OUR TRAINERS

Jackie S. - Lead Trainer                                                                                                                                                                                      I have had the pleasure of being a trainer at AHFC since their doors opened. Holding a BS in Speech and Language Pathology and a Masters in Exercise Science, Physical Education and Health, I’m currently working as an elementary PE/Health Teacher. My passion is to make physical activity, movement and health available and attainable for all. My hobbies include walks and hikes with my dog Calvin, and cooking and spending time with friends and family. I played rugby in college and enjoy recreational sports now. My inspiration for working here at the fitness center is watching clients grow and be able to attain goals they never thought they would. There is a sense of community; everyone who walks into the facility belongs and   will achieve goals that will set them up for a life full of health and wellness.

 

Nadia W. - Trainer                                                                                                                                                                                                    I am a graduate student studying speech-language pathology. I have experience in a public school and a specialized school. I have served as a one-on-one paraprofessional and hope to continue working in an educational setting. Here at AHFC, I started an inclusive track team, which I enjoy being a part of. Helping my clients enjoy exercising and finding preferred methods of staying active has inspired me at the gym and beyond. Outside of work, I love staying active by running, biking, hiking, and doing yoga. When I am not exercising, I love traveling and trying new foods. I am CPR and NASM-CPT certified.

 

 

Karyn G. - Trainer                                                                                                                                                                Karyn earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA, K-12 Special Education Certification and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Southern CT State University, and a 6th year degree in Educational Leadership from Sacred Heart University.  Since a young age, Karyn has had a passion for sports and fitness and is eager to help others improve their fitness.   In college, she joined the crew team and continues to row with the New Haven Rowing Club.  Karyn is a Special Education Teacher in North Haven Public Schools and has taught at both the elementary and middle school levels.  Prior to obtaining her certification, Karyn worked at ACES and Benhaven School as a paraprofessional.  Karyn is a certified ISSA Trainer.

 

Jimmy C. - Trainer                                                                                                                                                                                         I am currently and have been employed for the past 8 years at CES (Cooperative Educational Services) in Trumbull. I started as an Instructional Aide, then transitioned to a Physical Therapist Assistant supporting individuals ages 3-22. I am currently pursuing a certification from ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine). After graduating from a trade school with a certificate in Industrial and Facility Maintenance, my life did not feel complete. I knew my personality and deep-rooted passion for helping youth would bring me back to my purpose - working with people on the spectrum. This passion derived at an early age while living with my sibling and nephew with Autism. I wanted to be sure they didn't miss out on something that was so important to me - being active and having fun while doing it!

When not working, my hobbies include snowboarding, photography, and yoga.

 

Mimi W. - Group Class and Social Event Instructor                                                                                                            I'm Coach Mimi! I am the coordinator of the Rolling Thunder Special Needs Program CT Chapter, an inclusive running club for all ages and abilities. I am a Certified Level 2 Autism Fitness Instructor, as well as a USA Track & Field Certified Level 1 Coach and have 13 years of experience in coaching neurodivergent athletes.

My passion is running! I have run three NYC Marathons and various distances in road races, and also 400-meter sprints in track seasons. I would like to implement fun activities at AHFC that many athletes can engage in, because I believe health and fitness are essential to everyone's life.

 

Miriam M. - Cardio Dance Instructor                                                                                                                                   Miriam has been a part of the Fitness Center team since 2016. She is our very energetic Cardio Dance Instructor and has a knack for getting the entire room moving and dancing to music. Her dance routines are fun and very accessible to our members which makes it a really engaging class and a favorite activity for many. Miriam has many talents and also helps out at summer camp and at the front desk.  When she is not at the gym, she is a childcare provider at a daycare and very busy raising two awesome sons. 

 

 

Alyssa- Trainer                                                                                                                                                                                               I am a current undergraduate student studying biochemistry. I am an ISSA certified trainer and CPR certified. I have always had a love for sports and was a part of the basketball and track teams. I continue to implement athletic and weight training in my own lifestyle. I am excited to bring that passion to challenge others to reach their own goals in a fun and sustainable way. AHFC is a place that prioritizes genuine community, allowing everyone who steps in to leave feeling stronger and more empowered. Building connections and having the opportunity to witness clients grow in their confidence is why I have so much pride in my work here. I am also a big sister of two, spending most of my free time with my family.