BE Fitness Cleveland
The original home for Pole, Pilates, Aerial, Barre, and Yoga.
BE Aerial Lakewood
A dedicated space for aerial silks, hammock, and lyra.
For adults and kids.
BE Pilates Rocky River
A Pilates-focused studio offering reformer and mat experiences.
Each space shares one mission:
To help you feel safe, supported, and inspired to move.
Our Team
Our staff and instructors are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive experience at our studios.
Christina Anderson
Founder & Director
Christina Anderson
Founder, Owner, & Instructor of Pilates Reformer, Pilates Mat, Pilates Hot Mat
Energizing • Flow • Form
Certifications:
I hold a B.A. in Studio Art and Dance and am a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor.
My teaching style blends energizing flow with attention to form, helping my students build strength, awareness, and confidence in their bodies.
Favorite Quote:
“Let the beauty we love be what we do.” – Rumi
Wanida Joy
Leadership & Pilates
Wanida Joy
Leadership Team, Leader of Be Pilates Instructor Certification Program, and Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Supportive • Technical • Inclusive
Certifications:
Doctor of Physical Therapy (Cleveland State University), Nationally Certified Pilates Instructor (500 hours), 500 Hour CYT (Certified Yoga Teacher), Masters in Business Administration
I help clients build safety and steadiness from the inside out. You’ll learn to access your own inner strength—your true powerhouse. My teaching honors the classical Pilates principles while meeting you exactly where you are. I’m here to support you to develop strong foundations in movement, posture, and embodied confidence.
Favorite quote:
“Everyone is the architect of their own happiness.” – Joseph Pilates
Dana Textoris
Leadership & Pilates
Dana Textoris
Leadership Team and Instructor of Pilates Reformer, Pilates Mat, Pilates Hot Mat
Encouraging • Challenging • Grounding
Certifications:
Inaugural Be Fitness Teacher Training Program, Levels I and II (Level III in progress); Certified Executive Leadership and Business Coach
We spend so much time on screens and separated from one another. That’s why I love spending time in my body through Pilates and helping others spend time in their bodies, too!
Favorite quote:
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” – Jim Rohn
Marie Evans
Front Desk
Marie Evans
General Manager
Devil’s Advocate • Knowledgeable • Detail-Oriented
Certifications:
BA in Communications
I believe Be Fitness is a community of healing: body AND soul.
Favorite quote: “
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” – Lao Tzu
Samantha Husted
Front Desk
Samantha Husted
Front Desk
Friendly • Helpful • Knowledgeable
I started at Be Fitness as a pole student. I love chatting with our clients and making new friends.
The other staff members, teachers, and clients are the sweetest.
Stephanie Maniaci
Front Desk
Stephanie Maniaci
Front Desk
Quirky • Caring • Detail-Oriented
Be Fitness became my entire community when I moved back to Cleveland in 2020. The instructors, staff, and students are all so kind and genuinely themselves. That’s why I love working and playing here: it’s an opportunity to both absorb and help foster that community.
Favorite quote:
“Don’t fight back—fight forward.” – Sam Obisanya’s dad (a fictional character from AppleTv’s Ted Lasso)
Ava Ferguson
Front Desk & Aerial
Ava Ferguson
Front Desk & Aerial Instructor
Encouraging • Supportive • Fun
To come.
Christina R
Front Desk
Skyler Hudock
Front Desk
Skyler Hudock
Front Desk
Encouraging • Supportive • Fun
To come.
Laura McKenna
Front Desk
Laura McKenna
Front Desk
Thoughtful • Kind • Helpful
Favorite quote:
“The worst enemy to creativity is self doubt.” – Sylvia Plath
Kristen Gajdos
Pilates
Kristen Gajdos
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Chill • Challenging • Fun
Certifications:
Balance Body Pilates training under Troy McCarty.
I have a passion for Pilates and what I teach. I love to see clients experience Pilates and grow stronger.
Erin Gilbride
Pilates
Erin Gilbride
Instructor of Pilates Reformer & Pilates Mat
Supportive • Precise • Focused
Certifications:
Comprehensively certified in Mat, Reformer, Chair, Ladder Barrel, Cadillac/Trapeze table and spine corrector
When I teach, I love giving a cue that resonates with the client. Seeing the noticeable changes in people’s strength, mobility, and posture is incredibly rewarding.
Favorite quote:
“Just breathe.”
Gwyn Wood
Pilates
Gwyn Wood
Instructor of Pilates Mat, Pilates Reformer
Body-positive • Form-Focused • Respectful
Certifications:
Inaugural Be Fitness Teacher Training Program, Levels I and II (Level III in progress)
I came to Pilates through injury and found my own recovery in its principles. Now, I teach because I want people of all ages, genders, sizes, and shapes to experience what I did: the joy of loving your body for what it can do. There’s something magical about discovering the precision, control, and balance that Pilates brings.
Favorite quote:
“The body says what words cannot.” – Martha Graham
Karen Lamoureux
Pilates
Karen Lamoureux
Leader of Be Pilates Instructor Certification Program & Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Meditative • Deep • Connected
Certifications:
Comprehensively Certified Pilates Instructor
I love teaching because I create a space for you to set aside the stress of daily life, helping you connect with your breath, body, mind, and spirit. I want you to dive deeper into the practice while gaining a better understanding of how your body moves.
Favorite quote:
“Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love. This is the eternal rule.” – Gautama Buddha
Laura Hammel
Pilates
Laura Hammel
Instructor of Intro to Pilates Reformer
Non-Judgmental • Encouraging • Patient
Certifications:
Balanced Body Reformer 1,2,3 and Mat 1
I believe wholeheartedly in the power of Pilates. My introduction to Pilates at an “advanced” age inspired me to become an instructor, hoping to encourage other mature women to explore the benefits of Pilates for themselves.
Favorite quote:
“Believe in the beauty of your dreams.” – Eleanore Roosevelt
Melissa (Mel) Mendel
Pilates, Pole, & Aerial
Melissa (Mel) Mendel
Instructor of Pilates Mat, Pilates Reformer, Barre, Pole, Adult & Kid’s Aerial Hammock
Creative • Flowy • Strong
Certifications:
Pole 1 + 2, Aerial Yoga, Mat 1 + 2, Reformer 1 + 2
As a former dancer and grade school teacher, I’m excited about integrating my background to create a safe and fun environment for my clients, differentiating my lessons to meet clients where they are. I’m passionate about the mind-body connection, finding balance in everyday life through healthy creative and physical outlets, and the power of a supportive community.
Favorite quote:
“When you get the chance to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance” – Lee Ann Womack
Paula Paderewski
Pilates
Paula Paderewski
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
High Energy • Contemporary • Flowing
Certifications:
600+ hour Pilates Core Integration Comprehensive Pilates Certification in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels.
Pilates changed the way I feel in my own body. I am here to help you get stronger, challenge yourself, feel more confident and grounded, capable and alive, and have a good time getting there.
Favorite quote:
“You’re only given a little spark of madness. You musn’t lose it” – Robin Williams
Kristina Turton
Pilates
Kristina Turton
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Balanced • Challenging • Humorous
Certifications:
Peak Pilates
I began practicing Pilates to recover from multiple injuries and quickly knew I wanted to become an instructor. My classes offer a balance of the classical movement patterns while also providing opportunities to find a new challenge in every class. I will always root for the underdog!
Favorite quote:
“Movement heals.” – Joseph Pilates
Maude Moreaux
Pilates
Maude Moreaux
Reformer Pilates & Mat Pilates Instructor
Encouraging • Supportive • Fun
Training for a Comprehensive Balanced Body certification
I tailor my classes to clients’ individual needs while also providing challenges for those more advanced in their practice. I believe every body is capable of achieving meaningful movement within my class.
Favorite quote:
“Maybe slow it down a little, see what happens” -Monica Ferrari
Annie Stewart
Pilates
Annie Stewart
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Thoughtful • Creative • Intentional
Certifications:
Balanced Body Reformer Levels 1, 2, 3
I teach because I love the precision and intention behind Pilates. The benefits of Pilates are extensive and can apply to every person in any aspect of life.
Favorite quote:
“Pilates is complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.” – Joseph Pilates
Valeria Kozak
Pilates & Barre
Valeria Kozak
Instructor of Pilates Mat & Ballet Barre
Focused • Dynamic • Restorative
Certifications:
Mat certified through National Pilates Certification Program) and B.F.A in Dance from The Ohio State University
Bringing my love of dance and Pilates to Be Fitness has been inspiring. I believe movement is essential for our well being. I meet each student at the level they are at.
Favorite quote:
“I may not be there yet, but I am closer than I was yesterday” – Misty Copeland
Vivian Corey
Pilates
Vivian Corey
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Strong • Intentional • Curious
Certifications:
Mat and Reformer certified, BFA in Dance and BSEd in Exercise Science from The Ohio State University, Healthy Dance Practice Certificate from Safe in Dance International, ACE certified personal trainer
I weave movement and science as the foundation of my work to guide others to find their love of movement through community-based practice.
Favorite quote:
“Dance, dance, otherwise we are lost.” -Pina Bausch
Amanda Merner
Pilates
Amanda Merner
Instructor of Pilates Reformer
Engaging • Structured • Accessible
Certifications:
Balanced Body Comprehensive Pilates Certification in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac/Tower, Chair, and Barrels. Certificate in Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates. Advanced graduate study in archival movements (in progress).
I discovered Pilates as an injured athlete. I love teaching and watching clients reconnect with themselves as they get stronger, more flexible, and balanced. You will work hard in my classes, but I promise to work just as hard to meet you where you are so that you feel successful.
Favorite quote:
“Pilates is not just a series of exercises. Pilates is a concept. It’s a philosophy.” – Eve Gentry
Tori McKinney
Barre & Pole
Tori McKinney
Instructor of Barre, Pole
Encouraging • Energetic • Upbeat
Certifications:
Barre Intensity, Xpert Pole level 1&2
I love getting to share the energy of the class throughout the entire workout so we can all make it to the end and feel successful together!
Lorna Barimi
Pole
Lorna Barimi
Instructor of Pole, Pole Choreography, Pole Sexy Freestyle, Pole Conditioning & Flexibility
Intentional • Embodied • Empowering
Certifications:
200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training (RYT-200), ACE Group Fitness Instructor Certification (American Council on Exercise)
I teach to help clients fall in love with themselves, to build deep confidence, and expand what they believe is possible. Pole dance is transformative, and I love holding a supportive space where students can grow and embody their own power.
Favorite quote:
“I’m heavily into sugar. I call it granulated happiness.” – David Lynch
Heather Ramsey
Pole & Aerial
Heather Ramsey
Instructor of Pole, Aerial Hammock, Twerk
Down-to-Earth • Approachable • Goofy
Certifications:
AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor and XPERT Pole 1 & 2 Certified Twerk Technician. Flight Path Pole Teacher Training in progress.
For me, pole and aerial are perfect combinations of strength, flexibility and mobility, cardiovascular fitness, and art. I love watching the lightbulb moment of something clicking in a student’s mind/body and love watching people grow. And shaking my ass!
Janice Spicuzza
Pole
Janice Spicuzza
Instructor of Pole 2, Advanced Pole
Challenging • Supportive • Fun
Certifications:
X pert certified in pole 1&2, and Lyra
Pole dancing helped me navigate the grief of losing my son in 2013. To this day, it helps me deal with any kind of stress or bad day I may be having. It’s a workout for my mind as much as it is for my body. I want to help anyone who loves this sport develop and grow.
Favorite quote:
“A comfort zone is a beautiful place – but nothing ever grows there.”Anonymous
Anna Pengal
Pole
Anna Pengal
Instructor of Pole
Welcoming • Encouraging • Technical
Certifications:
Xpert Pole Fitness 1 & 2 Professional Teacher Training
I fell in love with how Pole builds both strength and confidence. My classes focus on thoughtful technique and fluid movement in a welcoming space where students can grow at their own pace and celebrate what their bodies can do.
Favorite quote:
“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously.” – Sophia Bush
Allison Zaleski
Pole
Allison Zaleski
Instructor of Pole
Technical • Supportive • Combo-Focused
Certifications:
Pole Beginner/Elementary Certification
I love sharing my passion for pole with others. My classes begin with a full body warm up followed by conditioning exercises. I really enjoy linking moves together so you can expect to learn one or two combos.
Favorite quote:
“What a blessing to be tired in the pursuit of a challenge of your own choosing.” – Unknown
Rachael McGilvray
Pole
Rachael McGilvray
Instructor of Pole
Uplifting • Challenging • Energizing
Certifications:
XPert Certified Pole Level 1&2, Aerial Hammock, Lyra
I love watching people grow; not only in their fitness journey, but in their self-confidence. In class I strive to create a welcoming, fun, and encouraging environment that allows students to express themselves through movement, all the while giving that extra small push to the next coolest trick/transition.
Favorite quote:
“Surround yourself with people smarter than you, and don’t be afraid to be the dumbest person in the room because that gives you the most potential to learn.” – Mark Edward Fischbach (a.k.a Markiplier)
Erin Williams
Pole
Erin Williams
Instructor of Pole
Supportive • Fun • Safe
Certifications:
American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Group Fitness Instructor, XPERT Pole Fitness Level 1&2
I bring a playful, strength-focused pole style to my classes, encouraging students to celebrate their unique abilities and leave feeling empowered. I began my pole journey in 2013, and what started as a fun hobby has grown into a lasting passion for movement, confidence, and personal growth.
Kourtney Harris
Pole
Kourtney Harris
Instructor of Pole
Strong • Sexy • Confident
Certifications:
Certifications: Xpert Fitness, Pole Fitness 1&2
Pole helped me fall back in love with my strength and confidence after motherhood. My classes are all about feeling sexy, strong, and free in a supportive space where we celebrate every move and every moment.
Ethan Williams-Taylor
Pole
Ethan Williams-Taylor
Instructor of Pole
Reassuring • Technical • Condition Heavy
Certifications:
XPole Level 1 & 2 Certification
Expect an instructor who will walk alongside you on your journey, whether you’re refining old skills or starting fresh. You’ll find accountability here. How you care for your body is part of the process, and you’ll learn what that really means from the ground up. That’s the discipline of pole.
Favorite quote:
“You can kill a patient by trying to make them better. But in surgery, when you’ve done enough, you’re done.” – Anonymous Surgeon
Maribel Esperanza
Aerial & Pole
Maribel Esperanza
Instructor of Lyra, Pole Conditioning & Flexibility.
Technical • Strengthening • Encouraging
Certifications:
X-Pert Pole 1 & 2, X-Pert Hammock, X-Pert Lyra
I first fell in love with Lyra because it didn’t feel like a workout and I had the most fun I’d ever had in a fitness class. Every year since, I’ve gotten stronger and more flexible. I’ve met the most incredible, supportive community of aerialists and pole artists along the way.
Emily Pietrasz
Aerial
Emily Pietrasz
Instructor of Aerial Hammock
Supportive • High Energy • Motivating
Certifications:
Xpert Aerial Hammock Certified
Aerial movement has been a source of healing and strength for me, and has filled my life with joy and community. I want to share that with my students. In my classes, every movement is celebrated, and you’ll find support, safety, and the confidence that comes from doing hard things and realizing you can.
Favorite quote:
“It’s okay to make mistakes, fall down, get up, look sickening, and make them eat it!” – Latrice Royale
Jessica Edmison
Aerial
Jessica Edmison
Aerial Instructor
Encouraging • Supportive • Fun
To come.
Julie P. Weber
Aerial
Julie P. Weber
Instructor of Aerial Hammock
Creative • Energetic • Flowing
Certifications:
Aerial Hammock Instructor Certification through Xpert Fitness.
Movement has strengthened me physically, mentally, and emotionally. I love guiding others into that as well. I like to create a supportive space where people can explore movement and surprise themselves, build confidence, and trust their bodies.
Favorite quote:
“Strength doesn’t come from what you can do. It comes from overcoming the things you once thought you couldn’t”. -Rikki Rogers
Allegra
Aerial & Pole
Allegra
Instructor of Candlelit Restorative Aerial Yoga
Relaxed • Supportive • Adaptable
Ky Cobb
Aerial & Pole
Ky Cobb
Instructor of Aerial Silks, Aerial Hammock, Pole, Partner Acrobatic
Empowering • Technical • Playful
Certifications:
XPERT Teacher Training Pole Fitness Beginner
I adore circus arts because they blend strength, storytelling, and joy. When I’m teaching, my goal is to help students feel strong, capable, and inspired. A space where trying, laughing, and growing are all part of the process.
Favorite quote:
“Gravity is a suggestion, not a rule!” -Unknown
Liz Kozempa
Aerial
Liz Kozempa
Instructor of Candlelit Restorative Aerial Yoga
Relaxed • Supportive • Adaptable
I use an adaptable approach to classes, so that clients can choose to work on what suits their minds, bodies, and goals the best. I love being able to provide a comfortable and supportive environment where we can all learn and explore motion together.
Favorite quote:
“Every time I intentionally choose rest, I know that I am healing, I am held, and I am supported.” – Zahabiyah A. Yamasaki, MEd, RYT
Alexis Threatt
Aerial
Alexis Threatt
Instructor of Aerial Yoga, Hammock, Lyra, Silks
Focused • Creative • Calm
Certifications:
Aerial Yoga Level 1 through Yoga Alliance
My classes are inspired by movement, environment, and the quiet strength we all carry. In my classes, you’ll find supportive guidance, intentional pacing, and room to grow. Expect grounded energy, creative flow, and freedom to explore aerial at your own rhythm.
Favorite quote:
“When I choose myself, everything else aligns.” – Unknown
Lauren Loutzenhiser
Kids Aerial
Lauren Loutzenhiser
Kids Aerial
Expressive • Fun • Confident
Inspired by the powerful impact aerial arts had on my own daughter, I developed a passion for sharing this experience with other kids. Aerial builds confidence, creativity, strength, and self-expression, and I love helping young students discover their abilities while having fun and feeling supported.
Favorite quote:
“I feel there is nothing more artistic than loving people,” Van Gogh.
Hannah Wong
Yoga
Hannah Wong
Instructor of Yoga
Zen • Supportive • Hands-On
Certifications:
Antigravity fitness fundamentals, 200hr CYT, and Physical Therapist Assistant
Yoga is one of the few practices that connects the mind with the body and allows us to seek what we truly need within that very moment. My classes tend to be slow but challenging, to allow one to find mind-body connection.
Favorite quote:
“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” – Marcus Aurelius