Fitness options for every body.

Choose from our wide selection of offerings to find a fitness program that fits your life!

View Class Schedules | New! Group Training at The Marsh

Group Fitness

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Private / Semi-Private Training

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Pilates and GYROTONIC®

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Swim Lessons

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Fitness Events   See All >

  • DYNAMIC BALANCE Program

    Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 06/03/2019 11:00 - 11:45 p.m.

    This highly sought after, researched-based program is back! Created by Exercise Physiologist Evan Strewler, MS with results proven by a team of researchers at the University of St. Thomas, the DYNAMIC BALANCE Program is changing lives.

  • Summer Kickstart – FUNctional Group Training

    Monday - Friday, 06/03/2019 6:15 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

    Boost your motivation and energy this summer with small group training. Our FUNctional group training is perfect for anyone who enjoys exercising in groups, but likes having the direction of an Exercise Specialist.

Fitness News

  • What’s The Deal with Foam Rolling?

    A Brief History of Foam Rolling The foam roller was originally used by practitioners of the Feldenkrais method back in the 1980s.  The cylindrical roller was used as a tool for balance and muscle massage, but it wasn’t long before a reduction in pain was noticed after using the foam roller.  Studies then started to […]

  • Water Exercise: It’s good for Heart!

    Your heart is a muscle, the most important muscle in your body!  It beats 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Inactivity will literally cripple your heart! A normal resting heart rate ranges from 60-80 beats per minute.  If you want to make your heart stronger, then it’s important to challenge it to beat […]

  • Utilizing Strength Training for Fat Loss

    There has been a recent increase in the popularity of strength training for muscle building, but there is a benefit of working your muscles that many aren’t yet aware of, and that’s the incredible fat loss results that come from strength training. Strength training is one of the most effective ways of losing body fat […]

Experience the difference, start your trial today.

Discover The Marsh

Brad Vajgrt B.S. Private Trainer

Education:

B.S. in Exercise Science

Certifications:

Personal Trainer (ACSM)
CPR/First Aid

Exercise Specialist Experience: Since 1995

Other:

Triathlon and Adventure Race Competitor

952-935-2202

Tom Dalum

Food and Beverage Director

Amanda Straka

Education:

B.A. – Augsburg College
A.A.S. – Hennepin Techincal College

Certifications:

Indoor Cycling (Mad Dogg Athletics)
Yoga (White Lotus Foundation)
Barre (BarreAmped & Barre Bliss)
Stages Cycle Training
CPR/AED Certified

Other:

Personal Training (NPTI), KettleBell (KBC)
Willpower & Grace (Wp&G),
Group Fitness (NETA)
Thai Massage Therapy (Level 3)

Ellen Hem-Ryan Massage Therapist and Acupuncturist

Education:
Master’s in Acupuncture – Northwestern Health Sciences University
Sister Rosalind Gefre Professional School of Massage

 

Licensed Acupuncturist and Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Reflexology

Affiliations: Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP), the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) and the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM)

Training/Advanced Training: Swedish, Neuromuscular, Deep Tissue, Pregnancy and Reflexology

Specialty: Massage Acupuncture Combined (MAc) and Reflexology

952-935-8905

Jacquelyn Smith Massage Therapist

Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Body Work

Affiliations: Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals (ABMP)

Training/Advanced Training: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, Trigger Point, Lymph Drainage, and Pregnancy massage

Specialty: Myofascial Release (MFR) Unwinding.

952-935-8905

Dustin Burgemeister, M.S. Health Services Director

Education 

B.S. Exercise Science St. Olaf College

M.S. Exercise Physiology College of St. Scholastica

Certifications

CEAS-1 Certified Ergonomic Assessment Specialist

CPR & AED (AHA)

FMS Level 1 – Functional Movement Systems

As an Exercise Specialist, Dustin helps provide programming in the areas of functional movement, Olympic and Power lifting, as well as Rehab based experience in the Physical Therapy field. He also provides services in personal training, semi-private training, and large group training. Basically, he has his hand in all varieties of strength and conditioning.

Dustin’s previous experience includes: Head Coach and Trainer at Functional Fitness; Injury Prevention Specialist with TIPS; as well as more than 10 years of experience in a gym setting. With experience in aerobic and anaerobic power assessments, Dustin also provides programming experience in small and large group training. Dustin holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology from the College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, MN. Originally from Redwood Falls, Dustin currently lives in Minneapolis.

Dustin spends his free time golfing whenever possible, Power lifting, training for Grandmas Half-Marathon, bowling, spending time with friends, and keeping up with his education in the exercise science field. Dustin encourages being awesome by moving in general and promoting a healthy diet. In addition, make sure to ask him how to do two claps and a Ric Flair!

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Jill Mask Aquatics Instructor

Education:

B.S. in Physical Education, Winona State University, 1981

Certifications:

ACE certified personal trainer

CPR/1st Aid certified

Specializations and Interests:

Jill has been a fitness enthusiast for 36 years with a strong emphasis in aquatics and hydrotherapy as well as land group fitness classes. In the past, she had the opportunity to work with the Arthritis Foundation at various fitness centers locally. As an aquatics instructor, she enjoys getting to know the participants and their individual needs around water exercise. She continues to be amazed when someone comes up to her and shares their story of how much exercising in the water has benefitted their quality of life.

Jill’s leads an active lifestyle by bicycling, doing yoga, downhill skiing, walking outside with friends and neighbors and engaging in strength training. She spends most of the summer gardening and landscaping. She travels through the states visiting family and friends in the spring and summer. She also enjoys woodworking and interior design. Her hometown is Northfield, MN.

952-935-2202

Kari Oxford Pilates Instructor

Kari Oxford started her fitness career as a Fitness Instructor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth in 1990. While pursuing a degree in Biology with a minor in Exercise Science, she taught aerobic conditioning, step aerobics, weight training for women and stretching classes for administrative staff. After college, she worked for The Institute for Chiropractic Rehabilitation under Dr. Cooper as an Exercise Coordinator where she gained knowledge on correcting posture, improving ergonomics in the work place and injury rehabilitation. Kari left the fitness world in 1997 to pursue a career in business and then devoted full time to her family: three children and husband David.

In 2005, after a difficult recovery from the Cesarean birth of her third child, Kari was introduced to GYROTONIC®. The gentle, therapeutic core work helped her recover her core strength and become a GYROTONIC® devotee. As the children grew, Kari was eager to work in fitness again and completed her education in GYROTONIC® in 2007, training under Wendy Anderson and Juergen Bamberger. Kari holds a Foundation Teacher Certificate through GYROTONIC® International. She has taught privately to clients out of Lonna Mosow’s Center for Mind Body studio for the last 10 years.

Kari’s qualifications include Life Power Yoga Teacher 200 HR Certification, Balanced Body Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Certification and a Personal Trainer Certification through the American Council on Exercise and Red Cross CPR. Kari has taught the Blake 8th Grade Wellness Yoga Unit since 2011 and enjoys working with all ages and abilities.

An avid road cyclist and former mountain bike racer, Kari enjoys numerous outdoor hobbies with her family and friends, including 7 years with The MS Tram “Ride Across MN,” horseback riding, weight training, kayaking, hiking, golf, playing ice hockey with her kids, skiing, photography, hunting and fishing.

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Katie Paul Group Fitness

Education:

Katie graduated from Mankato State University in 1986 with a BS in Mass Communications with a minor in Speech Communications.

Certifications:

ACE Group Fitness Certified

Body Pump Certified

Barre Certified

Keiser Indoor Cycling

Fitness Specializations and Interests

Katie is always interested in learning the newest fitness trends.  Interested in creating and teaching dance to those who find the same joy in it that she does.

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Senait Schlachter Stylist

Senait is a highly talented stylist who loves to work on all types of hair. She started her hair design experience in Paris, France where she trained and worked in European hair styling/design. Senait came to the US from Paris to continue training for her passion of working in the beauty industry. She graduated from Regency Institute in Minnetonka. Senait uses her listening skills and styling experience to make every client feel good about how they look with a unique style of their own.

952-935-8905

Rebecca Sitzmann Esthetician

Certifications:

Certified Paramedical Esthetician
City and Guilds of London Diplomat

Advanced Training and Certification: Skin Ceuticals, Glymed, MDSkincare and Decleor

952-935-8905

Candace Ricci-Strommer Esthetician

Certifications:

Licensed Esthetician
Certified: Para-Medical Skincare

Advanced training and certification: Skin Ceuticals, Glymed, MDSkincare and Decleor

952-935-8905

Alla Nikonova Spa Coordinator, Esthetician

Education:

Masters in Science – Physics
BA – Accounting/Business Administration
Licensed Esthetician

Advanced training and certification: Skin Ceuticals, Glymed, MDSkincare and Decleor

952-935-8905

Paula Goodmanson Esthetician

Certifications:

Licensed Esthetician
Graduate of the Aveda Institute

Advanced training and certification: Skin Ceuticals, Glymed, MDSkincare and Decleor

952-935-8905

Wyla Harrington Nail Technician

Certifications:

Aveda Institute
Licensed Nail Technician

952-935-8905

Kelly Bauer Nail Technician

Certifications:

Oliver Thein Beauty School
Licensed Nail Technician
Advanced Training for Light Concept Nails

952-935-8905

Stephanie Motley Nail Technician

Certifications:

Scot Lewis School of Cosmetology
Licensed Nail Technician
Advanced Training for Light Concept Nails

952-935-8905

Diane Newcomer Massage Therapist

Certifications:

Licensed Massage Therapist—Minneapolis School of Massage
Member of the American Massage Therapy Association
Advanced training in Swedish, Craniosacral, Neuromuscular, Shiatsu, Sports, Trigger Point and Scalp massages.

952-935-8905

Greg Johnson Massage Therapist

Certifications:

Minneapolis School of Massage and Bodywork, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals Member

Advanced training in Myofascial, Swedish, Sports and Trigger Point massages.

952-935-8905

Kathleen Lynch Massage Therapist

Certifications:

BA-University of South Florida
Certified Massage Therapist-Center Point Massage and Shiatsu School
Certified Healing Touch Practitioner
Certified Sports Massage Therapist, AMTA
Member of AMTA, HTI and HTP

Advanced Training in Neuromuscular, Sports, Trigger Point Therapy, Pregnancy, Swedish and Healing Touch

952-935-8905

Phyllis Isaacson Massage Therapist

Certifications:

BA – Health Care Administration – Metropolitan State University
Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork
Member of the American Massage Therapy Association

Advanced training in Craniosacral, Marsh Stone, Myofascial, Neuromuscular, Pregnancy, Sports, Swedish, Trigger Point and Scalp massages.

952-935-8905

Jane Dauphin Massage Therapist

Certifications:

CenterPoint Massage & Shiatsu School, 4-year Healing Science Degree – Barbara Brennan School of Healing

Advanced training in Craniosacral, Esalen, Acupressure, Neuromuscular, Pregnancy, Shiatsu, Swedish, Trigger Point, Scalp massages and Healing Touch.

952-935-8905

Andrea Coulture Massage Therapist

Certifications:

Massage Therapist – Sister Rosalind School of Professional Massage
Certified Orthopedic Massage and Pain Management – Practitioner Center for Pain Management

Advanced training in Sports, Swedish, Trigger Point and Pregnancy massages.

952-935-8905

Ann Marie Coulter Guest Room Manager

Guest Rooms, Group Fitness Instructor, Membership

952-930-8310

Cece Jacox Membership Director

Membership Director

952-930-8508

Arlene Robitshek Retail Director

Retail Director

952-930-8526

Heidi Moon Program Director

Program Director / Director of Program Marketing

952-930-8548

Tim Mortenson Operations

General Manager

952-930-8532

Carlton Morris Group Fitness

Certifications:

Teacher training with William Prottengeier for 4 years

A 100 hour anatomy teacher training with Julie Gudmestad

Interests:

I love teaching yoga and conveying the benefits of yoga to my students, from the physical to the mental mindful practices that can enhance the quality of their lives. This is a life long endeavor. One I have truly enjoyed.

952-935-2202

Heidi Kalweit Aquatics, Spa

Education:

CenterPoint Massage School of Massage and Shiatsu, 2006

American Massage Therapy Association

Advanced training in Myofascial, Neuromuscular, Cranio-sacral, Sports, Trigger Point, Zen Shiatsu, Watsu, Healing Dance, Aquatic Integration

 

Certifications:

Certified Massage Therapist, 2006

Certified Shiatsu Practitioner, 2009

Certified Aquatic Integration Practitioner, 2010

 

Specializations and Interests:

Heidi values the merging of eastern and western therapeutic modalities and is interested in mind/body connection with her clients.  Because of a dance background, she considers her bodywork sessions more flowing, but can also customize her work to address specific deep tissue conditions.  She sees the body as an integrated system and utilizes all of her specialties to create the healing experience.  In her free time, Heidi enjoys dancing and an on-going yoga practice. She also loves travel, hiking outdoors in nature, and regularly supports the local arts.  She is committed to eating organically and likes to spend quality time with family and friends.

952-935-2202

Laura Pierson Group Fitness

Categories:

Body Pump Instructor

Education:

BA in Sociology of Law, Criminology and Deviance from the University of MN Twin Cities

Certification:

Group Exercise certification through NETA.  Personal Trainer certification through NETA. Currently enrolled in the 230 RYT training at The Minneapolis Yoga Center.

952-935-2202

Shari Manolas Danielson Group Fitness

Education:

M.A. in Professional Writing from Carnegie Mellon University

B.A. in Media Communications from University of Pittsburgh

Certifications:

230-hour Yoga Teacher Training, Minneapolis Yoga Center

200-hour RYT, Yoga Alliance

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Inspired by: Bike rides with lots of hills ~ Colorado skiing ~ Sunday-afternoon naps in the hammock ~ Long, barefoot walks on the beach ~ The human body ~ Heirloom tomatoes ~ Hermione Granger ~ Susan B. Anthony ~ Courage ~ Forgiveness ~ Compassion ~ Speaking up ~ Urdhva Dhanurasana ~ Savasana

Philosophy: Yoga is intended to be joyful, uplifting and life-enhancing. Everyone can do yoga, and everyone should — especially those who say, “I’m too stiff for yoga.” (Similar to saying, “I’m too hungry for eating.”) My classes are designed to honor each student’s unique set of attributes and abilities, while also challenging him or her to evolve, to feel, to connect.

230-hour RYT ~ 11 years of yoga teaching experience ~ Studied with Matt Sanford, Momi Jhung, Dec Barry, Desiree Rumbaugh, Rodney Yee, Shiva Rea, Gary Kraftsow, Mukunda Stiles, and many more ~ M.A. in Professional Writing ~ B.A. Media Communications ~ food writer ~ marketing and communications pro ~ mom.

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Gena Fike Group Fitness

Education:

Graduate of MSUM in Moorhead with a Bachelors degree in Mass Communications and minor in Business Management, Graduate of Herzing College with Associates in applied science for Dental Assisting

Certifications:

National YMCA Group Exercise

Body Pump Certified

willPower and Grace Certified

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

I have been in group fitness for over half my life and I love every minute of it. It is my privilege to be able to lead members in group exercise. I believe passionately that there is some type of exercise for all walks of life and it is my job as a group fitness instructor to help others find that exercise and enjoy it! I take the gift of movement seriously and want to encourage others to do the same.

952-935-2202

Rachel E. Soffer Group Fitness

Education:

Rachel earned her B.A. in International Affairs at the American University in Paris, France and The George Washington University in Washington, D.C.  She earned her J.D. at William Mitchell College of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota and has enjoyed practicing law as a partner at two major Twin Cities law firms, and currently at a law firm where she advises businesses and their management teams in industries including health & wellness, medical technology, software, sustainable products, and natural foods.

Certifications:

Aerobics With Soul® – Rachel is trained by the creator, Maria Nhambu, of this inspiring fitness program, which combines the best of structured aerobic workouts with the creativity of African dance and joyful rhythms that engage body, mind and soul.  Rachel is certified to teach a rich variety of 16+ classes ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Rachel has enjoyed teaching with Maria Nhambu at the internationally acclaimed health + wellness spa, Rancho La Puerta in Baja, Mexico for a week each year since 2003.

BollyX® – Rachel is trained by founder Shahil Patel to teach BollyX®, a Bollywood-inspired dance-fitness program that combines dynamic choreography with music from around the world.

Willpower & Grace®– Rachel is trained by founder Stacy Lei Krauss to teach The willPower Method® Phase II, she is also certified to teach willPower & Grace Phase I and willpower Barre.

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Rachel is an enthusiastic health and fitness leader who loves inspiring people to enjoy exercising body, mind and spirit.  She has over 20 years of experience teaching mind-body fitness classes in numerous Twin Cities locations and is passionate about sharing the joy and healing power of dance and exercise. Rachel loves yoga, hiking, canoeing, bicycling, skiing, sailing, star-gazing, dancing, world music, travel, tea and enjoying life with family and friends.

952-935-2202

Beth Giles Group Fitness

Education:

Nia Brown Belt Training with Winalee Zeeb and Caroline Kohles, Lansing, MI, July 2016

Nia Blue Belt Training with Britta von Tagen, Milwaukee, WI, December 2014

Nia White Belt Training with Barb Wesson, Minnetonka, MN, July 2012

Certifications:

CPR

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Beth has been a dancer since childhood and discovered the joy of dancing Nia in 2004. She has been teaching Nia full time since 2013 and most recently received her Nia Brown Belt in July 2016. She loves the variety of energies, movements and the increased flexibility, agility, and ease in her body, mind and spirit that Nia brings.  Beth’s purpose in life is to share the healing power of movement with women and men of all ages.  Through movement we find health!

952-935-2202

Liz Anema Group Fitness Director

Education:

Liz graduated from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana, BS in communications and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies

Certifications:

IDEA Group Fitness,

NASM Personal Training

Kripalu Yoga 200 Hour

Yoga Therapy 300 Hour

Nia White Belt

Taijifit

Aqua Kriya Yoga

Resiliency Training 9 month program with Henry Emmons

MBSR – Meditation as Medicine and study with Janice Marturano

BodyPump certified, willPower in Grace, Barre, Bolly X

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Liz is passionate about moving the body 3 dimensionally whether dancing, teaching yoga or gently moving into wellness.  Liz also loves to share the power and passion of mindfulness in the practice of meditation.  She believes in whole body health starting with the breath and moving into the love for one’s whole self-experiencing life.  Never stop moving and being in the now

952-930-8528

Ruth Kenefick Group Fitness

 

Education:

University of Minnesota, MBA in Journalism

 

Certifications:

  • ACE Certified: Group Fitness Instructor
  • Les Mills BodyPump
  • R-HYI 200

 

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Have had the privilege of teaching CardioBounce for over 25 years and don’t anticipate any time soon to stop bouncing! I love the community that develops in Group Fitness classes.  It is an honor to see the hearts, minds, and bodies of participants change as they embrace health and fitness.

952-935-2202

Cheri Sabol Pilates Instructor

Education:

AAS – Marketing & Business Management

Certifications:

PEAK Pilates Certified in Matwork & Equipment, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Precision Nutrition Certified Coach

Experience:

since 2016

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Bridget Raltchevsky Pilates Instructor

Certifications:

Stott Pilates in Mat and Equipment, Injuries and Special Populations

Experience:

since 2013

Other:

Aquatics Instructor

952-935-2202

Sue Trebisovsky Pilates Instructor

Certifications:

Polestar/Pilates in Mat and Equipment, IDEA, ACE, Yogilates, CPR and First Aid

Experience:

since 1985

Other:

Studio Fitness Instructor

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Laura Tellier Pilat

Education:

BS in Exercise and Sports Science

Certifications:

Ron Fletcher Pilates in Mat and Equipment, Yogilates, CPR and First Aid

Experience:

since 1998

Other:

Studio Fitness Instructor

952-935-2202

Leslie Koehnen Pilates Instructor

Education:

BFA in Dance

Certifications:

Ron Fletcher Pilates in Mat and Equipment, Yogilates, CPR and First Aid

Experience:

since 2001

Other:

Yogilates Instructor

952-935-2202

Shirley Cayze Massage Therapist

Certifications:

Licensed Massage Therapist – Lakeside School of Natural Therapeutics
Member of the American Massage Therapy Association

Advanced training in Myofascial, Neuromuscular, Sports and
Trigger Point

952-935-8905

Ryan Ford Exercise Specialist

Education:

B.S. in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota

Certifications:

NSCA

First Aid/CPR

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Ryan has been an Exercise Specialist here at The Marsh for over 10 years.  He believes in the mind body approach to achieve a balanced lifestyle. From injury prevention to weight loss goals, Ryan has a wide range of progressive programs he utilizes with his clients.  Ryan graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Kinesiology and also specializes in proper gait training and biomechanics of the human body. While at Minnesota, Ryan was an All-American runner for the Golden Gophers and has been a Cross-Country and Track coach at Eden Prairie High School since 2005 where he has coached numerous state champions. Besides running and being a coach, Ryan enjoys being active and enjoying the outdoors. When he is not at The Marsh you can find him hiking, fishing, and being the very best “daddy” to his 2 year old daughter.

Ryan also leads the Aqua Jogging program here at The Marsh and teaches the high intensity class Marsh X.

952-935-2202

Bobbi Horner, LRD, CPT Nutritionist

Certifications:

Licensed Registered Dietitian
Certified Personal Trainer

Education:

B.S. Nutrition & Dietetics, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
B.S. Community Nutrition, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND
B.S. Exercise Science, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND

 

Over the past 15 years, Bobbi has served clients’ nutrition needs in both clinical hospital settings as well as in wellness and fitness environments. Bobbi embraces a whole person approach to nutrition and is inspired to leverage her experience in designing innovative and practical nutrition programs for our members.

952-935-2202

Jennifer Loeffler Exercise Specialist

Education:

B.S. Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Certifications:

Indoor Cycling Instructor (NETA)
Level 1 Kettlebell Instructor (KBC)
Aquatic Exercise Professional (AEA)
CPR/First Aid

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Jennifer specializes in working with people after they have suffered a heart attack or have had any sort of cardiovascular intervention. She is also good with people who are either new to exercise or are looking to do more functional training. She believes in setting goals with clients, whether they want to improve their daily activities, lose weight or any other goals a person may have. She also has experience with personal training and teaching classes in the pool. Outside of personal training she enjoys teaching indoor cycling and our higher intensity classes. Outside of work she enjoys lifting, running and all sports.

952-935-2202

Diane Pattridge Exercise Specialist and Water Safety Instructor

Education:

B.S. Physical Education

Certifications:

Health Fitness Specialist (ACSM)

Level 1 Kettlebell Instructor (KBC)

Stages Cycling Instructor

Water Safety Instructor (WSI)

USMS Level 1 and 2 Swim Coach

USMS Adult Learn-to-Swim Instructor

Aquatics Exercise AssociationInstructor (AEA)

CPR/First Aid

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Diane has over 25 years of experience as an Exercise Specialist and Water Safety Instructor. She enjoys people of all ages and abilities but prefers working with older adults in a fitness setting.  She specializes in land and aquatic training and has been teaching children’s swimming lessons for over two decades.  She enjoys swimming, xc skiing, yoga, and biking during her free time.

2018 Trainer of the Year, Excelsior, MN

952-935-2202

Brenda Steger Exercise Specialist

Education:

University of Minnesota- Kinesiology: Exercise Science B.S.

Certifications:

NETA Personal Trainer

NETA Group Fitness, Indoor Cycling

AADP Holistic Health Coach

YogaFit Yoga Certification

American Heart Association CPR/AED

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Brenda’s passion for living optimally and wanting to help others who want the same is the reason she started fitness coaching. Teaching about the important benefits of exercise and healthy habits is a natural extension of her desire to help others. As a result of her personal efforts, 20+ years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry, and her education she feels that she is at her best and excited to help others reach their goals.

She loves working with motivated individuals who want a well-rounded, sustainable and practical approach to good health. Therefore she builds a strong and healthy wellness foundation using a holistic approach in her teaching and coaching. She loves to encourage her clients to go safely beyond boundaries to uncover hidden strength and potential that will take them to the next level. Her goal for every workout is that you leave feeling challenged and successful!

Some fun facts about Brenda: She is a native Minnesotan who loves the seasons and enjoys local restaurants and shopping, and a variety of events from sports to the arts. Her favorite hobby is cooking. She likes making all kinds of recipes and enjoys finding creative ways to make meals as healthy as possible. When vacationing, Brenda likes to plan trips that involve both relaxation and activity. Her two most memorable experiences were traveling to Casperia, Italy, for a yoga retreat and hiking to the top of Mt. Yale in Colorado.

952-935-2202

Andrew Xotta-Dickson Exercise Specialist

Education:

The College of St Scholastica, Bachelor of Science – Exercise Physiology

Certifications:

CPR/AED

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Andrew has a passion for fitness and believes that finding time for yourself and your health should be your top priority. With his passion for helping others and his firm understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the body he will establish a program that challenges, empowers and drives you towards your personal fitness goals. He has experience working with a wide variety of populations through many different fitness domains including weight loss, strength and conditioning, injury prevention and general fitness. Andrew grew up in the outdoors of Australia being very active and loves to play soccer, tennis and golf in his spare time.

952-935-2202

Stephanie Olson Aquatics Director, Tai Chi Coordinator

Education:

B.S University of Minnesota

Certifications:

AEA – Aquatic Exercise Association, ACE – American Council on Exercise, NCTMB – National Certification in Therapeutic massage and body work, TaijiFit

Experience:

In the industry: Big 10 Full scholarship for Track and Field, Div III Assistant Track Coach, current Varsity Track and Field coach, Junior Olympic volleyball coach.

At The Marsh: 30 years at the Marsh teaching yoga, tai chi, cycle, cardio bounce, lap pool and therapy pool classes

Specialties:

I enjoy my Marsh family immensely , the staff and members.  It is a joy to work here and I want to make your classes fun and impactful.  A special thanks to all of our class participants who join us in group fitness classes, I’m always so happy to see you!

952-935-2202

Mary J. Mueller Group Fitness Instructor

Education:

BS in Nutrition & Dietetics

Certifications:

Registered Dietitian, Licensed Dietitian, AEA Certified, CPR Current

Experience:

In the industry: 16 years

At The Marsh: 16 years in therapy and lap pools

952-935-2202

Mary LeSourd Exercise Specialist, Bodywork Practitioner

Education:

B.A. in Sociology/Social Work, College of Wooster, OH

M.Ed. in Recreation Administration, Springfield College, MA

M.Ed. in Therapeutic Recreation, University of Minnesota

Training in Cranio-sacral, Acupressure, Reiki, Healing Dance, Lifeguard/WSI background

Certifications:

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, CTRS

Certified Watsu and Aquatic Integration Practitioner

Certified Shiatsu Massage Practitioner

CPR/1st Aid certified

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Mary has been working as a manager, instructor and practitioner in the field of Aquatics since 1987.  She has 10 years of experience in Pool Management and prefers working within the modality of warm water therapy. With 18 years of experience as an aquatics specialist at the Courage Center in Golden Valley, she is now building a comprehensive aquatic therapy/wellness program at The Marsh. Her work in the water and on the table provides a safe environment for those addressing chronic pain conditions and regulating the nervous system as a result of trauma. Mary loves the outdoors, vigorous exercise, and sharing with like-minded friends who value the beauty of nature and healthy lifestyles. She enjoys spending time with family in all parts of the country including her sisters’ lake homes in western New York.

952-930-8511

Linda Solberg Group Fitness Instructor

Education:

Education and Licensure

University of Minnesota – BA, Journalism

Licensed Real Estate Broker – current

2004  Ai Chi Ne Instruction- Aquatic Therapy & Rehab Institute (ATRI)  Ruth Sova, Trainer

2004  Aqua Pilates/Yogalates- ATRI Chicago workshop

2012  Energetic Aquatic Shiatsu Yoga 2 Day Workshop- The Marsh/ Shinzo Fijimaki, Trainer

2002 to present: Various skills instruction with deep water and shallow applications for a variety of populations focusing on balance, core stability, strength/flexibility, chronic pain/joint issues, effective use of equipment, circuit/interval training, motivational instruction techniques/choreography/safe progressions and industry trends – most recently with Pauline Ivens.

Certifications:

AEA certified

Certified with the Arthritis Foundation’s AFYAP Program in 1995 to support a need for specific arthritis exercise programming for senior membership.

Certified with Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) in April of 2002

 

Experience:

In the industry: Ridgedale YMCA- Part-time Aquatics Fitness Instructor 1990-1999

The Marsh- Part-time Aquatics Fitness Instructor 2002-Present

 

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Specialties: HIIT- Tabata, Ai Chi

952-935-2202

Judy Farniok Group Fitness Instructor

Education:

BA (St Cloud University) MBA (St Thomas University); 500 HR Yoga Certification – Spirit of the Lake Yoga.

Certifications: 500 HR RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher); Also certified in Meditation; Aqua, Somatic, Restorative & Yin Yoga.

Experience:

In the industry: Teaching Yin, Beginning & Restorative Yoga for over four years in several studios. Somatic yoga over two years. Aqua Yoga over three years.

At The Marsh: Aqua, Gentle & Restorative Yoga.

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Judy specializes in mindfulness integrating gentle movement with breath and meditation. She retired from a long successful business career, and is now dedicating her time and energy to continued learning. Her goal is to continue to share that knowing and learning with others in group class and private settings.

952-935-2202

Dianna Pilkington Group Fitness Instructor, Guest Services

Education:

B.S.  Business Administration, Hastings College, Hastings, NB

Training in Ai Chi, Qi Gong, 24 form Tai Chi, Aquatic Shiatsu Yoga, Aqua Yoga, past ACE certification (2008), Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program

Certifications:

Certified Aquatics Instructor through AEA

CPR/AED certified

Specializations and Interests:

Dianna has been working as a water fitness instructor for 10 years.  She has also been working as a studio instructor teaching Qi Gong and Tai Chi for 7 years.  She has been working as a guest services representative for 9 years working with front desk activities including phone work, class check-in, and hotel reservation responsibilities.  She has also been working more recently as Manager on Duty for The Marsh on weekends.  Dianna loves being outside, getting together with friends and spending lots of time with her daughters and 3 grand-daughters.

952-935-2202

Candy Swanson Exercise Specialist

Certifications:

ACE Certified Personal Trainer

4th Degree Black Belt Certified Instructor

Numerous ATA titles

Group Fitness Certifications in Aerobics, Gentle Yoga, Stretch Class, Yogalaties, Jump Rope, TRX, Kettlebells, Kickboxing, boxing, Taekwondo, Bosu, Cycle, Body Pump, Step, Cardio Bounce, Marsh X, CPR and AED.

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Candy has been with The Marsh for 28+ years.  Candy’s tenure in the fitness industry has earned her on of the most sought after Exercise Specialists at The Marsh. She loves working with all age ranges- from children learning karate to seniors working through rehabilitation.  Candy likes to keep all training fresh and incorporates all the different equipment, classes and programs into her sessions and utilizes the inside and outside areas of The Marsh.  Clients learn how to use many aspects of the fitness center and enjoy the beautiful outdoors surrounding The Marsh.  When not at The Marsh, you can find Candy enjoying her grandchildren.

952-935-2202

Evan Strewler, M.S. Training Center Director

Education:

BS in Exercise Physiology from the College of St. Scholastica

MS in Exercise Physiology from the College of St. Scholastica

Certifications:

USAW: Level One Olympic Lifting Coach

Level One Kettlebell Concepts Coach

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

As Director of Health and Fitness, Evan develops new programs with the Marsh Programming team and leads our Exercise Specialists and trainers. He also continues to serve as a personal trainer to Marsh members, assuring that they have a comprehensive orientation to Training Center programs. Evan provides cardiovascular assessments and metabolic testing and is a certified Level 1 Kettlebell Coach and Level 1 Olympic Lifting Coach.

Evan’s previous experience includes: Metabolic Specialist at Optum Health Performance; Personal Training Director at LA Fitness; Strength Coach, Wayzata High School; and Support Professional for Residential Services where he assisted clients with mental illness or traumatic brain injury to ensure quality of life and independent living. He brings deep experience in aerobic testing, anaerobic power assessments, cardiovascular assessments, metabolic testing and exercise prescription development. Evan holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Exercise Physiology from the College of St. Scholastic in Duluth, MN. A native of Superior, Wisconsin, Evan currently lives in Edina.

Evan enjoys spending his free time outdoors, whether it be while on a bike saddle or in a duck blind. He spends most weekends in motion, on one of his XX bikes, in a park with kettlebells, or in the woods up north. He has competed in powerlifting and enjoys pushing his body in new and different ways. He is currently exploring all the benefits of incorporating more Olympic movements into his training. Evan believes whole-heartedly in promoting a well-rounded lifestyle and incorporating movement whenever possible into our often sedentary lifestyles.

In addition to anything exercise related, if you ask him about hunting dogs, the Green Bay Packers or the many components of a bicycle you’ll really get him talking!

952-930-8512

Carol Pehle Pilates Director

Certifications:

Polestar/Pilates Certified in Mat Work and Equipment

IDEA

CPR & First Aid

Fitness Specializations and Interests:

Carol has been with The Marsh since the beginning! She has been a Pilates instructor since 1983. Carol leads our Pilates Department at The Marsh.

 

952-930-8524