Master Trainers
Jessica Ward
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Exercise and Sport Science from University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- National Strength and Conditioning Association-Certified Personal Trainer certification
- Aerobics and Fitness Association of America-Group Fitness certification
- American Heart Association-CPR and First Aid certification
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments
- I am currently the Fitness Manager for the LIVE FOR LIFE Employee Wellness Program at Duke.
- I have previously worked as a personal trainer, Assistant Manager and a group exercise instructor for a numerous corporate facilities in RTP, NC.
- I have completed the Country Music Half Marathon, the Wilmington Sprint Triathlon and numerous Races for the Cure and other recreational races. I love setting a goal and training to accomplish it, the training is up to you and is not the responsibility of anyone else. I will be completing my first full marathon in the winter of 2009.
Training Philosophy:
- First and foremost, be positive! Every personal trainer has a different philosophy regarding the direction they will take when training their clients. My approach is to use a system that is known as Functional Integrated Training. My goals as a personal trainer are to promote a sensible, realistic, effective and enthusiastic approach to fitness. I believe in a total, complete healthy lifestyle, to me this means that the physical, mental and emotional well being go hand in hand, that each aspect affects each other. I have seen all of the benefits of exercise, I see how those who exercise feel more confident, have more energy, and achieve more. No matter what the level of fitness, age or limitations, I understand that everybody is unique and I enjoy creating programs based on the individual needs of the client. I believe in educating clients as I train them and offer continuous feedback as I monitor their progression; my routines show a definite emphasis on core training and functional strength for everyday activities. My passion for fitness does not end in the fitness center; I believe that fitness should be a way of life.
Training Interests:
- My favorite tool to use is the exercise ball but I am very interested in running, group exercise classes, functional training, core stabilization, weight management, exercise adherence and interval training.
Jeremy Gronos
Education/Certifications:
- B.S. in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from Washington State University
- American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer
- American Heart Association CPR and AED certified
- American Red Cross Certified Lifeguard
- 3rd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- Over a year of personal training experience working in Alaska and North Carolina
- Currently pursuing my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Duke University
Training Philosophy:
- My job as a trainer is to teach you the basics of fitness and to empower you to make educated choices about your body. If you learn to challenge yourself and have fun at the gym, your fitness goals will take care of themselves.
Training Interests:
- General weight loss
- Balance/Core stability
- Athletic performance (especially golf)
- Special populations (injured and elderly)
Kiani Arkus
Education/Certifications:
- B.A. in Biology, Washington University in St Louis ‘07
- Duke Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Student
- American Council on Exercise certified Personal Trainer
- Aerobics and Fitness Association of America certified Group Exercise Instructor
- American Red Cross certified Lifeguard, CPR, and First Aid
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- Washington University South Forty Fitness Center Supervisor, 2005-2007
- Washington University Staff Personal Trainer, 2005-2007
- Washington University Fitness Columnist and Lecturer, 2006-2007
- North Carolina Junior Women’s Raw Powerlifting Record Holder—Squat, Bench Press, Deadlift, and Total: 2008
Training Philosophy:
- A fit body, a sharp mind, and a healthy lifestyle all come together to make a happy person. If you’re missing any of those three things, you’re cheating yourself. Time spent being active is a simple and enjoyable way to ensure that you’re at your best in all that you do.
Training Interests:
- Weight loss, Beginning exercisers, Strength training with an emphasis on physique.
Kim McNally
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Psychology from Duke University
- MS in Exercise & Sport Science from University of Florida
- Certificate in Core Public Health Concepts from UNC Chapel Hill
- American College of Sports Medicine-Health/Fitness Instructor certification
- American College of Sports Medicine-Wellness Coach certification
- American Heart Association-CPR/AED certification
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- Director of Duke Personal Training and a lecturer/instructor in the Department of Health, PE, and Recreation
- I have previously worked as a personal trainer, Fitness Director, and Director of Operations in the health club industry and as a Fitness Director for a weight loss facility
- USA Track & Field Olympic Trials, US Championships, and NCAA Championships Qualifier; Duke Track & Field record holder at 800 meters
Training Philosophy:
- I believe that exercise should be fun and feel good, even if it’s kicking your butt! Not only should it help you feel good about your body, but it should make you feel good in your body, by improving confidence, motivation, functional capacity, and quality of life. I try to incorporate a lot of variety into workouts so they continue to be challenging and interesting.
Training Interests:
- running, functional training, core stabilization, weight management, exercise adherence, interval training, prenatal fitness, wellness coaching
Kelly Bruno
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Biology from Duke University
- American Council on Exercise-Certified Personal Trainer
- Emergency Medical Technician-B
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I raced in track and field events for 6 years specializing in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter events.
- I currently train for and compete in triathlons and to date have competed in 2 Ironman races and represented the US at 3 ITU World Triathlon Championships.
Training Philosophy:
- Dedication and persistence are the ingredients for success. The only way that you will stick with it is if you learn to enjoy what you are doing and are willing to push yourself that extra step.
Training Interests:
- Strength training, cycling, running, triathlon training
Alex Viada
Education/Certifications:
- BS from Duke University
- American Council on Exercise-Certified Personal Trainer
- Emergency Medical Treatment-I
- Coursework in biology and biochemistry, with study in biomechanics, kinesiology, and endocrinology.
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I am aiming to compete in Powerlifting competitions this season. I have completed one marathon, and aim to better my time in at least two this year. I have worked with a full ranges of ages and experience levels, from beginners to semi-pro athletes.
Training Philosophy:
- A personal trainer can provide education and motivation, but clients should eventually be given all the tools they need to maintain a fit lifestyle on their own. While all the information people need is certainly out there, sorting through the myths and misconceptions can be a full time job. Currently employed full time by a CRO (located right nearby in RTP), I understand first hand that both students and professionals lead busy lives, and don’t want to spend it in the gym or obsessing about their fitness goals… and they certainly don’t need to.
Training Interests:
- I have experience training numerous types of clients, ranging from special needs populations (the elderly and injured) to high-level collegiate and semi-pro athletes. I specialize in advanced sport specific strength training, but will custom tailor routines to any client’s particular goals. My routines show a definite emphasis on full body movements, heavy core training, and functional strength. There is also very little “fluff” in my approach, focusing instead on fundamentals that are easy to learn, but are effective for all levels of trainees, from complete novices to elite athletes. I specialize in routines for strength and power athletes, fighters, bodybuilders, and anybody just looking to gain a little muscle and lose a little fat.
Mary Ann Dobbins
Education/Certifications:
- BA in Communication from University of Dayton
- MEd in Exercise Science & Sports Management from Cleveland State University
- American College of Sports Medicine-Health Fitness Instructor certification
- Aerobics and Fitness Association of America-Group Fitness certification
- AEA Aqua Aerobics certification
- CPR and First Aid certification
- Johnny G Spinning certification
- Certified Fitness Coach through Well Coaches and the American College of Sports Medicine
Experience/Accomplishments:
- I have worked as an exercise physiologist for a residential weight loss facility, a Wellness Specialist and Manager in a corporate fitness program, and I have run my own personal training business.
- I have completed the Flying Pig Marathon and about a dozen half marathons and triathlons. I love that racing allows me to return to my inner high school athlete.
Training Philosophy:
- Workouts should be challenging but fun. I believe that training is a teaching tool and I am most satisfied when my clients take what they have learned in training and incorporate those lessons into their own fitness routine. Training Interests: • Weight loss and management, functional training, injury recovery
Rita Whitney
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Electrical Engineering from Syracuse University
- American Council on Exercise-Certified Personal Trainer
- American Council on Exercise-Group Fitness Instructor certification
- American Heart Association-CPR certification • American Martial Arts Association-certified Karate Instructor
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I run my own personal training business and have trained in a personal training studio. I also serve as a program coordinator and instructor for karate and cardio kickboxing classes.
- 4th degree black belt in karate.
Training Philosophy:
- Fitness should be an enjoyable and consistent part of your life. I can help you establish an effective exercise program that works for you.
Training Interests:
- Functional training, core conditioning, general fitness, martial arts
Janis Hampton
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Recreation and BS in Therapeutic Recreation with a minor in Psychology from Catawba College, NC
- MS in Exercise Physiology from UNC Greensboro
- American Fitness Professionals Association Certified Personal Trainer
- American Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED certified
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- Assistant Professor in Health, Physical Education and Recreation at Duke University, specializing in tennis, but have also taught physical fitness for women and weight training
- Intramural Individual Sport Coordinator at Duke University
- Played on the varsity tennis team at Catawba College
- Current member of the United States Tennis Association
Training Philosophy:
- Exercise is one of the important paths along the road to a healthier existence both physically and mentally.
Training Interests:
- Functional training, strength training, flexibility training
Apprentice Trainers
Anne Roosevelt
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Psychology with minors in Biology and Spanish from Saint Francis University, PA
- American Heart Association Healthcare Providers First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
- DPT - Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Duke University, NC (In progress – graduating May 2010)
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I played Division I Volleyball at Saint Francis University (Loretto, PA) for 4 years and was named to the All-Conference team during 3 of my 4 years in addition to being awarded the Sports Illustrated 2nd team All-Academic Award my senior year.
- I have completed the Duke University DPT 5K (September 2007) and will be running Humpy’s 5K race (Anchorage, AK) in August 2008.
- I also work as a Fitness Assessor and Fitness Counselor at Duke University’s Wilson gym during the academic year.
Training Philosophy:
- Exercise is an important component to a person’s health and well-being; however, it is often viewed as a chore or an activity that is dreaded. Instead of having to force yourself to exercise, it should be something that you look forward to and make time for, much like a hobby. Therefore, it should be fun, yet challenging and tailored specifically to your personality, interests, and lifestyle.
Training Interests:
- I like to tailor workouts to my client’s personal interests. Based on the input I receive, I try to focus on functional training while strengthening the antagonist muscles (the muscles on either side of a joint in order to enhance stability). In addition, I try to create a different workout for each session, such that a variety of exercises are presented to the client and he/she can determine which ones are the most effective.
Jeff Moore
Education/Certifications:
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- Multiple years of sport specific weight training
- Some years of bodybuilding specific weight training
- Experience/Extensive Interaction with multiple certified master trainers
Training Philosophy:
- I find that it is far easier to stay focused and interested on an exercise program when the results are seen quickly and effectively. Therefore, I try to maximize the results of ones regime, while keeping time in the gym as short as possible: overall I am partial towards programs which create the most efficient results.
Training Interests:
- Sport specific training to enhance strength and size
- Weight loss
- Overall strength training
- Bodybuilding
Laura Yeager
Education/Certifications:
- BS in Heath Science from Lebanon Valley College
- CPR/First Aid Certification
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I have a strong background in athletics from a young age. I played field hockey and swam at the collegiate level. I am continuing to stay active in recreational sports and training for a half marathon while continuing my education in the Duke DPT program.
Training Philosophy:
- I love training and working with people. Exercise is blend of art and science. The human body is engineered for strength, power, and endurance. It is amazing to see what can be accomplished with guidance and preparation.
Training Interests:
- Promoting healthy lifestyles, advancing fitness levels, flexibility and strength training.
Adedayo Aderibigbe
Education/Certifications:
- Pursuing BS from Duke University
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- 3 years varsity basketball in high school
- 3 years varsity soccer in high school
- Developed numerous jump programs, saw average of 5 inch increase in vertical jump
- Bench press 320 pounds Squat 300
- Duke Intramural Basketball
- Duke athletic trainer intern
Training Philosophy:
- The key to getting what you want is not how much weight you lift now, but how consistent and dedicated you can stay to your physical and mental goals. If you can promise yourself you can stay on track to your goal for an extended amount of time, the sky is the limit for what you can achieve. As you see your improvements during your consistent efforts, training begins to become fun and exciting!
Training Interests:
- Functional training, Strength training, weight loss and weight management, injury rehabilitation, interval training, circuit training,
Charles Giamberardino
Education/Certifications:
- Northeastern University (Boston, MA), 2004 – BS, Behavioral Neuroscience
- NSCA-CSCS, 2006
Relevant Experience/Accomplishments:
- I have worked in two laboratories conducting basic science research on the effects of exercise • Bench science experience looking at the effects of anabolic steroids on aggression
Training Philosophy:
- Being a personal trainer does not mean simply dictating workouts within a given perspective. One must constantly be able to adapt training styles and techniques to help the client achieve their goals. I feel that listening is essential in order for a trainer to help a client stay motivated and keep training sessions interesting. It is also imperative that trainers help clients, especially those with busy schedules, maximize their time at the gym, and help them to bring those habits into their daily lives.
Training Interests:
- Body weight training
- Sport specific training
- Methods to maximize work/session, with an emphasis on circuits
|