Susan Mitzner

I have been in the field of dance and movement from the age of 6 when I began to study classical ballet with Valerie Bettes. In my late teens and early 20's I studied with Alvin Ailey Dance Company and performed as part of Alvin Ailey II Company. I retired from the company when I was pregnant with twins, who are now 37. It was at that time I was introduced to yoga. I studied with Iyengar in India and have been involved with this form of yoga since. I also have my Kripalu Yoga certification, which is also Iyengar based. I am now studying Anasura Yoga with Tood Norian. I have always been involved with fitness and health and teaching at different gyms. I received my Pilates Certification through PCC, which is the Pilates Certification Center in Raleigh, N.C., realizing I was involving pilates in all forms of my life as pilates was always a part of dance and movement even when it was not called "pilates". To me, correct form is essential whether I am teaching a cycle class, step aerobic class, or working with private clients. I am now involved teaching yoga and pilates to seniors at Forest at Duke and Carolina Meadows. I have seen tremendous growth and body awareness with all my students. I am also a certified Dance Therapist and have connected through movement with both children and adults. I have been in the field of education and research for many years and now to keep my mind alert and exercised I teach math classes at a local college. I am a great role model for others as at 64 I am strong, healthy and in great shape. Most of my clients do not believe my age and know all this happens by taking care of the body physically, emotionally and thru healthy eating.