is a recipient of many awards and titles including the title of Miss Fitness America and the U.S.A. National Fitness Championship.
Jeff Groh is the owner of Authentic Motion in San Diego, California. He holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and is a graduate of the Gray Institute. As the lead program developer for efi GRAVITYPersonalTraining®, Jeff was instrumental in the development of efi Sports Medicine’s education department. He is currently teaching applied functional science, GRAVITYPersonalTraining and postrehabilitation programs worldwide.
Certification: ACSM
Education provider for: ACE, AFAA and NASM
Mark Hendricks teaches exclusively for Equinox fitness clubs where he is the group fitness manager at their flagship location on Greenwich Avenue in New York. He also manages group fitness auditions and new hires for Equinox New York. Mark has starred in two CIA fitness videos.
Julieanna Hever, MS, RD, is the owner of To Your Health Nutrition and Fitness, a company that provides in-home nutrition counseling and personal training in Thousand Oaks, California. She holds a master’s degree in nutrition and has been a dietitian and personal trainer for over 10 years. Julieanna is a consultant for the Ventura County Unified School District and specializes in wellness, sports nutrition, vegetarianism and weight management by combining fitness and nutrition for a unique holistic approach.
Certification: ACE
Sue Hitzmann, MS, is the founder of Longevity Fitness, Inc. and the creator of the M.E.L.T. Method™. She is a nationally-recognized educator and practitioner of neurofascial techniques, manual therapy and somatic movement methods of self-treatment. Her fitness expertise, extensive anatomical studies and neurofascial research have culminated in this revolutionary approach to helping people maintain an active, healthy, pain-free lifestyle.
Education provider for: ACE and NASM
Fred Hoffman, MEd, holds a master’s degree in health education and is the director of international services for the Club & Spa Synergy Group. A consultant and master trainer for companies such as Reebok®, Body Bar®, BOSU®, Beamfit™ and Gliding™, he has traveled to nearly 50 countries on six continents to present at conventions and conduct instructor training. A published author and advisory board member, Fred is the recipient of the 2007 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award, and in 2001 was elected to the International Who’s Who of Professionals. Certifications: ACE and ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Tony Horton is the master of motivation behind P90X®, the #1 fitness infomercial in America. Aside from his powerful programs with Beachbody® and operating ASH Fitness, a state-of-the-art training facility in Santa Monica, California, Tony hosts several fitness camps per year. Over the last 17 years,. Tony has acquired, perfected and shared his fitness expertise, passion and humor with countless individuals across the country.
Janice Hutton, MA, is the education manager for Twist Conditioning and the co-author of accredited home study programs that have been packaged into the Twist Sport Conditioning Coach Education Program. With over 25 years of experience in fitness and sport, Janice works as a consultant, personal trainer, fitness instructor, sport conditioning coach, author and presenter at conferences across North America. Janice is also a member of the BOSU® International presenting team.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
Rael Isacowitz, MA, is the founder of BASI™ Pilates (Body Arts and Science International). He is an internationally-recognized teacher of teachers and an expert in Pilates. His BASI Pilates program spans 20 countries and 65 locations. With over 30 years experience, Rael has taught movement science, dance, athletics, yoga and Pilates. In addition, he has produced an extensive compilation of DVDs, movement analysis workbooks and a book, Pilates (Human Kinetics), that has gained international recognition and has been translated into several languages.
Albert Isordia has over 20 years of competitive experience in boxing, kickboxing and martial arts. He was named the Sports Club LA's Most Valuable Instructor in 2004 and 2005.
Darren Jacobson is the innovator of the franchise personal training concept for Virgin Active South Africa, where he manages over 750 personal trainers in 88 health clubs. He holds a bachelor’s degree in human movement science and is a featured writer for numerous industry publications. In addition, Darren sits on the IDEA Personal Training Committee and has presented at fitness conventions across South Africa, Canada and the United States.
Scott Josephson, MS, is the director of operations at Hippocrates Health Institute, a premier life-changing property in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has presented at conferences throughout North America, is the recipient of numerous awards, and is frequently published covering a wide range of fitness industry topics. Scott holds a master's degree in exercise physiology and nutrition and has worked with several celebrities, as well as athletes with the New York Giants and New York Mets.
June Kahn is the founder of June Kahn’s Bodyworks, LLC and the director of education for BeamFit, LLC. As an international program developer and fitness educator, she is also the Life studio coordinator for Life Time Fitness® in Westminster, Colorado, directing the Pilates and yoga programs for the facility. June is the co-author of Morning Cardio Workouts, has developed several Pilates certification and training programs and has appeared in numerous fitness videos and DVDs.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Phil Kaplan is the owner of the South Florida health club, Fitness 21. He has been the host of the Mind and Muscle Fitness Hour radio show for over 15 years and has presented in 48 states and 10 countries. With over 25 years experience as a personal trainer, Phil is the author of four books and three full-length programs, and has also appeared on over 1,000 television and radio shows.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Jim Karanas, MS, has been a trainer of fitness professionals for over 30 years and is the CEO and head of education and training for Johnny G’s new Kranking® program. In his role as chief fitness officer for Club One Fitness, Inc. (since 1991), Jim helped lead the company to become one of the top health club chains in the United States.
Certification: ACE
Education provider: ACE
Jason R. Karp, PhD, is the owner of RunCoachJason.com, a coaching, personal training and fitness consulting company. He holds a doctorate degree in exercise physiology and is the director and coach of the REVO2LT Running Team™. He is a competitive runner and freelance writer who has contributed to numerous international running, coaching and fitness magazines and scientific journals.
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Paul Katami is a group fitness manager for Equinox fitness clubs and has brought the Katami techniques to Hollywood’s hottest gyms, executives, actors, models, athletes, in-home exercisers, successful infomercial products and more. He has appeared on QVC, the Shopping Channel, the Learning Channel, several news stories, and in local gyms across the United States and Canada.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Linda Kennedy has been a personal trainer since 1993 and a sports nutrition consultant since 2005. She has lectured at IHRSA, several universities and some of San Diego's top health clubs. Her LEANPower!™ group and individual exercise and nutrition program has helped countless clients make dramatic lifestyle changes.
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Brett Klika is the director of athletics at Fitness Quest 10 and is a human performance specialist, motivator and educator. He helped create and develop the athlete performance program at Fitness Quest 10. Brett is a motivational speaker with Todd Durkin Enterprises and has produced and co-produced several DVDs on sport performance and executive fitness.
Certification: NSCA
Petra Kolber is an international presenter and motivational speaker. She has choreographed and starred in over 25 fitness videos and numerous television segments. She was awarded the 2004 and 2003 Best Female Presenter of the Year by ECA and in 2001 was named IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year. Can-Fit-Pro named her the 2000 International Presenter of the Year and in 1999 she was named Fitness Crusader of the Year by Health magazine.
Certifications: ACE. ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Tatiana Kolovou, MBA, is on the faculty of the top-ranked Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is the owner of Team Performance, a professional development company, and has over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry as a fitness manager, national presenter and coach. Tatiana holds a bachelor's degree in exercise science and a master's degree in business administration. She is also a master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling.
Certifications: ACE and ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Stacey Lei Krauss is a Nike elite instructor with over 20 years as a fitness professional. Specializing in barefoot training techniques, she is most known for her award-winning willPower & grace™ fusion program. Stacey is a Reiki practitioner, a master trainer for BeamFit™, BOSU® and Schwinn® Cycling and teacher-trainer for Peak Pilates®.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Jeff Kress, PhD, is an associate professor a Cal State Long Beach. He is also the developer and director of the Long Beach State OutBAC (Outdoor Beach Adventure Course), an outdoor facility devoted to the development of team cohesion and leadership. He is a member of the Association for Experiential Education and a strong advocate for adventure learning models. Jeff holds a doctorate degree in sport psychology from the University of Kansas.
Marc Lebert is the owner of Lebert Fitness, Inc., a leader in developing innovative body weight training tools. He is a club owner, a certified NLP practitioner and he delivers fitness boxing/kickboxing and Equalizer courses for Can-Fit-Pro. Marc is also a published writer, speaker and developer of the Lebert Equalizer™ and Lebert Buddy System™.
Machelle Lee is the founder and owner of the Invisible Gym. She holds bachelor’s degrees in health science and psychology from California State University, Chico.
Certification: ACE
Milo Levell is known as the ambassador of hip-hop fitness since he was the pioneering force behind today’s hip-hop fitness craze. Milo was the first to bring hip-hop from the streets into the fitness studios and to television with the first hip-hop fitness and dance TV show entitled Hip Hop Body Shop. Milo works privately with such celebrities as Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock, Jessica Alba, Helen Hunt and many others who love his hip-hop fitness programs. His choreography has been featured with such artists as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Earth Wind & Fire, LL Cool J, Boys II Men and many others.
Irene Lewis-McCormick, MS, is an international presenter, author and 25-year fitness veteran. She is a frequent contributor to fitness industry publications and is on the editorial board for Diabetic Living. Irene has starred in several pre-/postnatal exercise, water fitness and foam roller training DVDs. She holds a master's degree in exercise and sport science.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
JJ Mayo, PhD, RD, is an associate professor of kinesiology and the director of the human performance laboratory at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. His professional interests include cardiovascular training, sports nutrition and weight management. He is an author and freelance writer, and has published articles in numerous scientific and trade journals.
Certification: NSCA
Stacy McCarthy has devoted the past 15 years to instructing the ashtanga vinyasa yoga system while integrating mind, body and spirit into her practice. She is a well-respected conference teacher, has taught and managed group fitness classes and has been a general manager and chief operating officer for a successful chain of health clubs. Stacy holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and was grandfathered into the Yoga Alliance as a certified yoga teacher at the highest level.
Certification: ACE
Brent McLemore is the club coach and customer service manager for Les Mills West Coast in San Francisco, California. He has been a Les Mills national trainer and international presenter for BODYSTEP™ and BODYATTACK™. He has presented as several conventions in the United States.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Sherri McMillan, MSc, is the co-owner of Northwest Personal Training and Northwest Women’s Fitness Club in Vancouver, Washington and Portland, Oregon. With a master’s degree in exercise physiology, she has authored several fitness books and manuals for fitness professionals. Sherri is the recipient of the 2006 IDEA Program Director of the Year award, the 1998 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award and the 1998 Can-Fit-Pro Canadian Fitness Presenter of the Year award. With her husband and business partner Alex, they received the 2006 BBB Business of the Year award. She is a sponsored fitness athlete for Nike, PowerBar®, Nautilus® and Twist Conditioning.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
David Mesirow is the creator of Beaming™, an activity-based lifestyle program. This program is the culmination of David’s 29 years of experience in the fitness industry, coupled with his social work background. He is a former Reebok master trainer and Avia select athlete. David has won numerous fitness accolades.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Kim Miller is an international presenter who has conducted workshops in Europe, the Middle East and the West Indies. She is a certification specialist, a continuing education provider and the director of continuing education providers for AFAA. Kim, known for her smooth approach to building choreography, starred in the video Aerobic Euphoria, which was voted a staff favorite by Collage Video.
Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: AFAA
Carol Murphy, a finalist for the 2008 IDEA Instructor of the Year, is a master trainer for Resist-A-Ball®, Body Bar®, Drums Alive® and Gliding™. She is a certification examiner for AFAA and an instructor coordinator for the SilverSneakers® fitness program. Known for her infectious energy, results-oriented workouts and passion to make fitness fun, Carol’s innovative classes and fitness training programs have been featured in numerous DVDs, magazines and at conventions worldwide.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Mindy Mylrea is the owner of FitFlix Productions and the creator of Gliding™, the gliding discs exercise program. She is a master trainer and on the development teams for Schwinn® Cycling, Body Bar®, and BOSU®. A national and world sport aerobic champion and PowerBar®-sponsored athlete, Mindy also serves on the advisory board for Oxygen magazine. She is the winner of the 2008 ECA OBOW Fitness Presenter of the Year award, the 2004 Can-Fit-Pro International Presenter of the Year award and the 1999 International IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Danya Nunley, MA, is a national trainer for BODYVIVE™ and BODYJAM™. She holds a bachelor’s degree in gerontology and dual master’s degrees in exercise physiology and teaching. Danya has experience in dance and performance and has been a group fitness instructor for 17 years.
Certification: NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Suzette O’Byrne is a yoga therapist in Calgary, Canada, an international presenter and the author of Yoga for the Core: Finding Stability in an Unstable Environment. Suzette holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and has been training instructors since 1989. She is a registered yoga teacher (500 level), a Keiser® Cycling master trainer and a STOTT PILATES® certified instructor.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
PJ O'Clair has been a leader and consultant in the fitness industry for more than 25 years. She is a STOTT PILATES® master instructor trainer and has been featured in numerous fitness videos, including over 25 titles with STOTT PILATES®. PJ has also written numerous articles for industry publications and is the recipient of the 2008 IDEA Program Director of the Year award.
Evan Osar, DC, is the head of O.S.A.R. Consulting, which specializes in treating individuals with chronic pain and dysfunction. An international speaker, Dr. Osar presents for the American Council on Exercise, ECA fitness education seminars, the National Strength and Conditioning Association and Perform Better. He has produced over a dozen products for the fitness professional and specializes in bringing advanced rehabilitation and training strategies to fitness and allied health professionals working with the general population
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Portia Page is a faculty member of Balanced Body® University and a STOTT PILATES®-certified instructor. She has been in the fitness industry for over 18 years and has served as a teacher, competitor, program director, instructor trainer and international presenter. A gold-certified Pilates teacher through Pilates Method Alliance®, Portia has been a master instructor for 24-Hour Fitness® and has helped develop and cultivate several new programs for their instructors as well as conducted trainings throughout the United States and abroad.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Krista Popowych is the executive director for the 2010 Olympic Oval in Vancouver, BC. She is a TV fitness host, an IDEA and Can-Fit-Pro committee and advisory member, an education director trainer for Keiser® Indoor Cycling and a master trainer for Resist-a-Ball®. Krista is also a two-time Canadian Presenter of the Year, a published author and is frequently featured on Go! Vitality DVD series, as well as other fitness and management videos.
Justin Price, MA, is the co-owner of The BioMechanics, in San Diego, California, a company that specializes in exercise alternatives for sufferers of chronic pain. He is also the creator of a remarkably successful method of pain reduction that combines life coaching and corrective exercise; a method he shares through his educational DVD series and CEC-approved internship programs. Justin was also named the 2006 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Joy Prouty is the owner of Fitness Programming, Inc., a Zumba® educational specialist, and an international fitness instructor and program developer with over 35 years of experience. She is the co-developer of Zumba Gold, a former member of Reebok University’s development team and has served on ACSM’s summit committee for the past 13 years. Joy is a featured fitness columnist for the Palm Beach Post Times and she has choreographed and starred in over 25 videos and DVDs.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Fraser Quelch is the head coach and director of training and development for Fitness Anywhere®, as well as the creator and lead educator for the TRX® Suspension Training® program. A renowned expert in functional training and endurance athletics, Fraser presents all over the world and has written for IDEA Fitness Journal, OnFitness magazine and NSCA’s Performance Training Journal. He has also starred in 11 DVDs and is a fellow of applied functional science at the Gray Institute.
Certification: NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Erika Quest is the owner of Studio Q Pilates Conditioning in Laguna Beach, California. As a former advertising executive and triathlon participant, Erika's specialties include sharp and successful business acumen, strategic planning for the fitness professional, and reaching special population clients.
Keli Roberts is a specialized tier-three personal trainer at Equinox in Pasadena, California. She is a master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling and Gliding™, a Kettlebell® Concepts-sponsored athlete and on the BOSU® development team. Keli is also known for her award-winning videos, books and training seminars. She is a spokesperson for ACE, a 2007 inductee to the National Fitness Hall of Fame and was awarded the 2003 IDEA International Fitness Instructor of the Year.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Sonia Rodriguez, MBA, has been in the industry for more than 18 years. She is a Peak Pilates® master trainer and is comprehensively certified in Pilates and holds several certifications in personal training, group exercise and massage therapy. Additionally, Sonia holds a master’s degree in business administration with a minor in dance. Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: AFAA
Debbie Rosas is the co-creator of the Nia® Technique, an international body-mind-spirit fitness and lifestyle program taught in 37 countries. Since 1983, her focus has been on body-mind-spirit education and program development. Debbie has produced several DVD workouts and meditation tapes, over 50 instructional DVDs, and has co-authored two books. She and the Nia program have been featured in more than 700 publications and numerous television shows.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Greg Roskopf, MA, is the owner and developer of Muscle Activation Techniques® (MAT), a biomechanics specialist, and he teaches MAT concepts to trainers and therapists across the country. He has worked with various elite and professional athletes, and is a consultant to various professional teams including the Denver Broncos, the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz. Greg operates two centers in the Denver area that specialize in correcting muscle imbalances that contribute to chronic pain and injury.
Jonathan Ross is the owner of Aion Fitness, a fitness training and consulting business, and is the training director for the Sport Fit® health club in Bowie, Maryland. He is a finalist for the 2008 IDEA Trainer of the Year, the 2008 Exercise TV's Top Trainer, the 2006 ACE Personal Trainer of the Year, one of Men’s Journal’s Top 100 Trainers in America and a fitness expert for Discovery Health.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE
Joshua Rubin is the owner and founder of EastWest Healing and Performance. Joshua uses Eastern and Western approaches to coach, treat and educate clients and students on corrective exercise techniques, holistic nutrition and lifestyle coaching. He is an international consultant and mentor, professional speaker and author for local newspapers and golf magazines. Joshua is also a regular author for Personal Training on the Net and serves on their research team.
Certifications: NASM and NSCA
Laura Sachs is the creator of the E-MOTION® body-mind fitness video, relaxation and yoga walk programs. She is a mind-body expert with 20 years experience in the health and fitness field. She has created fitness content for the Soma Management website and has been featured in Shape, Fit Yoga, Natural Health, IDEA Fitness Journal and American Fitness. Laura currently teaches at the Bay Club, the Jewish Community Center and the University of San Francisco. She is also a level three trainer with Heart Zones.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Juan Carlos Santana, MEd, is the director and chief executive officer for the Institute of Human Performance in Boca Raton, Florida. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in exercise science from Florida Atlantic University and is currently pursuing his doctorate. Carlos has authored more than 50 books and DVDs, covering a range of topics involving optimum physical performance. His energetic approach to life and advanced knowledge of conditioning have made him a much sought-after international speaker and consultant.
Certifications: ACSM, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: NSCA
Tricia Schafer, JD, is both an attorney and a certified personal fitness trainer. As the manager of Starting Now Fitness in Phoenix, Arizona, Tricia helps clients meet their fitness goals. As an attorney, she counsels clients on reducing liability exposure and represents them in litigation and alternative dispute resolution.
Certification: ACE
Jan Schroeder, PhD, is an associate professor of kinesiology, specializing in fitness, at California State University, Long Beach. Dr. Schroeder has authored over 25 research and applied science articles in the area of exercise physiology and fitness and presents regularly at national and international conferences. In addition, Jan is a certified group exercise instructor and teaches in the private and academic sector.
Certifications: AFAA and NASM
Oreet Schwartz is as the creator of SharQui™—The Bellydance Workout, which is the only fitness accredited belly dance technique. Oreet trains and certifies fitness and dance professionals in the SharQui method across the United States and Israel. She is a competitive dancer and holds the titles of Belly Dancer of the Year, Belly Dance Diva, Jewel of the Nile and Middle Eastern Dance Champion of North America.
Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Beth Shaw is the president and founder of YogaFit®, a program that blends yoga, strength training and stretching. With more than 30,000 YogaFit instructors nationwide, Beth has been published in numerous fitness, business and consumer publications including Self, Fit, Yoga Journal, Club Business International and L.A. Parent. Her book, Beth Shaw's YogaFit, is a bestseller among Human Kinetics titles.
Linda Shelton is an internationally-recognized fitness and wellness consultant, trainer, speaker and health writer with over 40 years experience. She is currently the fitness director for VIVmag, a digital women’s lifestyle magazine, and was the fitness director for all Weider/AMI women’s lifestyle publications including Shape for 23 years. As the author of eight books, she is also the producer, director and choreographer of over 350 DVDs. Linda is the co-developer of Zumba® toning and an executive advisory board member and the communications director for BeamFit™. Linda was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in March 2007.
Certifications: AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Aileen Sheron is a 30-year veteran of the fitness industry. An IDEA member and presenter for over 15 years, she is an entrepreneur with multiple videos, fitness products and articles to her credit. Aileen currently teaches at Renaissance ClubSport, the University of California, Irvine and the Sports Club/LA in Orange County, California.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Steven Sierra is the co-founder of Innovative Body Solutions and travels the United States delivering resistance stretching workshops, which are accredited by NASM, ISSA, and NCBTMB. Steven specializes in injury prevention and postrehabilitation. Most recently, he and his business partner, Anne Tierney, produced their first DVD, Resistance Stretching with Dara Torres (who they trained for her record-setting 5th Olympic appearance at age 41).
Certification: NASM
Education provider for: NASM
Lynne Skilton-Hayes is the fitness centre coordinator at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, a certified group fitness instructor and a master personal trainer. She is an international presenter, a Bender Ball® VIP master trainer and a Can-Fit-Pro ProTrainer. Lynne holds a bachelor’s of science degree in physiology and nutrition and brings over 14 years of experience and education to the fitness industry. In 2004 she was awarded the Personal Training Specialist ProTrainer Educator of the Year. Lynne has also presented fit tips on Global TV morning news in Vancouver.
Certification: ACE
Anna-Rita “Zena” Sloss has been an instructor with 24-Hour Fitness® since1999. With nearly 10 years in the fitness industry, she has conducted workshops around the globe. A master trainer for various fitness formats, this New Zealand-born and Samoan-bred warrior princess has danced the native Polynesian styles of her culture from childhood. Zena has been featured in more than 50 instructional fitness videos.
Rebecca Small is a fitness education specialist and has been active within the fitness industry for more than 20 years. She has presented in 38 countries, trained an estimated 350,000 fitness professionals worldwide and is featured in industry magazines offering both fitness and dietary advice for the general public. She has a background in sports science and is a qualified naturopath, nutritionist and herbalist.
Bill Sonnemaker, MS, is the founder and CEO of Catalyst Fitness, Georgia’s only fully-accredited and medically-recognized personal training and performance enhancement facility. He is a spokesperson for ACE, IDEA, NASM and NSCA. Bill was awarded the 2007 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award and the 2007 NASM Pursuit of Excellence award. He also holds a master’s degree in performance enhancement and injury prevention.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, NASM and NSCA
Carla Sottovia, PhD, has over 20 years experience as a personal trainer, and is an international fitness educator, a book author, a triathlete (having completed three Ironman distance triathlons) and a marathon runner. Dr. Sottovia is the director of personal training at the Cooper Aerobic Center in Dallas, Texas and was awarded the IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year in 2005.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Education provider for: Cooper Institute
Kimberly Spreen is the national group fitness director for Life Time Fitness®, a premier fitness and lifestyle company that operates over 80 centers across the United States. She is one of Exercise TV’s star trainers, a professional fitness consultant with Global Fitness Solutions and has led several popular exercise videos. Kimberly travels the world as a presenter, educator and motivational speaker.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nora St. John has been teaching Pilates in rehabilitation and studio settings for 20 years. She has a comprehensive background in dance, acupuncture, massage and meditation and weaves her many passions together to create presentations that address the body from a compassionate and healing point of view.
Robert Steigele is a Toronto-based international fitness presenter with 20 years of experience in the fitness industry as a group exercise, yoga and Pilates instructor, personal trainer, professor and fitness writer. Robert is a master trainer for the Bender Method, Drums Alive®, Gymstick™ and Resist-A-Ball®.
Certification: ACE
Sandra Stessun is the owner of Fit 2 Function. As a personal trainer she incorporates education into movement analysis and activity adaptation. A 13-year veteran in the fitness industry, Sandra is a STOTT PILATES® instructor and a master trainer for Bender Ball®. She holds a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy, she regularly writes health and wellness articles for several publications and she presents health tips on Global Television.
Eliza Stone, MS, is a Zumba® education specialist, a nutritionist and an international fitness program presenter. She holds a master’s degree in nutrition and works with hospital patients and fitness centers to promote healthy lifestyle choices and provides exercise and nutrition education. Eliza conducts Zumba workshops, special events and conventions, and is featured in several Zumba videos.
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Stephanie Thielen is currently working with Fit in the City in Omaha, Nebraska, where she instructs a variety of classes at various corporate locations. With over 15 years experience in the fitness industry, she travels nationally presenting continuing education workshops. Stephanie is an AEA-training specialist, a BOSU® master trainer and a premier consultant with Sunshine Fitness Resources.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Christian Thompson, PhD, teaches in the department of exercise and sport science at the University of San Francisco. He has contributed to numerous scholarly publications and books in the area of older adult fitness, with special emphasis on fall prevention and sport performance. Dr. Thompson has presented research and conducted training workshops for numerous organizations including ACSM and NASM.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Education provider for: NASM
Anne Tierney, MS, is the co-founder of Innovative Body Solutions and travels the United States delivering resistance stretching workshops, which are accredited by NASM, ISSA and NCBTMB. As a past collegiate athlete and academic All-American, she specializes in training Olympic and professional athletes. Most recently, she and her business partner, Steven Sierra, produced their first DVD, Resistance Stretching with Dara Torres (who they trained for her record-setting 5th Olympic appearance at age 41).
Education provider for: NASM
Zoey Trap, MSc, is a Peak Pilates® master trainer and the co-owner of the InnerSpace in Connecticut. She brings her study of alternative therapy and the spine to help instructors learn how to work with each body's unique posture to enhance potential. Her work has been published in seven languages, featured in four DVDs and was recently featured in Pilates Style magazine.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Peter Twist, MSc, is the president and chief executive officer of Twist Conditioning, Inc. He is an exercise physiologist with a specialization in coaching science. Having coached in the NHL for 11 years, Peter has worked with over 700 professional athletes, including league MVPs Mark Messier (hockey), Justin Morneau (baseball) and Hakkem Olajuwon (basketball). He has published over 400 papers, 10 books and 19 DVDs on athlete development. Peter was honored with the National Strength and Conditioning Association's 1998 President’s Award and the Can-Fit-Pro 2003 Specialty Presenter of the Year award.
Helen Vanderburg is the owner of Heavens Fitness and Heavens International consulting. She is the 2005 IDEA Instructor of the Year, the 1996 IDEA Program Director of the Year, and a two-time Can-Fit-Pro Presenter of the Year. Helen holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, is a past world champion in synchronized swimming and is a certified yoga and Pilates instructor.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Amanda Vogel, MA, is a fitness professional and the owner of Active Voice, a writing, editing and consulting service for fitness professionals. She writes for IDEA, Health, Prevention, and Self, and has co-authored books on postnatal fitness and yoga. With a master’s degree in human kinetics, Amanda has worked in the fitness industry for more than 15 years, including time spent as a program director and vice president for a chain of all-women clubs in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Tamilee Webb, MA, is the CEO of Webb International, Inc., a company that mentors other fitness professionals by producing, directing and marketing other talent for the consumer retailer. Tamilee is best known for her Buns of Steel series that has sold more then 10 million copies worldwide. She is the recipient of numerous awards for outstanding achievement in the field of personal fitness, including the 1993 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award, and the 1992 Self Magazine Award for Best Lower Body Exercise for her third in a series of 22 award-winning Buns of Steel videos. Tamilee was inducted into the Fitness Hall of Fame in 2008. She holds a master’s degree in exercise science.
Derrick Wilburn, MBA, is co-pioneering the nation’s first mobile fitness training licensing system and has co-authored a series of books that present a detailed path for fitness professionals to make the transition from club trainer to successful business entrepreneur. He is the founder of Wholly Fit and the Colorado Dance Machine, and is a partner in Achieve Fitness USA and Fundamental Fitness Products.
Karen Wischmann is a 15-year industry veteran who has managed over 60 gyms in her career. Before joining Total Woman, Wischmann worked for Gold’s Gym® International as the vice president of sales and operations, and was responsible for the development and distribution of the Gold’s Gym training system and operating platform. She also spent time as a district manager for 24-Hour Fitness® and as the COO for Sta-Fit Health Clubs.
Chuck Wolf, MS, is the director of Human Motion Associates, in Orlando, Florida, consulting with clients ranging from rehabilitation settings to elite, professional athletes. Chuck is one of the industry’s top educators with his expertise in functional anatomy, movement analysis, function and advanced program design. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology and brings a new approach to how we look and train the body.
Tal Yahalom is a course coordinator and an administrative manager for B.Education conventions in Israel. She is also an experienced and well-known presenter for the international aerobic conventions in Israel.
Biray Alsac, MS, is the owner of FITTmaxx Institute, a consulting company for health organizations and fitness/wellness professionals interested in learning how to integrate Web-based tools and interactive technologies (exergames) into their programming. She holds a master’s degree in exercise and wellness.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
Nicki Anderson is the owner of Reality Fitness, Inc., an award-winning private training studio in Naperville, Illinois. She is the recipient of the 2008 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award, the author of 101 Ways to Motivate Your Clients and Increase Retention, and is the health and fitness columnist for Chicago Suburban Newspapers.
Certification: NASM
Ryan Andrews, MA, is the executive director for the office of physical education, recreation and sports at the University of California, Santa Cruz and the co-owner of The Invisible Gym.
Certification: ACE and NSCA
Lenita Anthony, MA, is an exercise physiologist, Reebok master trainer and national coach for the Reebok Women’s Triathlon Series. She is also a contributing editor for IDEA publications.
Certification: ACSM
Abbie Appel is an international fitness educator with 20 years experience in the fitness industry. In addition to being a motivational speaker and consultant for Resist-A-Ball® and the Pilates Institute of America, Abbie has designed workouts and contributed material for videos, magazines and journals such as Self, Prevention and IDEA Fitness Journal.
Certifications: ACE, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Juliane "Julz" Arney is a dance-fitness expert who has created class formats for club chains like Crunch® and 24-Hour Fitness®, and has choreographed several DVD programs for consumers and instructors. She is the lead master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling and is a committed student of yoga. With more than 20 years in the fitness industry, Julz is an accomplished presenter, author and marketing consultant who is also the 2003 Can-Fit-Pro International Fitness Presenter of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Yoav Avidar is a Nike elite trainer and co-owner of B.Education, Israel's leading fitness and dance certification institution. He is also Israel's 2001 Instructor of the Year. Yoav’s instructional skills, creativity, dynamism and charisma have made him a popular presenter in more than 15 countries.
Don Bahneman, MS, is the fitness and spa director of John’s Island Club in Vero Beach, Florida. Primarily working with special populations and post-rehabilitation, Don has success with professional and amateur athlete performance enhancement.
Certification: NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, AFAA, NASM and NSCA
Clara Bassett is the owner of Personal Best Enterprises, a fitness and wellness consulting company in Southern California. With over 30 years experience, she is a choreographer and program developer for Kathy Smith; Jake Steinfeld of Body by Jake; Dosho Design, creators of Bowflex®; and others. Cuban born, Clara is the creator of Mambo Mania®.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Tanya Beardsley is an international education specialist and presenter for Zumba® Fitness, a co-host of the Zumba DVD series and she choreographs for Zumba’s instructor network. In addition to presenting for IDEA, Tanya has shared her special skills with instructors and audiences at several other industry events.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Sally Belanger is a project specialist and certified instructor trainer for STOTT PILATES®. She holds a degree in physical and health education and has over 15 years experience in the fitness industry. In addition to traveling the world as a presenter and trainer, Sally is a certified fitness consultant in association with the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists.
Certification: ACE
Debbie Bellenger, MA, is the director of Health Directions at Lexington Medical Center in South Carolina. She currently oversees two wellness centers, two corporate contracts and the LMC employee wellness program. Debbie holds a masters degree in exercise science and is a professor at the University of Southern Carolina.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Jenna A. Bell-Wilson, PhD, RD, is the co-author of Energy to Burn: The Ultimate Food and Nutrition Guide to Fuel Your Active Lifestyle and co-founder of the sports nutrition consulting group, Swim, Bike, Run, Eat! Jenna holds a master’s degree in nutrition and a PhD in exercise physiology. She is an Ironman triathlete, a frequent contributor to IDEA Fitness Journal and a presenter at IDEA events.
Leslee Bender is the founder of the Pilates Coach and the Bender Method of Training. With over 25 years experience, Leslee has presented internationally, produced over 25 DVDs and written several articles for IDEA and many other fitness publications. Leslee is the creator of the Bender Ball®, which was voted the 2007 Best Fitness Short Form infomercial.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Lawrence Biscontini, MA, is a world-renowned presenter, trainer, author, movement specialist and spa consultant. He represents several fitness programs and companies, including Gliding™, BeamFit™, Bender Ball®, Resist-A-Ball®, and Power Systems®. Lawrence is the creator of Yo-Chi®, star of the television program PurposeFit®, and his most recent books are Running the Show and Cream Rises. In addition, Lawrence won the 2005 ECA Best Mind-Body Presenter, and Instructor of the Year awards from ACE (2002) and IDEA (2004).
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NASM
Jay Blahnik is a contract athlete for Nike and an advisory board member for Nautilus®. He serves on the BOSU® development team and is a program developer for the Schwinn® indoor cycling program. Jay is also the group exercise spokesperson for IDEA, the recipient of the 1996 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award and the 2005 Can-Fit-Pro Presenter of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Sandy Blumberg is an accomplished road cyclist and fitness professional who presents various workshops on fitness and the fundamentals of cycling. He is a cycling coach for multiple outdoor endurance cycling events on the West Coast.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Connie Borho has over 20 years experience in the fitness industry. She is the owner of Balance Pilates and Yoga Centers in Florida, a Sunshine Fitness Resources affiliate, and is a Peak Pilates® national teacher trainer.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Douglas Brooks, MS, is the head exercise physiologist and strength and conditioning coach for Mammoth Power Sports. Coach Brooks was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in 2007, is the author of 11 books and is a Twist Conditioning senior master coach.
Certification: ACE
Margie Caldwell-Cooper is a member of the Hydro-Fit education team, a master trainer for The Pilates Coach, a registered yoga teacher and is a frequent guest instructor at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico. With over 28 years in the fitness industry, Margie has worked with a variety of exercise participants as a personal trainer, group fitness and aquatics instructor and program director. She is the recipient of AEA’s 2006 Global Aquatic Fitness Professional of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AEA
Anthony Carey, MA, holds a master’s degree in biomechanics and athletic training and owns Function First in San Diego, California. He is an internationally-recognized speaker on biomechanics, posture, and motor control and their relationship to musculoskeletal pain and function. Anthony is also a published author and the inventor of the Core-Tex™. His work has been featured in the New York Times, Time magazine and Oprah’s “O” magazine.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Annika Carlson develops and designs new education programs and videos for instructors and consumers. With over 14 years as a fitness educator and instructor, she consults for several fitness companies, including efi Sports Medicine®. Annika teaches at international conferences and at select clubs in Orange County, California.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nicole "Nica" Cavegn, MA, is the owner of Move2Grow—Life Coaching and Cardio Dance. As an NLP life coach and educator, Nica is an international presenter whose powerful and sensual dance workouts unify body, soul and mind. She is the 2007 Female Presenter of the Year in Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
Scott Cheatham, DPT, is the owner of Bodymechanix Sports Medicine and Physical Therapy in Torrance, California. He holds a doctorate in physical therapy, is a board-certified specialist in orthopedics and a certified athletic trainer. The author of several chapters and articles on the topics of orthopedics, vestibular balance, and health and fitness, Scott is also a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Athletic Training, and the Strength and Conditioning Journal, and on the editorial review board for NSCA’s Performance Training Journal.
Certifications: ACE, BOC, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Christina Christie, PT, is the president of Pelvic Solutions, LLC and inventor of the Pelvicore™. She is a senior physical therapist at the outpatient rehabilitation department of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois. Christina specializes in the evaluation and treatment of women’s health issues, orthopedics and sports-related injuries. She is also a childbirth educator and has lectured extensively on the evaluation and treatment of women’s health for the APTA, IDEA and in other settings.
Laurie Cingle, MEd, is a fitness business success coach and club consultant. She specializes in creating successful club program champions, developing non-dues revenue profit centers (especially personal training and weight management), establishing club market differentiation and designing programs that result in profit and retention. Laurie is the recipient of the IHRSA Fitness Director of the Year award and has led highly successful clubs to break industry records and set them on a path for long-term success in programming.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Paul Ciske, PhD, owner of Your Well-Being, has more than 20 years experience as an exercise physiologist, personal trainer and movement specialist. He holds a doctorate in physiology, is certified as a Resistance Training Specialist® and Muscle Activation Techniques™ specialist, both at the mastery level. Paul is also a MAT Jumpstart and RTS® “1,2,3” instructor, as well as a Level 3 Z-Health professional trainer.
Certification: ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Nicole Clancy has been an independent certified fitness trainer and medical exercise specialist in Santa Barbara, California since 1990. She specializes in designing exercise programs for those with chronic injury and illness concerns.
Certifications: ACE and NASM
Peggy Cleland is the BODYFLOW™ program coach for North America and has been part of the Les Mills International team since 1997. She is a master trainer and has been featured as a presenter on the international DVDs for BODYFLOW and BODYPUMP™ and is also a master trainer for the BODYCOMBAT™ and BODYJAM™ programs.
Education provider for: ACE
Michele Clemens-Silence, MA, is a 23-year fitness professional, trainer, educator, writer and CEC provider. She is the president of Aerobic Fitness Consultants and the creator of KID-FIT™ physical education classes for preschoolers. Her KID-FIT program has been piloted nationwide and been featured in the Los Angeles Times, on numerous television news shows and is listed by Action for Healthy Kids as a program that works.
Certification: ACE
Matthew Comer, MS, is a STOTT PILATES® instructor trainer, and the founder and co-owner of Pilates South Beach. He holds a master’s degree in dance and movement therapy and is a continuing education provider for the Florida Physical Therapy Association. Matthew specializes in the postrehabilitation applications of Pilates. With over 20 years in the industry, he blends his knowledge of performance enhancement, movement analysis, dance, physical therapy and Pilates into one practice.
Certifications: ACE and NASM
Kathy Corey is the owner and director of West Coast Pilates. She has been a Pilates teacher and an active member and leader in the Pilates community for almost 30 years. Kathy serves on the advisory boards for Inner IDEA® and Pilates Style magazine. In addition, Kathy was selected by IDEA as one of 10 people in the world “Who Inspire the World to Fitness®” for 2007.
Rodney Corn, MA, is an adjunct faculty member at the California University Pennsylvania and the University of San Francisco in the schools’ exercise science departments. He has extensive international experience in teaching and developing curriculum for fitness, athletic performance and corrective exercise. Rodney is a former collegiate athlete, a bodybuilder, a published author and a contributor to numerous industry publications.
Certifications: NASM and NSCA
Leigh Crews is the owner of Think-GPS™ Adventure Training and Dynalife, Inc. She is a licensed corporate WellCoach, a Yoga Alliance-registered yoga teacher, and a master trainer for Fitness Anywhere®, LeMond Academy and Gliding™. Leigh is also a spokesperson for ACE and ACSM, and is the group fitness director for Rome Athletic Club. An international presenter for several years, Leigh has starred in more than 10 videos and DVDs, including Reebok Final Cuts and The Flow Yoga series.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and Cooper Institute
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Josh Crosby is the creator of Indo-Row®, a growing international group fitness program created for intense, full-body, team-oriented workouts using custom-designed rowing machines. Indo-Row has been featured in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Journal, Shape, on CNN and on Extra! Josh is a multisponsored Ironman triathlete and world-champion rower.
Certification: ACE
Michol Dalcourt is an educator, author, trainer, inventor and industry leader in human movement and performance training. Based in San Diego, California, Michol is the author of numerous articles on human design and function, the creator of a series of performance videos and the developer of an athletic model for high-performance training (the RMA model). He holds a degree in exercise science, is adjunct faculty with the University of San Francisco and is PTontheNET.com’s 2003 Presenter of the Year.
Laurie Denomme is the assistant director of operations for the Aquatic Exercise Association as well as a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer. She is the director of program development for Aquatic Options Education and the co-author of a book on aquatic fitness for special populations and postrehabilitative clients. Laurie travels internationally to share her unique aquatic training methods.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Natalie Digate Muth, MD, MPH, RD, is a registered dietitian and a recent graduate of the UNC School of Medicine. She has made several appearances as a nutrition expert on CW's San Diego 6, been quoted as a fitness expert in the New York Times, and is an ACE master trainer and award-winning author. She is currently pursuing a residency in pediatrics.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and NSCA
Amy Dixon is the group fitness manager for Equinox in Santa Monica, California, and is the official spokesperson for Women’s Health magazine. She holds a degree in exercise science and has been in the fitness industry for more than 15 years. Amy is also a fitness DVD star and choreographer, a BOSU®, Schwinn® Cycling, Gymstick and GRAVITY® master trainer, and the writer and former director of a wellness program established for the national organization Senior Friends.
Certification: AFAA
Shawn Dolan, PhD, RD, is an assistant professor in the kinesiology department at California State University, Long Beach. Shawn’s research focuses on the role nutrition and exercise play in performance and wellness with an emphasis on endurance athletes and fitness professionals.
Todd Durkin, MA, is a human performance specialist and owns Fitness Quest 10, a world-class training facility in San Diego, California. An international teacher through Todd Durkin Enterprises, he has 26 videos on athlete performance, massage therapy and bodywork. Todd trains dozens of elite, high-profile NFL and MLB athletes and is the head of the Under Armour® performance training council. He is the 2004 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year and 2005 ACE Personal Trainer of the Year.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Chris Ecklund, MA, is the owner of Prevail Conditioning in Santa Barbara, California. He works with amateur and elite athletes and specializes in enhanced performance, injury reduction and improved movement function. Chris holds a master’s degree in kinesiology and is an instructor at Westmont College and the University of California, Santa Barbara. He has been featured in several publications, including Muscle & Fitness magazine, SportsVision Magazine, SB Fitness Magazine, and on the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN).
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Terry Eckmann, PhD, is an associate professor at Minot State University and has over 25 years experience in the fitness industry. She authored chapters for the ACSM personal training manual and health fitness management text. Terry also serves on the ICAA advisory board and hosts KX Eye on Fitness for her local CBS TV network station. In addition, Terry received the IDEA Make Fitness Happen Award, the Club Industry Distinguished Business Award and an MSU Faculty Achievement Award.
Certification: ACE
Carrie Ekins, MA, is the owner and education coordinator of Global Wellness, a fitness and wellness consulting company. She is the founder and creator of Drums Alive® and the Life Fitness “ABC” (All Body Cycling) programs throughout Germany and the Atlantic region of Europe. Carrie’s articles have been featured in a variety of trade magazines including IDEA Fitness Journal, FitPro Business, Sport und Fitness, Shape, WellFit, Brigitte, and the Augsburg Journal.
Certification: ACE and Cooper Institute
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Leah Esplen is the owner of MommyMoves Pre- and Postnatal Fitness in Vancouver, British Columbia. She holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and works with moms and moms-to-be in maintaining or improving their fitness levels. Leah teaches fitness instructor courses and presents at workshops and conferences in British Columbia.
Jolyn Esquerre brings 34 years of customer relationship management experience in the financial services and agribusiness industries to IDEA. She has established her credibility by being a commission-only business professional for this period of time. In addition, Jolyn has over 20 years in the fitness industry as an educated consumer.
Bob Esquerre, MA, is a world-renowned fitness business planner, and a leading educator, personal trainer and indoor cycling instructor. He specializes in training managers and personal trainers and has enjoyed great success as a “turn-around” business expert. Bob is an active participant in the national and international lecture circuits, and has been recognized by IHRSA as a subject-matter expert on personal training.
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Shannon Fable is the founder and CEO of Sunshine Fitness Resources, a fitness consulting firm providing services for fitness professionals; the owner of Balletone®; and operates the group fitness department at Life Time Fitness® in Westminster, Colorado. She is a PowerBar®-sponsored athlete, a presenter for Nautilus®, BOSU®, Power Systems® and ACE, and is the recipient of the 2006 ACE Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Lizbeth Garcia is the owner of Tilcia Studios in San Diego, California and is a faculty member of Balance Body® University. With 15 years experience, she has been featured in several fitness DVDs and has gained recognition for her On The Ball Pilates Workout for Beginners video. She appears on Exercise TV and is the co-star of Totalmete En Forma, the Spanish language fitness TV show for ESPN International.
Certification: AFAA
Josie Gardiner is the co-creator of the Zumba® Gold instructor training program for active older adults. With over 40 years in the fitness industry, Josie has choreographed over 20 best-selling DVDs and is the co-author of The Breast Cancer Survivors Fitness Plan and The Workout Book. She is the recipient of the 2002 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award and the 2005 ACE Group Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
John Garey, MS, is the owner of John Garey Pilates in Long Beach, California, which was voted Best Pilates Studio in Los Angeles in 2007 and 2008 by My Fox LA Hotlist, and is the only STOTT PILATES®-licensed training center in Los Angeles. John holds a master's degree in adult fitness and has studied Pilates for more than 15 years. He is an international presenter, a STOTT PILATES master instructor, and is featured in more than 25 fitness and Pilates DVDs. In addition to being a regular contributor of Pilates and fitness articles for many national publications, John was named one of the top six most notable instructors in the United States by American Fitness magazine.
Certification: ACE Education provider for: ACE
James Gekko is a master trainer for both Nautilus® and Schwinn® cycling and circuit training programs. He is a certified program director and group fitness management specialist and holds numerous training certificates in land and water fitness programs. James shares his knowledge and expertise throughout North America, South America and the Middle East. Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Rob Glick is an internationally-acclaimed fitness professional and a professional fitness consultant for Global Fitness Solutions. He is the recipient of Can-Fit-Pro’s 2006 International Presenter of the Year award and ECA’s 2005 Best Male Presenter award. He holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, and is a star trainer on Exercise TV, a leader of many fitness videos, and a master trainer for efi GRAVITY® Training, BOSU® and Schwinn® Cycling.
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nico Gonzalez is the area wellness manager for Mercy HealthPlex, a hospital-based wellness facility in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is a Balanced Body® University faculty trainer who certifies Pilates instructors across the United States. Nico can be seen in commercial fitness DVDs and on television leading home-based workouts on a weekly basis in the greater Cincinnati area.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
MaDonna Grimes, MFA, is the founder and director of the MaDonna Grimes Dance Fitness Theatre Company in Los Angeles, California. Her state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to creating new and innovative avenues for dance and exercise. With her bachelor’s degree in dance education and a master’s degree in dance performance and choreography, MaDonna is a performer, choreographer, instructor, dance video instructor and performer, dancer, model and actress. She is a recipient of many awards and titles including the title of Miss Fitness America and the U.S.A. National Fitness Championship.
Jeff Groh is the owner of Authentic Motion in San Diego, California. He holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and is a graduate of the Gray Institute. As the lead program developer for efi GRAVITYPersonalTraining®, Jeff was instrumental in the development of efi Sports Medicine’s education department. He is currently teaching applied functional science, GRAVITYPersonalTraining and postrehabilitation programs worldwide.
Certification: ACSM
Education provider for: ACE, AFAA and NASM
Mark Hendricks teaches exclusively for Equinox fitness clubs where he is the group fitness manager at their flagship location on Greenwich Avenue in New York. He also manages group fitness auditions and new hires for Equinox New York. Mark has starred in two CIA fitness videos.
Julieanna Hever, MS, RD, is the owner of To Your Health Nutrition and Fitness, a company that provides in-home nutrition counseling and personal training in Thousand Oaks, California. She holds a master’s degree in nutrition and has been a dietitian and personal trainer for over 10 years. Julieanna is a consultant for the Ventura County Unified School District and specializes in wellness, sports nutrition, vegetarianism and weight management by combining fitness and nutrition for a unique holistic approach.
Certification: ACE
Sue Hitzmann, MS, is the founder of Longevity Fitness, Inc. and the creator of the M.E.L.T. Method™. She is a nationally-recognized educator and practitioner of neurofascial techniques, manual therapy and somatic movement methods of self-treatment. Her fitness expertise, extensive anatomical studies and neurofascial research have culminated in this revolutionary approach to helping people maintain an active, healthy, pain-free lifestyle.
Education provider for: ACE and NASM
Fred Hoffman, MEd, holds a master’s degree in health education and is the director of international services for the Club & Spa Synergy Group. A consultant and master trainer for companies such as Reebok®, Body Bar®, BOSU®, Beamfit™ and Gliding™, he has traveled to nearly 50 countries on six continents to present at conventions and conduct instructor training. A published author and advisory board member, Fred is the recipient of the 2007 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award, and in 2001 was elected to the International Who’s Who of Professionals. Certifications: ACE and ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Tony Horton is the master of motivation behind P90X®, the #1 fitness infomercial in America. Aside from his powerful programs with Beachbody® and operating ASH Fitness, a state-of-the-art training facility in Santa Monica, California, Tony hosts several fitness camps per year. Over the last 17 years,. Tony has acquired, perfected and shared his fitness expertise, passion and humor with countless individuals across the country.
Janice Hutton, MA, is the education manager for Twist Conditioning and the co-author of accredited home study programs that have been packaged into the Twist Sport Conditioning Coach Education Program. With over 25 years of experience in fitness and sport, Janice works as a consultant, personal trainer, fitness instructor, sport conditioning coach, author and presenter at conferences across North America. Janice is also a member of the BOSU® International presenting team.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
Rael Isacowitz, MA, is the founder of BASI™ Pilates (Body Arts and Science International). He is an internationally-recognized teacher of teachers and an expert in Pilates. His BASI Pilates program spans 20 countries and 65 locations. With over 30 years experience, Rael has taught movement science, dance, athletics, yoga and Pilates. In addition, he has produced an extensive compilation of DVDs, movement analysis workbooks and a book, Pilates (Human Kinetics), that has gained international recognition and has been translated into several languages.
Albert Isordia has over 20 years of competitive experience in boxing, kickboxing and martial arts. He was named the Sports Club LA's Most Valuable Instructor in 2004 and 2005.
Darren Jacobson is the innovator of the franchise personal training concept for Virgin Active South Africa, where he manages over 750 personal trainers in 88 health clubs. He holds a bachelor’s degree in human movement science and is a featured writer for numerous industry publications. In addition, Darren sits on the IDEA Personal Training Committee and has presented at fitness conventions across South Africa, Canada and the United States.
Scott Josephson, MS, is the director of operations at Hippocrates Health Institute, a premier life-changing property in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has presented at conferences throughout North America, is the recipient of numerous awards, and is frequently published covering a wide range of fitness industry topics. Scott holds a master's degree in exercise physiology and nutrition and has worked with several celebrities, as well as athletes with the New York Giants and New York Mets.
June Kahn is the founder of June Kahn’s Bodyworks, LLC and the director of education for BeamFit, LLC. As an international program developer and fitness educator, she is also the Life studio coordinator for Life Time Fitness® in Westminster, Colorado, directing the Pilates and yoga programs for the facility. June is the co-author of Morning Cardio Workouts, has developed several Pilates certification and training programs and has appeared in numerous fitness videos and DVDs.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Phil Kaplan is the owner of the South Florida health club, Fitness 21. He has been the host of the Mind and Muscle Fitness Hour radio show for over 15 years and has presented in 48 states and 10 countries. With over 25 years experience as a personal trainer, Phil is the author of four books and three full-length programs, and has also appeared on over 1,000 television and radio shows.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Jim Karanas, MS, has been a trainer of fitness professionals for over 30 years and is the CEO and head of education and training for Johnny G’s new Kranking® program. In his role as chief fitness officer for Club One Fitness, Inc. (since 1991), Jim helped lead the company to become one of the top health club chains in the United States.
Certification: ACE
Education provider: ACE
Jason R. Karp, PhD, is the owner of RunCoachJason.com, a coaching, personal training and fitness consulting company. He holds a doctorate degree in exercise physiology and is the director and coach of the REVO2LT Running Team™. He is a competitive runner and freelance writer who has contributed to numerous international running, coaching and fitness magazines and scientific journals.
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Paul Katami is a group fitness manager for Equinox fitness clubs and has brought the Katami techniques to Hollywood’s hottest gyms, executives, actors, models, athletes, in-home exercisers, successful infomercial products and more. He has appeared on QVC, the Shopping Channel, the Learning Channel, several news stories, and in local gyms across the United States and Canada.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Linda Kennedy has been a personal trainer since 1993 and a sports nutrition consultant since 2005. She has lectured at IHRSA, several universities and some of San Diego's top health clubs. Her LEANPower!™ group and individual exercise and nutrition program has helped countless clients make dramatic lifestyle changes.
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Brett Klika is the director of athletics at Fitness Quest 10 and is a human performance specialist, motivator and educator. He helped create and develop the athlete performance program at Fitness Quest 10. Brett is a motivational speaker with Todd Durkin Enterprises and has produced and co-produced several DVDs on sport performance and executive fitness.
Certification: NSCA
Petra Kolber is an international presenter and motivational speaker. She has choreographed and starred in over 25 fitness videos and numerous television segments. She was awarded the 2004 and 2003 Best Female Presenter of the Year by ECA and in 2001 was named IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year. Can-Fit-Pro named her the 2000 International Presenter of the Year and in 1999 she was named Fitness Crusader of the Year by Health magazine.
Certifications: ACE. ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Tatiana Kolovou, MBA, is on the faculty of the top-ranked Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is the owner of Team Performance, a professional development company, and has over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry as a fitness manager, national presenter and coach. Tatiana holds a bachelor's degree in exercise science and a master's degree in business administration. She is also a master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling.
Certifications: ACE and ACSM
Education provider for: ACE
Stacey Lei Krauss is a Nike elite instructor with over 20 years as a fitness professional. Specializing in barefoot training techniques, she is most known for her award-winning willPower & grace™ fusion program. Stacey is a Reiki practitioner, a master trainer for BeamFit™, BOSU® and Schwinn® Cycling and teacher-trainer for Peak Pilates®.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Jeff Kress, PhD, is an associate professor a Cal State Long Beach. He is also the developer and director of the Long Beach State OutBAC (Outdoor Beach Adventure Course), an outdoor facility devoted to the development of team cohesion and leadership. He is a member of the Association for Experiential Education and a strong advocate for adventure learning models. Jeff holds a doctorate degree in sport psychology from the University of Kansas.
Marc Lebert is the owner of Lebert Fitness, Inc., a leader in developing innovative body weight training tools. He is a club owner, a certified NLP practitioner and he delivers fitness boxing/kickboxing and Equalizer courses for Can-Fit-Pro. Marc is also a published writer, speaker and developer of the Lebert Equalizer™ and Lebert Buddy System™.
Machelle Lee is the founder and owner of the Invisible Gym. She holds bachelor’s degrees in health science and psychology from California State University, Chico.
Certification: ACE
Milo Levell is known as the ambassador of hip-hop fitness since he was the pioneering force behind today’s hip-hop fitness craze. Milo was the first to bring hip-hop from the streets into the fitness studios and to television with the first hip-hop fitness and dance TV show entitled Hip Hop Body Shop. Milo works privately with such celebrities as Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock, Jessica Alba, Helen Hunt and many others who love his hip-hop fitness programs. His choreography has been featured with such artists as Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Earth Wind & Fire, LL Cool J, Boys II Men and many others.
Irene Lewis-McCormick, MS, is an international presenter, author and 25-year fitness veteran. She is a frequent contributor to fitness industry publications and is on the editorial board for Diabetic Living. Irene has starred in several pre-/postnatal exercise, water fitness and foam roller training DVDs. She holds a master's degree in exercise and sport science.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AEA, AFAA and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
JJ Mayo, PhD, RD, is an associate professor of kinesiology and the director of the human performance laboratory at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas. His professional interests include cardiovascular training, sports nutrition and weight management. He is an author and freelance writer, and has published articles in numerous scientific and trade journals.
Certification: NSCA
Stacy McCarthy has devoted the past 15 years to instructing the ashtanga vinyasa yoga system while integrating mind, body and spirit into her practice. She is a well-respected conference teacher, has taught and managed group fitness classes and has been a general manager and chief operating officer for a successful chain of health clubs. Stacy holds a bachelor’s degree in exercise science and was grandfathered into the Yoga Alliance as a certified yoga teacher at the highest level.
Certification: ACE
Brent McLemore is the club coach and customer service manager for Les Mills West Coast in San Francisco, California. He has been a Les Mills national trainer and international presenter for BODYSTEP™ and BODYATTACK™. He has presented as several conventions in the United States.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Sherri McMillan, MSc, is the co-owner of Northwest Personal Training and Northwest Women’s Fitness Club in Vancouver, Washington and Portland, Oregon. With a master’s degree in exercise physiology, she has authored several fitness books and manuals for fitness professionals. Sherri is the recipient of the 2006 IDEA Program Director of the Year award, the 1998 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award and the 1998 Can-Fit-Pro Canadian Fitness Presenter of the Year award. With her husband and business partner Alex, they received the 2006 BBB Business of the Year award. She is a sponsored fitness athlete for Nike, PowerBar®, Nautilus® and Twist Conditioning.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
David Mesirow is the creator of Beaming™, an activity-based lifestyle program. This program is the culmination of David’s 29 years of experience in the fitness industry, coupled with his social work background. He is a former Reebok master trainer and Avia select athlete. David has won numerous fitness accolades.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Kim Miller is an international presenter who has conducted workshops in Europe, the Middle East and the West Indies. She is a certification specialist, a continuing education provider and the director of continuing education providers for AFAA. Kim, known for her smooth approach to building choreography, starred in the video Aerobic Euphoria, which was voted a staff favorite by Collage Video.
Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: AFAA
Carol Murphy, a finalist for the 2008 IDEA Instructor of the Year, is a master trainer for Resist-A-Ball®, Body Bar®, Drums Alive® and Gliding™. She is a certification examiner for AFAA and an instructor coordinator for the SilverSneakers® fitness program. Known for her infectious energy, results-oriented workouts and passion to make fitness fun, Carol’s innovative classes and fitness training programs have been featured in numerous DVDs, magazines and at conventions worldwide.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, AFAA and NASM
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Mindy Mylrea is the owner of FitFlix Productions and the creator of Gliding™, the gliding discs exercise program. She is a master trainer and on the development teams for Schwinn® Cycling, Body Bar®, and BOSU®. A national and world sport aerobic champion and PowerBar®-sponsored athlete, Mindy also serves on the advisory board for Oxygen magazine. She is the winner of the 2008 ECA OBOW Fitness Presenter of the Year award, the 2004 Can-Fit-Pro International Presenter of the Year award and the 1999 International IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Danya Nunley, MA, is a national trainer for BODYVIVE™ and BODYJAM™. She holds a bachelor’s degree in gerontology and dual master’s degrees in exercise physiology and teaching. Danya has experience in dance and performance and has been a group fitness instructor for 17 years.
Certification: NSCA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Suzette O’Byrne is a yoga therapist in Calgary, Canada, an international presenter and the author of Yoga for the Core: Finding Stability in an Unstable Environment. Suzette holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and has been training instructors since 1989. She is a registered yoga teacher (500 level), a Keiser® Cycling master trainer and a STOTT PILATES® certified instructor.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE
PJ O'Clair has been a leader and consultant in the fitness industry for more than 25 years. She is a STOTT PILATES® master instructor trainer and has been featured in numerous fitness videos, including over 25 titles with STOTT PILATES®. PJ has also written numerous articles for industry publications and is the recipient of the 2008 IDEA Program Director of the Year award.
Evan Osar, DC, is the head of O.S.A.R. Consulting, which specializes in treating individuals with chronic pain and dysfunction. An international speaker, Dr. Osar presents for the American Council on Exercise, ECA fitness education seminars, the National Strength and Conditioning Association and Perform Better. He has produced over a dozen products for the fitness professional and specializes in bringing advanced rehabilitation and training strategies to fitness and allied health professionals working with the general population
Certifications: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Portia Page is a faculty member of Balanced Body® University and a STOTT PILATES®-certified instructor. She has been in the fitness industry for over 18 years and has served as a teacher, competitor, program director, instructor trainer and international presenter. A gold-certified Pilates teacher through Pilates Method Alliance®, Portia has been a master instructor for 24-Hour Fitness® and has helped develop and cultivate several new programs for their instructors as well as conducted trainings throughout the United States and abroad.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Krista Popowych is the executive director for the 2010 Olympic Oval in Vancouver, BC. She is a TV fitness host, an IDEA and Can-Fit-Pro committee and advisory member, an education director trainer for Keiser® Indoor Cycling and a master trainer for Resist-a-Ball®. Krista is also a two-time Canadian Presenter of the Year, a published author and is frequently featured on Go! Vitality DVD series, as well as other fitness and management videos.
Justin Price, MA, is the co-owner of The BioMechanics, in San Diego, California, a company that specializes in exercise alternatives for sufferers of chronic pain. He is also the creator of a remarkably successful method of pain reduction that combines life coaching and corrective exercise; a method he shares through his educational DVD series and CEC-approved internship programs. Justin was also named the 2006 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE and NSCA
Joy Prouty is the owner of Fitness Programming, Inc., a Zumba® educational specialist, and an international fitness instructor and program developer with over 35 years of experience. She is the co-developer of Zumba Gold, a former member of Reebok University’s development team and has served on ACSM’s summit committee for the past 13 years. Joy is a featured fitness columnist for the Palm Beach Post Times and she has choreographed and starred in over 25 videos and DVDs.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Fraser Quelch is the head coach and director of training and development for Fitness Anywhere®, as well as the creator and lead educator for the TRX® Suspension Training® program. A renowned expert in functional training and endurance athletics, Fraser presents all over the world and has written for IDEA Fitness Journal, OnFitness magazine and NSCA’s Performance Training Journal. He has also starred in 11 DVDs and is a fellow of applied functional science at the Gray Institute.
Certification: NSCA
Education provider for: ACE, NASM and NSCA
Erika Quest is the owner of Studio Q Pilates Conditioning in Laguna Beach, California. As a former advertising executive and triathlon participant, Erika's specialties include sharp and successful business acumen, strategic planning for the fitness professional, and reaching special population clients.
Keli Roberts is a specialized tier-three personal trainer at Equinox in Pasadena, California. She is a master trainer for Schwinn® Cycling and Gliding™, a Kettlebell® Concepts-sponsored athlete and on the BOSU® development team. Keli is also known for her award-winning videos, books and training seminars. She is a spokesperson for ACE, a 2007 inductee to the National Fitness Hall of Fame and was awarded the 2003 IDEA International Fitness Instructor of the Year.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Sonia Rodriguez, MBA, has been in the industry for more than 18 years. She is a Peak Pilates® master trainer and is comprehensively certified in Pilates and holds several certifications in personal training, group exercise and massage therapy. Additionally, Sonia holds a master’s degree in business administration with a minor in dance. Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: AFAA
Debbie Rosas is the co-creator of the Nia® Technique, an international body-mind-spirit fitness and lifestyle program taught in 37 countries. Since 1983, her focus has been on body-mind-spirit education and program development. Debbie has produced several DVD workouts and meditation tapes, over 50 instructional DVDs, and has co-authored two books. She and the Nia program have been featured in more than 700 publications and numerous television shows.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Greg Roskopf, MA, is the owner and developer of Muscle Activation Techniques® (MAT), a biomechanics specialist, and he teaches MAT concepts to trainers and therapists across the country. He has worked with various elite and professional athletes, and is a consultant to various professional teams including the Denver Broncos, the Denver Nuggets and the Utah Jazz. Greg operates two centers in the Denver area that specialize in correcting muscle imbalances that contribute to chronic pain and injury.
Jonathan Ross is the owner of Aion Fitness, a fitness training and consulting business, and is the training director for the Sport Fit® health club in Bowie, Maryland. He is a finalist for the 2008 IDEA Trainer of the Year, the 2008 Exercise TV's Top Trainer, the 2006 ACE Personal Trainer of the Year, one of Men’s Journal’s Top 100 Trainers in America and a fitness expert for Discovery Health.
Certifications: ACE and NSCA
Education provider for: ACE
Joshua Rubin is the owner and founder of EastWest Healing and Performance. Joshua uses Eastern and Western approaches to coach, treat and educate clients and students on corrective exercise techniques, holistic nutrition and lifestyle coaching. He is an international consultant and mentor, professional speaker and author for local newspapers and golf magazines. Joshua is also a regular author for Personal Training on the Net and serves on their research team.
Certifications: NASM and NSCA
Laura Sachs is the creator of the E-MOTION® body-mind fitness video, relaxation and yoga walk programs. She is a mind-body expert with 20 years experience in the health and fitness field. She has created fitness content for the Soma Management website and has been featured in Shape, Fit Yoga, Natural Health, IDEA Fitness Journal and American Fitness. Laura currently teaches at the Bay Club, the Jewish Community Center and the University of San Francisco. She is also a level three trainer with Heart Zones.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Juan Carlos Santana, MEd, is the director and chief executive officer for the Institute of Human Performance in Boca Raton, Florida. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in exercise science from Florida Atlantic University and is currently pursuing his doctorate. Carlos has authored more than 50 books and DVDs, covering a range of topics involving optimum physical performance. His energetic approach to life and advanced knowledge of conditioning have made him a much sought-after international speaker and consultant.
Certifications: ACSM, NASM and NSCA
Education provider for: NSCA
Tricia Schafer, JD, is both an attorney and a certified personal fitness trainer. As the manager of Starting Now Fitness in Phoenix, Arizona, Tricia helps clients meet their fitness goals. As an attorney, she counsels clients on reducing liability exposure and represents them in litigation and alternative dispute resolution.
Certification: ACE
Jan Schroeder, PhD, is an associate professor of kinesiology, specializing in fitness, at California State University, Long Beach. Dr. Schroeder has authored over 25 research and applied science articles in the area of exercise physiology and fitness and presents regularly at national and international conferences. In addition, Jan is a certified group exercise instructor and teaches in the private and academic sector.
Certifications: AFAA and NASM
Oreet Schwartz is as the creator of SharQui™—The Bellydance Workout, which is the only fitness accredited belly dance technique. Oreet trains and certifies fitness and dance professionals in the SharQui method across the United States and Israel. She is a competitive dancer and holds the titles of Belly Dancer of the Year, Belly Dance Diva, Jewel of the Nile and Middle Eastern Dance Champion of North America.
Certification: AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Beth Shaw is the president and founder of YogaFit®, a program that blends yoga, strength training and stretching. With more than 30,000 YogaFit instructors nationwide, Beth has been published in numerous fitness, business and consumer publications including Self, Fit, Yoga Journal, Club Business International and L.A. Parent. Her book, Beth Shaw's YogaFit, is a bestseller among Human Kinetics titles.
Linda Shelton is an internationally-recognized fitness and wellness consultant, trainer, speaker and health writer with over 40 years experience. She is currently the fitness director for VIVmag, a digital women’s lifestyle magazine, and was the fitness director for all Weider/AMI women’s lifestyle publications including Shape for 23 years. As the author of eight books, she is also the producer, director and choreographer of over 350 DVDs. Linda is the co-developer of Zumba® toning and an executive advisory board member and the communications director for BeamFit™. Linda was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame in March 2007.
Certifications: AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Aileen Sheron is a 30-year veteran of the fitness industry. An IDEA member and presenter for over 15 years, she is an entrepreneur with multiple videos, fitness products and articles to her credit. Aileen currently teaches at Renaissance ClubSport, the University of California, Irvine and the Sports Club/LA in Orange County, California.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Steven Sierra is the co-founder of Innovative Body Solutions and travels the United States delivering resistance stretching workshops, which are accredited by NASM, ISSA, and NCBTMB. Steven specializes in injury prevention and postrehabilitation. Most recently, he and his business partner, Anne Tierney, produced their first DVD, Resistance Stretching with Dara Torres (who they trained for her record-setting 5th Olympic appearance at age 41).
Certification: NASM
Education provider for: NASM
Lynne Skilton-Hayes is the fitness centre coordinator at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, a certified group fitness instructor and a master personal trainer. She is an international presenter, a Bender Ball® VIP master trainer and a Can-Fit-Pro ProTrainer. Lynne holds a bachelor’s of science degree in physiology and nutrition and brings over 14 years of experience and education to the fitness industry. In 2004 she was awarded the Personal Training Specialist ProTrainer Educator of the Year. Lynne has also presented fit tips on Global TV morning news in Vancouver.
Certification: ACE
Anna-Rita “Zena” Sloss has been an instructor with 24-Hour Fitness® since1999. With nearly 10 years in the fitness industry, she has conducted workshops around the globe. A master trainer for various fitness formats, this New Zealand-born and Samoan-bred warrior princess has danced the native Polynesian styles of her culture from childhood. Zena has been featured in more than 50 instructional fitness videos.
Rebecca Small is a fitness education specialist and has been active within the fitness industry for more than 20 years. She has presented in 38 countries, trained an estimated 350,000 fitness professionals worldwide and is featured in industry magazines offering both fitness and dietary advice for the general public. She has a background in sports science and is a qualified naturopath, nutritionist and herbalist.
Bill Sonnemaker, MS, is the founder and CEO of Catalyst Fitness, Georgia’s only fully-accredited and medically-recognized personal training and performance enhancement facility. He is a spokesperson for ACE, IDEA, NASM and NSCA. Bill was awarded the 2007 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year award and the 2007 NASM Pursuit of Excellence award. He also holds a master’s degree in performance enhancement and injury prevention.
Certifications: ACE, ACSM, NASM and NSCA
Carla Sottovia, PhD, has over 20 years experience as a personal trainer, and is an international fitness educator, a book author, a triathlete (having completed three Ironman distance triathlons) and a marathon runner. Dr. Sottovia is the director of personal training at the Cooper Aerobic Center in Dallas, Texas and was awarded the IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year in 2005.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Education provider for: Cooper Institute
Kimberly Spreen is the national group fitness director for Life Time Fitness®, a premier fitness and lifestyle company that operates over 80 centers across the United States. She is one of Exercise TV’s star trainers, a professional fitness consultant with Global Fitness Solutions and has led several popular exercise videos. Kimberly travels the world as a presenter, educator and motivational speaker.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Nora St. John has been teaching Pilates in rehabilitation and studio settings for 20 years. She has a comprehensive background in dance, acupuncture, massage and meditation and weaves her many passions together to create presentations that address the body from a compassionate and healing point of view.
Robert Steigele is a Toronto-based international fitness presenter with 20 years of experience in the fitness industry as a group exercise, yoga and Pilates instructor, personal trainer, professor and fitness writer. Robert is a master trainer for the Bender Method, Drums Alive®, Gymstick™ and Resist-A-Ball®.
Certification: ACE
Sandra Stessun is the owner of Fit 2 Function. As a personal trainer she incorporates education into movement analysis and activity adaptation. A 13-year veteran in the fitness industry, Sandra is a STOTT PILATES® instructor and a master trainer for Bender Ball®. She holds a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy, she regularly writes health and wellness articles for several publications and she presents health tips on Global Television.
Eliza Stone, MS, is a Zumba® education specialist, a nutritionist and an international fitness program presenter. She holds a master’s degree in nutrition and works with hospital patients and fitness centers to promote healthy lifestyle choices and provides exercise and nutrition education. Eliza conducts Zumba workshops, special events and conventions, and is featured in several Zumba videos.
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Stephanie Thielen is currently working with Fit in the City in Omaha, Nebraska, where she instructs a variety of classes at various corporate locations. With over 15 years experience in the fitness industry, she travels nationally presenting continuing education workshops. Stephanie is an AEA-training specialist, a BOSU® master trainer and a premier consultant with Sunshine Fitness Resources.
Certifications: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE, AEA and AFAA
Christian Thompson, PhD, teaches in the department of exercise and sport science at the University of San Francisco. He has contributed to numerous scholarly publications and books in the area of older adult fitness, with special emphasis on fall prevention and sport performance. Dr. Thompson has presented research and conducted training workshops for numerous organizations including ACSM and NASM.
Certifications: ACSM and NASM
Education provider for: NASM
Anne Tierney, MS, is the co-founder of Innovative Body Solutions and travels the United States delivering resistance stretching workshops, which are accredited by NASM, ISSA and NCBTMB. As a past collegiate athlete and academic All-American, she specializes in training Olympic and professional athletes. Most recently, she and her business partner, Steven Sierra, produced their first DVD, Resistance Stretching with Dara Torres (who they trained for her record-setting 5th Olympic appearance at age 41).
Education provider for: NASM
Zoey Trap, MSc, is a Peak Pilates® master trainer and the co-owner of the InnerSpace in Connecticut. She brings her study of alternative therapy and the spine to help instructors learn how to work with each body's unique posture to enhance potential. Her work has been published in seven languages, featured in four DVDs and was recently featured in Pilates Style magazine.
Certifications: ACE and AFAA
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Peter Twist, MSc, is the president and chief executive officer of Twist Conditioning, Inc. He is an exercise physiologist with a specialization in coaching science. Having coached in the NHL for 11 years, Peter has worked with over 700 professional athletes, including league MVPs Mark Messier (hockey), Justin Morneau (baseball) and Hakkem Olajuwon (basketball). He has published over 400 papers, 10 books and 19 DVDs on athlete development. Peter was honored with the National Strength and Conditioning Association's 1998 President’s Award and the Can-Fit-Pro 2003 Specialty Presenter of the Year award.
Helen Vanderburg is the owner of Heavens Fitness and Heavens International consulting. She is the 2005 IDEA Instructor of the Year, the 1996 IDEA Program Director of the Year, and a two-time Can-Fit-Pro Presenter of the Year. Helen holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, is a past world champion in synchronized swimming and is a certified yoga and Pilates instructor.
Certification: ACE
Education provider for: ACE and AFAA
Amanda Vogel, MA, is a fitness professional and the owner of Active Voice, a writing, editing and consulting service for fitness professionals. She writes for IDEA, Health, Prevention, and Self, and has co-authored books on postnatal fitness and yoga. With a master’s degree in human kinetics, Amanda has worked in the fitness industry for more than 15 years, including time spent as a program director and vice president for a chain of all-women clubs in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Tamilee Webb, MA, is the CEO of Webb International, Inc., a company that mentors other fitness professionals by producing, directing and marketing other talent for the consumer retailer. Tamilee is best known for her Buns of Steel series that has sold more then 10 million copies worldwide. She is the recipient of numerous awards for outstanding achievement in the field of personal fitness, including the 1993 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year award, and the 1992 Self Magazine Award for Best Lower Body Exercise for her third in a series of 22 award-winning Buns of Steel videos. Tamilee was inducted into the Fitness Hall of Fame in 2008. She holds a master’s degree in exercise science.
Derrick Wilburn, MBA, is co-pioneering the nation’s first mobile fitness training licensing system and has co-authored a series of books that present a detailed path for fitness professionals to make the transition from club trainer to successful business entrepreneur. He is the founder of Wholly Fit and the Colorado Dance Machine, and is a partner in Achieve Fitness USA and Fundamental Fitness Products.
Karen Wischmann is a 15-year industry veteran who has managed over 60 gyms in her career. Before joining Total Woman, Wischmann worked for Gold’s Gym® International as the vice president of sales and operations, and was responsible for the development and distribution of the Gold’s Gym training system and operating platform. She also spent time as a district manager for 24-Hour Fitness® and as the COO for Sta-Fit Health Clubs.
Chuck Wolf, MS, is the director of Human Motion Associates, in Orlando, Florida, consulting with clients ranging from rehabilitation settings to elite, professional athletes. Chuck is one of the industry’s top educators with his expertise in functional anatomy, movement analysis, function and advanced program design. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology and brings a new approach to how we look and train the body.
Tal Yahalom is a course coordinator and an administrative manager for B.Education conventions in Israel. She is also an experienced and well-known presenter for the international aerobic conventions in Israel.
