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Personal Trainer Bios

Nicole Cueno
Aldrin D'Souza
Kelly Dickey
Laurie Goudreault
Brent Gross
Ann Haugejorde
Christina Haukoos
Mary Jacobson
Ardie Johnson
Anna Kerr
Ben Lee
Andrew Magill
Anthony Meyer
Pege Miller
Bonnie Oliver
Tim Pearson
Diana Person
Ellen Ruiters
Alejandra Tobar
Jill Winegar
Dawn Wittenberg
Yolanda Womack


Nicole Cueno
612-215-4203

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Fitness is a commitment to yourself, your loved ones, and your quality of life. Running is my passion and commitment and I like helping others find goals and improve fitness through running. More importantly, I love to help people find activities that spark something for themselves. The commitment then becomes easier…and more fun!"

Education

  • NETA Certified Personal Trainer
  • USATF Level I Coaching Certified
  • TRX training
  • Water Safety Instructor & and Private Swim Lesson Instructor
  • Lifeguarding, CPR, AED and First Aid Certified
  • Water Fitness Instructor
  • Masters from University of Minnesota: Evaluation Studies
  • Bachelors of Art: Grinnell College

Experience

  • High school and Adult Running Coach
  • Olympic Trials Marathon Qualifier (2008). PR: 2:42
  • 4-time All-American in the 1500, 5k, and 10k
  • Competitive road racer
  • YWCA Running Coach

Areas of Expertise

  • Endurance Training: beginners to elite athletes
  • Running Program Development
  • Triathlon Training
  • Strength training and injury prevention for running and triathlons
  • General Fitness Program Development
  • Aquatic Fitness


Aldrin D'Souza
612-215-4152

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Working out is as good for the mind as it is for the body. The groundwork of all happiness is health."

Education

  • Certified Personal Trainer
  • Certified Indoor Group Cycling Instructor
  • Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • First Aid, AED and CPR-PR Certified
  • SilverSneakers® Certified

Experience

  • Endurance Training- Marathons + Bicycle racer
  • Youth Fitness instructor, 6+ years
  • Strength Training
  • Yoga

Areas of Expertise

  • First time exercisers
  • Yoga for flexibility and strength
  • Strength and Conditioning
  • Senior Fitness
  • Sports Specific Training
  • Core Body Training
  • Cardiovascular Conditioning
  • Stress Management


Kelly Dickey
612-215-4330

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"My philosophy is to train clients with awareness, enthusiasm and make the workouts fun! I enjoy sharing my passion for movement and wellness. I teach body awareness along with the importance of the integration of health & fitness modalities, including the 7 dimensions of wellness. I love seeing hard work and dedication pay off as individuals strive to lead happier and healthier lives. Set realistic, challenging and measurable goals – Stay positive and HAVE FUN!"

Education

  • NASM - CPT Certified
  • B.S. Health Promotion & Wellness
  • University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point

Experience

  • Group Fitness Instructor
  • Certified personal trainer – 2+ years
  • American Red Cross Instructor-Trainer – CPR/AED/1st Aid
  • Marathon/Triathlon Competitor
  • Prepared beginning runners to be marathon participants
  • Assistant track coach – high school level
  • Youth Running Program Leader - Boys & Girls Club
  • Smoking Cessation training
  • Student Chapter President – National Wellness Institute

Areas of Expertise

  • General Fitness
  • Functional Strength Conditioning
  • Core Stability
  • Behavior Change Facilitation
  • Stress Management
  • Endurance Training


Laurie Goudreault
612-215-4384

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: N/A
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Exercise makes you feel good physically, mentally, and emotionally. Striving to reach your fitness goals will enhance all dimensions of your life. Let me guide you to safe, effective, and productive workouts."

Education

  • AFAA Certified Personal Trainer
  • AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • Body Pump Certified Instructor
  • CPR/AED and First Aid Certified
  • BA -University of Illinois

Experience

  • Body Pump Group Fitness Instructor 4+ years
  • Marathon and Half Marathon Competitor
  • Assistant Track Coach -grade school level

Areas of Expertise

  • Beginning Exercisers
  • Running Programs
  • Strength Training


Brent Gross
612-215-4243

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: N/A
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"When I'm alone, I'm happy just fitting a workout into my schedule. When I'm with qualified trainers, I'm focused; I'm motivated; I am a high-performance machine! The difference is amazing!"

Education

  • U of M Rec. Sports Dept. Certified Black Belt Kung Fu Instructor
  • U of M CLA, Bachelor of Arts
  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR/AED Certified
  • First Aid Certified

Experience

  • Program Design
    • Weight Loss
    • Form Development
    • Sport Performance
  • Group Strength Training
  • 7 years Kung Fu
  • Yang Tai Chi 118 movement form
  • World Class Fire Dancing/Performance Art


Ann Haugejorde
612-215-4341

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Fitness activities can be adventures to enjoy whether you are a beginner or an elite. Join me in discovering what will work for you to work out!"

Education

  • ACE and NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • USATF Certified Running Coach
  • Physical Education Teacher/Coach, U of MN
  • Get Real (weight management) Instructor
  • Diabetes and sports nutrition certified

Experience

  • YWCA Running Club Coach , Competitive racing
  • Healthy Journey Personal Trainer
  • Yoga
  • Bicycle racer
  • Pregnancy (weight gain, loss x 3!)

Areas of Expertise

  • Running program development (beg. to marathon; and chi)
  • General fitness program development
  • Pre-post natal yoga, Kids yoga, Hatha yoga
  • Peri- through post-menopause fitness programs


Christina Haukoos
612-215-4241

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"No matter who you are, or what challenges you face, you will always benefit from a regular fitness program. I have realized many benefits from staying fit, and have seen people's lives transform from committing to a fitness program."

Education

  • W.I.T.S. Certified Personal Trainer
  • Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga instructor
  • CPR/AED Certified
  • First Aid Certified
  • Personal and Professional Certified Coach
  • B.A. degree from The College of St. Benedict
  • M.A. degree from St. Mary's University

Experience

  • Marathons
  • Triathlons
  • 15 years of dance experience
  • Pilates training
  • Life/Fitness balance

Areas of Expertise

  • Beginning Runners
  • Distance Running
  • First time or returning exercisers
  • Cycling
  • Yoga and Meditation


Mary Jacobson
612-215-4208

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 3
Pilates Training: Level 3
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"My experience in both the fitness profession and the area of adult neurogenic rehab allow me to truly merge increased stability and mobility with improved performance in activities of daily living as well as overall fitness and athletic goals. A strong planned fitness program has made me feel and move so much better that I want to share that gift with others. Life is so much better when we feel good!"

Education

  • B.S. Communication Disorders
  • M.S. Communicative Disorders
  • STOTT® PILATES® Certified Instructor
  • National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer
  • Schwinn Certified Indoor Group Cycling Instructor
  • NETA Group Fitness Certified Instructor
  • Kettlebell Training

Experience

  • Previous occupation in adult neurogenic rehabilitation working on inter- and trans- disciplinary teams
  • Pilates trainer and group fitness instructor for 10 years

Areas of Expertise

  • Pilates
  • Rehabilitation
  • Injury Prevention
  • Sport Specific Preparation


Ardie Johnson
612-215-4242

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: N/A
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"I believe that our bodies are inherently designed to be ACTIVE & ALIVE and that we all strive to be healthy - to have enough energy to make it to the end of our busy days. But then - Life gets in the way! My promise to anyone who chooses to work with me is that TOGETHER - we're going to map out realistic, challenging and measurable short and long-term goals. I'll be your coach as we embrace 360 degree health and wellness: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Throughout our ongoing "work" together - I personally guarantee that you will have more confidence, more energy and feel stronger than you've felt in a long time - that you'll fall madly in love with yourself all over again!"

Education

  • AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • Body Pump Certified Instructor
  • CPR, AED, First Aid Certified
  • Silver Sneaker Certified
  • B.S. Organizational Development - U of MN
  • Professional Certification - Training & Development - U of MN

Experience

  • 3 time Marathon Competitor
  • Wellness Coach
  • Group Fitness Instructor

Areas of Expertise

  • Core training
  • Strength-training and general conditioning
  • First time and returning exercisers/athletes
  • Setting goals and motivating to completion
  • Believing in others when they don't believe in themselves; then changing all that!


Anna Kerr
612-215-4236

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 3
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"I believe that fitness is achievable by all. Whether new to exercise or competitively training for an event, everyone should be able to find the balance that works for them. As your trainer, it is my goal to help you develop a program that meets your needs, establishes realistic goals, and gets you results, all while having a little fun."

Education

  • American Council on Exercise (ACE) Personal Trainer
  • Schwinn® Cycling Instructor
  • BOSU Trainer certified
  • BODYFLOWTM Instructor
  • N-Stretch
  • American Red Cross Lifeguarding, CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer and First Aid Instructor
  • International Fitness AssociationTM (IFATM) Group Fitness Instructor
  • Pre and Post-Natal Program Design

Experience

  • Group fitness and Pilates instruction
  • Office stretching seminar presenter
  • Special Olympics swim coach
  • Aquatic Fitness instructor trainer
  • Triathlon competitor
  • Former competitive power lifter

Areas of Expertise

  • Aquatic Fitness
  • Senior Populations
  • Pre and Post-Natal Exercise
  • Functional Fitness
  • Multi-sport athletic training
  • Core training


Ben Lee
612-215-4356

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 3
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"I enjoy working with people who are new or returning to exercise. I design safe, fun and effective programs that will motivate you to meet your individual fitness goals."

Education

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • Studies with nationally recognized Yoga instructors
  • Trained in Active Isolated Stretching

Experience

  • Fitness Lecturer
  • Yoga Instructor
  • Competitive Triathlete

Areas of Expertise

  • Strength Training & General Conditioning
  • Weight Loss - Weight Management
  • Flexibility Improvement /Yoga
  • Cardiovascular Conditioning
  • Core Stability and Ball Training
  • Triathlon Training


Andrew Magill
612-215-4161

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Regular physical activity is one of the most important things we can do to create holistic health! I consider it to be as essential as eating and sleeping. As your personal trainer, I will be a teacher and a coach, leading you through the best workouts for your individual goals. I will guide you to develop those goals, stay committed and see the results you desire. Plan to have fun along the way!"

Education

  • ACE® Certified Personal Trainer
  • Regular fitness workshop participant including: Active Isolated Stretching, Russian Kettlebell Training, Chi Running, and Tai Chi for Strength and Balance
  • Bachelor of Arts, Macalester College
  • Master’s of Public Health: Community Health Education, University of Minnesota

Experience

  • YWCA Personal Trainer since 2002
  • Cross Country Ski Instructor with Three Rivers Park District and St. Paul Parks and Recreation since 2001
  • Fitness counselor for adults with disabilities
  • Challenge Course Facilitator

Areas of Expertise

  • New and returning exercisers
  • Exercisers with disabilities and/or chronic health issues
  • Injury prevention and post physical therapy rehabilitation
  • Managing back pain through exercise
  • Senior fitness
  • Russian Kettlebells
  • Functional strength training and core fitness including free weights, stability balls, BOSU and medicine balls
  • Outdoor endurance sports: cross country skiing, cycling, running, triathlon, hiking, Nordic walking, canoeing and inline skating
  • Effective weight loss
  • Active Isolated Stretching


Anthony Meyer
612-215-4207

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: N/A
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Fitness is about living well and feeling great. I know that in order to stick with a fitness program, it has to be enjoyable. My workouts are specifically designed for each person to have success and reach their goals while having fun doing it. If you're looking for muscle tone and weight loss, more power in athletics, or everyday functional strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health, I can help. Work with me and you'll see how much better you can feel!"

"El entrenamiento contribuye a la salud y el bienestar físico y mental. Sé que para seguir un programa de entrenamiento, tiene que ser divertido. Mis sesiones de entrenamiento son diseñados para que cada persona tenga éxito y logre sus metas mientras se divierte. Si busca fortalecer los músculos y bajar de peso, desarrollar la fuerza atlética, o mantener la salud cardiovascular y la flexibilidad, le puedo ayudar. ¡Entrénese conmigo y se sentirá fenomenal!"

Education

  • B.A.: Spanish
  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR/AED certified
  • Kettlebell training
  • TRX training

Experience

  • 19 years martial arts practitioner

Areas of Expertise

  • Incorporating functional martial arts in everyday training programs


Pege Miller
612-215-4153

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 3
Pilates Training: NA

Fitness Philosophy
"Many people dismiss the idea of hiring a personal trainer because of pride (they think they should already know how to stay in condition), shame over their physical condition, or because of cost. It is an investment in your health and your quality of life. What good is money if you are not healthy?"

Education

  • National Strength and Conditioning Association
  • American Council on Exercise
  • Pilates Reformer
  • First Aid/ Aed
  • M.A.T. Intern

Experience

  • 11 years Personal Trainer

Areas of Expertise

  • N-Stretch
  • Reactive Neuromuscular Training
  • Weight Management/Nutrition
  • Special Populations - Arthritis (Osteo and Rheumatoid), Fibromyalgial
  • Back Care (including Pre/Post back surgery)
  • Geriatric Training
  • Corrective Exercise
  • Integrated Stabilization Training
  • Stabilizing-Equivalent Training
  • Integrated Flexibility Training
  • Sports Specific- Golf, Tennis, Racquetball, Basketball, Baseball, Running, Cycling


Bonnie Oliver
612-215-4210

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Your body is more of your home than the house you live in."

Education

  • NETA Certified Personal Trainer
  • NETA Certified Group Fitness Trainer
  • BODYPUMP® Instructor
  • SilverSneakers® Instructor
  • CPR/AED and First Aid Certified
  • Group Cycle Certified
  • Minnesota School of Business/Health + Exercise Science

Areas of Expertise

  • First time exercisers
  • Senior fitness
  • Pre/Post Natal
  • Women’s Wellness Program Trainer
  • Strength training and Martial Arts
  • Improving flexibility/Yoga
  • Sport specific training
  • Fitness instructor


Tim Pearson
612-215-4378

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"I love working with all people whether it’s to get in shape, to become a healthier individual or to compete in athletics. I believe fitness should be an important part of everyone’s life because it has so many benefits. For me, exercise is fun and I enjoy it: that’s what I want people to experience."

Education

  • B.A. Sports Management, University of Minnesota
  • NASMTM Certified Personal Trainer
  • Coaching Certificate, University of Minnesota
  • Active Isolated Stretching Certification

Experience

  • Adult and Youth Running Coach
  • Competitive Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball
  • College level Football (4 years)
  • Coaching: College, High School
  • Strength and Conditioning Trainer

Areas of Expertise

  • Beginners to competitive program development
  • Strength and conditioning
  • Power Lifting
  • Weight management
  • Agility drills


Diana Person
612-215-4205

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Physical Fitness is the basis of our well-being. By allowing ourselves to set and achieve goals, fitness becomes a catalyst for empowerment. This holds true whether you are a beginner or advanced. I am truly honored when others allow me to be a part of such a life changing experience."

Education

  • CNASMTM Certified Personal Trainer
  • AFAA® Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • NETA® Certified Group Fitness Instructor
  • BodyPumpTM Certified Instructor
  • BodyFlowTM Certified Instructor
  • Group Cycle Certified Instructor
  • Minneapolis Community College
  • College of St. Catherine

Experience

  • Over 16 years instructing Group Fitness classes, providing strength and endurance training, and aiding in overall athletic development.
  • Triathlon Competitor
  • Runner
  • Coaching: College, High School
  • Strength and Conditioning Trainer

Areas of Expertise

  • Endurance Training
  • Strength Training
  • Triathlon Training
  • Cross Training
  • Core Training
  • Balance and Stability Training
  • Boot Camp
  • Duo and Group Trainings
  • Lean Body Mass Development
  • Weight Management


Ellen Ruiters
612-215-4238

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Whether just getting started or hoping to take your workout to the next level, my worldwide experience will ensure you achieve your unique goals."

Education

  • NETA® Personal Trainer
  • NETA® Group Fitness Instructor
  • CPR/AED and First Aid Certified
  • Dance Instructor
  • Leadership Training Instructor
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Peace Studies, Gustavus Adolphus College

Experience

  • Founder/Director of Africa Jam, reaching 10,000 annually: www.myafricajam.org
  • 10+ years of fitness experience in South Africa and the U.S.
  • Dance instructor, choreographer, and performer
  • Soccer coach
  • Program Facilitator for youth and young adults

Areas of Expertise

  • Global perspective and a mind, body, spirit viewpoint
  • Efficient programs for busy individuals
  • Improving quality of life
  • Stress reduction
  • Effective weight loss
  • Tailored programs for women
  • Functional strength and conditioning


Alejandra Tobar
612-215-4379

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 1
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"When we feel better, we act and love better. It feels great to be healthy and fit. It is with this positive, supportive, and holistic attitude that I support students and clients in meeting and keeping their fitness goals. Whether you are rehabilitating, or training for a challenge, I have the tools to support your journey physically, mentally and emotionally. Cheers to the best you!""

Education

  • Stott certification at the Sweatshop
  • AFAA Personal Trainer
  • Green River Dance School for Global Somatics
  • University of TX in Austin-Psychology and Theater and Dance
  • Human Systems Dynamics Associate

Experience

  • Inbalance Pilates Studio
  • Fluent in Spanish
  • Community Organizer, Facilitator, Cultural Worker and Performer

Areas of Expertise

  • Pilates(also in Spanish)
  • Dance, Theater and Choreography
  • Somatic Body Work and Movement Therapy
  • Yoga


Jill Winegar
612-215-4211

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 3
Pilates Training: Level 3
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"If you never did, you should. These things are fun, and fun is good." (Dr. Seuss)

Education

  • ACE® Certified Personal Trainer, 1992
  • ACE® Certified Group Fitness Instructor, 1988
  • STOTT® PILATES® Certified Instructor
  • STOTT® PILATES® Master Instructor Trainer, 2000
  • Kettlebell KBC Certification, 2006
  • BA, University of Minnesota, 1983
  • Pre-Physical Therapy, University of Minnesota, 1995

Experience

  • Group Fitness Instruction, 30 years
  • Personal Training, 20 years
  • Pilates Training, 19 years
  • Golden Door, Guest Instructor and Presenter, 19 years
  • Rancho La Puerta, Guest Instructor and Presenter, 19 years
  • Program Fitness & Pilates Director, Sweatshop, 25 years
  • STOTT® PILATES® Master Instructor Trainer, 9 years
  • Oxford UK Pilates Instructor Trainer, 5 years
  • Adjunct Professor University of Minnesota Dance Dept. Anatomy/Kinesiology
  • IDEA Fitness Conference Presenter, 2007
  • DCAC Fitness Conference Presenter, 2007

Areas of Expertise

  • Pilates
  • Functional Fitness and Training
  • Injury Rehab and Recovery
  • Posture and Gait Analysis
  • Breast Cancer Recovery and Rehab


Dawn Wittenberg
612-215-4357

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: NA
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"Maintaining healthy habits and staying fit translates into every aspect of your life."

Education

  • NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer® (NSCA-CPT®)
  • RKC (Russian Kettlebell Challenge) Certified Instructor
  • NCBTMB Nationally Licensed Massage Therapist
  • Trained in Active Isolated Stretching
  • CPR, AED and First Aid Certified

Experience

  • YWCA Personal Trainer since 2006
  • Kettlebell Instructor since 2006
  • Co-created a Health and Fitness Challenge, West Saint Paul
  • Active Isolated Stretching for Chiropractic clients, West Saint Paul

Areas of Expertise

  • Kettlebells for groups and individuals
  • Weight training for women
  • Individualized program design
  • Core and functional strength training
  • ‘Get in, get out, get on with your life’ workouts


Yolanda Womack
612-215-4346

Training Levels
Personal Training: Level 2
Pilates Training: Level 1
TRX Certified Trainer

Fitness Philosophy
"I believe exercise should make the activities of daily living easier and safer, improve overall health, maximize efficiency of the body’s physiological and spiritual systems, and most importantly, exercise should be fun. Focus more on being infinitely fit rather than short term weight loss."

Education

  • B.S. Kinesiology U of MN
  • ACE Certified Personal Trainer
  • Current Masters student in Applied Exercise Science
  • CPR/AED and First Aid Certified

Experience:

  • YWCA Youth Running Coach
  • Fitness Specialist
  • Rugby
  • Basketball

Areas of Expertise

  • Beginners/inexperienced
  • Strength and conditioning
  • Weight management
  • Rugby and basketball