July 19-21, 2024 • Grand Hyatt Atlanta Buckhead
July 19-21, 2024 • Grand Hyatt Atlanta Buckhead
VISIONARIES & INDUSTRY LEADERS
ABBIE APPEL
Abbie Appel is a recreational therapist and the owner of AbbieFit Consulting. As a fitness education specialist, she collaborates with organizations including YMCA, Crunch, and Equinox. She is an author and program developer who created the SCW Pilates, SCW Barre Education Certification, and the new SCW Stretching & Flexibility Certification. She also contributed to the ACSM Group Exercise Manual and Schwinn Indoor Cycling Certification Manual. Abbie is an acclaimed presenter for ACSM, IDEA, IHRSA and SCW, among others. She delivers fitness education for world-class brands including Nautilus, Schwinn and TRX. Abbie was awarded SCW Fitness Presenter of the Year.
MIRIAM BALL
Miriam Ball is the CIO and a licensed property & casualty broker at Alternative Balance LLC. An expert and industry icon, she specializes in developing insurance programs for the health, beauty, and wellness industries. Over the past 20 years, Miriam has been dedicated to developing easy-to-understand policy forms and simple website systems for insureds across the United States. Miriam is also a freelance writer and editor. Based in New Hampshire, Miriam enjoys visiting the ocean, gardening, and traveling to new places.
GAIL BANNISTER-MUNN
Jon Baraglia
Jon Baraglia has over 25 years of extensive experience in diverse fitness leadership positions. He possesses an unwavering dedication to transforming lives, instilling enjoyment in exercise, and fostering an inspiring atmosphere for fitness experts. Throughout his journey, he has had the privilege of traversing the nation for more than 15 years, collaborating with numerous health club establishments and gaining invaluable insights from countless professionals in the commercial fitness landscape.
Brian Bettendorf, MSM, MA
Brian Bettendorf, MSM (Management), MA (Kinesiology), is the Head of Education for RumbleRoller and a managing partner in Drake Global Strategy, a consulting firm helping fitness and sporting goods companies develop their brand, create new products and accelerate growth. He has been in the fitness industry for over twenty years as a practitioner, operator, educator, and consultant. After selling a physical therapy and fitness company he co-founded, Brian then spent time during the early years at TRX in a variety of product, marketing, education, and business development roles.
CRAIG BONGELLI
Craig is a world renowned strength expert, Westside Barbell alumni and speaker. Constantly learning directly from the top minds in fitness and business, Craig discovered the exact steps to build his dream business, where he currently works with a wide range of clients including the 3rd strongest man in the world, 4th strongest woman and his favorite client, Trudy, a 67 year-old retiree who cranks out 17 pull ups. Today, Craig teaches coaches how he built a 6-figure coaching business in two hours per week.
C. VICTOR BRICK
C. Victor Brick, M.Ed., is the co-founder/CEO of Planet Fitness Growth Partners, which owns and operates over 100 health clubs in the United States and Australia. He is the founder of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation, whose mission is to change the way the world treats mental health. Victor sits on the John Hopkins Department of Psychiatry Advisory Board and, along with his wife, Lynne, was the 2020 recipient of the Debra Simon Award for Leadership in Furthering Mental Wellness. Victor & Lynne recently launched The Mental Wellbeing Certification for Fitness Professionals, the inaugural mental well-being certification for fitness professionals.
LYNNE BRICK, RN, MA
Lynne Brick holds a master’s degree in Health and Wellness Coaching with an emphasis on Nutrition and was an IDEA International Instructor of the Year. She is the co-owner, with her husband, Victor, of Brick Bodies and Planet Fitness Growth Partners, totaling over 100 clubs. As the co-founder of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation, Lynne was the 2020 recipient of the Global Wellness Summit Debra Simon Leadership in Mental Wellness Award. Victor & Lynne recently launched The Mental Wellbeing Certification for Fitness Professionals, the inaugural mental well-being certification for fitness professionals.
SIRI CHILAZI, MBA, MA
Siri is the IDEA Emerging Trailblazer of the Year 2023 and a 15+-year veteran of the fitness industry. She is a Master Trainer for Cardio Yoga® and RAQ THE BARRE®, and she teaches formats ranging from Pilates and Barre to Step and HIIT. As an educator, Siri is passionate about training instructors and regularly presents at industry-leading conferences. Besides her fitness career, Siri has a second career as an academic researcher on behavioral science and gender equality in organizations.
PAUL CHRISTOPHER, CSCS
Paul Christopher is Founder/Owner of Gravity + Oxygen Fitness in Boca Raton, Florida. Holding degrees in Health Science, Athletic Training, and Health Care Administration, his skill base is a culmination of over 20 years of personal training and sports performance experience. Paul is a Certified Athletic Trainer, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and Certified Personal Trainer. A favorite MANIA® presenter, he generously pays forward his knowledge to the next generation of fitness professionals.
Brandi Clark
Brandi Clark is a marketing and sales coach and mentor for fit pros helping them build the financially successful businesses of their dreams. With over 25 years in the fitness industry, she understands how quickly things change and evolve so she spends her time helping fitness professionals adapt so they don’t get left behind. Her specialty is training others how to create content that connects with their audience so they can build a six-figure training business, making more money to help more people.
Harley Cofield
Harley is an NASM certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor. She is a strength and conditioning coach and specializes in performance enhancement. She strives to help people reach success in all aspects of their lives from the inside out. Harley is a WATERinMOTION® Champion and has been featured on over 15 releases thus far. She has a background in dance that has transitioned into her fitness career. She has earned multiple certifications over the years, and currently fills her schedule with aquatics, dance, barre, yoga and private training sessions; reaching fitness enthusiasts on land and in the water.
CHRISTINE CONTI, MEd
Christine is an international fitness educator, chronic disease wellness specialist, and recipient of the IDEA World 2023 Fitness Professional of the Year. She is the CEO of CONTI: a woman-owned enterprise that offers keynote speaking, chronic disease wellness, mindset coaching, and continuing education. Christine is a best-selling author, podcast host, co-founder of REINVENTING THE WOMAN INTERNATIONAL, and a 3x IRONMAN. After receiving a life-changing diagnosis at age thirty, this former investment banker and teacher is determined to show the world that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
ERICA DAY
With a degree in Finance, passion for the mental health benefits of fitness and over two decades of entrepreneur expertise, Erica found her calling financially empowering gym owners so they can increase profits and better serve their members. Erica is a middle child, problem solver, and self-proclaimed numbers nerd.
SOHAILLA DIGSBY, RDN, LD
Sohailla is a registered dietitian, author, and international speaker. She has been a group exercise instructor since she was a teenager. She partners with fitness pros to help them launch 8-week challenges so their clients get the results that workouts alone won’t deliver. Sohailla is a voice of reason – bringing clarity amidst the nutrition fads and myths that abound in the fitness space. She and her husband have 3 teenagers, and live in Evans, Georgia.
MARYBETH DZIUBINSKI
MaryBeth is a highly respected global fitness industry leader with over 30 years of experience in group exercise programming. She is currently a Senior Fitness Specialist and was a former National Trainer with the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program. MaryBeth was honored by AEA as Global Aquatic Fitness Professional of the Year. MaryBeth is an R.Y.T. and the co-creator of YOQUA™. As a skilled health and wellness professional, she inspires others to commit to long-term health and fitness goals.
CHRISTA FAIRBROTHER, MA, ERYT 500
Christa Fairbrother, MA, is an internationally recognized water yoga coach and trainer. In addition to being a yoga professional, she is certified both as an Aquatic Therapist through the Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute and as an Aquatic Fitness Professional through AEA. She is a favorite ATRI, AEA and FitFest presenter. She combines her background in education, yoga, and aquatics to provide high-quality training for other pros so more people worldwide can get the benefits of water yoga. Look for her book, Water Yoga: A Teacher’s Guide from Singing Dragon books in July 2022.
TOM FORD
Tom holds a degree in Exercise Science along with 16 years of experience as a Certified Athletic Trainer. He is a favorite adjunct professor teaching athletic training with over 30 year’s experience in aquatics. Tom has provided personal training, team coaching, and classroom education in the fields of sports medicine, fitness, and aquatics.
JEWELL FOWLER, MA
Holding a master’s degree in Sports & Performance Psychology, Jewel also carries a Bachelor of Education in Physical Education. She is the Resort Operations Supervisor at the Marriott Vacations Worldwide and has been in the fitness industry for over a decade. She is currently the Recreation Program Coordinator for her local county parks and recreation department. Jewell is an ACE certified group fitness instructor and has taught numerous formats throughout her career.
RONNIE FULTON
Ronnie Fulton is a Certified Corrective Exercise Specialist, a Certified Personal Trainer, and a Licensed Massage Therapist with a passion for helping people to feel better in their bodies. Ronnie uses massage tools to increase flexibility, minimize pain, and improve performance & has taught thousands to embrace simple self-care strategies. With over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, she regularly hosts sold-out workshops.
ANDREW GAVIGAN
Andrew is a recognized speaker in the fitness industry, master trainer, and serves as Director of Education for Aktiv Solutions. He is the founder of MostFit, a small line of unique workout equipment, a NASM and NFPT Certified Personal Trainer and Behavioral Change Specialist and has developed comprehensive fitness and exercise programs for health club & workplace wellness facilities. Andrew’s passion centers around user engagement and human behavior.
ANN GILBERT
Ann Gilbert is the fitness industry’s premiere educator on exercise and aging. A successful owner and operator of Shapes Fitness for Women, she oversees over 50 Personal Trainers and Group Fitness professionals, coordinating extremely successful fee-based small group training programs including functional training for the older adult involving strength, balance, coordination and independence. As an ACE / IHRSA Personal Trainer of the Year, Ann is a featured, sought-after and popular speaker at IHRSA, FBA- Succeed, Club Industry, SCW MANIA®, and IAFC Conventions. Ann is an industry leader and education expert helping to develop and teach the following SCW Certifications: Active Aging, Aquatic Exercise, Group Fitness, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. (Supported Exercise for Ageless Training.).
JACOB GLASSMEYER
Jacob Glassmeyer is an accomplished, multi-award-winning Master Instructor of Tai Chi and Qigong, blackbelt in Taekwondo and Army veteran with decades of experience in martial arts and the fitness industry. Jacob was inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 2022 as the result of the culmination of accomplishments in the martial arts and social good through his passion, discipline and leadership to our generations and our nation’s veterans.
AUTUMN HAMMER
Autumn has a degree in biology and education, and boasts of a decade-plus of experience as a Fitness Instructor and YMCA Healthy Living Director. She now serves as the Business Development Manager at WATERinMOTION®. Autumn is certified by ACE and is passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals and improve their lives. Offering expertise in Les Mills, Upbeat Barre, Cycle, YMCA programs, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T., she’s committed to enhancing wellness journeys.
MARK HARRINGTION JR.
Mark Harrington Jr. is a dynamic executive with a proven record in fitness and IT consulting. As President of Healthworks Fitness, Republic Fitness, and GymIt, he drives growth by blending technology and vision. Co-founder of First Fitness Management, he’s committed to community health through Healthworks Community Fitness. Mark’s leadership serves thousands of members and employs hundreds of fitness professionals, reflecting his dedication to innovation, team development, and holistic well-being.
MARISSA HOFF, MEd
Marisa is a partner at The Empower Group, a full-service consulting firm based in California. Marisa works with businesses to achieve growth and continued success. Previously, Marisa was GM at Stevenson Fitness, a full-service boutique health club in L.A. She is an Ambassador for the Women in Fitness Association, holds a master’s degree in education and is an international presenter at various conferences, including IHRSA, Athletic Business, and various state Parks & Rec conferences.
JENN HOGG, MA
Jenn Hogg is a 5-time US National Aerobic Gymnastics Champion, holds a Master’s Degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University and is a driving force in the fitness & wellness space. As the Director of Group Exercise Programs for East Bank Club in Chicago, Jenn’s mission is to elevate talent & programming through education. Jenn is a Master Trainer for CORE Health & Fitness representing Schwinn Indoor Cycling, StairMaster HIIT, Nautilus Strength, Star Trac Cardio, and Throwdown.
JEFF HOWARD
Jeff Howard has a degree in kinesiology, is a beloved international fitness presenter, SCW Faculty Member, and successful entrepreneur. As a highly sought-after fitness consultant, Jeff has managed several facilities in the USA and abroad including Equinox in Chicago. He has been featured in numerous fitness videos and is a world-renowned celebrity trainer, appearing on several national TV shows, including Bravo’s popular Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. Jeff owns and operates “Jeff Howard’s Athlete’s Club”, a successful fitness streaming channel, as well as “Jeff Howard Fitness”, a fitness studio and Personal Training Center in Louisville, KY.
MICHAEL HUGHES
Founder of Gymnazo & Gymnazo EDU, holding a degree in Kinesiology, Michael is a Fellow of Applied Functional Science and certified as a Multidimensional Movement Coach, a Functional Manual Reaction Coach, a Female Chain Reaction Coach, a 3D Movement Analysis & Performance System Coach, plus several more. He is also a Precision Nutrition Coach and Post Rehab Conditioning specialist. He’s spent the last decade pioneering a more sustainable model of training that blends his heart for restoration with the energy of fitness training. Michael’s mission is to elevate the industry’s standards for what quality looks like as a trainer through scientific knowledge and application.
GREG JOHNSON, MS
Greg Johnson is a fitness studio owner and has 20 years of experience in health and exercise. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in fitness and rehabilitation, with minors in Health and Wellness. Greg also has a Masters of kinesiology from CALU, with concentrations in Performance Enhancement and Injury Prevention. He is also a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA and a Performance Enhancement Specialist through NASM (NASM-PES).
LEIGH JOHNSON
Leigh Johnson is the Fitness Coordinator at Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus. With nearly a decade in the fitness industry, Leigh has trained multiple student staff in group fitness and personal training. Leigh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and a Master of Arts in Education, Physical Activity Educational Services, both from The Ohio State University. She has been a Master Instructor for the Schwinn Indoor Cycling team since 2021.
SARA KOOPERMAN, JD
Sara, CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION® & S.E.A.T., is a visionary leader who has transformed the fitness education community. A successful business owner and advisor, she is a keynote speaker, published author, podcast presenter, and sought-after industry trailblazer. Sara has a unique ability to share her passion and devotion towards fitness education through her humor, enthusiasm, and her effervescent no-nonsense personality. She serves on the Gold’s Gym Think Tank, was a founding board member of the Women in Fitness Association, is on the canfitpro Advisory Council, is a proud inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, and an active member of ACSM. Sara currently served on IHRSA’s Headlight Committees for Facility Standards and is a panelist on the IHRSA’s talk show, Talks & Takes, and has left an indelible mark on the fitness industry.
CHERI KULP
Cheri Kulp has been a certified fitness professional for over three decades. She holds a degree in Special Education and is the Co-Founder of the successful aqua dumbbell program, WATERinMOTION® Strength. Cheri is currently the choreographer for WATERinMOTION® Original and a marathoner, triathlete, and winner of two national bodybuilding competitions. Cheri has starred in over 100 Fit Pro videos and shares her vast experience and passion for teaching by presenting at SCW MANIA® conferences nationwide. She holds certifications in numerous land-based and aqua programs, including AEA, NASM, WATERinMOTION®, ARC, and Les Mills.
DR. JENNIFER LANDA, MD
Dr. Jennifer Landa is Chief Medical Officer of BodyLogicMD and the owner and operator of BodyLogicMD of Orlando. Dr. Landa dedicates her practice to bioidentical hormone therapy, customized nutrition and fitness programs to help women and men resolve menopause and andropause symptoms, including weight gain, sexual dysfunction, declining energy levels and stress. As a former gynecologist, Dr. Landa has always desired to help patients achieve wellness through hormone balance and preventive medicine.
DR. EDWARD LASKOWSKI, MD
Dr. Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., is former Co-director of Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine and a Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Division of Sports Medicine at Mayo Clinic. Nationally and internationally recognized for his expertise in fitness and musculoskeletal and sports medicine, Dr. Laskowski studies and promotes best practices for musculoskeletal rehabilitation, general fitness, injury prevention, and injury Rehabilitation. From 2006 to 2010, he served on the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports under Presidents Bush and Obama, and he has several hundred publication credits, including scientific papers, abstracts, books, book reviews, book chapters, and popular media and multimedia.
MELISSA LAYNE, MEd
Melissa is a Kinesiology Department Faculty Member at the University of North Georgia. She has been a well-respected and well-loved fitness and nutrition leader for over 35 years. Having created the SCW Nutrition Coaching for Fitness Professionals Certification, the SCW Nutrition, Hormones & Metabolism Certification, and contributed to the SCW Active Aging Certification, Melissa has consistently sold-out educational seminars. Melissa holds a Masters of Education in Exercise Science, a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and an Associates degree in Medical Terminology.
GREG MACK
Greg is a Navy Nuclear Engineering School graduate blending engineering expertise with a passion for fitness. As a certified Medical Exercise Specialist and Personal Trainer, Greg collaborates with medical professionals to refine his Mobility Profiling Method. This innovative approach assesses and enhances individuals’ motor control, empowering them to move, feel, and live better without pain. Unlock your potential for improved mobility and overall well-being.
TRICIA MURPHY MADDEN
Tricia Murphy Madden is a highly respected veteran of the fitness industry with 30 years of experience. She was awarded Fitness Leader of the Year for IDEA in 2020. Tricia served as the on-set Director for Amazon Halo, directing workouts, and contributing to talent casting and camera skills development. As a National Education Director, she oversees programming and manages a team of 100+ master trainers. Tricia is also the co-creator of Barre Above and a Co-Founder of Homeroom Fit. She actively participates in the IDEA Group Fitness Committee and frequently presents at global events, earning her a reputation as a respected leader in the field.
SHELDON MCBEE, MS
Sheldon holds a Master of Science degree in human nutrition. He is Executive Director at Universal Athletic Club, and is an ACE certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor with over 19 years of experience in health and fitness. Sheldon is an experienced international presenter, lecturer, educator, business consultant, and fitness content developer. He has presented at IHRSA, IDEA, Canfitpro, MACMA, SCW, and other industry conferences. Sheldon has been featured in numerous industry publications and sits on the Canfitpro and Club Solutions Magazine Advisory Panel.
IRENE MCCORMICK, MS, CSCS
Irene McCormick MS, CSCS, is an IDEA Fitness Instructor Award, Author and Subject Matter Expert, an international fitness lecturer, an adjunct faculty instructor teaching physiology, and owner of Coaching Services for Women. Author of “The HIIT Advantage for Women ” (Human Kinetics), she’s a subject matter expert for ACE, NASM/AFAA, Orangetheory, Human Kinetics, ISSA, and SCW Fitness certifications. Irene consults, mentors, and is a Lifetime Dynamic Personal Trainer offering “JUST START” Strength, a Virtual 1:1 Coaching program for Women.
LINDA MCDONALD
Linda McDonald is a Fitness Educator, Virtual Studio Owner and Program Specialist for Barre Above®, Balletone® and Extreme HIIT Chaos. A leader in Group Fitness Programming, providing continuing education training at conferences as well as local workshops, she specializes in training, evaluating, and certifying instructors in various formats. Linda has also worked as a consultant to local health clubs, evaluating group fitness instructors and providing up-skilling workshops.
GUILLERMO MELENDEZ
Guillermo is native from Chicago, IL., now residing in the heart of TEXAS. He has been a ZUMBA® training educator and convention presenter for over 4 years. Guillermo has a BS in Health & Wellness and is finalizing his Masters in Holistic Nutrition. He has a dance background of over 15 years & brings his passion for dance and fitness to all of his presentations – people may ‘walk in’ to his sessions, but ‘dance out with Happy Feet’ ‘ when a ‘Memo’ event is done! He is a Zumba Education Specialist for the following disciplines: Zumba® Basic 1, Aqua Zumba®, Zumba® Toning, Zumba® Proskills, Zumba® Toning and Zumba® Aqua Zumba Jammer of Choreography Workshops. Memo is a certified NASM Personal Trainer, ACE Certified Group Fitness, AFAA Certified Group Fitness, AEA Certified Aquatic Professional, CPR/AED certified.
ANDREA METCALF
For more than three decades, Andrea Metcalf has been a prominent figure in the fitness industry, empowering individuals & business alike. Featured on NBC’s Today Show, Steve Harvey, Oprah.com, and USA Today, Andrea owns Heat 3.0 Pilates, The Pilates Experience, and FLX Stretch Training. Specializing on recovery, mobility, and instructor training, she’s authored a best-selling book and is revered by prestigious health organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and American College of Chest Surgeons. Join Andrea today to elevate your fitness and business journey!
Dr. JONATHAN MIKE, PhD
ELIZABETH MOONEY
Country Fusion® was created and founded by Elizabeth Mooney. Elizabeth has been a dancer since the age of 2 and has taught fitness for over 10 years now. She has produced and directed her own Off-Broadway show and has owned her own dance studio in NY. She recently moved to Nashville, TN, where she now resides and has opened Country Fusion® Headquarters. Founder of Burlesque Booty Camp as well as Country Fusion®, Elizabeth is a successful Entrepreneur with instructors all over the world teaching Country Fusion, a professional dancer, choreographer, and a highly experienced dance instructor. You can catch her dance choreography with some of today’s top Country Artists and dancing on Broadway in Nashville.
KEVIN MULLINS, CSCS
Kevin Mullins, CSCS, is a fitness professional, educator, and author who has coached over twenty-thousand personal training sessions and group fitness classes in the last decade. He is the author of best-selling Personal Training book – Day by Day: The Personal Trainer’s Blueprint. The creator of SCW’s Functional Training Certification, Kevin holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland as well as accreditation through the PPSC, USAW, Precision Nutrition, EQUINOX, NSCA, Trigger Point Therapy, ISSA, and Schwinn Cycle.
PATRICK MUMMY
Patrick earned a baseball scholarship to San Diego State University & graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Athletic Training. He founded Symmetry for Health & was awarded a patent on a measurable system for postural assessment and corrective exercise – AlignSmart Technology. Patrick has written three books, the latest – “The Physics of Pain; becoming Pain-Free”. He has spoken on the subject of postural assessment at multiple conferences & corporations.
AKTZI MUSHIN - Atlanta MANIA® 2023 Fitness IDOL Winner
Aktzi is a movement specialist with over 30 years of experience. Specializing in diverse formats like strength training, Pilates, yoga, and dance, his mission is to improve lifestyle, posture, and mobility for all. With expertise in anatomy, biomechanics, and more, Aktzi offers holistic well-being through bilingual choreography and a deep understanding of human physiology and psychology. Join Aktzi to elevate your fitness journey and enhance overall wellness.
JESSICA PINKOWSKI
Jessica is the Fitness Supervisor for On Top of the World Communities and The Ranch Fitness Center and Spa. Jessica has been a fitness professional for over 25 years and holds certifications from ACE, AFAA, FAI, and AEA, and she is a Certified Posture Specialist with the National Posture Institute. Jessica is a presenter for the International Council on Active Aging and SCW Fitness Education.
GUSTI RATLIFF, MED, E-RYT 500, C-IAYT
Gusti Ratliff, Med has worked over a decade with her late business partner developing chair yoga protocols for seniors, the physically challenged, as well as therapeutic adaptive yoga applications for multiple sclerosis. In addition, Gusti is a recovering studio owner where she facilitated 200, 300, and 500 hour YTT programs and one of the first recognized yoga therapy programs in the country. For over 20 years, Gusti continues to blend humor and lightheartedness with the work of transformational yoga.
DIVA RICHARDS
DR. DAN RITCHIE, MS, PhD
Dr. Dan Ritchie is the Co-founder and President of The Functional Aging Institute and has a broad background in the fitness industry including training and management in commercial, for-profit, not for-profit, and educational facilities. With expertise in personal training for special populations including athletes, stroke recovery, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Fibromyalgia and Alzheimer’s, he worked on state-funded research on exercise for severe dementia, Alzheimer’s type. He regularly presents at national and regional conferences and is active on committees for the American College of Sports Medicine.
JANI ROBERTS
KELI ROBERTS
Keli Roberts was named IDEA International Fitness Instructor of the Year award, awarded the SCW Best Female Presenter, Lifetime Achievement OBOW Award, and was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. Keli was also honored as Presenter of the Year, as well as the Inspiration Award winner for Empower! Conventions. Keli is an ACSM EP, an ACE Senior Fitness Specialist and is FAI CPT Certified. Keli is an SCW Faculty Member, a Schwinn® Senior Master Trainer, and a Ryka Ambassador.
DANE ROBINSON
A former collegiate and professional football player, Dane is a Certified Fitness Professional and Performance Enhancement Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. After spending 10+ years of working his way to the top Dane impacts his Atlanta community coaching group classes and private clients. He can also be found impacting HUNDREDS of people across the country as a coach on DailyBurn.com’s episodic on-demand show “Daily Burn 365” in New York City.
YURY ROCKIT
Yury Rockit has specialty training in the fields of Yoga, Pilates and various other modalities possessing specialty experience from India, Nepal, Thailand & USA. He is incredibly versatile as a certified group fitness instructor (AFAA, GFIT), personal trainer (ACE), mindful movement & meditation specialist, and continuing education provider for these organizations. Yury is a much sought-after dance-based choreographer who has presented at many key international professional fitness conferences like MANIAs, IDEA World Fitness, and AFC (Bangkok). Yury formerly owned the Ki Mind Body Studio in Hanoi, Vietnam.
DAVID-DORIAN ROSS
David-Dorian Ross has introduced more students to Tai Chi than any other teacher in America. He has been studying Tai Chi since 1979 from some of the top masters in the world. He’s also a US and world record holder in Tai Chi forms and competitions. He is the founder and CEO of TaijiFit, the creator of the TaijiFit method, and is the #1 best-selling author and creator of 150 Tai Chi educational DVDs and television programs. He is also the National Coordinator for the VA’s Tai Chi for Veterans program.
KYLIE ROSS, MS, MBA
Kylie Ross is Owner of VK Professional Services, VRoK Fitness and a Tax Manager with TurboTax. VK Professional Services offers tax planning and preparation, bookkeeping, notary, website design and business consulting. Kylie Ross is a Certified Personal Trainer from SCW, Nutrition Coach and Bariatric Health Expert. She has been in both industries professionally for almost 6 years. She’s a Gastric Bypass recipient, 11 years and works hard to stay healthy and fit now she assists others to prevent obesity-driven conditions via virtual and mobile fitness and nutrition guidance.
ERICK SANTANA
Experience the energy of Zumba® Education Specialist Erick Santana! This ACE and AFAA group fitness certified international presenter possess over 20 years of performing arts experience. Erick Santana is one of the original 13 master trainers to be chosen to expand the Zumba® Fitness brand in the U.S and abroad. Sight meets sound in this multifaceted presenter. He will entertain you while bringing the party to your body but will also deliver an exhilarating dance fitness workout.
ROBERT SHERMAN
Robert Sherman is President of a personal training and consulting company. He has been a Master Instructor globally for Reebok, SPRI, Schwinn, Bosu, Beachbody, ActivMotion Bar and Total Gym. With 38 years in health and wellness, he is a much sought-after speaker, trainer and program consultant and served on the ACE Industry Advisory Panel. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business and is a Gold Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor by ACE, AFAA and ACSM.
DOUG SHEPPARD
Having authored, Boutique Studio Blueprint: How to Open and Operate a Successful Personal Training Studio, Doug owns and operates a successful PT Facility. He is certified by ACSM, ACE and NSCA (with distinction,) and is trained in Russian Kettlebell, TRX, Dynamic Variable Resistance Training, Precision Nutrition, Functional Movement Screening and Functional Range Conditioning. He placed in the Men’s Health Next Top Trainer competition, and as a young competitive bodybuilder, Doug won the Junior National Championships. Doug served as the State/Provincial Director for NSCA, and has trained professional NFL, USTA, and PGA athletes.
CHRIS STEVENSON, CSCS
Chris Stevenson, former Power Ranger stuntman, is an international speaker and the founder of The Empower Group. Chris regularly presents at IHRSA, SCW Mania, Athletic Business, The Climbing Wall Summit, and more. He is also a columnist for the Athletic Business Journal and the author of the upcoming textbook, “Fitness Facility Management.” Chris has a unique ability to connect with people instantaneously and present viable, applicable lectures that resonate with every audience.
AMBER TOOLE
Amber Toole is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education and Health from Georgia Southern University. She has 30 years of experience in the Fitness Industry and loves to share her expertise with other Fitness Professionals. It is her life’s mission to spread the truth about fitness and nutrition through education. She is the owner of The Training Toole – a Fitness and Nutrition Studio in Ocala, Florida, an SCW Educator and Fit Pro Mentor.
NICK TUMMINELLO
Nick Tumminello is known as the “Trainer of Trainers.” He has worked with a variety of clients from the NFL and NBA to professional bodybuilders & figure models to MMA fighters and exercise enthusiasts of all fitness levels. Coach Nick is the author of four books, was the NSCA’s 2016 Personal Trainer, is the NSCA’s Personal Training Quarterly journal and is the creator of the Movement Performance Assessment (MPA) certification.
TARA TURNER
Tara Turner began her journey in the fitness industry over 20 years ago. She has dedicated her life to helping people achieve their fitness goals. Tara holds several national certifications including Group Exercise, Personal Training, Spinning, and Zumba. She is also a master trainer for ISCA, teaching boxing, kickboxing and kettlebell workshops. Tara encourages people to embrace the beauty, power and wisdom within their spirit, soul and body no matter what shape or size!
LOUIS VAN AMSTEL
Louis van Amstel is a 3x World Dance Champion, an Emmy-nominated choreographer, best known for his ten seasons on the mega-hit TV show ‘Dancing with the Stars. As the creator of LaBlast® Dance Fitness, he shares his passion for dance fitness and uses his Formula, Format, and Philosophy to get people moving through LaBlast® Fitness and LaBlast® Splash (aqua). Louis developed the programs over ten years to ensure quality and accessibility for all, focusing on mental/emotional health and functional fitness.
STACEY SEWARD VANDIVER
Stacey Seward Vandiver is the Owner/CEO of SoulBody Fitness. With over 16 years of teaching experience, Stacey understands the importance of group fitness in fostering community and motivating members to move, whether in-person or virtually. SoulBody Fitness offers on-trend, functional classes globally, to over 300 clubs & studios worldwide, with teacher training and choreography of its four programs. Stacey is a sought-after industry speaker & contributor and is excited to connect with you in 2024!
MANUEL VELAZQUEZ
BECCA VOELPEL
Becca Voelpel is a former professional ballet dancer and collegiate athlete. Her love of movement is what brought her into the group fitness space with the goal to make fitness available and fun for everyone! Rebecca directs and choreographs the Barre Unhitched programming for SoulBody Fitness and is also a Master Trainer and Assessor for the organization. In addition, she also holds a 200-HR YTT and Total Gym Encompass Programming certification. Currently, she teaches locally in the Baltimore, MD area as well as virtually. In addition to her passion for fitness, she holds a Master’s of Science in Healthcare Administration and is enthusiastic about bringing her knowledge of health and wellness into the community through engaging events and classes.
REENA VOKOUN, MS
Reena Vokoun, M.S., Founder and CEO of Passion Fit, is a best-selling and award-winning author, TEDx speaker, TV host and contributor and certified health coach. She is also a favorite group fitness professional, yoga/mindfulness, nutrition and behavior change specialist, and a wellbeing and professional strength coach through ACE, AFAA and Gallup. Reena is well known as an award-winning ESPN fitness championship competitor and an ACE brand ambassador. She was recently selected as one of LA Weekly’s top health and fitness leaders of 2023.
CONNIE WARASILA
Connie is the choreographer for WATERinMOTION®, faculty member of SCW Fitness Education, and certified by ACE, AEA, AFAA, Balanced Body, The Braining Center, Yoga Fit, Schwinn®, Reebok Cycle, and Moms in Motion. Awarded the Aquatic Exercise Association Fitness Professional of the Year, Connie has over 30 years of teaching experience in the USA and abroad. She enjoys traveling around the world presenting new and creative workshops to make fitness more accessible, professional, and fun.
BILLIE WARTENBERG
Billie has over 28 years of experience in the fitness industry and is currently the Fitness and Wellness Director at the Trilogy Resort 55+ Community and Resort in Orlando, FL. Managing almost 100 sessions per week focused on healthy active aging, Billie has authored the SCW Aqua Barre certification and is also a master trainer for SCW’s WATERinMOTION(r) and S.E.A.T. (Supported Exercise for Ageless Training) programs. Drawing on her experience as a former competitive cheerleader, Billie brings high energy, enthusiasm, and encouragement to everything she does.
RUSTON WEBB, MS
With over 20 years in the fitness industry, Ruston Webb is a luminary in Human Movement, holding a master’s degree in the field. He founded The Mobility Recipe, a revered certification for fitness professionals, and developed transformative programs targeting knee, back, and shoulder pain, enhancing client well-being and performance. Leveraging his expertise as a former college instructor in exercise science, Ruston owned a successful gym for 11 years, solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in promoting holistic fitness solutions.
JARED WILLIAMS
Jared, a former collegiate athlete with a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University-Commerce, embarked on his fitness journey in 2005 as a trainer at 24 Hour Fitness in Houston, Texas. Feeling uncertain about his post-graduation path, he seized an opportunity in 2009 to establish his own facility, thus laying the foundation for Dynamic Fitness in Pearland, Texas. Since then, Jared has successfully expanded his brand across Houston, boasting three locations, a thriving community of 17,000 members, and ongoing growth.
SARAH ZAHAB
Sarah is a Registered Kinesiologist, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Group Fitness instructor and co-founder of Continuum Fitness & Movement Performance. Sarah has over 23 years of full-time fitness industry experience and has been awarded the canfitpro Canadian Fitness Presenter of the Year award 2023. Sarah is a former international fitness competitor, nationally ranked race walker and a regular fitness expert on CTV Morning Live Ottawa. Sarah is the creator of the Prenatal and Postnatal Strength Workout DVDs and mom of two beautiful kids.
ROSE ZAHNN
Rose Zahnn is a fitness professional and presenter with over 30 years experience. She started her journey in the world of aerobics and weight training, and has enjoyed teaching a variety of formats at her studio in Sacramento and at conferences and events around the world. She is the creator of several fitness and nutrition programs. Her lifestyle transformation program, AMAZING180, guides participants to a sustainable healthier, happier and fit lifestyle.
DR. JULIE ZULEGER, PhD
