MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS
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stephanie elgin
I have always loved sports and being active, but many moons ago, I was attending a class and the instructor approached me and asked if I had any interest in becoming an instructor…I had never thought about it, but in that moment, I realized that would be a dream come true, bringing to others what she brought to us each class. I got certified and became an instructor/trainer and never looked back. I love what I do, and I love getting people to do things they didn’t think they could, and the friendships you make are
amazing, nothing like gym buds!
KARIN JACKSON
My goal as a yoga teacher is to provide a safe space for people to learn how to use breath, movement, and meditation in order to reduce suffering. When I discovered this ancient physical practice that also addresses the mind-body and spiritual connection over 20 years ago, it changed my life. I studied at Asheville Yoga Center, where I completed the initial and advanced yoga teacher training. I have 2,000 hours of yoga teaching experience, in vinyasa, yin, restorative, gentle, chair, and yoga for children. My
current designations are E-RYT 200 and RYT 500 through Yoga Alliance. I also earned the designation of Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider, which means I train yoga teachers. Yoga is for everybody, and my classes are always open to beginners as well as the experienced student. I hope to see you on the mat soon.
anne turner
I have been teaching fitness classes for over 25 years and have been with Sozo Family Fitness since Opening Day (4.15.19), when I taught the first Sozo group fitness class to our Sozo Trailblazers! Sozo fosters a great community and friendships are continually made in classes. Sometimes we go to lunch after class to continue conversations! I tell my people: “Exercise is an investment we make in our future quality of life. I don’t want you to have regrets about not keeping your body healthy”. It is exciting to see people in my classes improving their strength, flexibility, balance, cardio capacity, and overall fitness level. I get “pumped” to hear success stories, like one of my participants being able to play an entire soccer game, which she attributed to staying fit at Sozo! Teaching at Sozo is such a blessing and I am thankful to be a part of this amazing family fitness community!
JACLYN DRESH
I have worked at Sozo as a Fitness instructor for several years and have over 15 years of experience in the world of fitness. I'm passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their health and fitness goals. I like to create customized workouts that cater to all levels and have fun while doing so! When not in the gym, I teach Kindergarten, spend time with my family, cook healthy meals, and enjoy outdoor activities. Please join me for a class soon!
kerry summer
The most important thing to me as an instructor is to deliver a class wherein participants enjoy the process of getting healthier versus focusing on arbitrary goals. Not to state the obvious, but, activities that are fun tend to be repeated, so why not bring that into the gym? I can’t promise anyone will walk out of my yoga class in the state of Nirvana, but they will surely feel welcomed, stretched, (sneakily) challenged and ultimately at peace, both with what they achieved–and what they did not during my class. It is my hope that they bring that same humor and attitude into all of life’s challenges.
SAMANTHA KILGORE
I am a dynamic fitness professional with a passion for inspiring others to lead healthy lifestyles. Since 2015, I have excelled as a group fitness instructor, bringing energy and expertise to every class. Holding certifications for NASM CPT, Zumba, HIIT, Pilates, and Barre, I bring a diverse skill set and positive energy to the gym! I am dedicated to fitness, and my love for outdoor activities defines my balanced approach to life and hopefully inspires those around me to embrace health and adventure!
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NATALIE BORDNER
I have always had admiration for the discipline of the gym. Fitness is a superpower that elevates every aspect of your life. There are a few things you truly can control; how you care for your body is one of them. I like being physically strong, mentally clear, emotionally resilient and confident in the face I am in control of my health. Fitness offers a unique blend of benefits that extend well beyond the gym walls. It feels incredible to pass what I have learned on to others. As an instructor, it is truly rewarding to witness the metamorphosis of individuals who harness the discipline to improve themselves.
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LYDIA HUBBARD
I have always love to dance and choreograph which inspired me to want to teach others. I firmly believe that fitness is for all, and any movement is GOOD movement!
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PAM HAYNES
I enjoy helping clients find fun in fitness. I discovered Pilates in 1995 after my last pregnancy. I was amazed how quickly the transformation my mind and body made after being consistent with Pilates. I decided to turn my love for working out into teaching. I trained in Stott Pilates in 2008. Then in 2011, I had an opportunity to train under Tracy Mallett creator of Booty Barre in Pasadena. I have struggled with weight my whole life. Fitness has transformed my life in so many ways and I'm so passionate about helping others to find that same spark.
WE OFFER THE
BEST GROUP FITNESS CLASSES!
TOTAL BODY
CONDITIONING
Total Body Conditioning is an interval-based cardio class that uses light to medium hand weights and body weight resistance to perform toning and strengthening exercises to get a full body workout.
FULL BODY STRENGTH
Incorporates weights, bands and body resistance to increase muscle and strength.
Full Body Strength Express
is a 30 minute version of this class
RHYTHM & REPS
This 60 minute class is a low to moderate impact workout for ALL fitness levels. We will combine fun cardio dance movements along with some conditioning and strength training.
BEND, BREATHE, & BURN
Also known as DDP Yoga, this class incorporates yoga positions with dynamic resistance, old school calisthenics and rehab exercises. This is a great class for all fitness levels, but this ain’t your mama’s yoga! Find out more at https://ddpyoga.com/
CYCLE
Cycle is a music-driven, cardiovascular workout on a bike. It elevates your heart rate (and your spirits) while burning fat, calories, and maybe a bit of mental baggage too.
FIT FOR LIFE
Fit for Life is for all ages and fitness levels. This is a head to toe workout that includes warmup, cardio, strength, balance, core and stretching.
HIIT
HIIT weaves together total body strength exercises, high intensity interval training (HIIT), and cardio.
PILATES FUSION
Pilates Fusion is a low impact workout designed to activate the core and create a strong flexible body using a mix of body weight exercises, balls bands, light weights and the barre.
HIFT
High Intensity Functional Training
This 45 minute class will include Kettlebells, suspension trainers and
sandbags adding high-intensity and functional training to create a challenging workout that builds strength and cardiovascular endurance. These explosive and dynamic exercises will increase speed, power, flexibility and agility.
These exercises can be modified to meet any fitness level, but these classes are NOT recommended for people with severe shoulder or wrist injuries.
WEIGHTS / CYCLE /
WEIGHTS
This class starts with 30 minutes of weights, followed by 30 minutes of Cycle, followed by 30 minutes of weights. Choose what time you want to start and which segments you want to take.
F.I.T. CAMP
Fun Interval Training Camp is a challenging and fun interval strength and endurance class. It includes agility ladders, tires, battle ropes, sleds and other toys. This class is held outside in our back yard area- weather permitting.
FLOW and RESTORE YOGA
This class is approachable for both beginners and the practiced yogi, allowing for plenty of opportunities for growth and challenge. You will leave feeling energized, strong, and more in tune with your body.
GENTLE FLOW YOGA
This class incorporates simple flowing sequences to warm up the body then progresses to movements focusing on proper breathing techniques, body alignment, balance and flexibility. This is a great class for all fitness levels, but participants should be comfortable getting down and up from the floor.
PILATES HIIT
Also known as PHIIT, this class mixes Pilates based core work with cardio and strength intervals.