Meet Your Personal Trainers At The Y

SET GOALS. CREATE PLAN. OPTIMIZE WORKOUT. GET RESULTS.

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Our Personal Trainers are educated professionals often with years of experience who can help any YMCA member including working professionals, new moms, seniors and triathletes. YMCA trainers come from as many different backgrounds and walks of life as our members do, and we take great care in matching members with the right personal trainer.

The typical initial visit includes a review of your health history, lifestyle and goals. Your personal trainer can then help you achieve goals through one-on-one attention, accountability and expertise.

Downtown Miami YMCA Center: Meet your personal trainers

Trainer: FRANCISCO FERNANDEZ

FRANCISCO FERNANDEZ

Bio:
– Focuses on Mobility and Functional Training
– Weight Loss Specialist
– ROTC Graduate
– Born and raised in Miami

Education and Certifications:
– ISSA Certified Personal Trainer
– NASM – CPR Certified
– NASM Virtual Coaching Certified
– Bachelors in Kinesiology/Business

Philosophy:
“If you ever feel left out or lost, you are not lost, you just need a trainer.”

Trainer: Juan Medrano

JUAN MEDRANO

Bio:
– Professional with over a decade of experience in the fitness industry

Education and Certifications:
– NCSF-Personal Trainer
– CPR & AED Certified
– Hypertrophy Training
– Strength Training
– Circuit Training
– Conditioning

Philosophy:
“Be better than you were yesterday. It’s you vs. you.”

Trainer: Justin Hendricks

JUSTIN HENDRICKS

Bio:
– Specializes in Weight loss, Strength Training
– Bodybuilding Coach
– Born and raised in Miami

Education and Certifications:
– NASM – Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR & AED Certified

Philosophy:
“Motivation gets you going, but discipline keeps you going!”

Trainer: Robert Gooding

ROBERT GOODING

Bio:
– In the fitness Industry for 42 Years
– Former Mr. Miami Beach 1992
– NPC Amateur Body Building Champion.

Education and Certifications:
– Bachelor in Exercise Science
– NASM – Certified Personal Trainer
– NASM – Certified Nutritional Coach
– CPR & AED Certified
– Aesthetic Muscle Specialist
– MX4 HIIT Certified
– Johnny G Certified Spinning Instructor

Philosophy:
“Time and Tension; give me the time and I will transform your body.”

Trainer: Robert Green Carter

ROBERT GREEN CARTER

Bio:
– From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
– Traveled the World playing and teaching basketball in over 10 countries.

Education and Certifications:
– NASM – Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR & AED Certified
– Basketball Skills Trainer (NBA, FIBA, NCAA & Youth)
– Youth Exercise Specialist
– Performance Enhancement Specialist

Philosophy:
“How you do anything is how you do everything.”

Trainer: Romina Solla Valentin

ROMINA SOLLA VALENTIN

Bio:
– From Buenos Aires, Argentina
– 23 Years of experience in the fitness industry
– Experience with every age group and fitness level.
– Specialties: Weight Loss- Strength & Conditioning – HIIT-Circuit Training – Indoor Cycle

Education and Certifications:
– P. E. Teacher
– NCSF – Certified Personal Trainer
– ACE – Certified Group Fitness Instructor
– Adult First Aid/CPR&AED Certified

Philosophy:
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” C.S. Lewis

Trainer: XIOMARA FUENTES

XIOMARA FUENTES

Bio:
– Specializing in Strength Training, Endurance and Muscle Toning
– Focus on Weight Loss
– Born in Cuba, raised in Miami
– Speaks English & Spanish

Education and Certifications:
– Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology
– ISSA – Certified Personal Trainer
– ISSA – Certified Specialist in Sports Nutrition
– CPR & AED Certified

Philosophy:
“Your future depends on the choices you decide to make today! So, make them count!”

Hallandale Beach YMCA Family Center: Meet your personal trainers

AILEEN MORENO, Personal Trainer

AILEEN MORENO

I’m Aileen. Certified ISSA personal trainer have 4 years of experience with various gyms. My best specialty is helping my clients strengthen their core and tone up their body. Getting training with me we will work on nutrition, mobility, and your goals. Born in Tennessee and raised in Miami. I’m bilingual – I speak Spanish and English. I will definitively teach the right technique to get best results.

Education and Certifications:
– ISSA Personal Training Certification
– CPR/First Aid Certified

DARREION WILLIAMS, Personal Trainer

DARREION WILLIAMS

I’m here to serve, doing the Lord’s work, which brings me fulfillment because seeing my clients evolve, becoming a better version of them, helping each and every one renew their minds and their physique creates true value for both of us. There’s a slogan I love: “pain is temporary, but results are forever.” That keeps us going, it reminds us of why we started and why we MUST finish! Progress over perfection reminds us that every milestone to my clients goal is a CELEBRATION!

Education and Certifications:
– B.S. in Sci, Bio & Chem, MOA-GI, CFT
– Certified Bodybuilding Specialist
– Certified LesMills BODYPUMP Instructor
– Certified Silver Sneakers Instructor
– Certified Spinning Instructor

Philosophy:
“Pain is temporary, but Results are forever. Progress over Perfection reminds us that every milestone to my clients goal IS A CELEBRATION.”

Trainer: Jacques Sanon

JACQUES SANON

Bio:
– Miami Florida Native
– Loves Basketball

Education and Certifications:
– ISSA-Certified Personal Trainer
– Group Fitness
– HIIT and Circuit Class Specialist
– Basketball Training
– Weight Loss Weight Specialist
– Exercise Science Specialist
– Results Oriented

Philosophy:
“You can’t go back and change the beginning – but you can start where you are and change the ending.”

JOE WOULFE, Personal Trainer

JOE WOULFE

Bio:
I have worked with a variety of clients including seniors and high school students helping them to achieve their fitness and health goals. I will work with you to develop a long term program designed to help you achieve your individual fitness goals. I am also a certificated cycling and group exercise instructor. I enjoy outdoor cycling, running and canoeing in my spare time.

Education and Certifications:
– AFAA Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

LITA RAFAEL, Personal Trainer

LITA RAFAEL

Bio:
Originally from New York, I am a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and a former fitness competitor. I believe everyone deserves the right to good health and to be happy with themselves inside and out. My passion is to help people change their lives in the simplest and most realistic way possible. I specialize in building plans that are custom made for the client with their strength and physique goals in mind, folliwng the progress both in the gym and the proper nutrition strategy. My goal as a trainer is for the client to learn as much as possible about th eprocess of changing their body and approach towards health and wellness, and eventurally not need me which is the biggest accomplishment for both of us.

Education and Certifications:
– NASM Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR/AED/First Aid

Hollywood YMCA Family Center: Meet your personal trainers

Trainer: Carlos Brigone

CARLOS BRIGONE

My interest in fitness started when I was 17. I became interested in weight training initially for aesthetics. With confidence, a passion for fitness, as well as a healthy sense of discipline and motivation, I hope to pass on to my clients along with a healthy lifestyle. I specialize in weight training, high intensity workouts, calisthenics, and cardiovascular exercises. It would be a pleasure to work with you.

Education and Certifications
– NASM Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

Trainer: Joe Woulfe

JOE WOULFE

I have worked with a variety of clients including seniors and high school students helping them to achieve their fitness and health goals. I will work with you to develop a long term program designed to help you achieve your individual fitness goals, combining an evolving tailor made exercise program with sound nutritional advice. I am also a certified Cycling and Group Exercise Instructor and I enjoy outdoor cycling, running and canoeing in my spare time.

Education and Certifications
– AFAA Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

Trainer: Lissandra Pearce

LISSANDRA PEARCE

My journey in the health and fitness industry began with my own. I believe that in order to help others reach their goals, I have to be the example. After having my children I was overjoyed, but over weight and unhealthy. I adopted healthier eating habits and set aside time for an exercise routine. Throughout the last few years I have seen my own transformation with not only my body, but with my mind and spirit as well. My passion for fitness grew and I decided to become a personal trainer, I love to encourage and motivate my clients to reach their goals whether it is weight loss, increased strength, or better balance, It will be my pleasure to work with you and guide you down a path to a happier, healthier you.

Education and Certifications
– NASM Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

Trainer: Luke Jaijairam

LUKE JAIJAIRAM

Over the years my knowledge of health and fitness has expanded significantly. I have changed my diet and exercise regimen to obtain my own goals. I am willing to help clients create a new lifestyle that improves their health and well being. I believe you can achieve your goals if you can remain disciplined. This fitness journey is different for everyone and I want to be able to support each person I have the pleasure of training.

Education and Certifications
– NASM Certified
CPR/AED/First Aid

Trainer: Patrick Stephenson

PATRICK STEPHENSON

My interest in fitness started from a young age. After high school I received a scholarship to play football at Michigan and also study health and exercise science. While at Michigan, I was an intern as a strength and conditioning coach. This is where my passion for fitness grew. I was training athletes, like myself, for all sports; football, basketball, soccer, hockey, tennis, and volleyball, while also incorporating hip mobility exercises and sports recovery.

Now as a professional trainer I tailor my client’s workouts to meet their needs, whether it’s functional fitness or mastering the perfect squat. I look forward to working with you to reach your goals!

Education and Certifications
– ISSA Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

Trainer: Rodrick Green

RODRICK GREEN

I am grateful to bring over 10 years of experience with youth, collegiate, and professional athletes. I have an educational background in health science, performance training, correction of muscle imbalances, and exercise modalities. My programs are designed for a population that has increased susceptibility to structural imbalances and injury. I specialize in increasing strength balance, mobility, endurance, metabolism, and bone density. My programs will help you decrease body fat while increasing muscle mass and strengthen tendons and ligaments. My goal is to invest my life in the community, the elderly, and the younger generation by building their confidence and enhancing their performance. My programs will help you holistically create a better version of you.

Education and Certifications
– ISSA Certified
– CPR/AED/First Aid

L.A. Lee YMCA/Mizell Community Center: Meet your personal trainers

Trainer: Carles Brown

CARLES BROWN

I’m originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida I’ve developed a solid foundation in the Wellness Industry as a Life Coach, Nutritional Coach, Personal Trainer and Master Group Exercise Fitness Coach understand the challenges of fitting it all in. I believe that fitness training should be fun, so I strive to provide a vibrant atmosphere. I’m committed to providing you the tools needed to kick-start life’s changes, shake up your current routine, and reach your goals. Apart from making a positive impact in a health-conscious community, I enjoy reading, traveling and dancing.

Education and Certifications
– NSU Sports & Rehabilitation
– Wellness Coach
– Stretching and Flexibility Coach
– Silversneakers
– Functional Training
– CPR Certified

Trainer: Lauren Albert

LAUREN ALBERT

I became a personal trainer with one goal: to help others achieve their goals to the best of my abilities. If you want to gain strength, I’ve got you! If you want to lose weight, I’ve got you! If you want better function with your body, need reparative or prevention exercises, or need an extra push to get to the next level of your sport or competition, I’ve got you!

Education and Certifications
– PT Certification
– Glute Certification (ISSA)

Philosophy
“You do not have to eat less; you just have to eat right.”

Trainer: Lorence Ricks

LORENCE RICKS

I am a Certified Personal Trainer who’s been serving in the industry for 6 years. I graduated from Eastern Illinois University with Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science. I specialize in a variety of training methods such as Functional Training, Toning (Weight Loss) & Athletic Performance. I host a number of classes like Functional Fitness Training and Strength and Stretch. !

Education and Certifications
– B.A. in Exercise Science
– AAAI/ISMA Certified Personal Trainer
– Certified Fitness Group Instructor

Philosophy
“1% better everyday!”

Pembroke Pines YMCA Family Center: Meet your personal trainers

ALINA MERCADO, Personal Trainer

ALINA MERCADO

My name is Alina, and if you are ever looking for me…look at the Y first. I love working with my clients and teaching fitness classes.

Education and Certifications
– ACE/AFAA
– SilverSneakers/Enhanced Fitness
– ACE – Nutrition Coach
– TRX/Kettlebell
– CPR/AED/First Aid

What to Expect
– Results oriented personal trainer
– Reach your goals and your potential

Philosophy
“Every client is unique. My passion as a trainer is to provide my clients the complete program to help them achieve their goals. Not just while they’re at the Y, but for the rest of their lives.”

AMANDA SCARBOROUGH, Personal Trainer

AMANDA SCARBOROUGH

My name is Amanda, originally from Ohio. Growing up, I was a highly competitive athlete and crossed over into coaching and training after completing my bachelors and masters degrees. I have trained athletes from ages 3 to 92 in functional fitness, Olympic Weightlifting, strength and conditioning, mobility, yoga, and ariel arts.

Education and Certifications
– B.S., M.B.A.
– CrossFit Levels 1&2
– USAW Level 1
– NASM CPT
– Precision Nutrition Level 1
– Brand X Professional Youth Certified Coach
– Adaptive CrossFit

What to Expect
– We will start with the fundamentals of high quality movement then build in complexity and intensity.
– We will tailor a plan based on your goals.

Philosophy
“I love to work with athletes of ALL ages to find their unique capabilities and to unlock their true potential.”

DANIEL PRESSMAN, Personal Trainer

DANIEL PRESSMAN

My name is Daniel and I am a sports enthusiast. I am highly involved in the development of Division 1 basketball athletes and an aspiring NBA coach. My passion is training in functional fitness, strength, sports performance, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.

Education and Certifications
– M.S. Kinesiology and Exercise Science
– B.S. PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORTS AND FITNESS
– NCSF Strength Coach and CPT
– CPR/AED/FIRST AID

What to Expect
– If you’re just starting out, I’ll help you get comfortable.
– If you’re advanced, I’ll take you to the next level.

Philosophy
“Effort, dedication and hard work are key to reaching you goals. Together, as a team, we will pursue success.”

DEBRA IANNELLIO Personal Trainer

DEBRA IANNELLIO

My name is Debra and I have over 25 years of fitness experience. I love to work with personal training clients as well as teach fitness classes. Cooking is my favorite hobby – all healthy recipes of course! Although I’m great at it, running is not my favorite…but it delivers great results.

Education and Certifications
– AFAA
– SilverSneakers
– YMCA-Healthy Nutrition Specialist
– CPR/AED/FIRST AID

What to Expect
– Results oriented personal trainer
– Reach your goals and your potential

Philosophy
“Hard work and dedication is the only way to reach your goals.”

DENISE AYALA, Personal Trainer

DENISE AYALA

My name is Denise, and I practice what I preach. I am a figure competitor so I know what it takes to train hard. I have a passion for fitness and understand the importance of diet and exercise.

Education and Certifications
– ACE
– NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist
– CPR/AED/First Aid

What to Expect
– Workouts that are focused and deliver results.

Philosophy
“Age doesn’t define who you are or who you are going to be. You have the power to be the person you want to be.”

George Silvestre, III

GEORGE SILVESTRE, III

I’ve been a trainer for about 9 years. My current goal is to make it to the Olympic Games in 2024. When I’m not working, I’m training in the sport of Olympic Weightlifting. I became a trainer to help people achieve their goals in all things fitness and longevity. Everything from making it to the next level in your respective sport to just getting off the couch pain free. That’s why I’m here.

Education and Certifications
– B.S., Physical Education
– Sports Performance Coach
– USAW Level 1
– NFPT, personal trainer
– CPR/AED

What to Expect
– Constantly varied exercise to become stronger and increase longevity
– Build balance
– Correct improper movement patterns and practice corrective exercise

Philosophy
“The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is the little extra.”

HEATHER HALE, Personal Trainer

HEATHER HALE

I love to run and workout every day. The early bird catches the worm and that is why you can spot me running every morning or catching a workout at the Y. I love interacting with my clients and Y family.

Education and Certifications
– B.S. Psychology
– NASM CPT
– TRX
– CPR/AED/FIRST AID

What to Expect
– Results oriented – you will see a difference!
– Reach your goals and your potential!

Philosophy
“Get moving. You can do it! Believe in yourself and find what physical activities you like to do and do it. Don’t be afraid to try new things.”

Trainer: Joe Cabret

JOE CABRET

I am a detail oriented person who loves fitness and helping others by encouraging them to obtain their goals. I’ve been in the industry for 17 years and love working with all ages and abilities. Some of my hobbies are fishing with my kids, watching sports, and going to the gym. I truly believe health and wellness is a way of life.

Education and Certifications
– Expert Rating Global Certifications Personal Training
– FRPA Emerging Leaders Institutes
– CPR/AED/Stop the Bleed

What to Expect
– Will focus on the clients’ goals and specific needs
– Will include nutrition as part of an overall wellness plan

Philosophy
“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today.”

MARK-ANTHONY BRYAN, Personal Trainer

MARK-ANTHONY BRYAN

I am passionate about the science behind all things fitness. I take a holistic approach to fitness that focuses on health and wellness. I have experience in power lifting, body building, and athletic-performance training.

Education and Certifications
– B.S. in Exercise and Sports Science
– USAW Level 1 Coach
– ISSN Certified Sports Nutritionist
– Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Sports Science
– CPR/AED/First Aid

What to Expect
– Science-based training
– Advice on nutrition and supplements

Philosophy
“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.”

South Dade YMCA Family Center: Meet your personal trainers

ABEL GUEDES

FROM: Miami, Florida
– Fitness journey began 2 years ago with self goals
– Ignites passion for fitness and healthy lifestyles into others

Education and Certifications
– ACE Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR/AED Certified

Philosophy
“Consistency is Key!”

Trainer: Alberta Genero

ALBERTA GENERO

FROM: Udine, Italy
– HIIT
– Metabolic Conditioning
– Weight Loss
– Women’s Fitness

Education and Certifications
– NASM – Certified Personal Trainer
– FIF – Certified Personal Trainer
– HIIT Expert Certification
– CPR/AED Certification

Philosophy
“Changing bodies, transforming lives”

ELLIE LAHAMAR

FROM: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
– Former Junior Professional Volleyball Player
– Specializing in Functional, Strength & Conditioning and Senior Wellness
– Weight Loss experience. Lost over 30 lbs.

Education and Certifications
– NASM Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR/AED
– TRX Certified

Philosophy
“To keep the body in good health is a duty… otherwise we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear.” –Buddha

Trainer: Felipe Vilar-Tedeschi

FELIPE VILAR-TEDESCHI

FROM: Miami, FL
– 4 years Student Trainer
– Circuit Training
– Strength Training
– Rehab. Training
– Conditioning Training

Education and Certifications
– NCSF – Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR & AED Certified

Philosophy
“Success will be within your reach only when your start reaching for it.”

GIOVANNI MASI

FROM: Miami, Florida
– 32 years of experience in the fitness industry
– Trained professional athletes and Hollywood celebrities
– Placed and won several fitness related competitions and sporting events

Education and Certifications
– NCSF Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR/AED
– Les Mills BODYPUMP
– YMCA Group Exercise
– SPINNING 3-Star Instructor

Philosophy
“If it does not challenge you, it will not change you.”

JACKIE MICHAUD

FROM: Miami, FL
– Post pardum – 210lbs >> lost 70lbs from the right nutrition and exercising
– Physical Therapist assistant student

Education and Certifications
– NCSF Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR/AED
– Spin certified

Philosophy
“Never give up, never surrender” – Buzz Lightyear

Trainer: James Tharp

JAMES THARP

FROM: Miami, FL
– 4yr High School Varsity Football
– 2yr High School Varsity Wrestler
– Strength Training w/Squatting, Benching, and Deadlifts
– Functional Training w/Kettlebells and Dumbells
– HIIT runs for Cardio training

Education and Certifications
– NCSF – Certified PersonalTrainer
– Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED

Philosophy
“The brave man is he who overcomes not only his Enemies but his pleasures” – Democritus

Justin Hendricks - South Dade

JUSTIN HENDRICKS

FROM: Miami, FL
– Specializes in Weight loss, Strength Training
– Bodybuilding Coach

Education and Certifications
– NASM – Certified Personal Trainer
– CPR & AED Certified

Philosophy
“Motivation gets you going, but discipline keeps you going!”

ROBERT PATZNER

FROM: Nuernberg, Germany
– Over 10 years experience as a Personal Trainer
– Physical Therapist student
– Experience in post injury recovery

Education and Certifications
– NFPT Certified Personal Trainer
– Master Trainer certified
– CPR/AED
– Cancer Recovery Specialist
– Nutrition Specialist
– Strength Specialist
– Endurance Specialist

Philosophy
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Joseph Addison

STEVEN SCHWARTZ

FROM: Miami, Florida
– BS Physical Education
– MS Education Leadership
– Former College Baseball Player
– Former High School Baseball Coach
– Former Teacher Miami-Dade County Public Schools

Education and Certifications
– Certified Personal Trainer, NASM
– Youth Exercise Specialist, NASM
– Senior Fitness Specialist, NASM
– Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Training, APDA

Philosophy
“Train your body to move more Efficiently, Stronger, Faster and Pain-free.”

Weston YMCA Family Center: Meet your personal trainers

CAROLINA ARROYO

Education and Certifications
– NFPT certified personal trainer
– Mad dogg spinning instructor level 2
– Aqua instructor certified
– Runner fitness certified
– Silver sneakers
– Body works instructor certified
– Nutrition & hydration certified
– CPR/AED

BRYNN MARTINEZ

Bio:

Born and raised in Southwest Ranches Florida. I went to The Sagemont School in Weston where as an athlete played Baseball and Soccer. I continued my academic and baseball career at Quincy University in Illinois. At Quincy University I received a bachelors in Exercise Science. After, I continued a baseball career playing Independent baseball in the USPBL and Frontier League. My specialty is Sport Performance I have gained knowledge in multiple sport performance facilities such as Provision PT, FL, Top Athletic Performance, IL, and Redline Athletics Weston, FL.

Education / Certification:

  • Bachelors in Exercise Science
  • SPS- Sports Performance Specialist
  • CSCS- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Philosophy:

“Whether you think you can or you can’t you’re right but if you believe you can you will”

DEBORAH HOOD

Bio:

  • “I’m passionate about helping people achieve their wellness goals.
  • I utilize my expertise and creativity to develop individualized fitness programs, making workouts enjoyable and rewarding.
  • I’m specialized in FUNCTIONAL TRAINING and STRETCHING techniques.”

Education / Certification:

  • American College of Sports Medicine: ACSM GROUP EXERCISE INSTRUCTOR
  • National Council on Strength and Fitness: NCSF Certified PERSONAL TRAINER
  • Certified STRETCHING Master Trainer
  • Certified FUNCTIONAL TRAINING Coach

Philosophy:

“I will help you in your healthy lifestyle journey, perseverance and consistency are the key.”

MATTHEW DONALDSON

Bio:

  • High school track and football
  • WestExpress Track team strength coach
  • Here to help you build a strong foundation for prosperous years of health, habits and consistency.

Education / Certification:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer

Philosophy:

“ I believe everybody deserves the right to good health and to be happy with themselves inside and out”

SAMUEL FIGUEIRA

Bio:

  • I have been working out for around 4 years, and have gone through many chapters of lifting throughout my journey.
  • Ilost 70 Ibs in 1 year!!
  • I played soccer for 6 years.

Education / Certification:

  • Issa CPT
  • CPR/AED

Philosophy:

“Your journey will never be linear, but as long as you are consistent you will reach the final destination”

What to Expect:

  • Hard work!
  • Discipline!
  • I’m only here to guide you, it’s up to you to do the work!

SEBASTIAN GUZMAN PEREZ

Bio:

  • I am from Caracas, Venezuela.
  • I have done soccer, gymnastics, tennis and weight training.
  • Master Handstand & Bodyweight moves with me.

Education / Certification:

  • NASM Certified Personal Trainer
  • CPR/AED Certified

Philosophy:

“There is no passion to be found playing small- in settling for a life that’s less than the one you are capable of living”