Mariners Wellness Center

Adam was born in Queens, New York and raised in Miami, Florida. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Florida International University and two certifications from National Council in Strength and Fitness as Strength and Conditioning Coach and Personal Trainer. His work experience includes being an Exercise Physiologist at Pritikin Longevity Center in Miami. Adam loves being active, enjoys playing basketball, soccer, and weightlifting. Most important he loves bringing joy and energy to the people he trains, while helping them achieve their fitness goals.

From Ohio (Go Bucks!), moved to Tavernier Florida in 2017 I have been practicing yoga for 9 years. Completed 200 hours of yoga teacher training in 2016; RYT 200 (Registered yoga teacher with the Yoga Alliance ) I enjoy teaching and practicing yoga because there are so many benefits. Find balance thru a mindful, challenging, practice; making connections between mind, body, breath and movement.

With her roots planted in southern Arizona and California, and with marketing and business degrees in hand, Gail ventured to Chicago to explore a new lifestyle and business opportunities There, she founded and managed a marketing research consultancy, Kennedy, Inc. for 40 years which focused on how consumer attitudes and behaviors drive motivations.

Gina was born and raised in Miami, FL. She graduated from Florida International University and is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Nutritional Science to become a Registered Dietitian. Growing up, Gina struggled with her health which ultimately led her to want to pursue a career in healthcare. She makes sure to prioritize her health and well-being, and it is her goal to one day help others do the same.

James joined the Wellness Center team in 2007 as an exercise physiologist and was promoted to director in 2010. He earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Florida State University and a Master of Business Administration from Saint Leo University. He is an American College of Sports Medicine-certified personal trainer. James’ biggest motivator is helping others improve their health and progress toward reaching their goals.

Born in Valley Forge, PA and raised in Philadelphia, James attended Temple University before heading south and finding his new home in the Florida Keys. He joined the Wellness Center team as a Mad Dogg certified spin instructor in 2014.

Jennifer was born and raised in England. She moved to the US in 1990. Jennifer worked as a Fitness Coordinator with the US Navy for 16 years. She retired from that position 8 years ago and moved to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle in the Florida Keys. Jennifer is a Certified Fitness Trainer, holds several Certificates for Group Exercise as well as a 500hr Yoga Teacher Training Certificate. She joined the Fitness team at the Wellness Center in 2015 and teaches Yoga, Spin and HIIT.

Julie is a Florida native. She began teaching spin in 2002 and joined the Wellness Center team in September of 2011. She is passionate about spin and loves seeing the fantastic results in her students’ accomplishments.

Lissa was born and raised in central Illinois and was a professional ballet dancer in St Louis. In 2001 she started focusing on nutrition and exercise and lost over 150 lbs. This lifestyle change started her love, passion and her career in group exercise and personal training. In 2012 she started a second degree in Kinesiology and conducted clinical research in cancer rehabilitation and neurological movement disorder diseases. She earned her degree in Exercise Science and a minor in Nutrition in 2015 from Western Illinois University. Since graduation she has run her own wellness and yoga business and has developed several Parkinson’s and Cancer Rehabilitation programs for health clubs in Illinois and Georgia. She has completed 500 hours of yoga teacher training and holds certifications in both American Aerobics and Fitness Association Group Exercise Instructor and is American College of Sports Medicine Certified Exercise Physiologist.

Matthew was born and raised in Syracuse, NY and holds his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, along with a Master’s degree in Exercise Science, both from SUNY Cortland. He also holds a Personal Trainer certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He has participated in sports including baseball, soccer, tennis, karate, golf, cross-country, skiing, and cycling. Matthew enjoys the beach, running, cycling, fishing, and other sports during his free time. His life goal is to improve the lives of as many people as possible through each modality of health and wellness.

Sandy is a native Floridian who grew up in Miami and has lived in Key Largo for 34 years. She was a successful business owner for 15 years before selling it to dedicate more time to herself and her family. As someone who struggles with her weight, she has come to realize that being fit is a way of life and takes a daily commitment. She admits that working at the Wellness Center is the perfect place, as it helps to keep her motivated.