YogaFit® Master Trainers - YogaFit® Training Systems

Master Trainers

• Stephanie Adams
• Nanani Alicea
• Mary Aranas
• Jenny Baldwin
• Brett Barnes
• Jill Belongia
• Brandi Bernard
• Kelli Braud
• Sandi Call
• Suzanne Chiasson
• Mary Comfort
• Alison Curtis
• Kathy DeKramer
• Heidi Dix
• Adi Vajra

• Marchond Gardella
• Lisa Greenbaum
• Taj Harris
• Patti Bain
• Tracy Jennings-Hill
• Michelle Hutchins
• Janet Leland
• Kristin Mabry
• Kristy Manuel
• Aimee Marshall
• Josh McGirk
• Claudia Micco
• Emily Morris
• Christy Plaugher
• Gina Domme

• Robin Perkins
• Mark Norwich
• Skila Ramirez
• Linda Roseborough
• Carol Shankland
• Katie Schuver
• Jenn Tarrant
• Rachel Wilson
• Felicia Tamasko
• Karen Cormier
• Nicole Bangerter
• Shannon Johnson
• Jennifer Tipton
• Heather Schmidt
• Shaye Molendyke
• Cathy Holdsworth
• Amanda Frame

Stephanie Adams, E-RYT 500
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.

Nanani Alicea, RYT 500 E-RYT 200
Nanani is the Co-Owner of Hip2Hip Dance & Fitness Center, Co-founder of BellyRok Dance and Fitness, Yoga Alliance E-RYT, ACE certified, and a Licensed Massage Therapist. She has been enthralled by the movement of the human body from a young age, and that fascination is what has led her to a career in health and fitness.

With over 20 years of dance experience, Nanani was officially introduced to yoga in 1998. "It was a gift that I immediately wanted to share with as many others as possible," she will state about that initial experience. In 1999 Nanani met Beth Shaw and attended her first Yogafit session. She chose Yogafit as her "yoga home" because it was completely in tuned with her dance/fitness background. Her personal mantra is," A body moving well, is a beautiful body," and she feels that at Yogafit we truly teach a bodies to move well.

Mary Aranas, E-RYT 500
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.

	Jenny Baldwin, RYT 500 E-RYT 200 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. Back To Top
	Brett Barnes, E-RYT 200 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.
	Jill Belongia, E-RYT 200 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. Back To Top
	Brandi Bernard, RYT 200 Brandi's educational and athletic experiences began as part of both the cross country and track and field team at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). At GVSU she completed her Bachelor of Science with an emphasis in Exercise Science and her Master of Science in Physical Therapy. Brandi has continued her education and has graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from A.T. Still University. She has also earned her Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist status with her desire to improve athlete‚Äôs ability to compete at collegiate and professional levels. It has been though her own personal athletic injuries and resulting surgeries that has driven her to a more holistic centered lifestyle which she discovered through 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. Back To Top
	Kelli Braud, E-RYT 200 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 Back To Top

Sandi Call, E-RYT 500
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.”

Suzanne Chiasson, E-RYT 200
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.

Mary Comfort, E-RYT 200
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.

Alison Curtis, RYT 200
Alison began her journey in the fitness and yoga world in 2003. Her first YogaFit training in 2004 opened her eyes to the freedom of movement and the availability for awareness and acceptance through Yoga. After graduating from UW-Madison in 2007 with a BA in South Asian Religions, Alison moved to Chicago and created I.A.M. Wellness, Inc. I.A.M. has since been her vessel to inspire, motivate, and empower every body to become aware of their true selves through movement and to journey toward their optimal wellness state.

Alison is a Yoga Alliance 200-RYT and an ACE-Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor. She feels grateful to have found a platform to share the joy and peace of yoga in a seemingly overwhelming world. The freedom of movement in Yoga has opened Alison's eyes to the great lessons of authenticity, balance, acceptance, and transformation.

Kathy DeKramer, E-RYT 500
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

	Heidi Dix, RYT 200 Heidi has been involved in the health and wellness industry for over 15 years and began her YogaFit journey in 2006. She has her BA in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine and Masters in Education from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Heidi is a Licensed Athletic Trainer and currently serves as a lecturer at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point. She also is a Group Exercise Instructor with ACE and a RYT 200 with Yoga Alliance. Yoga has provided Heidi a sense of peace and balance to her own life, and given her the opportunity to share yoga with others so that they too can experience and connect with their true self. Back To Top
	Marchond Gardella, RYT 500 E-RYT 200 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." Back To Top
	Lisa Greenbaum, RYT 200 Lisa is the Canadian Relationship Manager for YogaFit as well as Canadian Master Trainer and Presenter. Discovering Yoga was like uncovering her life's mission. Through YogaFit she has been able to help class participants, new and fellow instructors as well as her closest friends and family learn the amazing benefits and life balance that a regular practice can bring to our lives. She also has learned how Yoga can hone creativity and discipline in her own busy life as well. Lisa has been teaching group fitness classes for GoodLife Fitness in Toronto Canada since 2001. She is a certified Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer through CanFitPro, RYT 200 with YogaFit, LMI BodyFlow and BodyJam, and EFI Gravity Training Systems. Back To Top
	Taj Harris, E-RYT 200 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 Back To Top
	Tracy Jennings-Hill, RYT 500 E-RYT 200 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 programs at several fitness facilities throughout the United States.
	Patricia Bain, E-RYT 200 Patti Bain, 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. Back To Top
	Michelle Hutchins, E-RYT 200 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. Back To Top

Janet Leland, E-RYT 200
Janet started teaching group fitness in 1979. Certifications include ACE and AFAA group fitness instructor, Pilates instructor in mat work including advanced and standing Pilates through Pilates Physicalmind Institute. She is a Yoga Alliance 200HR E-RYT and Senior Master Trainer for YogaFit, and current presenter for I.T.A. and W.S.S.C.

	Kristin Mabry, E-RYT 500 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. Back To Top
	Kristy Manuel, RYT 500 E-RYT 200 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 in the USA and internationally. 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!
	Aimee Marshall, E-RYT 200 Aimee has a B.S. in Organizational Management from Ashford University. She has been teaching all modalities of group exercise and has been a personal trainer for over 24 years. Aimee began her YogaFit journey in 2001 and because of the connection she felt for the program, she fast tracked her way through the 200 hours. Aimee holds certifications from ACE, AFAA, Pilates Mat and Apparatus, Spinning, Resit-A-Ball and Zumba. She completed her 200 hour Yoga Alliance Certification through YogaFit. When not training, Aimee teaches various fitness classes in the Berkshires, Massachusetts and is the Group Exercise Director at the Berkshire West Athletic Club. She also enjoys spending time with her family, especially her nephew, Nicholas, and her four ‚Äì legged children (all 8 of them!) Back To Top
	Josh McGirk, RYT 500 E-RYT 200 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. Back To Top

	Claudia Micco, E-RYT 500 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 in the Integrated Health and Fitness field for over 25 years. She travels worldwide teaching for Team YogaFit. Former Director of Strong, Stretched & Centered Mind/Body Fitness Institute of Maui, she been studying and teaching Yoga, Mind/Body Exercise and wellness, teaching at hospitals, gyms, resorts, spas, cruise ships and retreat centers all over the world. She teaches YogaFit, Pilates and Bioenergetics exercise for stress reduction Ritz Carlton Hotels. Currently, She is co- owner of Zensations Spa Maui, www.zensationsspa.com. Claudia is also the creator HypnoFit, a method blending hypnotherapy, personal wellness training, yoga, Pilates and massage. Claudia also specializes in Hawaiian Healing techniques and is a licensed, Massage Therapist, and Hypnotherapist. She is an instructor trainer for YogaFit Training Systems worldwide. Back To Top
	Emily Morris, E-RYT 200 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 ‚Äì 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. Back To Top
	Robin Perkins, RYT 200 After many years of dance and group exercise, Robin naturally found her way in to the world of yoga. After attending her first Level 1 training with YogaFit, she was completely transformed by the strong focus on letting go of competition and judgement. This approach to physical activity was totally foreign and yet, entirely refreshing to her. Robin has taught yoga at universities, military bases, gyms and studios of all sorts. From California to Georgia and Belize to Japan, Robin has had the pleasure of interacting with students all around the world. Robin has studied at the University of San Diego, the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Utah. She holds a B.A. in Theological & Religious Studies, an M.S. in Exercise and Sport Science as well as ACE Group Fitness Instructor and ACSM Personal Trainer certifications. She loves all things health & fitness and has served as a wellness coach in a variety of clinical settings, working with individuals and groups on creating and sustaining healthy behavior changes. Robin adores her family, mostly in Southern California, and loves to travel, run, and see live music when she isn't doing yoga. Back To Top
	Mark Norwich, E-RYT 200 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.

Skila Ramirez, RYT 500 E-RYT 200
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."

Linda Roseborough, RYT 200
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.

	Carol Shankland, E-RYT 200 Carol lives in Colorado and has been teaching fitness to all ages since 1980, and training for YogaFit since 2003. 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 and is a Senior Trainer for YogaFit. Back To Top
	Katie Schuver, E-RYT 200 Katie has been involved in the health, fitness, and sport industry for over 12 years and began her YogaFit journey in 2002. Katie holds several national certifications, including ACE certified personal trainer and group exercises instructor, AFAA certified personal trainer and group exercise instructor, and Yoga Alliance E-RYT 200. She has a master‚Äôs degree from Gonzaga University and is currently a doctoral student at the University of Minnesota. Katie is honored to be a part of the YogaFit community and looks to create an environment of empowerment and inspiration in her classes, where individuals can recognize the true beauty of self-acceptance.
	Jenn Tarrant, E-RYT 200 Yoga found Jenn at a time in her life filled with challenges and changes. After initially coming to class in hopes of a great cross-training option from hours spent running, Jenn found that yoga offered a safe haven from the pushes and pulls of life. Yoga quickly became a place of peace in the middle of the daily demands of life. Now, Jenn embodies a life of joy by living and enjoying each moment. It is Jenn’s desire to create experiences within yoga class where others can also find peace, presence and joy. Jenn began her journey with YogaFit in 2007. At the end of her first Level 1 Training, she was inspired to not only complete her 200 Hour training, but to also become a Lead Trainer someday. Each training confirmed and strengthened this desire until she joined the Team of YogaFit Trainers in early 2010. While teaching yoga brings joy every day, having the opportunity to teach other yoga teachers is like icing on the cake. Empowering others to bring the gift of yoga into their own communities makes her heart soar. Jenn is currently certified as an ERYT 200. Back To Top
	Rachel Wilson, RYT 200 Driven and ambitious, Rachel was on the fast track to career land, recieving her B.A. in marketing and beginning law school. When stress and some major life changes forced her to slow down, she took some time to stop and actually think about what she truly wanted to do. Considering her life-long love of sports and fitness, she decided that just maybe she could find great fulfillment by taking her passions and making a career out of them. Six months later, Rachel began personal training and teaching yoga, and the real journey began. She is an ACE certified Personal-trainer, holds RPM and Zumba certifications, and is a trained pilates instructor on both mat and apparatus. In Yoga, Rachel's true love, she is an RYT-200 and has been teaching in the YogaFit style for over 6 years. An avid runner, Rachel has competed in many marathons including Boston. She is a triathlete, a lover of music and dance, an adventurous traveler, a total daredevil, and a tender and sensitive spirit. The moving meditation of vinyasa yoga has been liberating and healing on so many levels for Rachel, and she is full of passion to share this incredible gift with others. Back To Top

Felicia Tamasko, E-RYT 500
Felicia Marie Tomasko RN, E-RYT 500, inspires people to follow the path to personal freedom and vibrant health through Yoga and Ayurveda. Her practice includes teaching Yoga in studios, teacher trainings and conferences as well as a private practice in the healing tradition of Ayurveda, a system of holistic and integrative medicine native to India. Ayurveda shares the same philosophy and ways of approaching the body, mind and spirit as Yoga and emphasizes our connection with nature. She is currently the editor in chief of LA YOGA Ayurveda and Health magazine (where she has been on staff for more than seven years), serves on the editorial board of the Light on Ayurveda Journal and serves on the board of directors of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association, the Academic Consortium for Complementary and Alternative Health Care and is the current President of the California Association of Ayurvedic Medicine. Felicia and lives her environmental commitment by serving on the Leadership Council of the Green Yoga Association.

Christy Plaugher, RYT 200
Christy Plaugher is a veteran fitness professional with a passion for incorporating the continually developing science and spirit of the profession to promote wellness among people she has the privilege to coach/train/instruct. She is a 1993 graduate of the University of Cinncinnati where she earned a degree in Health Education with an emphasis in community health and cardiovascular fitness. During her fitness career, Christy has fulfilled many rolls including group fitness instructor, instructor staff manager, personal trainer, fitness center manager and fitness studio owner/operator. Christy's interest in Yoga began in 1995. She has since enjoyed growing her own personal practice using many different styles of Yoga. Upon being exposed to YogaFit, Christy decided to pursue becoming an instructor and completed her two hundred hour RYT training in July, 2008. In addition to Yoga Alliance RYT 200 certification, Christy holds certifications through American Council on Exercise, Mad Dog Athletics Spinning and Stott Pilates. Christy lives in Granville, Ohio with her husband Kevin and daughters, Kate and Lily.

Adi Vajra, E-RYT 500
Adi Vajra invites seekers of Truth into the direct path of peace and freedom right now. Since he was a young boy, Adi had been interested in knowing Truth and, in 2003, experienced a profound spiritual awakening. He began teaching later at the request of his shamanic teacher, Medicine Eagle. Adi journeyed to India in search of an enlightened master, and found the non-dual teachings that have been his passion ever since. Adi Vajra has spent tens of thousands of hours teaching, studying, and practicing the Direct Path. Adi is grateful for the wisdom of his teachers in Truth, and the great Masters he has been instructed by, including Sri Ramana Maharshi, Gangaji, Buddha, Jesus, Adyashanti, Paramahansa Yogananda, Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, Suzuki Roshi, and Elle Collier Re amongst others.

Karen Cormier, RYT 200
Karen has worked in the fitness industry for over 20 years and has found that inspiring others to stay healthy and fit her life’s passion. She is a certified group fitness instructor with ACE and NETA. She also carries certifications for Personal Training and is a life time certified member of Spinning. Karen has obtained her 200 hours R.Y.T. from the Yoga Alliance through Yogafit. Along with working at a local sports center for the past 8 years, 2 years ago, Karen began operating her own fitness and yoga business in Upstate New York, where she raises her three boys with her husband. Karen states that when she found Yogafit in 2007 it was a match made in heaven; merging her love and passion for fitness and Yoga into one amazing gift.

Gina Domme, RYT 200
Gina Domme has been active in the fitness industry for over 20 years, working in health clubs, college fitness centers, yoga and pilates studios. She has taught group exercise, one on one personal training, pre-natal fitness, and she currently conducts yoga and pilates classes at her own studio. She has always enjoyed helping people reach their personal fitness goals and seeing them realize that living a healthy lifestyle can change their lives.

She has been married for 20 years and has 3 great children. Her certifications include: Yoga Alliance 200RYT, Peak Pilates Professional Certification, Cooper Institute Group Cycling, AFAA Personal Training and Group Exercise. She also holds an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy and is the owner of Flow Yoga and Pilates Studio in Amarillo, TX.

Nicole Bangerter E-RYT 200
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.

Nicolle Bangerter, E-RYT is Yoga Alliance Certified. She has studied with Judith Lassiter and is trained in Pre/Post-natal, Kids, Seniors, Restorative, and Vinyasa. In addition to teaching yoga, Nicolle offers private sessions, as well as meditation and stress management coaching to individuals and corporations. Her favorite time is spent at home in the Utah Mountains with her husband and three sons.

Shannon Johnson, RYT 200
Shannon graduated from Indiana University in 2000 with a major in Human Development & Family Studies, with minors in Public Health and Non-Profit Management. She has worked as an Adoption Caseworker and has helped run a family business with her husband. Shannon has two sons and a dog that lights up her life. She has been teaching and sharing yoga for six years. She has an ACE Personal Trainer’s certification and received her 200 hours through Yogafit. Shannon has enjoyed working through her 500 hours, including a trip to India in November of 2010. Much of Shannon’s free time is spent bee-keeping, gardening and cooking. Shannon’s Yoga journey has brought her a sense of grounding, joy, gratitude and ever expanding knowledge and compassion.

Jennifer Tipton, RYT 500 E-RYT 200
Jennifer began her YogaFit journey in 2003. She was immediately inspired by the philosophy of brining yoga to every body. After completing her 200 hour training with YogaFit, she also completed 200 teacher training hours at the White Lotus Foundation and an additional 500 hour program with her teacher Shiva Rea. Jennifer is certified in Thai Yoga Therapy and has studied restorative yoga with Judith Lasater. She has been working in the fitness industry since 2008 as an instructor and personal trainer and is currently pursuing a Masters of Science degree in Exercise Science and Sports Psychology. She teaches classes and works with private clients in San Diego and is the Regional Group Fitness Coordinator for a large corporate and residential fitness company based out of southern California.

Along with continuing her yoga journey, Jennifer enjoys traveling the world and has visited almost forty countries. She speaks Spanish and Portuguese and dabbles in other languages. She holds a BA in International Studies and an MA in Latin American Studies. Jennifer teaches that through our living yoga we can create change and bring peace and joy to ourselves and others. She believes that through the power of the breath and with the integration of mindful movement, we can create an amazing practice that we can share with the world around us.

Heather Schmidt, RYT 200
Heather has a BS in Sports Medicine from The University of Pittsburgh in Bradford, Pennsylvania. She has been working in the fitness industry for 12 years. Her focus began primarily in strength and conditioning of sport specific activities. After college, Heather began to teach group fitness classes expanding her experience to private health clubs, YMCA’s and spa settings. In 2002, she was introduced to YogaFit as a continuing education course offered through her employer at Canyon Ranch in Tucson, AZ. At the time, Heather did not realize the impact it would have on her life opportunities it would lead to.

Since her first YogaFit training, she has completed her 200-RYT with Yoga Alliance and now has the pleasure of sharing her experience and knowledge with others.

Shaye Molendyke, RYT 200
Shaye, an avid runner, started practicing Yoga in 1998 after her IT band pulled completely out from her knee during a long run and immediately stopped her in her tracks. Devastated, she stumbled across a Yoga DVD and found the next best thing to the runner's high she was so used to. Within weeks of practicing she knew she would someday teach Yoga but didn't know how until she was exposed to Yogafit in 2003 and found her “yoga home". Shaye, an officer in the US Air Force, went on to complete her 200 hr RYT in 2006 and has since been honored to teach to mostly a military population. The Yoga path continues for Shaye with the completion of her Masters in Counseling and her recent joining of the Yogafit family of Trainers. She is thrilled to be afforded the opportunity to spread the good news of Yogafit to future teachers and students alike. Shaye believes the peaceful future of our world lies with children and brings the message of Yoga weekly to children in her kid's school. She feels strongly that through Yogafit's message of “Yoga is for everybody and every BODY'" that it can become as common-place in people's daily lives as brushing their teeth!

Cathy Holdsworth, E-RYT -200
Cathy teaches a variety of yoga classes including vinyasa, restorative, gentle/therapeutic and beginner yoga in the Pacific Northwest. She feels that yoga can be practiced by anyone, no matter what their physical condition and enjoys guiding people to find the expression of the poses that works best for their bodies and gives them the most benefit. She is an E-RYT 200 as well as holds certifications in personal training, Pilates and silver and fit.

Amanda Frame, E-RYT 200
Amanda started her journey with Yoga Fit in 1999 when she began teaching at her local gym. She has her BA in Nursing from Augusta State University of Georgia and works in the cardiovascular tower as a Registered Nurse at University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia. Amanda is currently working on her Doctorate of Nursing at The Medical College of Georgia. She is an ACE certified group fitness instructor, earned her RYT 200 in 2006, and her E RYT 200 in 2008. Amanda is an avid runner and teaches indoor cycling classes as well. Yoga has provided Amanda with a solid base for her personal life, nursing practice, and for her group fitness classes. One of her favorite quotes speaks that to the heart of her yoga practice is, “Peace. It does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble, or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.” ~ Unknown