Our Team

From: Tucson, AZ Why I Got into Fitness: I started my exercise journey when I was in middle school. My father got me into exercise because I wanted to get better at soccer and had weight I needed to lose. After achieving success in losing weight, I became obsessed with exercise and how it made me feel. In high school, I went on to be a multiple-time state wrestling champion. I graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA and a full-ride scholarship to the University of Arizona. I started my fitness career at Bally Total Fitness and was the #1 Training director in the nation of 400 clubs. I started Prestige Fitness with my best friend Joe in 2008 and, since then, have helped transform thousands of lives! Every day is a great day and I feel very blessed to call Tucson my home. My Education: I was a graduate of the University of Arizona in 2006 with my Bachelors of Science in Physiology and minor in Chemistry. Go Cats! I have been in the fitness industry for over 15 years. Community Involvement: I think being a local business owner, it’s so important to get out in the community and help as much as possible. Some of the organizations I am a part of include: Ronald McDonald House, Angel Charity for the kids, Tucson Museum of Arts, Deltas Sorority, and the Salvation Army. Fun Fact: I speak fluent Assyrian and beat my middle school teacher in Chess when I was 10.

From: England. Was born in the United States and love being here as my home. Why I Got Into Fitness: Growing up in England, I was always athletic. I played as many sports as time would allow. In later years, I learned through my own health issues the importance of sound nutrition and exercise. This is what has pushed my desire to help others. Community Work: From a young age, I volunteered in many things, from fundraisers to health tournaments within the community I lived in. Now, I love being a mentor as well as simply using my hands to serve others. Certifications: Future Fit, Nutrition and weight management consultant, Pilates Level 3 certification.

Why I Got Into Nutrition: I’ve always been fascinated with the science of food and nutrition. Going into nutrition was but the natural career choice for me. Food behavior is my another passion. I like to help my clients/patients to improve quality of life by using psycho-behavior therapy. Education: Masters in nutrition from India. Masters certification in Nutrition and Dietetics from Simmons College, Boston. Internship from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston. Certifications: MS, RD, CDN Community Involvement: None right now as I just moved here. Fun Fact: Doesn’t matter where I go to shop, be it Lowe’s or Macy’s, or Sherwin-Williams, I always bring some garden/plant related stuff back home. It can be an actual plant or a planter or paint for the planters.

Why did you get into fitness? I started working out when I was ten years old to get strong for wrestling. I fell in love with the weight room and haven’t missed a workout in 20+ years. I have amassed a wealth of knowledge and I want to share it with those who need it the most. Education Graduated from Concordia University in 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology, Two decades of lifting experience. Certifications: ISSA through NBTY Community Involvement: I teach strength and conditioning to local middle school students. Fun fact: I like to repair and refurbish retro video game consoles. Super Nintendo, Gameboy Colors, and PlayStation 2 are my favorite consoles to work on.

Why I Got into Fitness: I grew up in an athletic household where exercising was always encouraged! When I was about 7 I started in a dance academy and continued with that into my early teen years. Once I got into high school I was introduced to weight lifting and discovered a new passion and skill for it. Watching my brother break records in the gym encouraged me to put my best effort into an activity that I love, so here I am, several years later continuing with the sport and now teaching others! Education: For 3 years I studied Early Childhood Education and taught in several schools. I fell in love with teaching but health concerns approached and I made the decision to leave the schools. I am now going forward in the health and fitness industry by continuing my education in physical therapy. Certification: CPR, Personal training certified by expertrating and soon to be by Prestige’s own PTonthenet. Community Involvement: I’ve spent multiple summers mentoring in Parks and Recreation programs for school aged children, lifeguarding, and participating in clothing donation centers. Fun Fact: The only thing I love more than exercising is coffee!

Why I Got Into Fitness: I was always active growing up, playing sports like softball, basketball, soccer, and I also did dance. Once I stopped, I wanted another way to stay in shape and be healthy; that is when I truly began my fitness journey. Since the age of 16, I have educated myself on fitness, nutrition, and health, I continue to do so everyday. Learning more about health and fitness is something I truly have a passion for, and it is so amazing how great it can make you feel! I want to be able to share this information with others and help others live a sustainable, healthy and fit life, forever! Education: My current education is as a certified Personal Trainer through National Academy of Sports Medicine. I am currently continuing my education to receive certification in Correctional Exercise and Nutrition, also through NASM. In addition, I am currently going through school at Pima Community College to receive an associates in Science and finish off at ASU Online for a fitness and health related bachelor’s degree. Certifications: My current certification is as a Personal Trainer through NASM, and CPR/AED certified. Community Involvement: Besides having the opportunity to share my knowledge with clients here at Prestige Fitness, I like to contribute to the community by sharing my passion with family and friends, helping them make lifestyle changes, forever. By sharing my knowledge with those who I care about, I hope to make this community and world a better place! Fun Fact: Fun fact, after being involved in sports growing up and being active till this day, I have never broken a bone in my body!

Where I’m from: Pinetop/Lakeside Arizona What got me into fitness: Is my passion for resistance training and sports conditioning along with my desire to help others achieve their own personal fitness goals in order to positively impact their quality of life. Certifications: ACSM CPT (American College of Sports Medicine) Pima Community College Fitness Professional Certificate CES (Correct Exercise Specialist) What a client should know about me: I’m a huge fan of sports, especially football, and I love to swim. I enjoy being active outdoors and enjoy watching movies.

From: I am from Texas. Born in El Paso but also claim San Antonio where I moved to and where my parents currently reside as home. Why I Got Into Fitness: I got into fitness at a young age because of the values instilled in me by my parents. They taught me to always push yourself and to help others. My personal belief is the best way to help someone is to improve their quality of life; hence, fitness. Community involvement: I have been constantly involved in volunteer work with the children of Bright Horizons in San Antonio, as well as in the movement matters program in San Antonio which encourages the kids to get out and move their bodies. What a Client Should Know About Me: I believe in dreaming and setting goals. For example, my wife wanted to share a kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower. At 16, I worked at McDonald’s and paid for my way to go with her on her French class’s trip to France and fulfilled that dream. Education: Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology and certified through ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine)

How I Got into Fitness: I got into fitness when I was a freshman in high school. I joined the wrestling team, thinking I could continue a family tradition. However, my season record was 1-22, with the single win coming from a forfeit. I knew I had to make a change. After the season, I dedicated myself to becoming stronger and more physically and mentally fit. As a sophomore, my record reversed for the positive, and I became a state champion. Fitness would always be an intricate part of my life! Certification: I am a certified personal trainer through the National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association, better known as NESTA. Community Involvement: I am involved in many youth sport and developmental programs, including the Arizona State Referee Association. Fun Fact: I enjoy officiating multiple sports, and I am an upcoming USSF Professional Soccer Referee!

Where you’re from? Tucson, Arizona Why you got into fitness? Wanted to make a difference by helping people and seeing transformations! Your certifications? NCSF What a client should know about you: I take my job seriously while still having fun. I’m a stickler for form and detail. I will make sure we are getting results the client wants.

Bio: Grew up in San Diego, CA and WA. I’ve lived in the Tucson area since 2008. I started out working as a receptionist at Golds Gym here in Tucson when I was 19 and I’ve been in the gym industry ever since. Why I Got into Fitness: I initially got into fitness to lose weight. My dad introduced me to weight lifting when I was 13 and needed to shed excess weight for health reasons. Over the years Fitness became more of a passion as well as an outlet for me. It has helped improve my health both physically and mentally. Now I aspire to help others become the best versions of themselves and improve their quality of life through fitness. Certification: ISSA Certified Personal Trainer Education: Associates of Arts Pima Community College Community Involvement I’ve been affiliated with M.E.Ch.A. A club that’s dedicated to raising educational awareness in the Hispanic community, assisting them in making their dreams of becoming first-generation college graduates a reality. Fun Fact: Contrary to popular belief (being 5’10”) I’ve never played ANY sports.

Why I got into fitness? Fitness always played a big role in my life. Everything from long hours of gymnastic practice during middle and high school, rigorous military training, competing in Bodybuilding competitions, and Powerlifting meets has given me insight on how the body works and how I can help others to achieve their goals. After suffering several serious injuries, I learned how to recover and I wanted to help my clients get stronger without unnecessary pain. All while having fun working out. Education I obtained a degree from Moscow Book Trading College in 1993. It gave me skills in management, trading and leadership. Certification I became a NASM Personal Trainer in May 2015 and later earned the following accreditations:

• Women’s Fitness Specialist certificate
• Senior Fitness Specialist certificate
• Weight Loss Specialist certificate
• Behavior Change specialist certificate
• NASM Guide to Bodybuilding

Community involvement I volunteered at the South Arizona Humane Society before the pandemic. Looking to get back to help animals of all sorts. Fun fact I was born in Siberia, Russia during the Soviet Union from Roma/Moldova/Ukrainian parents. I speak Russian, English, Ukrainian, and understand SLOW Italian. Have two dogs, a cat, a bird and a snake and… two daughters.

Why did I get into fitness? To better myself mentally and physically for a long and healthier life and to show others how to do what I did after overcoming being out of shape myself. What is your education? I am ISSA certified Are you involved in the community? I teach my friends and family to jump rope and am looking to do more. One fun fact about yourself? Pickles are my favorite food.

Why did you get into fitness? After working many jobs I was not passionate in and made me question my purpose in this life I realized I wanted a career that would put me way out of my comfort zone and now I am here!! ???? What is your education? I have a BA in speech therapy, a minor in studio art and am PT certified through NASM. What is your community involvement? I spend time pet sitting and volunteering at animal shelters. One fun fact about you? I spent 5 years in Tokyo and can speak Japanese.

Why did you get into fitness? Sport and strength training were essential to building my confidence and ensuring I had a strong network of friends with similar fitness goals as I grew up. In the weight room, I gravitated toward powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting. After seriously injuring myself by lifting carelessly, I dedicated countless hours into studying and practicing safe and efficient lifting technique so that I could come back better than I was prior to the injury. My goal now is to help each person I train to meet their goals without having to experience the pain I put myself through. Certifications: ISSA Certified Personal Trainer, CPR/AED Community Involvement: I always love to support local artists and musicians. Fun fact: I have not been to the National Park.

Why I got into fitness/Education: I always thought of myself as a relatively healthy person, however I never actually put any thought into exercising or nutrition. As I reached my thirties, I started to realise that what I saw in the mirror was not the reflection of a healthy man. So I decided to take action and began researching how to build muscle, lose fat and become fitter. For me, that lead to following body building weight exercises paired with a complete overhaul of what I ate, as well as lots of steady low-intensity cardio. As I progressed, I not only looked better, but I felt the best I have ever felt and I’m never going back! Education: I graduated from the Academy of Contemporary Music in Surrey, England with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance. Certifications: I have a CPR and Personal Training certification through NASM. Community Involvement: I teach drums to students all over Tucson through Allegro School of Music, as well as the Music and Dance Academy. I love teaching people, which is why I love giving people the guidance they need to achieve their fitness goals. Fun Fact: I am a complete nerd! Ask me about Lord of the Rings or Magic the Gathering and I’ll talk to you for hours! (After the session, of course…)

What got her into health coaching/fitness?I got into fitness because I really wanted to help people reach their goals and feel their best. I’ve always been passionate about health and fitness, and I know firsthand how much of a difference it can make in someone’s life. Being able to support clients on their journey, see them hit their targets, and grow more confident is incredibly fulfilling. For me, it’s not just about helping people get stronger or fitter; it’s about making a positive impact and being a part of their success story. Education: I have my bachelor’s degree from Minot State University in corporate fitness. I am a certified personal trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Community involvement:In addition to my work as a personal trainer, I’m actively involved in the community through coaching. I coach high school varsity baseball, which allows me to mentor and develop young athletes at a critical stage in their lives. I also work with youth baseball players aged 3-12, helping to instill a love for the game and teach fundamental skills from a young age. These experiences not only allow me to contribute to the growth and development of local athletes but also help me stay connected with the community and bring valuable insights into my personal training practice. Fun fact:Here are a couple of fun facts about me: I’ve been playing baseball since I was 3 years old, so the sport has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I also had the opportunity to play professionally for the past 2 years, which was an incredible experience and really deepened my understanding of the game. My background in baseball not only fuels my passion for fitness but also gives me unique insights into the dedication and discipline needed to excel in both sports and personal training.

Fitness: I’ve had a natural pull to the gym from a young age. I remember being no more than 5 walking around my yard pressing bricks over my head. This was further reinforced by my love of marvel movies. I wanted to look like wolverine. I made due with the old weight sets gifted to me by my uncle when I was a teenager. I remember being envious of my peers who had access to a full gym as my school didn’t offer one. I am extremely grateful for all I have today and when a set feels particularly difficult I remember where I started. Background: I’ve lived in Tucson my whole life. I love lifting weights and hiking. I am NASM certified and constantly seek out new knowledge in peer reviewed studies and books. I believe there is no such thing as being over qualified for a job

What got her into health coaching/fitness?I come from a Fitness minded family who every member had something going on from boxing to baseball. On top of that I’ve also spent most of my life helping out on farms and homesteads. As I became an adult, I made the realization that the better we can take care of ourselves the more time we have to spend with our loved ones. Community involvement:For over ten years I specialized in the health and wellness of individuals with special needs and physical disabilities, also ive help for many years rescue and foster dogs and various other animals. Certifications: I have a personal training certification through ISSA Fun fact:When I’m not taking care of my family or helping people with their health my other passion is making art. I love to paint and most of my paintings are about the human figure and it’s movements

Why I got into fitness? My lifestyle has always been about sports or going to the gym. Well, better way to complement it than becoming a trainer, doing what I love I introducing a lot of new people to this lifestyle and helping them become a better version of themselves. Certification: ACE certified, NASM certified Fun fact: I am fluent in Spanish.

1. One reason I got into fitness was because I enjoyed the process of being challenged day in and day out. I also wanted to make a positive change in my life and become more active in general. Furthermore, I want to take my passion for fitness and health and share it with others who are interested in making a lifestyle change as well. I also think that fitness is meaningful work and can have a lasting impact on a client’s life.
2. I currently hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Lehigh University as well as a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Arizona.
3. My current certifications include an NCCA Accredited Personal Trainer certification, as well as a CPR/AED certification. Both of these certifications are from NASM.
4. In the community, I like to take part in intramural sports such as basketball, soccer, and pickleball. Besides taking part in intramural sports, I enjoy attending the University of Arizona basketball and football games. Other than that, I enjoy trying to find as much time as I can to be outside, such as going on hikes.
5. One fun fact about me is that while attending the University of Arizona, I was an intramural pickleball champion.

My approach to fitness and my practice is to find things that challenge you but allow you to have fun and be engaged at the same time.

From: I was born and raised in Mexico City, a place that shaped both my character and passion for community. Why I Got Into Fitness: My fitness journey began with my own major weight loss transformation. That personal experience sparked my love for fitness and inspired me to dedicate myself to helping others achieve their goals. Community involvement: Outside of training, I enjoy giving back by participating in community fundraisers, especially within the local metal scene, which has been an important part of my life. Education: Associate’s Degree from Pima Community College and Certified Personal Trainer.