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Master Trainers
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 Stephanie
Adams
Stephanie, YF Master Trainer for 10 years, has been humbled, inspired, and truly honored to bring the gift of transformational yoga instruction to thousands. She appears in the YogaFit Level 1 Training DVD, with her daughters in the YogaFit Kids DVD, and appeared as a frequent guest on Seattle's Fox Morning News teaching yoga. Stephanie's education and achievements include Yoga Alliance RYT/E-RYT 500, ACE PT, AFAA, Bachelor of Science from Washington State University, and a 220-hour certificate from BodyMind Academy as a Fitness and Nutrition Consultant, where Stephanie later taught as the primary fitness faculty member. Stephanie owns and teaches at FLOW Yoga & Health Studio in Hood River, Oregon with her husband, Adi.
Stephanie began practicing hatha yoga in 1994. A social activist, a spiritual and life explorer, a background in the fitness industry, and a love for vinyasa yoga naturally led her to YogaFit. As a founding member of the Education Board, Stephanie wrote and developed the YogaFit Kids Teacher Training Program, YogaStrength, Anatomy & Asana, and co-wrote Levels 3 and 4. Stephanie teaches: Levels 1, 2, 3, 4, Anatomy, YogaCore, YogaCycle, YogaStrength, and Specialties--Kids, Seniors and Prenatal. |
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Nanani
Alicea
Nanani teaches dance, group fitness classes,
trains clients and is the Fitness Coordinator
for the Family Y in her local area. She is an
ACE and AFAA certified Personal Trainer and Group
Fitness Instructor, certified Pilates instructor,
and a YogaFit Master Trainer. Nanani is also
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Lara
Anderson
Lara discovered
the joy of yoga ten years ago in college at
her older brother's
insistence. He attended the yoga club on campus so
she joined in on what her brother was saying would
ease her back pain along with discover a new dimension
of philosophy. In her Rocky Mountain college town,
she found there were basically no teachers and soon
learned to teach based on BKS Iyengar's "Light
on Yoga."
After graduating and moving back to her hometown
of San Diego, Lara used her degree in Public Relations
and Marketing in corporate jobs for several
years, to find the back pain was back with a vengeance, and she wasn't
happy in a "desk job". She soon found YogaFit to learn how
to teach in a health club industry, and was eventually asked by them
to be a trainer. Since completing all the Yoga Alliance requirements
for the YogaFit style, Lara has also done teacher trainings with other
yoga masters. She now trains several professional athletes in San Diego
and teaches classes during the week, while traveling for YF on weekends. Lara
teaches: Level 1, 2, YogaFit Seniors, YogaButt and YogaStrength
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Mary Aranas
Mary Aranas is 500-hour E-RYT certified in the ISHTA Yoga tradition under Yogiraj Alan Finger, and has taught full-time since 2002. With her theater, dance, and martial arts background, Mary's Vinyasa style is flowing. Infusing Chakra exploration in her teaching, Mary honors diverse lineages, with joy and healing as her guiding principles. In her classes Mary uses yantra, mantra, pranayama and vinyasa, grounding her students strongly in alignment, then releasing them into their power, freedom and beauty. Her Restoratives are a special treat, combining aromatherapy, music, meditations, and healing touch. In 2007 Mary discovered AcroYoga®, and in 2008 she became one of 120 certified AcroYoga® teachers worldwide. Mary is a certified Thai massage practitioner since 2009. Her Thai Yoga practice and her ongoing AcroYoga® performance and teaching are an endless source of inspiration in her life. Mary lives in New York city with her actor husband and son.
ISHTA: Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra and Ayurveda; derived from the Sanskrit word ishta meaning personalized: a style of hatha yoga that meets the needs of each individual.
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Jenny
Baldwin
Jenny has a BA in Elementary and Special Education from Furman University in Greenville, SC. She was an Elementary & Middle School Special Education teacher for several years before she left that industry to raise her children. She began teaching group fitness in 1994, and segued into Yoga in 1999. Jenny chose YogaFit for her yoga training because it was so in tune with the fitness background and training that she had. After her initial Level One training, she immediately began to pursue a future and career with YogaFit, and continued her training by earning her RYT-200 and E-RYT. She finds that her background in education helps her tremendously in teaching others about YogaFit. She feels she is able to truly use the lessons that she learned as a teacher to guide trainees through the process of becoming a YogaFit trained teacher. "I am honored and proud to be a part of what I consider to be the best training program in fitness today.
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Nicolle Bangerter
Nicolle became passionate about teaching yoga after experiencing a total mind body shift through her personal practice. Her first experience in teaching began on the snow as a PSIA certified ski instructor. Nicolle holds a Yoga Alliance RYT and ACE certification. As a Master Trainer for YogaFit, Nicolle feels she has found her heart song. |
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Brett
Barnes
Brett's fitness journey began when he
joined the Marine Corps (USMC). After
four years of honorable service he started
a fitness regimen, which included weight
training and running. A few years later
he decided it was time to share his knowledge
and became an ISSA certified personal
trainer. After taking a few yoga classes
from a friend, he found a peaceful balance
within himself. He found an instant connection,
both physically and spiritually, that
made him want to continue studying this
ancient practice.
Brett began educating himself on meditation and
different styles of yoga. After finishing the 200
hour RYT training with YogaFit, he found myself wanting
to show others about the YogaFit program. Practicing
yoga has greatly improved his strength and flexibility.
He enjoys sharing his passion for yoga with others
by guiding them through their practice.
Brett is currently pursuing a degree in exercise
science. He currently holds a personal trainer certification
through the ISSA, a group fitness certification through
ACE, and RYT with the Yoga Alliance. |
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Jill
Belongia
Jill Belongia was a music educator for 11 years with a love of fitness and wellness. Her personal yoga practice and love of teaching brought her to her group fitness certification in 2003. Jill has taught group fitness and yoga classes at universities and fitness centers in Miami, Florida, East Lansing, Michigan, and Bloomington/Normal, Illinois. She is currently a group fitness instructor, yoga instructor, and instructor trainer for the Wellness Program at Illinois State University, and a Senior Trainer with YogaFit. Jill hopes to be able to help and inspire others through her YogaFit trainings and by teaching using the YogaFit style. Jill holds a group fitness certification with ACE and is an E-RYT 200 with Yoga Alliance.
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Brandi Bernard
Brandi's educational experiences in the field began at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) when she completed her Bachelor of Science with an emphasis in Exercise Science in 2000. She has earned her Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist status with her desire to improve athletes ability to compete. As part of both the cross country and track and field team, and an extra year of eligibility, she continued her education at GVSU to complete her Master of Science in Physical Therapy in 2003. Brandi is currently continuing her education by taking classes toward her Doctorate in Physical Therapy at A.T. Still University and is expected to be finished with this program by the end of the year. It has been though her own personal injuries and resulting surgeries that has driven her to a more holistic centered lifestyle and when she discovered YogaFit. She has obtained her RYT through YogaFit and has found continuing with YogaFit a very rewarding experience along with Beth Shaw's vision to bring YogaFit to everybody.
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Kelli
Braud
Kelli began teaching
group fitness in 1998. After many years of
teaching high impact cardio classes, her focus
began to shift to more mind/body fitness. She
took her first YogaFit training in 2001 and
was hooked. She was heavily drawn to the safety
principles of the YogaFit program, the inclusiveness
and acceptance of each YogaFit class, and the
positivity that YogaFit embraces.
When not training, Kelli teaches yoga classes
in Birmingham, Alabama and is the Assistant
Fitness Director at Greystone Golf and Country
Club.
Her certifications include AFAA group fitness and personal training,
ACE personal training, and an RYT with Yoga Alliance. Kelli
teaches: Level 1
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Sandi
Call
Sandi has been
in fitness since 1985 and ACE certified since 1986.
Her love for the industry has brought many opportunities.
She has been a Fitness manager for several health clubs.
She has her own business providing Wellness programs
for companies in the Salt Lake area. She provides services
like health fairs, ergonomic reviews, fitness center
management, group fitness classes and personal training.
Sandi has taught group fitness for all of the 20 plus
years she has been in the business. She teaches step,
aerobics, group strength training, cycle, pilates and
of course YogaFit.
Her first YogaFit training was in 1998 with Beth
Shaw in California in the old YogaFit Studio in Hermosa.
This began a move to bring YogaFit
and all ins benefits to Salt Lake City. “ I was a candidate to
become a trainer because I took level 1 about 6 times, because I loved
it so much ” Since then she has been in nearly every state in the
union teaching the YogaFit style. “I have learned more in my association
with YogaFit and in my travels and meeting all the wonderful people who
come to trainings than I could ever teach anyone.”
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Ansley
Carper
Ansley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child
Development from California State University
Fullerton. Prior to her work as a yoga teacher,
she
was a special education teacher as well as a teacher of adult education
and ESL. Her years of teaching experience in the public schools helped
prepare her for her work as a trainer for YogaFit. Ansley is also a former
martial arts and kickboxing instructor. In addition to her RYT-200 certification,
Ansley is a certified personal trainer, an ACE Certified Group Fitness
Instructor and holds a certification specializing in fitness for seniors.
Ansley began practicing yoga during college and her love for the practice
grew steadily. She attended her first YogaFit training in 2003 at the
Hermosa Beach studio and was quickly drawn to the unique teaching techniques
and style of the program. After many more trainings and a terrific amount
of self-study, Ansley found a way to combine her love for yoga and her
passion for education, into what she refers to as, the “best job
on the planet”. She feels very fortunate and honored to give the
gift of yoga to new teachers and students of yoga.
In addition to her job as a YogaFit trainer, Ansley teaches fitness classes
to seniors, yoga for seniors and Pre-Natal patients and yoga classes
in gyms in her hometown. Ansley lives in Southern California. She teaches
Levels 1 and 2.
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Suzie
Celentano
Listed as a Movement Educator in Who's Who in the World since 2006, Suzie brings over 20 years of experience in the arts, education and wellness fields to her current work in Yoga, Pilates and Lifestyle Coaching. Believing that everyone needs both the arts and wellness to live happy, healthy and centered lives, she holds two masters degrees --a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Health and Kinesiology, and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Theatre. Holding ERYT, PMA-CPT and ACE-CPT credentials, she is currently a teacher trainer (CEC provider) for the Yoga Alliance, the Pilates Method Alliance, and the American Council on Exercise. As a Senior Trainer for YogaFit, she trains yoga teachers in the YogaFit vinyasa-style of yoga, and as the Founder/Director of the Mind Body Workshop, she trains Pilates instructors in both classical and contemporary approaches to the Pilates mat and apparatus technique. Her lifestyle coaching company, centeredbeing, teaches children, adults, and older adults to live the Pilates principle of Centering, and the mind/body/spirit connection of yoga, in the other 23 hours of their day they spend off of their mat. When she isn't traveling internationally leading workshops or developing curriculum, Suzie enjoys spending time with her family and creating her own artistic work. Her latest book, Child's Pose: A Mother and Daughter's Artistic Vision for Your Yoga Practice, features poems written by Suzie and artwork created by her (then 7-year old) daughter for over 30 yoga poses. In her work, and by her example, she is committed to empowering others to discover the joy, knowledge and creative expression they have within.
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Suzanne Chiasson
Suzanne describes teaching group fitness and yoga as "the only job I've ever dreamed of..." She has worked in the fitness industry consistently for over 20 years teaching various formats and she holds certifications from ACE and Yoga Alliance. Suzanne first trained with YogaFit in 2001 and has enjoyed sharing it with others ever since. In addition to working as a YogaFit trainer, she teaches regularly at several clubs and studios in the Los Angeles area.
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Mary
Comfort
Mary believes that the first transformation step on the mat can lead to so much… a place to find health, to find strength, to find fitness, to find relaxation, and brings one to join a community that is both embracing and opens one to unimagined possibilities. This is very much Mary’s personal story when she first stepped on a mat 15 years ago to just spend time with her mother (in their overly busy type-A lives)…and the doors have continued to open ever since.
Mary is a Senior Trainer and has her E-RYT and RYT-200 with Yoga Alliance through YogaFit. She also holds the ACE and AFAA group fitness certifications, has trained in cycling and Les Mills Body Pump, and possesses extensive experience working with programming and health management for the older adult population. She also has substantial background in studio and group fitness management. Her sense of humor, enthusiasm, and ability to connect with students to deliver inclusive yet personalized instruction, make her classes refreshingly unique and fun. A very strong chakra practitioner, Mary leads levels 1, 2 and 3, Seniors, PreNatal, Kids and Basics.
Happy that life is letting her spend more time on the mat, Mary has a thriving instructional practice in Pittsburgh, is a Senior Advisor with the Silver Sneakers program, and does “left-brained” work for the family business. If that isn’t enough, her other passions are her two amazing children, Camille and Trent, wine tasting and collecting, taking yoga classes everywhere and anywhere, traveling, and reading.
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Kathy
DeKramer
Kathy DeKramer is a Senior Trainer for YogaFit and has been teaching
in the Fitness Industry for over 26 years. She received her Bachelor
of Arts Degree in Physical Education and Recreation Therapy from Whittier
College (CA) in 1981 and is an ACE and AFAA certified instructor (both
Primary Group Exercise and Yoga). Kathy has been teaching yoga for 8
years and is currently an E-RYT (200hr) with Yoga Alliance.
Kathy took her first YogaFit
training in Jan. 1999 and fell in love with not
only the style of movement but its application
to education and transformation and went on to
become a Master trainer currently leading all levels
and Specialty Programs for YogaFit.
Kathy
is a member of YogaFit’s
Education Board and has contributed to various
manual revisions, assists with website inquiries
and currently appears on YogaFit’s Senior
Video/DVD. Kathy teaches: All levels and specialties
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Michelle
Demus
Currently, traveling nationally
as a Senior Master Trainer with YogaFit, Michelle
began her yoga journey while she was a graduate
student at UCLA. Shortly thereafter, Michelle
was introduced to YogaFit and knew she had found
a yoga practice that blended her passions for
yoga and fitness is a truly transformational
manner. Initially trained as a classical dancer
at the San Francisco Ballet, Michelle has more
than a decade of experience teaching in the yoga,
fitness, and dance industries. Michelle holds
a M.A. in Dance / Movement Therapy from UCLA
and a B.F.A. in Dance from The Juilliard School.
She also holds certifications from ACE and AFAA
and completed her 200 hour Yoga Alliance certification
with YogaFit
In
addition to her travels with YogaFit, Michelle has
served as a consultant
to Town Sports International’s design
team, helping to implement their Club Yoga
and Power Yoga programs which have been rolled
out to more than 135 gyms on the East Coast.
Michelle has also toured internationally
with the Universal Dance Association as a
teacher, choreographer, and judge of the
National Dance Team Championships on ESPN.
Professional performing credits include the
Juilliard Dance Ensemble, The Dallas Opera,
NBA Dallas Mavericks Dancers, Los Angeles
Modern Dance & Ballet Company, and
several fitness videos with Leisa Hart
. Michelle
teaches and resides in NYC. Michelle
teaches: Level 1, 2, 3, YogaFit Seniors,YogaFit
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Marchond Gardella
Marchond has been a certified yoga teacher since 2003. With over twenty years of experience in teaching many formats of group exercise, she is also a certified personal trainer and has completed her Stott Pilates training in both comprehensive mat and reformer. She received her 500 hour level RYT (Yoga Alliance) through studying Asthanga yoga with Jayakumar Swamysree at the Pranava Yogadhama Trust in Mysore India and with YogaFit , completing it's current programming in yoga therapy and restorative yoga. She is currently a presenting trainer for YogaFit Training Systems.
Her approach to yoga embraces and emphasizes the adaptive nature of modern yoga. This adaptive approach facilitates the ability to change class with ease, so students can modify postures, learn the subtleties within their bodies and gain greater kinesthetic awareness. Marchond has tremendous respect for the differences in her students' skeletal structures, muscular flexibility and strength. This facilitates the capacity to celebrate natural abilities and nurture aspects that are more challenging, the goal being, to create a balanced and resilient body, as well as a clear and relaxed state of mind.
Besides her love of an athletic asana practice, her current passion is yoga therapy and it's ability to improve and heal our bodies and minds. Marchond is a member of IAYT (International Association of Yoga Therapists).
"I like to bring levity to class. I love what I do and want my students to have fun."
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Taj Harris
A detail-oriented leader with over 10 years of proven results in management, teaching, personal training and public speaking. Taj has been spotted on TV appearances for her expertise with ABC, CW11, FOX and CBS. She has presented at both Domestic and International Fitness Conventions as well as written fitness articles for magazines such as Shape and Health. Taj holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Minor in Biology from GA State University. Certifications include:
- Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- American Council of Exercise (ACE)
- YogaFit - 200 Hour RYT
- Spinning
- Rebounding
- Kickboxing
- Step
- Antigravity Yoga Wings
- BOSU Balance
- TRX
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Kristen Hendrix
After graduating from law school in 1999, Kristen pursued a career in litigation. She soon realized that the legal world was a contradiction to her true nature. Kristen found YogaFit® in 2005 and since then, "I don't feel like I've ever stepped off of my mat." In November 2008, she traveled with YogaFit® to India in what she describes as "a life altering experience." For Kristen, yoga is her lifestyle. Kristen is an ACE certified personal trainer and a Mad Dogg Athletics certified spinning instructor. She has both her 200 hour and 500 hour Yoga Alliance RYT through YogaFit®. Kristen is currently training for her next marathon and pursuing her PhD in philosophy.
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Tracy
Jennings-Hill
Tracy ventured into her yoga
practice over 8 years ago as she was retiring from the
US Air Force after serving over 20 years. While on active
duty, an injury caused the physical challenge of sciatica
to arise, so as a way to help maintain a healthy and
balanced lifestyle she began dabbling in different disciplines
of yoga, discovering the YogaFit style, finding her home.
As she grew to understand the value of the mind/body
connection, she decided to pursue her dream of becoming
a fitness professional, embodying all aspects of the
profession, instead of using her BS in Human Resource
Management.
Subsequently, she attended her first YogaFit Level 1 training in 2001.
Since then she has completed all levels through 5, Anatomy and Alignment,
Seniors, PreNatal/PostPartum, and Moodlifting. In addition to having completed
her 200 R. Y. T., she has been an AFAA certified group fitness instructor
for over 10 years, where she now focuses on indoor cycling, dance, and
preprogrammed muscle strength and endurance training. She also is a game-fully
employed AFAA/ACE Certified Personal Trainer and has managed group fitness
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Patricia
Hess
Patricia Hess, RRT-NPS in addition to being a Master
Trainer with YogaFit, is a registered yoga teacher
with Yoga Alliance and is a certified group
fitness instructor by ACE. Patti maintains her medical license as a Registered
Respiratory Therapist, Neonatal Pediatric Specialist and is the owner
of Kids Fit Club®, a company providing after school fitness programs
for children. Further, Patti is completing her Bachelors degree in Health
Care Management and is currently teaching multiple group fitness classes
in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Michell
Hutchins
Michelle Hutchins comes to YogaFit with a background in many disciplines, including years of training in classical ballet and competing in Tae Kwon Doe martial arts, as well as years of experience teaching a variety of group exercise classes.
Yoga, Michelle discovered, allows her to incorporate all her skills and interests, while giving back in a profound way. While Michelle continues to teach a variety of fitness, pilates and yoga classes, as well as lead YogaFit teacher trainings throughout the Pacific Northwest, she has a particular passion for teaching the "first-time" yoga student and those with physical limitations.
Michelle is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) through Yoga Alliance's 200-hour teacher-training program, an ACE-certified Group Exercise Instructor, a Zumba-certified instructor and AFAA-certified Primary Group Exercise Instructor.
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Angie Kosirog
A popular and dynamic presenter and teacher with over 12 years of health and wellness expertise, Angie has a passion for helping people realize their one True Nature -- one of health, happiness and well-being.
As a self-proclaimed outdoor fanatic, Angie loves to share the beauty of nature with others. The natural world is a perfect setting for individuals to reconnect with their innate strengths and unlimited potential. She believes that everyone has the power within to achieve the life of their dreams! Angie utilizes her expertise in health & wellness as well as her natural talents as poet, singer/songwriter and entertainer to inspire others to live their best life.
She received her Masters degree in Health Promotion and Wellness Management from Missouri State University, and is and ACE Certified Personal Trainer as well as a Certified WellCoach through the American College of Sports Medicine. With her experience in chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity and arthritis, Angie has empowered many people to achieve healthier lifestyles. She has been a YogaFit Master Trainer since October of 2006 and has been teaching yoga for 9 years.
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Janet
Leland
Janet started teaching
group fitness in 1979. Certifications include
ACE and AFAA group fitness instructor, Pilates
instructor in matwork including advanced
and standing Pilates through Pilates Physicalmind
Institute. She is a Yoga Alliance 200 hr.
R.Y.T., and Master trainer for YogaFit, and
current presenter for I.T.A. and W.S.S.C.
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Kristin
Mabry
Kristin has enjoyed
group fitness since wearing leotards and
leg warmers in her pre-teen years. She began
studying yoga in 2000, but kept her yoga
practice separate from her love of fitness.
YogaFit has shown Kristin how to keep all
the beauty of a yoga practice while making
it safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone.
Her love of yoga, sharing knowledge, travel,
and meeting other altruistic souls makes
Kristin’s role as Senior Master Trainer
a successful one. She hopes to share YogaFit
with as many people as possible, in addition
to helping preserve natural resources in her Alaskan environment. Kristin
is an E-RYT/RYT, holds ACE group fitness and personal trainer certifications,
and has a Master of Environmental Management from Duke University. Kristin
teaches: Levels 1, 2, and 3, YogaButt, YogaStrength, Seniors, Prenatal,
and Kids.
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Kristy Manuel
Kristy, a triathlete, marathon runner, and tennis player was looking for a kinder gentler workout for her body when she started practicing yoga in 2001. Kristy felt as if she had found her passion after taking her first YogaFit Vinyasa flow class in 2003. Excited to share what she had discovered with others, she began her teacher training journey with YogaFit. She completed her Yoga Alliance 200 hour certificate in 2006, and her 500 hour yoga teacher training certificate in 2009 after an intensive in India. Kristy holds a Master's Degree in Health & Fitness Management from the University of Oregon and is a Certified Health Fitness Specialist by the American College of Sports Medicine and holds an American Council on Exercise Personal Trainer Certification. Kristy is a 25 year veteran of the fitness industry in both management roles, presenter, lecturer and personal trainer.
Kristy currently teaches yoga in and around the Nashville, TN area and is a Master Trainer for YogaFit International, traveling and presenting teacher training workshops around the USA.
Kristy discovered the mindful aspect of yoga brought her more into balance both physically and mentally. Kristy is passionate about sharing yoga with as many people as possible and her powerful flow classes are filled with options making yoga accessible and safe for anybody!
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Beth
Marik
Beth Marik, Senior
trainer, holds certifications with ACE, AFAA,
and Yoga Alliance 200RYT. A fitness professional
from Chicago, ILL with over 6 years experience
in education, instruction and guidance, Beth
has practiced yoga over the past 12 years.
Her personal yoga practice includes: studying
the origin/history of yoga, anatomy, kinesiology,
and communication. She is a contributing
author/editor to YogaFit’s educational
material and enjoys writing health and fitness
literature. Beth believes in the transformational
power, that she has personally discovered,
since joining the YogaFit team 5 years ago.
“ I made the choice
to train under YogaFit because it has created a
wonderful blend of tradition and modern methods
of living a healthy lifestyle. YogaFit is functional
for all facets of your life! It truly is yoga for
everybody.” In her free time, Beth enjoys
camping, being outdoors and being with friends
and family. Beth teaches: Levels 1-4, Kids,
Prenatal/Post, Seniors, YogaButt, and YogaStrength
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Josh
McGirk
Josh McGirk has his E-RYT 200 from Yoga Alliance, a BS in Biology and Chemistry, speaks five languages, is a certified Senior Strength Trainer, Nationally Certified Massage Therapist, ACE Certified Group Exercise, Aerial Yoga Trainer, Black Belt Shao-Lin Kung Fu, BTS Lead Instructor at six gyms in Denver, and is certified in all SilverSneaker programs.
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Theresa
Merz
Theresa is YogaFit’s
International Trainer, speaks three languages and has
taught a variety of people from 4 to 90 from many different
cultures. She has been in the fitness industry for
20+ years and has practiced yoga on and off since 1981.
While studying engineering, she discovered yoga was
the perfect escape for the goal oriented behavior of
a woman engineer. A graduate from South Dakota School
of Mines and Technology, she decided to focus on human
body movement at a Masters level. Theresa is an ACE/AFAA
continuing education provider, and certified in group
fitness, personal training, Pilates, YogaFit®,
RYT, Medical Exercise Specialist, Master Water Fitness
Instructor, and Older Adult Trainer.
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Claudia
Micco
Claudia Micco has joined
YogaFit’s Training Staff. She holds
an RYT and EYRT and she will be adding a
lot of cutting edge Mind Body Programming
to our growing list of offerings.
Claudia has been teaching Mind/Body Exercise since 1985. She is the creator
HypnoFit, a method blending hypnotherapy, personal wellness training
and massage. Claudia spent several years traveling the teaching these
techniques to instructors throughout Europe.
Currently, she specializes in Hawaiian Healing techniques and is a
licensed Massage Therapist and Hypnotherapist. In addition, she has
teaches Yoga,
Tai Chi, Pilates and Bioenergetic exercise for stress reduction. Claudia
studied with the esteemed Gloria Keeling for 10 years in Maui. She was
formerly program director of Strong, Stretched & Centered Mind/Body
Institute of Maui and is the Wellness Coordinator for the Ritz Carlton
Maui.
Claudia will be presenting at many MBF’s in 07 and is a lead
presenter for Boston Mosaic 2 Nov 8-12 2006.
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Jules Mitchell
Sometime in 2003, Jules was in her regular yoga class and experienced a moment where she realized she had always known she would be a yoga instructor. She immediately went down that path and has been teaching ever since. Two weeks after her introduction to YogaFit, she traveled with them to India, and has been dedicated to YogaFit ever since. She is now working on her Master's Degree in Kinesiology with the University of Las Vegas, Nevada. She is RYT-500 and ACE certified.
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Sheila Moreno
Sheila Moreno is an RYT 200 who has been teaching group fitness since 1997. In those days she taught everything: kickboxing, step, hi/lo, spinning, sculpt. You remember the motto then “No pain, no gain”? Once she found Yoga and Pilates all of that changed. Sheila stopped teaching those other classes and dedicated all her time, training, and education on learning these wonderful, dynamic mind/body disciplines.
Along with traveling for YogaFit, Sheila teaches power yoga, gentle yoga, Pilates mat and Pilates equipment classes in Virginia. She feels blessed to have a career that helps others not only get in shape but mentally let go and enjoy the present moment. “If everyone practiced a little yoga, we would have world peace!”
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Emily Morris
Emily Morris has been in the fitness industry since 1996. What first began as a hobby has now led to countless hours inspiring others to a world of fitness and yoga. She currently holds several national certifications, including Yoga Alliance RYT-200 and E-RYT, ACE certified personal trainer, AFAA certified group exercise instructor, Arthritis Foundation trained – land and water, and a trained CPR instructor. She has a bachelor's degree from Missouri State University and manages full-time a continuing care retirement community's fitness center. On the side, she teaches a broad spectrum of fitness classes at local Y's, for corporations, in private studios, and also does in-home personal training. She feels her background in broadcast journalism helps her easily communicate and connect on an intimate level with all of her participants. As part of the YogaFit team, Emily knows she is blessed to work alongside an amazing group of knowledgeable individuals.
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Sybil Nance
Sybil Nance was the fitness coordinator at a small fitness and Racquet club in Portland Oregon. When asked to find a yoga teacher she was having a difficult time finding just the right person. In her wisdom she looked on line and found Yoga Fit. So in 1999 Sybil took her level one training with Beth Shaw and then soon went on to complete several more levels and became a Senior Master Trainer. Sybil has always been involved in the international expansion of YogaFit with trainings throughout Canada, and she has presented and lead trainings in Britain, Brazil, and Taiwan.
Sybil brings easy going relaxed nature along with her love of spreading the yoga message to her exciting International trainings.
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Barbara
Nobles
Having been in the
fitness industry since 1988, Barbara Nobles
has taught just about every group exercise
class out there. Realizing that she couldn't
continue at this pace forever she began looking
for a kinder form of activity to add to her
repertoire. Barbara began practicing Yoga
as a student in 1998 and attended her first
YogaFit training in 1999, she immediately
knew that she had found what she was looking
for.
In 2003 Barbara decided to turn her lifelong vision into a reality and
Body Benefits, an exclusive fitness studio, opened for business. In addition
to being the sole owner of Body Benefits, Barbara is also a guest columnist
for the local paper and has appeared in the fitness segments for the
local news.
When not at work Barbara loves spending time at home with her Husband,
Mark and their standard poodle, Toebear. As certified scuba divers, vacations
always involve tropical locations with diving opportunities.
In addition to being a YogaFit trainer and a 200 hour Registered Yoga
Teacher with Yoga Alliance Barbara also holds the following certifications:
ACE Personal Trainer, IFPA Personal Trainer, AFAA Group Exercise Instructor,
Johnny G Star 3 Spinning Instructor, Karobics Kickboxing Instructor,
AEA Aqua Instructor, Mississippi Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation
Arthritic Aquatic Instructor.
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Mark
Norwich
Mark began teaching group fitness as a Step instructor
in 1993. In the summer of 2002, he attended his
first YogaFit class and slowly began to integrate
that into his personal fitness program. Fully
appreciating the benefits that this had, he took
his first YogaFit training and began to teach
at the facility where he was already an instructor.
He also discovered the beauty of the YogaFit
program, continuing his education and becoming
a Registered Yoga Teacher in October 2006. Before
his RYT journey came to an end, Mark knew that
he wanted to still be a part of these trainings,
but on the other side of the mat, and he is continuing
on that journey today.
Mark lives in Concord, NC with his wife and son. In addition to teaching yoga, he also leads Spinning and weight training classes and is an E-RYT as well as ACE certified. Mark leads a variety of YogaFit levels and specialty classes. |
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Skila Ramirez
Skila began practicing yoga in 2002 as a healthy alternative to prescription drugs for pain management stemming from a car accident. After several years of practicing with many respected yoga instructors and attending several clinics, she became a certified yoga teacher. Yoga has not only given her a healthy way to manage chronic back and neck pain but has also aided her in body acceptance and helper her to maintain a healthy body-weight (she has lost 50 pounds and kept it off for over 10 years).
Skila teaches various styles of yoga and several specialty courses. A professional in her field, her certifications and trainings include: 200-hr RYT, NASM Personal Trainer, ACE and AFAA group exercise, Silver Sneakers, PilatesFit, Kids In Motion, and more. Her knowledge of diverse training methods compliments her yoga practice. She embraces her past injury as an opportunity to understand and help others with pain management and body acceptance. "We should love where we are today. In each moment, we are given a divine opportunity to enjoy life."
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Linda
Roseborough
Linda is YogaFit’s Canadian Trainer and
has been involved in the health and wellness
industry for over 18 years. As a registered kinesiologist
and Health and Wellness Advisor for the University
of British Columbia, Linda is an active instructor,
trainer presenter, program coordinator and freelance
media and print journalist.
With her degree in exercise science, Linda found that YogaFit blended naturally
with her training and yet provided the spiritual aspects of yoga that she
so desired. Yoga has greatly improved her strength and flexibility while
providing a sense of peace and balance to her life. |
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Linda Rowe
Linda started her professional health and fitness career in 1994 as a Doctor of Chiropractic, graduating with honors (magna cum laude) from Los Angeles College of Chiropractic. Her interest in fitness led her to become a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician in 2000. Linda's chiropractic practice was inside a popular fitness gym while living in Southern California.
Linda's yoga journey began in 1998 with Beth Shaw at Beth's original YogaFit studio in Hermosa Beach. Linda was immediately drawn to Beth's classes and the YogaFit style. She attended Beth's classes regularly for several years and then decided to become a yoga teacher herself.
Linda is currently a RYT (200hr) with Yoga Alliance and holds an ACE personal trainer certification. Linda combines the art and science of chiropractic and yoga in her current chiropractic practice, ChiRoweYoga LLC, located inside Poise Studio in Beaverton, Oregon.
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Carol
Shankland
Carol lives in Colorado
and has been teaching fitness to all ages
for 29 years, and YogaFit for 6 years. Her degree as a Physical Educator
has given her the opportunity to teach in
schools, colleges, health clubs, corporations
and Air Force bases all over the country.
She likes to collect certifications including:
ACE and AFAA Primary, STEP, Kickboxing, ESA
Personal Trainer, Mat Science 1&2, and
PiYo 1-5. Carol is a Yoga Alliance 200 RYT and ERYT.
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Mary
Sargent
Mary began her journey with YogaFit in 2003. With three young children
at home, she knew that she needed to take care of herself in order to
best take care of her family. Mary began looking for a style of
yoga that would fit her lifestyle. She attended YogaFit’s
Level 1 training and found a positive and encouraging atmosphere created
by her YogaFit trainers. She began to feel more confident in her
teaching ability and continued to learn and grow with YogaFit. Mary
finished her 200 hour RYT with YogaFit in 2006 and has joined the YogaFit
team of trainers. She is excited to be able to pass her energy
and enthusiasm for YogaFit to others.
Mary’s interest in physical fitness began
after she graduated from Florida State University and
realized that she had gained over forty pounds. She
vowed that she would live a healthier lifestyle and
began an exercise routine. Mary appeared in a “Body
Firm” video and participated in two Iron Man
triathlons, several Sprint and Olympic distance triathlons,
and a marathon. Mary continued to follow her
interest in health and fitness and is currently the
Fitness Coordinator for her local YMCA, Yoga Alliance RYT, ACE certified personal trainer/yoga instructor and certified Pilates Instructor.
The YogaFit philosophy of releasing judgment,
competition and expectation has had a tremendous impact
on her life, both on and off the mat. She is
a firm believer in the program and she is grateful
to be able to share it with others.
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Laurie Schoonmaker
Having taught group fitness classes since she was sixteen years old, Laurie brings a strong fitness background to her yoga classes. She is certified in Johnny G Spinning, Les Mills BodyPump, and Russian Kettlebells. Her main teaching focus is to "bridge the gap" for fitness buffs, bringing them from the gym mat to the yoga mat. Her extensive knowledge and experience teaching group fitness allows her to connect with her students and athletes in easy language and descriptive physical explanations to find the yogi within.
Laurie personally enjoys an active lifestyle of running, cycling, kayaking, rollerblading, and weight training...and insists that her regular yoga practice is what enables her to keep physically active without injury.
Laurie has spent time studying with renowned yogi's David Swenson (Ashtanga), John Friend (Anusara), Doug Swenson, and John Keller.
She is also an attorney; licensed with both the Ohio and the Florida Bar. She likes to keep her law practice in balance with her yoga practice.
Laurie's dedication to health and fitness is an inspiration to all and her motto is helping women to age more gracefully.
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Katie
Schuver
Katie has been involved in the health, fitness, and sport industry for over 10
years and began her YogaFit journey in 2002. Katie is currently a director at
an athletic facility in Spokane, WA and teaches at Gonzaga University. She has
her M.A. from Gonzaga University (Spokane, WA) and her B.A. from Mount Mercy
College (Cedar Rapids, IA). She is currently working towards a degree in Exercise & Sport
Psychology. Katie is a certified Personal Trainer & Group Exercise Instructor
with ACE and AFAA and is an E-RYT with Yoga Alliance. Yoga has given Katie the
gift of self-awareness and sharing YogaFit has taught (and continues to teach)
her to approach life and practice with compassion, awareness, and acceptance. |
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Rose
Zahnn
Rose Zahnn is the Founder of Healthy Habits Fitness, Yoga and Pilates Studios in California. A UCLA graduate and a fitness professional for over 20 years, Rose holds a variety of certifications in the fitness and health fields. She is a Master Trainer for YogaFit and Balletone, and the creator of PilatesFit, Dancelicious and the Learn to Be Lean Program. Rose enjoys sharing the joy of movement in videos, magazines and television, as well as through instructor trainings and classes around the world.
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