INstructors

REBECCA FEY (she/her/hers)

I started my journey in the theatres of Chicago and fell into the circus world after moving to NYC. I've taught aerial to students of all ages from 3-adult.

I love helping beginner students find their confidence as they start their aerial journey and encouraging them to form a positive and supportive network for one another. In my more advanced classes, I love working on helping students find their own personality and performance quality in their movement styles!

KIRA FATH (they/them/theirs)

I am an interdisciplinary artist hailing from Chicago, IL. In 2013 I completed a BA in East Asian history at Oberlin College and proceeded to use it to join the circus. In 2014, I graduated from the year-long professional training program at NECCA and came to NYC to hone my skills and perform in the city (Slipper Room, House of Yes, Bindlestiff Circus, The Muse) as well as for Cedar Point’s Luminosity show in 2016 and Broadway Bares in 2019. I draw from years of dance and acrobatic tutelage (SANCA, Circus Warehouse, NECCA) to offer a unique perspective on mobility and aerial technique to my students.

ELENA DELGADO (she/her/hers)

I have been teaching aerial arts in New York city for nearly 10 years and am passionate about teaching in a warm, fun, and engaging style. In my beginner classes I emphasize the importance of positivity and proper conditioning, while my advanced classes help students gain a solid technical foundation and facilitate their creative exploration and performance abilities.

I'm also a choreographer, artist, and aerialist performer. In addition to writing and directing my own aerial theater productions, I also perform in cabarets all over the city.

EMILY HURSH (she/her/hers)

I've been teaching and performing aerial arts for six years, and especially love giving beginners a solid foundation from which to grow and develop their technique and artistry while exploring theory and foundational exploration with more advanced students. I aim for my students to walk away from class with a solid sense of what aspects of the sequences taught are essential for safety, and what aspects are malleable choreographic choices. I have performed on silks, cloud swing, and lyra at Tribeca Rooftop, the official World Pride afterparty, the Slipper Room, and more, and love exploring the slippery space between art and absurdity.

TROY LINGELBACH (he/him/his)

I have been inverting my whole life. I grew up a competitive gymnast in San Diego before finding my way to the stage and eventually New York City. I studied Musical Theatre, Philosophy, and Hispanic Studies at Marymount Manhattan College. As an actor/singer/dancer, I have worked at several regional theaters and aboard the Regent Explorer, the world's most luxurious cruise ship. As an aerialist, I have worked with Company XIV, ABCirque, Chorus Productions, the Circus Collective of San Diego, and has been featured in magazines. In 2016, I represented the USA at the US Aerial Championships. I specialize in aerial silk, dance trapeze, lyra, contortion, and hand balancing. Helping students blossom as artists while achieving their wildest dreams is my greatest joy, so let's fly!

SAMMY MARSH (she/her/hers)

I am an aerialist, artist, and performer. I am passionate about what it is I do and love to share that through teaching. I take pride in providing a warm and engaging atmosphere that encourages students to challenge their bodies to do incredible things upside down and in the air! Once a solid foundation is built in beginner levels, a focus on technique, skill and artistry will have you feeling free and confident in the air.

Besides teaching, you can catch me performing aerial, doing live-painting, or performance art at different cabarets and clubs around NYC!

“Enjoy your body, use it every way you can. Don't be afraid of it, or what other people think of it, it's the greatest instrument you'll ever own.” -Vonnegut

KYLA RANNEY (she/her/hers)

I'm an aerialist, dancer, and choreographer based out of New York City. I specialize in aerial hoop, tiny hoop, hammock, and silks, but am versatile among many of the aerial apparatuses. In addition to aerial, I have extensive training in classical modern dance, contemporary, ballet, pointe, and choreography. I've performed both dance and aerial around NYC, New Jersey, and Martha’s Vineyard. In addition to performing, I also teach dance and aerial arts to both kids and adults at VITAL and Body and Pole, and have traveled and taught in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.

LAURA WITWER (she/her/hers)

A founding member of NYC's aerial community, I’ve performed and taught around the world for almost twenty years. Since 2001, I’ve worked internationally as a professional aerialist, and loved (almost) every second of it. Highlights include performing at the Olympic Stadium in Greece, Casino Estoril in Portugal, Las Vegas, The House of Blues in New Orleans, Sea World’s VIVA show, and hundreds more. I’ve toured with Cirque Productions, Cirque le Masque, Circus Nexus (lots of cirques!) among others. In 2002, I teamed up with my aerial partner to form ImaginAerial, currently one of the top-ranked cirque-style performance companies in the world.

I specialize in adult recreational students, with an eye towards strength, technique, and self-expression. I’ve been teaching professionally for nineteen years, and pioneered many of the techniques, spotting positions, and safety guidelines used in teacher training all over the USA. Additionally, I’m an ACE certified personal trainer, founding member of NYATA (NY Aerial Teachers Alliance), member of American Circus Educators, and hold specialty certifications in pre/postnatal training, increasing flexibility, athletic injury prevention, strength training for artists, and more. I’m delighted to be joining the VITAL team, and look forward to making some magic in Williamsburg!

LISA NATOLI (she/her/hers)

I am an aerial performance artist living in Brooklyn and am also known as Iron Fanny. I'm a sought-after aerialist known for my unconventional approach and intensity of artistic curiosity. I attended the Alvin Ailey Certificate Program before receiving a B.A. in dance at the University of Iowa. I trained as an aerialist in NYC with Laura Witwer, Kevin O’Connor, and Terry Beeman and have performed in private, corporate, and staged events across the country including House of Yes, The Slipper Room, MonkeyTown, Dixon Place, Gowanus Ballroom, and Brooklyn Lyceum.

I was a resident artist in the Floating Kabarrette at Galapagos Art Space, Brooklyn, and presented work as a resident artist at ArtKlub, NOLA (2019) and The Visionary, NY (2021). I've taught ongoing classes at Circus Warehouse (NYC), Aerial Arts (NYC), The Muse (Brooklyn), Frequent Flyers (Boulder), and Aloft (Chicago) and have also taught workshops at festivals and studios across the nation including Toronto Circus Festival, Colorado Aerial Arts Summit, and Above Borders.

My classes explore theory and technique to help build confidence and artistry in the air.

MADELINE HOAK (she/her/hers)

I'm an artist and academic who creates with, through, and about circus. I've been teaching aerial in NYC for over a decade. My joyfully rigorous coaching style is rooted in understanding the biomechanics of aerial movement to prevent injury and ensure longevity. I use my background in dance and theater to guide students toward their own personal circus style.

I've performed circus and dance and presented my circus research at international venues and conferences. I've choreographed for Netflix, Target, and Pixar/Disney+ with ImprovEverywhere. I'm an Adjunct Professor of Aerial Arts at Pace University, a writer for CircusTalk and Cirkus Syd, the Editor & Curatorial Director of TELEPHONE, and founder of the Aerial Acrobatics courses at my alma mater, Muhlenberg College. I've earned an MA from Gallatin (NYU), where I designed a Circus Studies curriculum focused on spectatorship. I am currently refurbishing my thesis into a full-length book and eyeing movement direction and dramaturgy opportunities. Photo by Rachael Shane.

MAIA RAMNATH (she/her/hers)

I've taught aerial rope and silks at Circus Warehouse and the Muse, Aerial Arts NYC (sub) and Om Factory (sub). As co-founder and artistic director of Constellation Moving Company/Constellation Moving solo projects, and a two-time recipient of the Bindlestiff Family Cirkus First of May award, for over a decade I have directed, choreographed, and performed in multi-disciplinary circus-dance-theater works at venues including Theater for the New City, Dixon Place, the Muse Artist in Residence program, and the Dzul International Dance Festival. I’ve appeared as a freelance aerialist and modern dancer with many choreographers and companies including Yonder Window Theater Company, Fly By Night Aerial Dance Theater, Surface to Air Dance, and Hybrid Movement Company. I have gathered knowledge from many teachers over the years, with major influences in aerial technique and pedagogy coming from Kevin O'Connor, TT Robson, Alex Allan and PJ Perry. I've also studied functional anatomy/kinesiology for movement teachers with Jason Brown and circus anatomy workshops with Emily Scherb.

DILLAN HARRIS (she/they)

I am an artist specializing in aerial silks, rope, hammock and straps. I discovered aerial silks while in Los Angeles, CA, where I trained primarily with Brett Womack in silks and rope and with David Gray on straps. My love of aerial has taken me all around the world – from studying act development in Greece, to busking around Europe, teaching workshops in Slovakia, participating in the Irish, French & European Aerial Dance Festivals and the Spanish Rope Meeting in 2018, as well as performing with Aerial Experience Productions, Paper Doll Militia, and most recently at the iconic Slipper Room in LES and Cirkus Moxie. I am an ISSA certified personal trainer, have completed levels 1 & 2 of Paper Doll Militia’s Teacher Trainings as well as Aaron Koz’s Straps Teacher Training, and have experience teaching children and adults of all levels in NYC, LA, Denver, Fort Collins, and Boulder, CO.

ELIZABETH ROUSH (she/her/hers)

Hey there! I’m Elizabeth, and I’ve been climbing with VITAL for just about 8 years. While I was in college in Southern California, I started working at VITAL and had the opportunity to coach a few youth teams at one of the company’s smaller gyms. I also spent a lot of my time bouldering outdoors in Joshua Tree and Black Mountain. The first time I came to a climbing gym, I was so nervous that I left without even touching the wall. The second time, I could only climb about halfway up a problem before my arms were too tired to keep going. Even though climbing was really tough for me, the welcoming and supportive community kept me coming back! I love watching new climbers get stoked as they master the climbing fundamentals and see how much they can progress with a little guidance and dedication.

Available for youth and adult private training sessions.

DENIS GU (he/him/his)

My name is Denis and I’m the Head Coach at VITAL Williamsburg. I am a Level 2 USA Climbing Coach and AMGA certified Climbing Wall Instructor. I have been coaching/instructing since 2015 and have worked with climbers of all ages and experience levels but still nothing gets me more psyched than watching someone else get hooked on rock climbing!

I prioritize mastering the fundamentals for my students and finding the solutions appropriate for their body, strengths, and weaknesses.

I am now primarily a boulderer though some may be surprised to learn that I started off as a sport climber! Some of my favorite places to climb have been Stone Fort, HP40, The Gunks, and Farley Ledges. Outside of climbing, I am a first generation Korean-American born and raised in NYC (718 represent!).

Available for youth and adult private training sessions.

AARON VANEK (he/they)

Hey, I'm Aaron! I started climbing first as a kid, but began to engage more seriously with the sport when I moved to New York City for college. I quickly learned to love everything about it, from the supportive and ambitious culture to the focus on problem solving and life long improvement.

As a climber and a coach, I focus on a technique driven approach towards mastery of climbing as a skill. I believe that success in climbing is most rewarding when it's replicable through good technique. Working with me, you can expect a strong focus on fundamentals you can rely on and hone throughout your climbing journey!

Available for youth and adult private training sessions.

CECELIA MORROW (they/them/theirs)

Hello! My name is Cecelia, and I was first introduced to climbing when I moved to NYC for college. I quickly began to appreciate the ways through which I was able to build new strength and find a community amongst other climbers. Since then, climbing outside has allowed me to explore new places across the country while growing my love for the outdoors.

I first started coaching youth climbers and new adult climbers in 2021. Through a collaborative approach to problem-solving, I work with climbers to help them build new goals, work on fundamental skills, and address areas of improvement. I am excited encourage climbers of all ages and abilities to find a positive and meaningful connection to movement through climbing.

Available for youth private training sessions.

JESS NAFTALY (she/her/hers)

Hey there! I’m Jess. I’m a certified personal trainer and climbing coach. When I first struggled up a climbing wall over 5 years ago, I fell in love with the mental and physical challenge of the sport. I’ve been training climbers of every level for over 3 years to realize their potential through a combination of climbing and strength training. When we work together, I’ll help you reach your individual climbing goals by building strength, confidence, and positivity both on and off the wall. Whether you want to improve your mental game, train for a competition or outdoor project, or build your technical tool box, I will get you there and be your biggest cheerleader along the way!

P.S. If you ever want super short beta, I’ve got you!

Available for youth and adult private training sessions.

JOSH GREENWOOD (he/him/his)

Hey there! I am Josh Greenwood and I am originally from Denver, Colorado. I was a competitive gymnast for 8 years and then started climbing when I was in college. I then competed as a professional Slackline athlete for many years. I started working as an AMGA certified climbing coach a few years ago and love to work with climbers of all skill levels. Whether it is your first time climbing, you are working on advancing your technique, or getting ready for a trip outside, I am excited to help you get there! Outside of climbing I enjoy making movies, listening to records, and riding my bike.

Available for adult private training sessions.

RAYE PARKS (she/her/hers)

Hey all! My name is Raye and I’ve been climbing since I was 12 years old. I started my climbing career outside of Boston climbing in local, regional and national competitions. As I got older my love for climbing grew and became an outlet to express myself, meet new people and grow as a person. I’ve been doing private training and coaching kids on recreational and competitive teams for 3 years and love watching the confidence and strength that climbing and the climbing community brings to people.

Available for youth private training sessions.

LUKE LIVESEY (he/him/his)

I’m a certified USA Climbing coach and AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor, and have worked with teams and individuals across every level of climbing experience, from new climbers looking to master the basics, to competitive athletes reaching National and World Championship levels, across Youth, Open and Paraclimbing categories.

As a climber, I enjoy the technical and physical challenges of the sport, but it’s the problem solving that’s kept me engaged since I started climbing fifteen years ago. As a coach, this attention to problem solving becomes even more acute as I assess and address a client's needs. Through a combination of observation and technique coaching, and strength assessment and physical training, I’ll help you realize your full potential as a climber.

Available for youth and adult private training sessions.

NADINE WONG (she/her/hers)

Hey All! My name is Nadine Wong and I'm originally from Colorado. I started climbing when I was around 9 years old through a summer camp at my local gym in Denver. I then began competively climbing up until college. I've always loved the quiet creativity within climbing and especially love being able to reflect on my abilities, thoughts, and emotions during my climbing sessions. Climbing has always remained a true staple and constant throughout my life and I am excited to share my passion as a coach for fellow climbers of all ages and experiences.

Available for adult private training sessions.

HARRISON LIND (he/they)

Howdy, my name is Harrison! I grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah and have been scrambling around mountains and deserts since I was a rugrat. I started climbing in a more official capacity after college, learning the fundamentals lead climbing and outdoor bouldering! I love climbing because of its intense and rewarding engagement on multiple levels; physically, mentally, and socially.

I believe that climbing has inspired confidence and self-assurance in multiple areas of my life! As a coach, I approach climbing instruction holistically; starting with developing solid fundamental technique, combined with a mindful approach to success, failure, and a thoughtful exploration of your limits!

Available for adult private training sessions.

LILY LUO (she/her/hers)

I started climbing in college but didn't take the sport seriously until a few years ago when I joined Vital as a member. I then quit my job and spent that time outdoors. I quickly progressed to all versions of the sport, including alpinism, which is now my preferred form of climbing. However, I wouldn't have gotten here without building a foundation of passion and techniques through bouldering, all which I hope to pass onto new climbers so they can begin their own journey with this sport.

Available for adult private training sessions.

KATE CONNORS (they/them/theirs)

Hey y'all! My name is Kate - I've been climbing for 6 years, and I'm endlessly grateful for how the sport has benefitted my life. I'm a big believer that climbing is a space for working on your physical, mental, and emotional strength and resiliency. I love bringing people into the sport and making it a fun, accessible space and helping them explore an activity that helps us discover we are more powerful than we ever thought we might be.

LETA DICKINSON (she/they)

I've been climbing for over half my life now, and have been involved in climbing in just about every way possible. I started climbing as a comp team kid in youth circuit, spent some time coaching youth teams in the Midwest, dirtbagged in Bishop for a few months, set routes for a couple of years, and now work at VITAL. Of all the climbing roles I've filled, the most gratifying has always been coaching! I love to get into the nitty gritty of techniques and beta on specific routes. I hope to share my passion for climbing with everyone around me!

Available for adult private training sessions.

LINDSEY "GATER" GATERMAN (she/her/hers)

Hi! I'm Gater, Cycle Lead and an NYC-based editor-turned-group fitness & meditation instructor. As a dancer most of my life, I was always drawn to rhythm-based fitness classes and combining music with movement. I started teaching group fitness in 2017 and eventually decided to make my love for meditation, community building, and creating playlists my full-time job.

When I'm not teaching, I'm looking for a new restaurant to try, listening to an audiobook or podcast, or hanging with my dog Marcy.

ALVINA "V" BROWN (she/her/hers)

Born and raised in the athletic world, I've always gravitated towards adrenaline workouts and activities. I enjoy teaching classes full of energy and joy! As a NASM certified personal trainer and certified Yoga Teacher, I love the science behind exercising and the benefits of a well-rounded yoga practice. My philosophy is: “numbers do not matter; feeling good and eating good food is when the magic happens”. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy traveling the world and immersing herself in each culture but also relaxing and detaching from my phone.

SARAH DEGEORGE (she/her/hers)

Hi, I’m Sarah and I am a fitness professional born and bred in Brooklyn, NY! I am a certified group fitness instructor with over 5 years of teaching experience! I work with various different fitness modalities including: kettlebell training, olympic weightlifting, TRX suspension training and indoor cycling! My goal is to provide a fun, challenging class for participants of all fitness levels. There is always room for progression and improvement and I strive to bring out the best and strongest version of every participant that attends my class. I live for upbeat, hype music and an energizing workout! So if those are things that you’re interested in too, I hope to see you in my classes! When I’m not teaching group fitness, I do enjoy exploring my neighborhood in Williamsburg, walking or reading in McCarren Park, trying a new local coffee shop and discovering new restaurants!

CARLENE THOMAS (she/her/hers)

I’m a Vocational Rehab Counselor who fell in love with indoor cycling back in 2017. It literally changed my life for the good. So much to the point that I could no longer sit back in “the saddle.” When I got certified I knew this would be the start to my spin 2 win motivation. I love instructing from a rhythm based ride but particularly when the music is connected to my roots. The first time a rider told me she associated my class with going on a Caribbean cruise I ran with it. For me it’s all about community and collectivization. If I can help others escape to a place far away just for that moment in time then I believe I’ve done my job. We all need a reprieve from time to time and for me that’s what indoor cycling is.

ELLA HALL (she/her/hers)

Hi Y’all I’m Ella, a Williamsburg local Mama with a passion for bringing out the best in people. I bring an energetic, positive attitude to the bike and strive to create a fun, sweaty, and powerful class. When I’m not on the bike or on a stroll with my 6 month old, I run a company based in Greenpoint called Stitchroom.

FORD PHILLIPS (he/they)

Hey there! I'm Ford. I'm a comedian and artist who has made home in Williamsburg. I'm a charismatic, fun-loving kid from the South. I use my background in improv to host a class that is fun, encouraging, and in the moment. I love to see people having a good time, so come on in and lose your mind to some music. We'll push, we'll dance, we'll get sweaty. See ya soon!

JUSTIN ROSS (he/him/his)

Hey hey! My name is Justin and I am a professional dancer and cycling instructor from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. My class is a serious workout for all levels mixed with a heavy scoop of dance party. I bring elite coaching to each class and will have everyone movin’ and groovin’. My music covers all genres and I live for a 90’s throwback. When I’m not dancing or riding, I am most likely spoiling my doggo Kobol RuPaul or taking too many photos of my plants. Grab a bike and let’s hit the sweaty beat!

LAUREN CAVATARO (she/her/hers)

Hi, I’m Lauren Cavataro! I have been a Spinning™️ certified cycling instructor for over 3 years in Brooklyn, NY. It’s been a part time passion of mine as I also work full time at Muck Rack, a remote-first PR & media relations software company. An early bird, I love to bring energy and enthusiasm to my rides no matter the time of day! I love leading a team and pushing you to get the best out of yourself; while being right there in the work with you. Working hard and having fun is what it is all about! Off the bike, I love trying new food, art, live music, shopping, and all of the incredible things the city has to offer! Hope to see you on the bike soon!

SHAYNA GONSALVES (she/her/hers)

I refuse to believe that cardio can't be fun and promise to keep my classes as beat-bumping and sweat-dripping as possible!

OLLIE RINGLAND (she/her/hers)

Hi! I’m Ollie, former ballet dancer turned cycling enthusiast based in Greenpoint. In my class, you can expect an energized workout suitable for all levels that will get you dancing and feeling the rhythm. My goal is to provide a fun and challenging class that that will leave you feeling inspired, and of course, sweaty!

ADRIENNE AGUIRRE (she/her/hers)

Hey there! I'm Adrienne, a San Francisco native who's been lucky enough to call NYC "home" for the last 13 years. I'm a big fan of ponytail choreo, on-bike karaoke, and really any form of authentic self-expression. When I'm not moving my body, I'm probably baking bread or eating noodles. So, if you love a throwback, ain't afraid of a little sweat, and want to dissociate from reality in a dark, loud room for 45 minutes -- come through!

SAMANTHA VILLAFANE (she/her/hers)

What’s up, VITAL! I’m Sam/Sammie/Samantha. I’m an Argentine, Puerto Rican, and Irish Queens girly ready to break into the Brooklyn fitness scene. My 9-5 is healthcare, but my passion is movement. I was never encouraged to do any kind of sports/physical activity as a kid, so I started my fitness journey in college and never looked back. When I discovered fitness as an outlet, I knew I had to make sharing it with others part of my life’s purpose.

What to expect in my class is a good time with songs you may have forgotten about, songs that push you to go harder, and DEFINITELY a sprinkle of perreo. ;)

Outside of work I love a good nap and good food.

JESS NAFTALY (she/her/hers)

Hi! I’m Jess, a certified personal trainer, VITAL's Fitness Lead, and climbing coach. When I first struggled up a climbing wall over 5 years ago, I fell in love with the mental and physical challenge of the sport. Through a combination of strength training and on-the-wall skill building, I have helped climbers of every level realize their potential, improve their movement mechanics, and build resiliency. When we work together, I will teach you how to train smart to reach your climbing or fitness goals and have fun along the way. Whether you want to master your first pull-up, improve your mental game, train for a competition or outdoor project, or build your technical tool box, I will get you there and be your biggest cheerleader!

ALVINA "V" BROWN (she/her/hers)

Born and raised in the athletic world, I've always gravitated towards adrenaline workouts and activities. I enjoy teaching classes full of energy and joy! As a NASM certified personal trainer and certified Yoga Teacher, I love the science behind exercising and the benefits of a well-rounded yoga practice. My philosophy is: “numbers do not matter; feeling good and eating good food is when the magic happens”. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy traveling the world and immersing herself in each culture but also relaxing and detaching from my phone.

SARAH DEGEORGE (she/her/hers)

Hi, I’m Sarah and I am a fitness professional born and bred in Brooklyn, NY! I am a certified group fitness instructor with over 5 years of teaching experience! I work with various different fitness modalities including: kettlebell training, olympic weightlifting, TRX suspension training and indoor cycling! My goal is to provide a fun, challenging class for participants of all fitness levels. There is always room for progression and improvement and I strive to bring out the best and strongest version of every participant that attends my class. I live for upbeat, hype music and an energizing workout! So if those are things that you’re interested in too, I hope to see you in my classes! When I’m not teaching group fitness, I do enjoy exploring my neighborhood in Williamsburg, walking or reading in McCarren Park, trying a new local coffee shop and discovering new restaurants!

THOMAS REED (he/him/his)

I was born and raised in Delaware and have found fitness to be a passion throughout my life. I always enjoyed team sports and realized later that I found that same enjoyment in group fitness classes. Sometimes it is because of the support of the people around me and other times it is because of the friendly competition with the person working out next to me. After moving to New York in 2019, I decided it was time to take my passion and use it to help others and I became a NASM certified personal trainer. I have enjoyed utilizing my skills to help others make positive changes in their lives. I can’t wait to see you on the walls and in class!

WILL SMITH (he/him/his)

Hello, I'm Will, a seasoned personal trainer with six years of experience, certified by AAPTE. My primary focus is assisting clients in achieving their fitness goals, whether it be weight loss, strength gain, or reaching personal milestones. After a year as an Equinox trainer, I ventured into establishing my private personal training business. However, upon relocating to Williamsburg in 2022, my desire to integrate into the local community led me to discover Vital—a gym whose culture and vision immediately resonated with me. In terms of my training philosophy, I adopt a holistic approach, incorporating functional training methods into client workouts to ensure proper form and execution of movement patterns, thereby minimizing the risk of injury. On a personal note, my interests extend beyond the fitness realm. I find joy in hiking, creating music, and indulging in a bit of gaming during my downtime.

SAMANTHA VILLAFANE (she/her/hers)

What’s up, VITAL! I’m Sam/Sammie/Samantha. I’m an Argentine, Puerto Rican, and Irish Queens girly ready to break into the Brooklyn fitness scene. My 9-5 is healthcare, but my passion is movement. I was never encouraged to do any kind of sports/physical activity as a kid, so I started my fitness journey in college and never looked back. When I discovered fitness as an outlet, I knew I had to make sharing it with others part of my life’s purpose.

What to expect in my class is a good time with songs you may have forgotten about, songs that push you to go harder, and DEFINITELY a sprinkle of perreo. ;)

Outside of work I love a good nap and good food.

MARISA TURNER (she/her/hers)

My journey began at a young age when I discovered my passion for movement. This passion eventually drove me to become a Certified Personal Trainer, Yoga Instructor, and Group Fitness Instructor. I strongly believe in the connection between physical health and mental well-being. I am passionate about helping clients reach their goals, cultivating a balanced lifestyle, and developing sustainable habits to maintain long-term success.

SAYA TOMIOKA (she/her/hers)

I began my yoga journey when I took my first ever yoga class at the YogaWorks South Bay studio in my hometown, Los Angeles. A year later, I completed my 200HR teacher training in 2014 while I was studying biology as an undergrad at the University of California, Berkeley. Today, I teach Power Vinyasa, prenatal and postpartum Hatha, and Yoga Sculpt. My teaching sankalpa (heart’s mission) is to inspire students to become smarter and stronger in their bodies through mindfulness in breath and movement. Outside of teaching, you can find me cooking up family meals or DJing on the dance floor.

DANIELLE HARBORD (she/her/hers)

I graduated from Yogamaya New York’s 200hr (and later, 300hr) teacher training program in the spring of 2014, and have been teaching ever since. As an avid runner and former athlete, I was immediately drawn to the physical and mental challenge that yoga presents. Through the connection of mind, body, and spirit, I realized my practice would be a lifelong journey and an inspiration for living. My classes are challenging, yet carefully sequenced with attention to alignment and blended with my love of music. I aim to create a supportive and playful environment where students are encouraged to expand their awareness and explore their practice.

ANDREW CHUNG (he/they)

I am originally from Southern California but have lived in New York City since 2011. I completed my 500HR YTT in 2016 and have been teaching ever since. I am grateful to be joining the VITAL community. Along with my 500HR, I am also a certified Yoga Tune Up instructor and have completed additional trainings in Aerial and Yin yoga. I believe yoga offers a mind-body connection that can lead to greater benefits beyond and off the mat. My classes are rooted in breath awareness, intelligent sequencing, and self-regulation. I am passionate about demystifying the practice and offering an inclusive space for all bodies. Off the mat, I am an artist and performer.

JEN TSE (she/her/hers)

I found yoga through climbing, and completed my 200-hour YTT at Three Sisters Yoga with the specific goal of teaching yoga in the climbing community, my home. I strive to teach playful, joyful, and empowering vinyasa classes with an emphasis on alignment, body awareness, and self-discovery. The yoga I want to share with others is ultimately about deepening the relationship between body, mind, and spirit using movement, meditation, and breath as tools. And because of that, it’s for every body! Students can expect a thoughtfully sequenced practice with challenges, choices, and encouragement for cultivating a positive and inquisitive relationship with themselves.

When I’m not teaching, you’ll probably still find me at VITAL—flowing in a yoga class, flying in an aerial class, or climbing (of course).

JACOB REYNOLDS (he/him/his)

I was not a natural born teacher, and I’m honestly still in awe of where I’m at today. I persevered knowing that I had found something that truly mattered to me. This practice changed my life completely, and that’s why I knew I needed to share it with others. I’m 500hr trained and the past 8 years have allowed me to refine and polish my approach to one that I believe fits the needs of modern day practitioners. When I’m not teaching, I still dedicate time to being a student of the practice as well as educating myself on movement that is studied outside the world of yoga. In my classes you will find instruction on skills and technique, well paced verbal communication, and carefully curated music that helps us stay engaged with our practice. My hope is that through this discipline we connect to all aspects of what it means to be fully present.

Outside of teaching you can catch me playing with kettlebells, eating my way through NYC, exploring every corner of the globe, and walking everywhere.

KYLE ADAM (they/he)

Yoga is a practice that can balance our bodies, our minds, and our breath. They are all connected; when you move one, so do the others. For me, yoga began as a strictly physical practice that was rather inconsistent. I used my dance training to push my Asana (physical) practice for the esthetic more than the feeling, which led to injury and burnout. I learned that Asana practice is only one limb of a tree in a forest that we call yoga. On and off the mat, I began to find myself practicing breath work, the Yamas/ Niyamas, yin yoga, and pushing less as I felt more connected and free. Following my 200hr yoga teacher training, I knew I needed to keep learning. I am a professional dancer with a BFA, an ACE certified personal trainer, an ACE senior fitness specialist, and currently working towards my 500hr yoga teacher cert. I love to share what I'm learning from my practice in a music-filled, challenging, creative, and playful class that is accessible for everyone.

LIZZIE FALKNER (she/her/hers)

The moment I could put a prayer at my heart I have been on a soulful quest.

Since college in 2003, yoga has transformed how I live, breathe and interact in the world. Coming from a dancer’s background, I aim to move in my body as a messenger of strength, grace, and balance. If I am conscious of my thoughts and practice to LIVE in my body, I can walk a path with light…..or at least try.

I am 500 hours certified in Bhakti, FLY, Energy and the Subtle Body, Super Sequencing, Anatomy + Alignment, REIKI and Hands On Assists from Laughing Lotus NYC and Maha Rose Center. Teaching full time since 2015.

My classes are filled with good beats and an energized open level vinyasa flow. There is a dash of mantras, mudras, meditation, and YOU!

Just breathe & let your soul flow.

MELANIE RUD (she/her/hers)

I'm a yoga instructor, personal trainer, and architect based in NYC. Originally from Argentina, I lived several years in Israel where I experimented with different kinds of training modalities and yoga styles that deeply influenced my classes. I teach challenging but accessible Rocket inspired Vinyasa classes with a focus on alignment of the body, breath and mind.

Not available for private training.

MICHAEL COHEN (he/him/his)

Yoga has been the culmination of my life’s relationship with movement. After competitive figure skating at a young age and dancing through college, I arrived at yoga eight years ago. Since then, I have taken two 200-hour Vinyasa, Power, and Hatha yoga trainings: one with CorePower Yoga in Chicago and the other with Sadhana Yoga School in Bali. I have also completed a 75-hour " Art of Teaching Kula" advanced teacher-training in Portugal with The Sacred Fig, led by Nikki Vilella and Anton Brandt. I like my classes to look beyond strict asanas to other sources of movement for inspiration: dance, 80‘s aerobics, Pilates, intuitive movement, etc. My goal for each class is to practice healthy alignment, discover fluidity through transitions, strengthen the areas that we may neglect, and stretch the places where we hold most stress.

MICHAL SHAPIR (she/her/hers)

I was introduced to yoga in 2012 through online classes, and immediately developed an at home practice. It wasn’t until 2016 that I started to take classes at a studio, and fell head over heels in love with the community yoga creates and became. For most of my life, I've been challenged by depression and anxiety. Through my yoga practice, I've been able to take a step back from my sometimes overwhelming thoughts, and get in touch with the present by focusing on moving my breath with my body. Yogic inversions ignited a passion for handstands. Hand balancing is an inexplicable obsession. It is a unique skill that requires time and dedication to the development of strength and precision. A seemingly impractical ability with a profound lesson; teaching us how to be in the world by learning how to be on our hands.

LEAH FRIEDLANDER (she/her/hers)

I'm a yoga teacher, personal trainer, energy practitioner, and movement lover. I've been passionate about movement and the body since I was a dancer in my childhood, and my life since then has been a wonderful journey of art and fitness and mindfulness. To me, yoga is a powerful tool for self-awareness and expression, healing, and transformation. The yoga classes I teach are accessible, inclusive, and tend to lean into dance-like transitions for a pop of creativity. Outside of the yoga studio you can catch me climbing, zipping around on my bike, borrowing too many books from the library, and trying to unlock the secrets of gluten free baking.

NEHA SHARMA (she/her/hers)

What was once a creative way to move my body while breaking a satisfying sweat, transformed my life. My mom introduced me to the ancient philosophy and kinesthetics of yoga when I was a little one, but my relationship with the practice deepened years later while navigating mental noise and holistic physical healing. I discovered a powerful, intrinsic connection between my body, breath, spirit, and mind. After an awakening metamorphosis, I knew I wanted to become a forever student and teacher of yoga.

I’ve taught for over 4 years with 900+ hours of training from master teachers in India and NYC, including Jared McCann of Lighthouse Yoga. I aim to teach classes that are creative, fluid, challenging, and revitalizing. Join me for practice with conscious intent and curiosity—and awesome flow music.

SAMANTHA STAR (she/her/hers)

I utilize my knowledge of pole, gymnastics, yoga and handstands as a dynamic performer, playful competitor and informative instructor. I believe perfecting fundamentals is the best way to gain strength and coordination, leveraging these to achieve a higher level of fitness and grace. By focusing creatively on technique, I help students attain a solid platform from which they can achieve confidence, strength and power. I also teach at Body & Pole, Warrior Bridge and virtually on zoom from my living room in NYC. I travel the world to perform, compete, judge, train and teach workshops.

SANDRA FERREIRA (she/her/hers)

Yoga saved my life. I started practicing Jivamukti Yoga while living in the Lower East Side of NYC in 1995, and completed their year-long teacher training in 2000. I’ve been developing my knowledge and skills as a teacher ever since. I went on to train to teach Pilates Mat (2002), Acroyoga (2008), Breathwork and Trauma Release (2019-2020), and since 2012 I have been presenting my own Aerial Mukti Yoga Teacher Training. My love for the circus has led me to train and perform on a variety of aerial apparatus, both with and without fire, as well as extensive hoop dancing. Yoga continues to be the foundation underneath it all. My yoga classes at Vital are a fusion of breath awareness and strength integration within a vinyasa flow, always in a playful container.

SARAH BESS (she/her/hers)

Growing up dancing, camping and skiing in the Pennsylvania mountains, I have always enjoyed an active lifestyle. I was first introduced to yoga in 2005 when my mother did her yoga teacher training. I moved to nyc in 2010 and my yoga mat became my home and anchor amidst hard times, heartbreaks and loneliness. I got to know myself and love myself more and more.

In 2014 I completed my 200hr teacher training and it was truly transformative. I later went on to teach the traditional hot practice (26+2) and complete my advanced training with Science of Self for my 500hr. I’ve since had the pleasure of assisting in over a dozen teacher trainings and managing one of the highest-trafficked yoga studios in the country.

My classes are powerful, playful and heartfelt. Having taught well over 3,000 classes, my experience allows me to offer grounded support as I guide both beginners and seasoned practitioners through challenging moments and uplifting sessions.