I grew up on Long Island, NY in a loving, yet non athletic family. Athletically I wasn't super coordinated, yet I managed to hit a tennis racquet correctly, and eventually competed in varsity tennis at my HS. Upon graduation from high school I attended Western New England College in Springfield Massachusetts where I majored in sociology and health. I was a two sport collegiate athlete (tennis, swimming) and started to develop a passion for health and wellness as an undergrad. After receiving my bachelors I went on to graduate school in Garden City, NY at Adelphi University where I earned a masters degree in health education.
While in graduate school I swam on a masters swim team and was introduced to endurance sports, marathoning and triathlon specifically. I absolutely LOVED training and sharing my enthusiasm with others. My experience as an athlete coupled with my passion for fitness opened another doorway to my heart which was in group fitness. I thought it was so much fun to work out with a group of people! I wanted to be in the position to create a fun environment for exercising and sharing passion for wellness. So, while in graduate school, I got certified to teach spin/cycle classes in 2003, and shortly after became AFAA certified to teach group fitness. I taught spin classes throughout graduate school while I was finishing my degree.
One day after a 16 mile training run in the bitter winter of NY I decided after I graduate I was moving to a warmer climate, which is how I landed in Las Vegas. I wanted to be in an environment where I can train year round. I started working for Clark County School District in 2007 as a high school health teacher, and years later moved into middle school physical education as I wanted to be a role model for kids to take care of themselves and develop an enjoyment of some form of physical fitness, whether that was through sports or activities. After coaching track and cross country at the high school level, I introduced track to middle school kids and have started a track program at my school.
Since 2005 I have ran in 21 marathons, including 2 trips to Boston, and have completed in countless triathlons including 3 Ironman. I love training and competing. I currently swim with Las Vegas Masters swim team 4 mornings a week and compete at the Regional level. I am committed to a lifestyle of wellness which is why I am so fortunate to be able to share my love and enthusiasm with others through my profession.
"Think of something you love to do, and figure out a way to get paid for doing it." This was advice given to me years ago and as a fitness professional, I can honestly say I am doing just that. I love learning new formats and finding innovative ways to challenge the body, mind and spirit. I had the opportunity to go through Lifepower Yoga Teacher Training, and know that my life perspective has shifted through this training. I can appreciate where I have been, and where I continue to go on a daily basis. This is a journey I continue to enjoy through each of my personal practices. People are creatures of habit, and when we break out of habits and normal routines we can change how we look and feel, but sometimes it is about stepping out of our comfort zone.
I have been teaching group fitness for 16 years, and have been working at Lifetime Summerlin since the club opened in May of 2011. Lifetime has supported each step that I have taken outside of my comfort zone enabling me to teach a variety of formats.
I look forward to coming to teaching because it doesn't feel I am actually 'working.' I get to sweat, laugh, and smile with members while working out. How exciting! Apart from my slight obsession with Britney Spears, peanut butter, and trips to Costco, I think members can see that my heart lies within having fun, being safe, working hard, and most importantly growing
