Melissa Russo

I have been involved in group fitness for over ten years. While in college, I started teaching small aerobics classes in the dormatory where I lived. After receiving a BA in Apparel Management from Philadelphia University in 1995, I took a strong interest in kickboxing and strength training. While working in my field of Apparel Manufacturing, I continued to be dedicated to my own health and fitness. After having my first child in summer of 2001, I met with a personal trainer who changed my life. That was the turning point. I felt the difference between working out alone, and having someone motivate you. At that point, I decided that group fitness and personal training can change lives. I wanted to do that too. So I continued to take class after class and pick up on technique and motivational cues, coaching skills, and felt the benefits of the results. Getting my Primary Group Fitness Certification opened the door to a whole new world. It was also a world in which I could work around my kids schedules, and continue to be a strong mother and homemaker, while earning money doing something that I am passionate about. Over the past three years I have achieved certifications in step, kickboxing/combat, personal training, and have done various Pilates workshops. I continue to develop my classes by reading up on the latest moves and formats. I am known for being tough, but lovable. I am a people person, with excellent communication skills, and a proven track record, and the ability to teach up to four or five classes in one day.