Feb 23-25, 2024 • Hyatt Regency Dulles
Feb 23-25, 2024 • Hyatt Regency Dulles
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.
Dr. Aaron Aslakson, PhD
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.
Veronika Batyan
Veronika Batyan, a Fitness Idol winner, is a passionate fitness coach, award-winning dance instructor, and visionary entrepreneur with over 23 years of experience in the wellness sector. Veronika creates and innovates around purposeful, powerful, and high-performance fitness and dance programs that motivate and empower clients to achieve their most audacious goals. She has been invited to speak at conventions, embassies, fundraisers, and entertainment events in the US and abroad. Her goal is empowerment of people to take their personal wellness to the next level in comprehensive, inclusive, and innovative ways.
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.
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.
JENNA BOSTIC
Jenna Bostic is an international Zumba® Education Specialist for Zumba® Fitness. She has been presenting for Zumba® since 2008 and teaches Zumba® Basic 1, Zumba® Basic 2, Zumba® Step, Zumba® Toning & Aqua Zumba® instructor trainings. Jenna was the featured ZES for the one-on-one choreography on the ZIN #35 DVD and on ZIN TV for both Aqua Zumba® & Zumba® Toning. Jenna has a degree in Exercise & Sport Science and holds ACE, AFAA and AEA certifications in group fitness, personal training and aqua fitness.
BEATRIZ BUSCH
Beatriz Busch, a passionate Zumba® Education Specialist from Latin America, is a dedicated “Bailadora” with a background in Flamenco. Her love for dance emanates in every class, combining Latin rhythms and fitness. Having trained in her home country and Chapel Hill, NC, she eagerly awaits the opportunity to share the joy of dance with you.
JACKIE CARROLL
Jackie has been teaching in the fitness industry since 1998. Formerly, a Body Training Systems and Les Mills instructor, Jackie is now focused on classes geared for the Active Agers. Jackie has a true passion for aqua fitness and is WATERinMOTION certified, AEA certified, and S.E.A.T. certified. Jackie also holds certifications in Aqua Basics and Aqua Advanced, ZUMBA and SCW Active Aging. Currently, Jackie teaches WATERinMOTION Original, freestyle Aqua Fitness, S.E.A.T. and Senior Boot Camp formats at the YMCA of Southeast Florida.
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.
REBECCA CONSER
Becky Conser has been in the Health and Fitness Industry for over 20 years. She has been a club operator, a Master Trainer for an International Fitness Brand, a Studio Leader for Life Time, a member of Film Talent teams and much more. She got her beginnings as a Professional dancer who traveled the Country with Marching Auxiliaries, and was a K-12 Physical Education, Health and Dance Teacher in the Public School Sector. She has spent the last 5 years leading a team of instructors in Gainesville, VA as the Studio Leader and is versed in everything from barre to conditioning to yoga. Her versatility and creativity has put her in a place where she can lead with love and sprinkle Magic throughout her community.
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!
MEGAN COOPERMAN, MEd, MS
Megan is a seasoned fitness pro with 25 plus years of experience in the fitness industry from instructor to group fitness manager, wellness director, employee wellness specialist, and master trainer. She holds primary group fitness certifications and personal training certification from the American Council on Exercise, Athletics and Fitness Association of America, and the Aquatics Exercise Association. Megan has master’s degrees in industrial organizational psychology and counseling.
JOSHUA CRADDOCK
Joshua Craddock holds dual degrees in Exercise Science and Sport Studies. He has been in the health, fitness, and wellness industry teaching movement and mindfulness for 23 years. Joshua has extensive experience as a yoga, qigong, and meditation teacher. He has also had extensive experience as a strength and conditioning coach for young athletes. Joshua has done it all including being a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, martial arts teacher, boxing instructor, running coach, facility manager, and fitness educator.
TRISH DACOSTA
Trish is a well-rounded communications and fitness professional with 13-plus years of experience. She is trained in contemporary and classical Pilates through STOTT and has a decades-long background in personal training. She is masterful at combining lifting, Pilates, and performance into her unique style of coaching. Trish is also a sought-after media strategist having done Public Relations for Fortune 500 companies and startups.
CHRISSY DAWSON
Chrissy Dawson is a lover of movement that has evolved from her extensive dance training into the world of group fitness. As a SoulBody Instructor, Presenter, and Ambassador, Chrissy has been sharing her passion for many years in the group fitness space with a dedicated following of members at Merritt Clubs. She also stays grounded to her roots in dance as the Dance Director of her own company in Baltimore, MD.
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. You’ll find her enjoying her small-town neck of the woods in New Jersey with her daughters and high maintenance pups.
ELLEN DE WERD, ERYT 200
Ellen de Werd is a 23-year fitness industry leader with extensive experience developing innovative programs. She is the creator of WARRIOR Rhythm™, WARRIOR Strength™, and WARRIOR Combat™. Her unique programs are taught in 13 countries. Since the launch of the WARRIOR Instructor Academy, Ellen has garnered international attention as a featured, favorite presenter and educator for SCW, IDEA, canfitpro, Fitness Fest, and Fitness Conventions Inc. Ellen is the Fitness Director at the Downtown Athletic Club and a Lululemon Legacy Ambassador. She is also a certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist and 200 Hour EYRT.
NICK DENNIS
Nick Dennis is the visionary leader, CEO and Co-founder of fitDEGREE. Holding a degree in Mathematics and Statistics, Nic’s passion for fitness and technology converged as he spearheaded fitDEGREE. Securing funding for his startup while still in college, early on, Nick demonstrated his entrepreneurial prowess. His disruptive leadership has transformed the software landscape introducing a customer-centric ethos to development. As the CEO of fitDEGREE, he pioneers the first studio intelligence platform in the boutique fitness sector, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
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.
BOB ESQUERRE, MA, NSCA-CPT
Bob is recognized by IHRSA as a subject-matter-expert in personal training. After his tour as the corporate fitness director at Equinox Fitness in New York City, Bob, holding a double masters degree in Business & Economics, became known as “The Green Thumb” because of his ability to consistently create net income profits for clubs, studios, and fitness professionals nationally and globally.
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.
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.
HERSON GARCIA
Herson Garcia is a Level 3 NeuroKinetic Practitioner and ACE Certified Personal Trainer specializing in sports performance and faulty movement correction. As the owner of Truth Health and Performance, and a co-founder of the Garcia Institute of Modern Excellence and Wholota Wellness Company, he develops scientific-based programming for competitive athletes and inspires individuals ages 3 to 83 to enhance their innate abilities. Herson is an expert in injury prevention and athletic performance acceleration.
BISHOP GARLAND
Bishop is the owner of STREET MOV’D Fitness in NYC. A former Army Master fitness trainer, he has over 30 years of experience in the martial arts and fitness fields and holds several different certifications. He is an international ISCA Master Trainer, having conducted workshops and certifications in various formats across the globe. Having worked for companies such as Men’s Health, his innovative programs have been featured in both print and television.
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.
TANISHA (TANI) HAGGARD
Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in dance and psychology, Tani has been involved in various dance, theater, and sports programs since adolescence. Her passion for athleticism carried over through the years into college. Shortly after moving and with a degree in hand she was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Disease. A life-changing move to Florida and 4 autoimmune diseases later Tani is living her passion with a career in health and fitness: bringing electric energy, strength, and endurance to the fitness world. She currently serves on the Fitness Team at Trilogy Orlando, an active aging community in central Florida.
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.
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).
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. 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.
ELIZABETH LENART, MEd
With over 25 years in the fitness industry, Elizabeth is an international fitness educator, content creator and fierce advocate of mental health. She’s known for explosive intervals, electric coaching & innovative programming. Elizabeth has an MEd in Educational Psychology, is a licensed counselor, and a wellness and life coach. She uses counseling and coaching to help clients get out of their heads and into their bodies. She’s the National Program Education Director for Balletone, and a Program Specialist for Barre Above, Tabata Bootcamp, WaterRower, and Chaos. Elizabeth is the Fitness Director at Yale University Payne Whitney Gymnasium and the owner of Studio E Fitness.
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.
ROSIE MALAGHAN, MS, ERYT-200
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.
BILL MCBRIDE
Bill is a health club industry veteran with over 25 years of experience leading and managing all aspects of commercial health clubs, medical fitness centers, residential, community, multi-tenant, and corporate fitness sites. He co-founded Active Wellness, LLC and owns a health club consultancy business – BMC3. Bill has served as Chairman of IHRSA, serving on the Board of Directors. He was President of the Mid-Atlantic Club Management Association (MACMA) and served on the Industry Advisory Board for the American Council of Exercise (ACE). He serves on the Medical Wellness Association (MWA) as a Faculty Member and The Medical Fitness Network (MFN) Advisory Boards. Bill also served as Contributing Editor for ACSM’s Health/Fitness Facility Standards & Guidelines, 5th Edition. Bill was recently acknowledged as one of the top 25 Consumer HealthTech Executives for 2020.
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.
Dr. JONATHAN MIKE, PhD
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Turbo Tax. 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.
DEBORAH ROTHSCHILD, MS, NASM-CPT, ACE-CPT, AFAA-CGFI
Deborah Rothschild, MS began her fitness career in 2003 as a Certified Personal Trainer and has worked as a Group Fitness Instructor, Pilates Instructor, Lead Trainer, Group Fitness & Pilates Manager, Fitness Director, and Sports & Wellness Director. Her specializations include: ACE-Senior Fitness Specialist & Brain Health Trainer, NFPT-Cancer Recovery Specialist, BHOF-BoneFit Instructor, and Parkinson Wellness Recovery-PWR!Moves Instructor. She is the owner of Tough Agers, LLC, a virtual and on-location fitness company that specializes in working with older adults of all fitness levels and capabilities.
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.
DETRIC SMITH
The owner of Results Performance Training studio, Detric Smith has dedicated over two decades of experience to help trainers cultivate fulfilling, lucrative, lifetime careers in fitness. He works as a mentor and consultant for trainers and fitness brands. He’s also written for several well-respected fitness publications. Detric’s credentials include a degree in Kinesiology, NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, American College of Sports Medicine Exercise Physiologist, NSCA Certified Personal Trainer.
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.
KRISTEN TOWNSEND
Kristen Townsend, M.S., brings her experience of competitive figure skating, 500-hr yoga training, and 20 years immersed in study of varied mind-body modalities to her creation of each SoulBody Restore programming. She is dedicated to creating a fun, accessible, and approachable entryway to restorative and regenerative of practices for all.
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!
SARA VANDENBERG
Sara has been teaching in the fitness industry since 2010. She grew up dancing competitively which led her towards teaching fitness in her adult life. Sara is a fitness instructor at the YMCA of Cass & Clay Counties and North Dakota State University Wellness Center in Fargo. In addition to being a WATERinMOTION Champion, Sara teaches Les Mills and the SOUL Fitness formats, is a master trainer and content creator for SOUL Fitness and is an ACE certified group fitness instructor.
MANUEL VELAZQUEZ
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
