NPTI Instructors and Faculty

Tempe, AZ


Jeff Powers

Jeff Powers

Director/ Lead Instructor

Before moving to Arizona, Jeff spent three years as an instructor at the NPTI in Richmond Heights, Ohio and is certified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He attended Youngstown State University on a full scholarship for football and was co-captain and defensive MVP on their Division I-AA national championship team. After earning his degree in communications he continued his education at Cleveland State in biological sciences. He spent nearly ten years in cardiovascular sales before attending NPTI and becoming an independently contracted personal trainer. He is a MEDIC First Aid BLS CPR training specialist for the Health & Safety Institute and a licensed EMT. He has completed two marathons and is passionate about lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Sacramento, CA

Lindsey Moore

Lindsey Moore

Director/Instructor

Lindsey graduated with a degree in Health and Exercise Science, Pre-physical Therapy from Oral Roberts University. During her time there she gained valuable experience as an athletic trainer as she assisted with their Division I baseball and men's soccer teams. Having been in the fitness industry for over 10 years, Lindsey has a sincere desire to reach communities and educate on a broader scale. She also holds numerous certifications including NASM-CPT (Cetfified Personal Trainer), PES (Performance Enhancement Specialist) and CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist). She is also a certified instructor of Russian kettlebell training and TRX. In addition to enjoying her role as a director and instructor for NPTI, she loves playing soccer, hiking, mountain biking, and keeping up with the ever-changing trends in the fields of nutrition and fitness.

Jennifer Hedges

Jennifer Hedges

Instructor

Jennifer Hedges brings charisma and enthusiasm for health and wellness to the NPTI community. She is a member of the NSCA and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Jennifer graduated from Boise State University with a degree in Secondary Education with a K-12 Physical Education and Health emphasis. She went to Boise State on a full ride scholarship for Track and Field where she was a Heptathlete, as well as a 400 meter runner and hurdler. For five years after graduation, her time was devoted to public education, teaching middle school and high school health and physical education. She has also been a very successful track and field, basketball, and cross country coach. Coaching has provided her with an opportunity to create individual training programs for kids and adults of all ages. The combination of her kinesiology education, and passion for health and wellness, gives her great energy and enthusiasm as she teaches and works with the National Personal Training Institute.

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Robert Linkul, CSCS

Instructor

Robert Linkul has his master's degree in personal training. Linkul has been a tutor to students preparing for their certified personal trainer (CPT) exam and a mentor for CPTs in business techniques and career development for more than a decade.

Robert and his team of trainers lead more then 200 personal training sessions per week. Linkul writes for a number of fitness publications including PFP Magazine, Healthy Living Magazine, On Fitness Magazine, the NSCA Performance Journal and, in 2011, published his book titled “Confessions of a Certified Personal Trainer.” Robert implements a series of successful business systems that elevate his studios management skills, professional team development and culture above the rest.

Santa Monica, CA


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Matt Wessel

Instructor

Matt's background in fitness started out at a young age participating in various sports since the age of 6. As a four year varsity track and cross country athlete Matt became compelled by the teaching/coaching component of his sport. After high school Matt earned both Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in kinesiology from California Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo and California State Sacramento, respectively.

He has worked as a General Manager, Personal Training manager and Fitness Director at regional and national fitness centers. Matt's education and experience make him a highly effective educator, offering both a thorough understanding of the science of Kinesiology and the key elements that make individuals successful running their own personal training business.

Newport Beach, CA


Shaun Wooley

Shaun Wooley

Instructor

Shaun is a graduate of Texas Christian University, receiving his BS in Kinesiology (Exercise Physiology) and while attending TCU Shaun was on a baseball scholarship. He has been involved in the fitness industry for 10 years. Shaun first started as a personal trainer for 24 Hour Fitness, he then was promoted to a Fitness Manager position after a year with the company. While Shaun was managing for 24 Hour Fitness he was in charge of 10-14 personal trainers per locations and was responsible for their growth as a business person and as a trainer. He then branched out to start his own private training company, OC Style Fitness where he can apply the knowledge he has accumulated of the last 10 years. Shaun is currently certified NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) CPT and PES for the last 8 years. Students benefit from his experience of real life situations in the fitness business.

Dublin, CA


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Chris Hitchko

Instructor

Chris has been a Personal Trainer for the past 4 years. His background is very diverse. As a Physical Therapy Aide for 5 years, he specialized in sports rehabilitation while also working with elite athletes as a student at the University of Connecticut. Chris enjoys exercising on a daily basis, especially Olympic weight lifting, boot camp style / track workouts. He plays in recreational basketball and softball leagues. His clients and students enjoy his sense of humor. They appreciate his easy going style and belief that exercise should be taught with a smile and lots of encouragement.

Norwalk, Connecticut


Kristen Robinson

Kristen Robinson

Director / Lead Instructor

Kristen Robinson has a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from SCSU, with a minor in Athletic Training. Afterwards, she went back to school to become an emergency medical technician and a paramedic. Additionally, Kristen went to nursing school. She spent over 12 years working in the emergency room, in addition to working with invasive cardiology and nuclear meds. Kristen has managed several corporate fitness centers, including SAAB Scania, Clairoland, The Merritt 7, Powerhouse Gym, George’s Gym, and the Ramada. Her diverse training in medicine has brought her to the PT Department at a local hospital doing wound debridement, prosthetic training and rehabilitation for stroke and multiple sclerosis clients. For the past 7 years, Kristen has served as the Director of the National Personal Training Institute of Connecticut in addition to serving as the lead instructor.

Kristen is A-CPT certified. Additionally, she is an authorized provider to instruct CPR/AED and First Aid for the American Red Cross. Kristen is an avid mountaineer, enjoying rock and ice climbing. She is an extreme athlete and competed in many events, such as the Tough Mudder, Death Race and the Pentathlon in the White Mountains.

Orlando, FL – Residential Program


Christopher Williams

Christopher Williams

Instructor

Chris has been working in the Fitness and Sport & Exercise Science industry for the last 16 years. He received his Bachelors Degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences from Cheltenham & Gloucestershire College of Higher Education, and then progressed onto attaining a Masters in Sports Sciences from Brunel University, UK. He is a qualified teacher and acquired his Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) from Greenwich University, UK. Chris’ last employment saw him program manage the Sport & Exercise Science Department and lecture extensively on the YMCA Personal Trainer program at Hertford Regional College, England. Over the last five years, he has founded Osteoblast Training which is an internationally accredited workshop (worth 0.7 CEU’s) specializing in strength & conditioning for bone health. Chris is also a Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certified through the National Strength & Conditioning Association.

Luis Lopez

Luis Lopez

Instructor

Very committed and motivated health and fitness professional whose philosophy is to assist, educate and inspire people to live a healthy, sustainable, holistic lifestyle. Through personal experience, Luis can empathize with his client’s fitness battles; therefore, he is in the advantaged position to have proven strategies to overcome emotional, psychological, and physical barriers. His conscientious, methodical, approach to program design and implementation ensures that the specific needs of all clients are met through scientifically robust and adaptable exercise programming.

Education and Qualifications

Tampa, FL


Claudio Russo

Claudio Russo

BS, CSCS, CPT
Instructor

McDonough, GA


NPTI

Annette Governo

MS, RD, CSCS

Annette has lived in Georgia most of her life. She's married and is the mother of 3 girls. Annette earned her Bachelor's degree in Dietetics from Florida State University, and her Master's degree in Dietetics from The University of Georgia. She is a Registered Dietitian specializing in sports nutrition and weight loss. She has been an instructor with NPTI since 2003.


Johns Creek, GA


Sequoya Moore

Sequoya Moore

Director / Lead Instructor

Sequoya Moore attended Howard University in Washington, DC on an athletic scholarship. While attending Howard University she began to develop her passion for fitness and overall healthy living. After watching the changes that took place in her own body within a year of playing Division I basketball, she became intrigued at the way the body could be molded and shaped however you trained it to be shaped and molded. She began her professional training career in 2005 working at Washington Sports Club. She graduated from Howard University with a Bachelors of Health Science majoring in both Exercise Physiology and Pre-Physical Therapy. Currently, Sequoya is pursuing a Masters of Exercise Science with a concentration on Exercise Physiology from Georgia State University. Sequoya describes her training style as innovative, creative and thorough, and she uses a practical approach in her training where the main goal is to obtain an optimal level of health to improve the quality of life in each client. Unique training techniques, creativity, knowledge and an intense level of motivation helps to improve each of her client's strength, flexibility, aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, body composition and overall health. She believes that busy schedules, lack of equipment and finances should not be a hindrance to healthy living. Her training PHILOSOPHY is "You ALWAYS have a choice in the matter. You get one body, so choose to do what is necessary to take care of that body. No crash diets, no quick fixes... Consistency and discipline. Changing your life, one day at a time."

Sarah Ball

Sarah Ball

Assistant Director / Instructor

I have always been an active individual. My passion for fitness and wellness stemmed at the early age of 5. I grew up as a competitive gymnast and received a college scholarship to compete as a n all-around gymnast for Centenary College of Louisiana in Shreveport, LA. There had I earned a degree in Health and Exercise Science, which encouraged me to search more about the fitness industry. My next move was applying for a personal training position at LifeTime Fitness in Alpharetta, GA and passing the NASM, CPT certification in 2006. After a few months working there, I truly realized my passion for helping people with their fitness and health. In 2007, I was promoted to managing a smaller department within the personal training department called the metabolic program through New Leaf Fitness. This program allowed me to assess individual's metabolisms. I quickly learned with this technology how efficient the human body performs with proper caloric intake and the type of exercise intensity. Two year later, I realized how much I enjoy mentoring and teaching people about fitness, nutrition, and prevention, which inspired me to begin working with the National Personal Training Institute. I love teaching and want the best for people. Aside from work, I enjoy working out and exploring what else there is to know about this industry.

Chicago & Lisle, IL


NPTI

Annette Ryan

MS, CSCS - Director of Education Director of Operations - Chicago/Lisle IL

Annette has been teaching for NPTI since 2002 and serves as the Director of Education. Annette received her Bachelor's degree in Physical Education with a minor in Nutrition from Western Illinois University, where she also received her Masters degree in Exercise Science. With over 10 years of experience, Annette has worked in a variety of settings within the fitness field including teaching at elementary, university, and post secondarylevels, personal training, instructing a variety of group fitness classes, cardiac rehabilitation, marathon training and corporate fitness. Annette is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Tracy I. Banks

Tracy I. Banks

MS, CSCS, Lead Instructor-NPTI

Tracy received her Bachelor's degree in Health Promotion from Miami University of Ohio, where she also began her fitness career as a Group Exercise Instructor. Tracy received her Masters Degree in Applied Exercise Physiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she enhanced her fitness experience and added on skills as a personal trainer. Tracy is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and she has over 5 years of experience in the fitness field to date.

Nick Sabino

Nick Sabino

Faculty Instructor - Lisle, IL

Nick earned his Bachelors degree from Texas Christian University in Sport Science and has graduate courses in Business. He is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine as well as the Cooper Institute of Aerobic Research and has worked closely with physical therapists in clinical settings. Logging several hundred hours of observation and assistance, he learned about therapeutic exercise and became familiar with the use of several modalities. Over the last four years he worked with student athletes in various sports. Since graduating, Nick has specialized in working with post-rehabilitation patients, especially those with shoulder, knee andankle injuries.

Jennifer Ince

Jennifer Ince

BS, Instructor- Chicago, IL

Jennifer has been a NPTI Instructor since 2007 and has an extensive background in running and fitness. She has her Bachelor's Degree from Michigan State University where she participated in the intramural cross country program. She has run numerous Marathons and is a coach for the well-known Girls on the Run organization. Along with being a NPTI certified personal trainer, Jennifer is the Lead Instructor for the International Youth and Conditioning Association which is a new inclusion to the NPTI-Chicago program. She is a member of the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and specializes in helping develop running programs for Marathon novices and those interested in breaking into distance running.

Waltham, MA


Christen John Mendonca

Christen John Mendonca, MS CSCS

Manager/Lead Instructor

Christen has been part of the NPTI team since December of 2007. He possesses over ten years of experience in the field of health and wellness. He obtained a MS in Human Performance in Health and Fitness in 2008 from Bridgewater State College. In 2002, Christen was awarded a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical Education with a concentration in Exercise Science. Within that time, he also worked on various projects including a directed study in modifying resistance training for individuals with a physical disability. Christen was also a clinician for the Children's Physical Developmental Clinic (CPDC) at Bridgewater State. He is also a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA-CSCS). He is a certified Heartsaver Adult, Child, Infant CPR AED and 1st Aid Instructor. Christen has had the honor of also working with the National Council on Strength and Fitness, the American College of Sports Medicine and the Intrafitt Performance Nutrition Systems Corporation.

Christen has been involved in many facets of exercise physiology other than education. He has served as a personal trainer for hundreds of clients, personal training manager, cardiac rehabilitation for past-heart attack and high risk clients, rehabilitation, sports performance, guest lecturer and advocate for individuals with mental and physical disabilities. Through his experience he has had the pleasure of working with organizations such as Fitness Together, Old Colony YMCA, Healthtrax and Elite Sports Performance and Physical Therapy. Christen has even had the honor of promoting fitness for esteemed special interest groups such as The Massachusetts Spina Bifida Association and Easter Seals.

Rochester Hills, MI


Leah Veprauskas

Leah Veprauskas

Instructor

Competition Bio:

Shannon Bennett

Shannon Bennet

Director of Operations

Shannon received her Bachelors degree in Exercise Science from Wayne State University. Her experience includes personal training, sports specific conditioning, as well as corporate fitness/wellness. Shannon is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the NSCA and a certified Group Fitness Instructor through AFAA. She has been teaching group fitness for over 13 years, and currently teaches at Lifetime Fitness in Troy, Michigan. Shannon also competes as a National Level Figure Competitor through NPC/IFBB.

Competition Results: 2006

Don Hamden

Don Hamden

Instructor

Don Hamden is the owner/trainer of Excalibur Fitness and Training LLC. In addition to training clients individually, he instructs Boot Camps and corporate fitness/wellness classes. He works with chiropractor referred patients for corrective exercise. Don has been a personal trainer since himself graduating from NPTI in 2005. He also has degrees in Manufacturing Technology and Computer Science.

Don’s current personal training certifications and education include:

Brooklyn Park, MN


NPTI

Katy Borgerding

MS, CSCS - Director of Operations/Lead Instructor

Katy received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Liberal Studies and Environmental Science at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, MN and earned her Master's Degree in Exercise Physiology and Sports Training from St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, MN. Katy has experience in various settings in the health and fitness industry, some of which include: Fitness Specialist, Sports Therapist and Department Manager for the Griggs Institute of Sports and Wellness where she developed training protocols for adolescents, professional athletes, and geriatric patients, Rehabilitation Manager responsible for evaluating injuries and designing rehab programs for many patients with spinal and sports related injuries. Katy has experience working with adolescents, professional athletes and geriatric patients as well as experience in dietary counseling. She served as theHead Men and Women's Cross Country Coach and Assistant Track Coach for St. Cloud State University.

Katy is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), a Certified Personal Trainer through the American Counsel on Exercise (ACE) and a member of the Minnesota Basketball Association (MBA).

NPTI

Kevin Christenson, D.C.

Instructor

Kevin comes to NPTI as a doctor of chiropractic, emphasizing in sports-related rehabilitation. Within his current Practice he offers full-service chiropractic care and one-on-one personal training. Dr. Kevin's adept teaching style comes from 15 years of experience in health, nutrition, and physical fitness and a passion for learning, inspired during his service with the U.S. Marine Corps. Outside of the clinic and NPTI, you will findhim offering educational health and wellness lectures within the community. Military service and school travels have taken him to California, Illinois, and Minnesota, and have always been complemented by a career in personal training. Doctor Kevin, an athlete himself, is partial to mountain biking and weight training, and is currently training for triathlon competitions. He's been certified by the American College of Sports Medicine as a Health and Fitness Instructor.

Charlotte, NC


Megan Seibert, MS

Matt Bean

Director / Lead Instructor

Matt has been teaching for NPTI since 2009 and serves as the Director and Lead Instructor for the Charlotte location. He is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science, minoring in Health Science Education. Upon graduation he obtained his Massage Therapy License from the Florida School of Massage, specializing in Sports Massage. Matt became a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association in 2003.

Matt has over a dozen years of experience in the fitness/wellness industry. He has worked in various settings from physical therapy clinics, gyms, chiropractic offices, the YMCA, and most recently before joining NPTI he was directing a studio in the North Charlotte area. Throughout these settings he has worked with a wide range of clientele from high school and college athletes, NASCAR pit crews and drivers, triathletes, to weekend warriors and those who just want to improve their overall quality of life. He has used the various experiences he has gained through his personal training and massage to enhance the quality of education he passes on to his students.

Raleigh / Durham, NC


Alan Wiest

Alan Wiest, MS, A-CPT, AEA, CSCS, USAW

Regional Director and Lead Instructor

Alan has been teaching for NPTI since 2007 and serves as the Director and Lead Instructor in Raleigh, North Carolina. Alan received his Bachelor's degree in Exercise and Movement Science with a minor in Biology from the University of Oregon, where he also received his Masters degree in Exercise and Movement Science with a concentration in Biomechanics. With over 12 years of fitness industry and education experience, Alan has worked in a variety of settings including teaching at elementary, community college, university, and post secondary levels, personal training, fitness management, instructing a variety of group fitness classes, sports specific conditioning and camps, in-home personal training, business ownership, and corporate fitness. Alan is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a Certified Aquatic Fitness Professional through the Aquatic Exercise Association, a Sports and Performance Coach through the United States Weightlifting Organization (USAW), an Advanced Certified Personal Trainer through the Training and Wellness Certification Commission, and a certified CPR / First Aid / AED Instructor through the American Red Cross.

Alan not only loves to teach fitness, but he enjoys participating in it as well. He has been a competitive athlete most of his life. His main focus is on team sports. Baseball, football, and basketball were his primary sports until college. He then participated in track and field and crew (rowing) for the University of Oregon. He currently participates in intramural sports and general strength and conditioning. In his spare time Alan enjoys reading, cooking, walking the dog, gardening, hiking, watching movies, and surfing.

"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." Steve Prefontaine

Kerrie Ferguson, D.C.

Kerrie Ferguson, D.C.

Instructor

Dr. Ferguson has been teaching with NPTI in Raleigh since 2008. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from the University at Buffalo, and then went on to earn a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the New York Chiropractic College. She is a certified personal trainer and certified group exercise instructor through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. Kerrie has experience working as a chiropractor, as well as a personal trainer. She enjoys helping clients who have had back injuries or surgeries safely begin the journey toward health and wellness. Prior to joining NPTI, Kerrie also taught in the massage therapy program and community college settings.

Hoboken, NJ


Charles F. Sturkey

Charles F. Sturkey

Head Faculty Instructor

Charles has over 30 years of experience as a teacher and practitioner of fitness and resistance training. The American Council on Exercise, WITS, and the School of Fitness and Nutrition has certified Charles. Charles fitness work experience includes two years as a PT Instructor in the US Army, Head Instructor for Training and Conditioning for the American Karate Studios, and owner/operator of his own personal training business. He hasa BS in Physical Education with many years of continuing education credits in fitness, exercise, weight training, nutrition, and more.

Eileen Yard

Eileen Yard

Instructor

Eileen's mission statement is: To create and maintain an environment conducive to enhancing health and lifestyle. To educate and train individuals pursuing a higher quality of physical, emotional, intellectual or sociallife for themselves by providing guidance, direction and support. She follows this mission in everything she pursues. Eileen has completed course work at the College of St. Elizabeth in business management and has been a member of the professional fitness community for over 16 years. She has been a group fitness instructor since 1990 and is certified by the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America, American Aerobic Association International, and the International Sports Medicine Association in Aerobics, Step, Slide, Spin, Bosu, Urban Rebounding, Advanced Kickboxing, Aqua Aerobics and Pilates. She is a certified Personal Trainer by AFAA, AFPA and AAAI. and is certified as a Physical Therapy Aide. She has been a trainer for the Centrastate Medical Center and the Meridian Healthcare System as well as at many elite facilities in both New York and New Jersey. Eileen has been the owner and lead trainer for Monarch Personal Training since 2000 and was the General Manager of a large full service fitness facility for over 12 years. Eileen is the creator and lead instructor of “How to Become a Cutting Edge Personal Trainer” a course held at Monmouth Adult Education Center. She has often been a guest lecturer and seminar presenter at colleges, health clubs and women's groups. An expert in the field. Eileen is also a competitive triathlete, runner and cyclist.

Richmond Heights, OH


Miles Rush

Miles Rush

MS, ATC, CSCS / Owner / School Director

Miles brings varied and diverse experiences into his role as the director of the Cleveland and Columbus branches of the National Personal Training Institute. A certified athletic trainer (ATC) by the National Athletic Trainers' Association and a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Miles earned his bachelors degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in exercise physiology from the University of Texas in Austin. He then received his Masters degree in sports management from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Before joining NPTI, Miles spent four years as a sports medicine communications consultant for The Gatorade Company. Prior to his experience with Gatorade, Miles worked as a certified athletic trainer/sports medicine specialist and strength and conditioning coach in professional baseball with the Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets and in the collegiate ranks at the University of Illinois.

Miriam Aichler

Miriam Aichler

MOT, CSCS
Owner / Director of Education / Instructor

A dynamic, passionate and dedicated instructor, Miriam shares more than 20 years of experience in the health and fitness profession with her students. A certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Miriam received her Bachelors degree in communications with an emphasis in sports medicine from Northern Illinois University and her Masters degree in occupational therapy from Cleveland State University. Miriam, who has worked as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor and in sports medicine and rehabilitation, is the director of education for the Cleveland and Columbus branches of the National Personal Training Institute.

Rich Samera

Rich Samera

BA, CPT / Instructor

A Cleveland area native, Rich is a certified personal trainer by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). A former personal trainer and personal training manager at Fitness Together in Westlake, Ohio, Rich earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology from Cleveland State University and is currently pursuing his graduate degree in exercise science. Popular with his students, Rich brings a gregarious and easy-going teaching style into his role as the lead instructor for the Cleveland branch of the National Personal Training Institute.

Toronto, ON


Daniel Greenwald

Daniel Greenwald

Lead Instructor

Daniel is extremely passionate about the health and fitness field. He brings this enthusiasm to teaching the art of personal training at NPTI. Daniel graduated with a Specialized Honours Degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from York University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Sports and Event Marketing from George Brown College. He is a certified Kinesiologist and personal trainer who has been in the health and fitness field since 2000.Throughout his career, Daniel has worked in fitness clubs, studios, clinics, and even his own in-home personal training company. His clients have ranged in age from 12 to 86 and in exercise experience from novice to elite athlete.

Daniel believes that there is no one-size-fits-all fitness program. Any exercise program should be tailored to the goals, needs, and wants of the individual.

Portland, OR


Arik Wiest

Arik S. Wiest, MS, ACPT, CSCS

NW Director/ Portland Lead Instructor
Radio Host: Everybodies Health

Arik is a graduate of the University of Oregon. He graduated with his Bachelors degree in Exercise and Movement Science with a minor in Biology in 2001. He then graduated with his Master's degree in Human Physiology, with a concentration in Biomechanics, in 2003.

Arik is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a (TW-CC) Advanced Certified Personal Trainer and a USRowing level III Advanced Coach. He has over 12 years in the fitness industry ranging from correctional rehabilitation, instruction at the community college, university and post secondary levels, coaching at the high school and collegiate level, personal training, corporate wellness and the exercise physiology for the REX Wellness Center in Raleigh, NC.

In addition to the NPTI NW Director, and Portland Lead Instructor roles, Arik, also hosts the online radio show:EveryBodies Health. Listen in Live on PDX.fm channel 2 every Wednesday at 4 PM Pacific as he helps pave a path to your healthier body. Archived shows can be found at everybodieshealth.pdx.fm or on itunes. Follow his blog: everybodieshealth.blogspot.com.

"Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore."
—Andre Gide

Michelle Nixon, BA

Michelle Nixon, BA

Student Liaison

Michelle is a graduate of the University of Bradford, England. She graduated with a Bachelors of Honors in Design and Photography in 2001, and moved to New York in 2002 to pursue her passion.

After living in America for over ten years, Michelle’s passion shifted from photography to health and wellness. She realized that America had an obesity epidemic and wanted to become part of the solution. She graduated the National Personal Training Institute, Portland in September 2012 and is now working as a personal trainer. Michelle specializes in weight and fat loss, focusing on the psychology of weight gain such as sleep, lifestyle and eating patterns.

Michelle recently joined the NPTI, Portland team, and is enjoying her new position as student liaison. She enjoyed her experience as a student, and now wants to share the education she gained to future students. “I want people to know that personal training is so much more than six-pack abs. It is a lifestyle change, from your sleeping and eating patterns, to hormones, living environment, work, stress and personal relationships. Every facet of your life affects your mind and body. The body is forgiving, it will tell you what it wants; it is our job to listen”


Sam Holzman

Sam Holzman

Instructor

Sam received a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Exercise Science from Oregon State University. During college, he created and implemented a multi-faceted strength & conditioning program for Corvallis High School's baseball athletes during their off-season. It consisted of resistance training, power lifting, plyometrics, SAQ (speed, agility & quickness) and other baseball specific functional training exercises. 17 of his former athletes are now playing at the collegiate level.

Sam graduated from The National Personal Training Institute in December of 2009. He also received his Advanced-Certified Personal Trainer Certification and CPR/First Aid/AED certification. He is currently the weekend instructor at the Portland Oregon branch of NPTI.


Kellie M. Lynch

Kellie M. Lynch

Practical Instructor

Kellie is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She graduated with a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science; minoring in Biology and Chemistry. She is also a graduate of the National Personal Training Institute of Portland, OR. Kellie is now the Practical Instructor for NPTI in Portland, OR.

Being a graduate of NPTI, Kellie is very passionate about the program and loves sharing her experience and knowledge with future health professionals.

Philadelphia, PA


Barry Fritz

Barry Fritz

Head Instructor

Barry has been in personal training for over 14 years, is a dedicated weight trainer, and enjoys hiking, and reading and research in all areas of fitness and nutrition. He enjoys racquetball and weight training and has a BS from Delaware Valley College in Doylestown, PA. Barry is NSCA-CPT certified.


Karl Safran

Karl Safran

NPTI, A-CPT, NASM, INSTRUCTOR

Karl played baseball and basketball, All-Public, while attending high school in Philadelphia, PA. As a result of a bad ankle injury, he became deconditioned. In 2005 he started NPTI and lost 80+ pounds in a year. Since excelling in his studies at NPTI, Karl began teaching for the Delaware School in 2007, and is currently teaching for the Philadelphia, PA School.

Karl remains on top of industry standards and the latest training trends by attending local seminars and constantly reading about the fitness industry. In 2007 he started his own personal training company with only 2 clients, and has developed it into a prosperous business with about 45 clients.

Lenny Graham

Lenny Graham

BS, CSCS, INSTRUCTOR

Lenny Graham has a Bachelor of Science from Villanova University. He has 33 years of experience training in gyms, facilities and studios. He has also been a Certified Personal Trainer for 28 years holding certifications such as ACSM, NSCA, CSCS and ACE. Lenny was a Nationally ranked power lifter for 9 years, 6 of the 9 years he was ranked top 10 in the country.

In addition to teaching at NPTI and running his own personal training business, Lenny is currently taking Masters classes in Nutrition at Temple (MS).


Dan Bowen

Dan Bowen

NPTI, Practical Instructor

Having a strong passion for fitness, Dan attended the National Personal Training Institute in 2002 to pursue a career in personal fitness training. Realizing that he had a true love for this field, he then continued his studies at Montgomery County Community College where he majored in Exercise Science, and he still serves as a Member of the Health and Fitness Professional Advisory Committee. Dan is an authorized provider for the American Red Cross, and certifies personal trainers and the local community in CPR, AED and First Aid.

Dan owns his own personal training company and enjoys bringing real life experience to the classroom.

Dallas, TX

Chad Hackler

Chad Hackler, C.S.C.S., B.S.

Director/Instructor

Chad’s passion is helping others achieve breakthroughs in their life whether physical, mental or spiritual. Chad has been training professional athletes (NFL, NHL, NCAA) as well as weekend warriors/general fitness for almost 20 years.

Director: The National Personal Training Institute - Dallas, TX
Elite Personal Trainer: Golds Gym - Dallas Preston Center
Sports and Fitness Trainer/Personal Development Specialist

Houston, TX


Dave Boettcher

David Boettcher

Director/Lead Instructor

Dave graduated from Arcadia University with a bachelors in Biology. He played basketball for Arcadia and was athlete of the year and was ranked 13th in the country in rebounds. Upon graduating, he played professional basketball for three years, one year in Australia and two years for the Harlem Globetrotters.

Dave is also a former graduate of NPTI of Philadelphia, where he has been an assistant instructor since 2007. He was the assistant basketball coach and strength and conditioning coach for a high school basketball program in the Philadelphia area in 2009, and also worked as a trainer and assistant manager for a local gym.

Vienna, VA


Tim Henriques

Tim Henriques

Director

Tim Henriques received his degree in Kinesiology from James Madison University, with a concentration in Human Movement Studies. He also received minors in Psychology and Coaching. While at JMU Tim worked at the university's 20 million dollar recreation facility, ultimately getting hired on after graduation to help run that facility. He helped train JMU's Division 1 athletes by working the Strength and Conditioning Program. He was particularly involved with the Football, Field Hockey, and Volleyball teams.

Before coming to NPTI, Tim was a full time personal trainer. He has been with NPTI since its inception in 2001, and Virginia was one of the four founding schools. He enjoys teaching others and sharing his passion for fitness. Tim teaches the Day class, the Monday Wednesday night class, and the first half of the Saturday class. Tim is a certified personal trainer, a certified nutritional consultant, and an ACEP certified coach. He also continues to do personal training part time.

Tim not only likes to teach about fitness, but he enjoys participating in it as well. He has been a competitive athlete most of his life. He was a Collegiate All-American Powerlifter (top 3 in the nation) his senior year at JMU. He currently holds the USAPL Open Virginia State Record for the deadlift for his weight class and he continues to compete regularly in powerlifting. He has competed in local strongman and armwrestling competitions.

In his spare time Tim enjoys reading, writing, playing video games, and giving talks to various organizations. He currently lives in Fairfax, Virginia with his wife, Christina and their two sons, Nathan and Ryan.

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Eric Hendricks

Instructor

Eric Hendricks is the Saturday Evening at NPTI in Vienna, VA. His background is in athletics, with a focus on basketball in particular. He likes to use this experience and viewpoint to have a fresh take on fitness. A graduate of NPTI himself, Eric wholeheartedly believes in the program the power of the program. He loves turning book knowledge into "3D" knowledge for the students, and he enjoys beating them up in the gym with bootcamps and ab classes. Eric lives with his wife, Jamie, in Maryland

Geoff Robison

Geoff Robison

Instructor

Geoff received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science - Athletic Training from James Madison University. He has worked with high school, collegiate, and professional athletes, as both an Athletic Trainer and as aPersonal Trainer. Geoff has been working as a personal trainer in the northern Virginia area for five years, and has recently started a personal training business, Next Step Fitness, LLC. His specialties are rehabilitation and sports specific training. Geoff teaches class two nights per week.

Renton, WA


Michael L. Zwack

Michael (Mike) L. Zwack

MS, PES, CPT
Director of Education/Lead Instructor

Originally from Alaska and Michigan, Mike's holistic, multifaceted approach to fitness includes over 12 years experience in the field health, fitness, and wellness. He has worked as a fitness professional in multiple settings from corporate wellness, large scale health clubs in Michigan and Florida, the YMCA, private studios, and high end retirement communities. Mike has the capacity to share his experience with a diverse population of clients and work environments with his NPTI students.

Mike earned his Master's degree in Exercise Science from the California University of Pennsylvania as well as his Bachelor’s degree in Sport Management and Wellness. Mike also attended Michigan State University and studied Kinesiology before finishing his degree at CALU. Additionally, Mike played college football for one year at McPherson College located in McPherson Kansas in 1998 where he was a starter at outside linebacker as a freshman.

Now, passionate about educating in his field of study; Mike believes that each student going through the NPTI program has the ability to make an impact the industry. He encourages his students to find their own style and take a little bit from each experience to mold it into their own, stressing there are multiple approaches to becoming a successful personal trainer and fitness professional. 


Michael L. Zwack

Dan Lawson

Instructor

Dan is a graduate of the University of Washington and the National Personal Training Institute of Seattle. He holds a CPT and CES from NASM and is very passionate about movement and post-rehabilitation training. He is a self-employed mobile trainer who loves to do anything outdoors in his free time. 


Michael L. Zwack

Kindra M. Reid

MPA, JD, CSCS
Instructor

Kindra Reid is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) with the National Strength Conditioning Association. She is also certified to perform the Functional Movement Screen, and a certified TRX trainer. Kindra is a KFit Kettlebell Master Trainer, and a certified Metabolic Effect Nutrition Consultant. Kindra is the owner of Siren Strength and Conditioning (a division of Battle Ready Fitness, Inc.) in Redmond, Washington. She specializes in metabolic conditioning and nutrition for obese and overweight women, and in corrective exercise for athletes and anyone post physical therapy.

Kindra has worked with professional, semi-professional and amateur teams and athletes to improve performance, speed and agility, core strength and endurance. Cricket players, cyclists, distance runners, golfers, soccer players, and mixed martial arts athletes have hired and consulted with Kindra in order to perform better and achieve a variety of personal bests. Kindra has also worked with individual clients to help achieve goals related to increased strength, enhanced balance and flexibility, fat loss, and stress reduction.

Kindra is a graduate of the National Personal Training Institute in Seattle, Washington. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Society and Justice from the University of Washington, a Master of Public Administration from the George Washington University, and a Juris Doctor from the University of Washington School of Law. Dedicated to expanding her fitness and nutrition education and staying at the cutting-edge of the fitness industry, Kindra pursues more than 100 hours of continuing education each year.


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Melissa Rourke

JD, CPT, CES

Instructor

Melissa is a graduate of Yale University, Georgetown Law, and the National Personal Training Institute. She holds a NASM CPT and CES, and is a Metabolic Effect Nutritional Consultant (ME-NC). Melissa is also a trained and certified life coach. She has her own life coaching business where she specializes in helping her clients break through the mental, emotional, and practical barriers to greater health and fitness. Additionally, Melissa is a coach at BeFit Tacoma, a small studio gym in the Tacoma area, where she personal trains individuals and small groups, and leads bootcamp classes. Melissa loves learning, especially about new topics in coaching, nutrition, and training. Additionally, after having lost over 100 pounds herself, Melissa knows firsthand how achieving health and fitness goals can improve a person's quality of life. She is dedicated to helping others similarly achieve and sustain their own goals.

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Testimonials

“NPTI had the right mix of science, theory and practical application of exercise science and program design. The value I received far exceeded the dollars and time I invested. My experience and what I learned at NPTI have been a vital part of my success in business and in life!”— Pam Strand, NPTI Graduate

“I feel as though this program prepared me for all aspects of personal training, especially confidence and knowledge. At my current job I am the newest to the personal training field, and do not feel as though I would have been given my job, or even had the confidence to be at my job, without going through this program.”— Erin Feliccia, NPTI Graduate