Group Fitness Classes

Denise is the Pilates Studio Manager, a certified Pilates instructor and certified holistic health coach who is passionate about helping clients feel stronger, move with greater ease, and build lasting stability. She discovered the transformative power of Pilates while rebuilding strength and reconnecting with her body after having twins. Her personal journey inspires a warm, compassionate, and personalized approach to supporting each client. Denise is certified by both Balance Body & TRX. She is passionate about helping clients develop customized, sustainable habits that support their health for the long term.

Paul and Rosalie are highly experienced martial arts instructors, authorized by the Wudangdao Cultural Institute to teach Tai Chi and Qigong in the United States. Rosalie holds the rank of Jiaolian (Professional Trainer/Coach) and Paul holds the rank of Shifu (Master/Teacher). They have been studying and practicing martial arts since the seventies, with experience in Korean swordsmanship, open hand fighting, and Japanese classical weapons. For decades they have devoted themselves to Chinese martial arts, and are currently students of Master Zhong Xuechao, a 15th generation Wudang Sanfeng Kungfu Master from Wudang Mountain.

Jill is a certified fitness professional who specializes in Forever Fit instruction. She is dedicated to guiding participants to love their bodies and work every muscle, while creating a positive, uplifting, and playful atmosphere in each class. Her unique style and eclectic personality add a touch of spice to every workout, making her classes engaging and enjoyable for everyone.

Caroline discovered yoga in 2006 through prenatal and postnatal classes, and that experience has shaped her teaching ever since. She is a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher with certifications in prenatal yoga, yin yoga, power yoga, vinyasa, and meditation. Caroline brings a uniquely rich perspective to her classes -- she is fluent in four languages, a trained classical pianist, and a ballet dancer.

Lauren is a certified yoga instructor with a focus on alignment and breath. She holds additional certifications in Mini Yogis®, a premier yoga program for children, and Yoga For Golfers®, which helps athletes improve range of motion, power, focus, and confidence. Lauren brings the same mindful, holistic approach to every class, whether she's working with young beginners or seasoned athletes. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga and Pilates, walking her Airedale Terrier George, and playing tennis.

Wendy is a group fitness instructor with over 25 years of experience teaching HIIT, Spinning, Sculpt, Pilates, and Barre. She designs her classes to be functional, safe, and enjoyable for all participants, and is committed to delivering workouts that are both effective and results-driven.

Petra is a seasoned fitness professional with decades of experience teaching group fitness. She is certified in a wide range of formats including body sculpt, HIIT, barre, yoga, and cycle, and brings the same energy, precision, and dedication to every class. Petra is known for her expertise and her ability to challenge and motivate clients of all fitness levels.

Andria has been a certified group fitness instructor since 1987, bringing nearly four decades of experience to her classes. She specializes in cardio hi-lo aerobics, kickboxing, muscle conditioning, and senior fitness, and is licensed to teach all Zumba® formats.

Kristen is a high-energy group fitness instructor known for her challenge-packed, musically choreographed classes. She has brought specialty programs like TurboKick and Punk Rope to the JCC, along with originals like Cardio Bosu, LIIT, and Cardio Ballet. Her boundless enthusiasm creates an infectious atmosphere that leaves members feeling exhilarated and accomplished. Kristen's classes are available in-person, online, and on-demand through the JCC platform.

Luca is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer who has been passionate about fitness since his college days, when he discovered a love for weightlifting after playing high school football. He graduated from Lasell University in 2022 with a degree in Sport Management and a minor in Coaching, and earned his NASM certification in 2024. Luca enjoys working with clients of all levels and backgrounds, helping them build strength and reach their personal fitness goals. Outside the gym, he loves playing golf and watching football with friends.

Josh has been a fitness instructor and personal trainer in the greater Boston area for over 23 years. He is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer who came to fitness through a lifelong love of martial arts and boxing. Josh works with clients across all fitness levels using a variety of modalities including kettlebells, free weights, TRX, and boxing. He has put his passion for fitness to good use outside the gym as well -- running the Boston Marathon with Team in Training to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and boxing for charity with Haymakers for Hope in 2014. A Wellesley native and film school graduate, Josh enjoys movies and spending time with his two sons.

Jen is a dedicated personal trainer who has been inspiring members and leading group exercise classes at the JCC since 2005. She is ACE and TRX certified and has been an integral part of our Parkinson’s Programming since day one. Jen is passionate about helping clients reach their goals through strength training, consistency, and a positive mindset. She also brings the discipline of an experienced marathon runner, having completed 11 marathons, the most recent one with both her daughters. Jen is here to support and help you achieve your goals.

Stacey is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor with 8 years of group training experience. She believes that fitness goals can be achieved with the correct mindset and by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She has made fitness a part of her everyday routine and enjoys running outside and HIIT training. She firmly believes that working out is not a “one size fits all” approach and will help you reach your fitness goals by tailoring your fitness journey to you. Stacey lives in Needham with her two daughters.

Yael is a highly skilled and well-rounded fitness professional with certifications in STOTT Pilates, Zumba®, and belly dancing. She holds a Master's degree in Dance Anthropology from Tel Aviv University. As a Pilates trainer, Yael specializes in working with clients with spinal injuries as well as training for prenatal or postpartum care. Yael's classes are non-competitive — she promotes safe and gentle exercises to achieve tone, balance, posture awareness, and strength. In addition to her passion for fitness, she enjoys cooking, knitting, reading, and theater.

Jessie serves as the Fitness Engagement & Retention Manager. She is also a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and a PN1 Certified Nutrition Coach. She believes that strength training is important for everyone, regardless of age and fitness level. She believes in consistency and small incremental changes to fuel growth. Jessie loves meeting with new members to get them started on their fitness journey!

Nicole is experienced in providing exercise for individuals over the age of 50. She is certified in group exercise, cycle, cycle for Parkinson's, and Tabata Bootcamp™. Her expertise in injury prevention and recovery makes her an ideal instructor for those looking to improve their overall fitness and well-being while reducing the risk of injury.

Andrée is a senior yoga instructor certified by Yoga Alliance (E-RYT 200/RYT 500) and a certified Power Pilates trainer. Though teaching began as an unexpected calling, she has developed a deep belief that understanding the physical body is the foundation for greater mental and spiritual awareness. Andrée approaches each session with mindfulness and compassion, encouraging students to carry their practice beyond the mat and into daily life. Her classes are designed to be both motivating and challenging, with a specialized focus on anatomy, movement efficiency, and mental awareness. Outside the studio, Andrée is a dedicated animal lover with a particular soft spot for puppies.

Elise believes in “feeling strong from the inside out!” Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Dance from Dean College, Elise has worked in the Professional dance and fitness world for over 24 years. Holding certifications in Stott Pilates, ACE, AFFA and BOSU training to name a few, Pilates has always been her first love for her own personal workouts as well as training her clients. She also has expertise in a wide range of formats, including dance, muscle conditioning, barre, and more. You will see her strong dance background within her Pilates and Group Fitness training. Additionally, Elise brings a unique perspective to her classes as a former backup dancer for Pitbull!

Erika is a yoga instructor trained in vinyasa flow, yin yoga, restorative yoga, meditation, and balanced athlete. Her outgoing personality and collaborative spirit create a welcoming environment for participants of all levels and abilities, helping them build strength, flexibility, and mindfulness on and off the mat.

Elena is a Pilates instructor, certified in Powers mat Pilates in 2014, but she is far from finished — Elena is currently pursuing an advanced and comprehensive certification through Power Pilates, further solidifying her skill set as an instructor. Her teaching style is characterized by a unique blend of challenge and patience, enabling her to cater to students of all levels and abilities.

Mirna is a passionate Zumba® instructor who combines her love for dance and fitness with her background as an educator to create lively, engaging classes for children. Her Zumba Kids and Kids Jr. classes focus on key childhood development elements including leadership, teamwork, confidence, creativity, coordination, and cultural awareness. Each class is designed as a party-like experience that keeps kids active while building skills they carry beyond the dance floor.

John is certified in Mike Boyle Strength & Conditioning (MBSC) and BoneFit™ through the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation. After a successful career in high-tech, he followed his passion for fitness and became a certified personal trainer and yoga instructor. He has experience leading High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and bootcamp classes, as well as coaching basketball. John enjoys lifting weights, practicing yoga, and playing basketball in his free time. Outside the gym, he stays active with snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking. 

Robby is a certified Group Fitness and Pilates instructor with a special focus on fitness longevity. She teaches Body Balance and Strength, Soul Body Restore, Pilates, and Forever Fit, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to each session. Robby takes a compassionate, personalized approach to her teaching and is dedicated to empowering students to build lasting fitness habits.

Rhea has devoted over four decades to leading group fitness classes. She is known for her high energy enthusiasm and ability to motivate participants. When she's not leading classes, you can catch her cycling outdoors or training for her next big fitness challenge, like the Boston Marathon.

Jimmy is an ACSM and NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and Exercise Physiologist with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. He works with clients of all ages, designing safe and effective training programs tailored to individual goals. Jimmy specializes in strength, wellness, injury prevention, and recovery.

Jay is a certified Spinning® instructor and avid cyclist who has been participating in the Pan Mass Challenge since 2009, where he has raised thousands of dollars for the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He is known for his unique approach to teaching, incorporating a diverse range of music videos — spanning from musical shows to rock & roll — to motivate and inspire his participants. His classes are fun, dynamic, and engaging, often including a special video appearance from the Schoolhouse Rock! series.

Carla is a skilled Zumba® instructor who is also licensed to teach Zumba Gold and Zumba Kids classes. Her classes are designed to be fun, energetic, and stress-free, leaving participants feeling inspired and accomplished.

Deidre is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer with additional certifications in cycling and barre. An accomplished distance runner, she has completed nearly 30 marathons. Deidre is passionate about health and wellness both professionally and personally, and brings that lived commitment to her work with every client.

Jane is a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500) in the Hatha Yoga tradition and a Reiki practitioner. She discovered yoga in her early twenties and has been teaching since 2012, influenced throughout by the Iyengar School. Jane completed over 300 hours of advanced training through a certified yoga therapy program, including five years assisting and teaching in an advanced teacher training program. She has also pursued advanced training in seasonal yoga and yoga for healing and wellbeing.

Lynne is an accomplished psychotherapist with decades of experience and a certified Pilates instructor since 2000. Her classes blend traditional Pilates techniques with a healthy dose of humor and laughter, reflecting her belief that physical fitness and mental well-being are deeply connected. Outside the studio, Lynne practices yoga, meditates daily, and walks her two poodles -- bringing the same mind-body balance to her own life that she brings to her clients.

Nick's passion for strength training began on the high school football field and deepened through his own 100-pound weight loss journey in college. Before becoming a trainer, he spent six years as a fitness photographer working alongside fitness professionals — an experience that ultimately inspired him to pursue the career himself. Nick has been a NASM Certified Personal Trainer since 2022 and works with a range of clients, from everyday individuals looking to get stronger and move better, to competitive athletes. Outside the gym, he enjoys golfing and watching sports.

Margaret's love for yoga began long before she received her certification at the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health in 2008. Her Kripalu-based practice focuses on helping participants of all levels and abilities experience the full spectrum of poses while challenging themselves mentally and physically. She encourages students to push to their own "edge" -- the point at which they feel challenged but can still find balance and ease. In addition to teaching, she continues to assist numerous programs at Kripalu and has received additional training in yoga nidra, yin yoga, yoga for depression, and meditation.

Tisha has been a group fitness instructor since 2012, bringing her love of dance, music, and fitness to every class. She is known for her high-energy teaching style and her ability to create an engaging, welcoming atmosphere where members leave feeling energized and accomplished.

Dave Heard is a Boston native formally trained at the Alvin Ailey Dance School of New York, with Broadway credits including Hairspray and Dreamgirls. He brings over 10 years of academic and professional fitness experience to his work, along with a master's degree in education. Dave holds his motto close -- "Strong Bodies that hold Confident Minds and Brave Hearts" -- and brings that philosophy to every class through monthly themes that invite curiosity and courage alongside strength and power. He also works closely with the JCC Youth and Family department to develop an innovative fitness curriculum for youth development.

Ali has been in the fitness industry for over 30 years and has been teaching group fitness since 2012. She teaches a variety of formats including Barre, yoga, and Mat Pilates, fostering an encouraging atmosphere for participants of all levels. A competitive athlete, she has participated in multiple NPC competitions, gaining valuable insight into fitness methodology and personal growth. Ali's full-time work is with senior and geriatric adults living with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other forms of dementia, where she designs tailored fitness programs to support their quality of life and overall well-being.

Angelica Lopez has been a certified Zumba® instructor since 2011 and an experienced Latin Cardio Dance instructor who brings energy, rhythm, and enthusiasm to every class. She is known for her excellent music selection and easy-to-follow routines that make dance fitness enjoyable and accessible for participants of all levels. Her classes celebrate the rich diversity of Latin rhythms, including salsa, merengue, cumbia, and reggaeton. Angelica often says she is "Latina from everywhere" -- a reflection of her love for the many musical styles that make up the vibrant world of Latin music.

Jessica has been teaching Zumba® for ten years, including the past two at the JCC. Inspired by her mother, who taught aerobics, she went on to build a career in group fitness and is also certified to teach cycle. Jessica brings infectious energy and joy to every class, and outside the studio enjoys swimming, yoga, and reading.

Karen is an AFAA certified Group Fitness instructor and certified LaBlast®, Zumba®, Zumba® Gold, Chair One Fitness, and LaBlast® Splash (Aqua) instructor. A dance fitness enthusiast for decades, she became a LaBlast® instructor in 2017 to share the joy of partner-free ballroom dance fitness with others. Her classes are music-driven, drawing from all genres and eras, and give participants a chance to express themselves on the dance floor while getting a full cardio and strength workout.

Leslie is a certified Nia® instructor who brings her joy of fitness, dance, and creativity to every class. After five years immersing herself in ballroom dance, she has returned to teaching Nia® with fresh perspective and energy. Guided by a philosophy of living vibrantly and dancing through life, Leslie designs eclectic, music-driven classes with repetitive choreography that leave participants feeling energized and inspired. Nia® is welcoming and accessible for all fitness levels and abilities.

Liz is a dedicated athlete with over 20 years of yoga practice who officially transitioned from student to teacher in 2021. A runner and boxer at heart, she specializes in trauma-informed yoga and accessible movement for mobility challenges, ensuring every student feels supported on their mat. Liz joined the JCC team in 2024, bringing her passion for inclusive, mindful movement to practitioners of all abilities.

Tessa is a certified Spinning™ instructor and physical therapist who focuses on form and healthy movement in every class. She designs rides that blend strength and endurance, making them accessible and challenging for new and veteran riders alike. Tessa takes pride in crafting playlists that keep riders energized and motivated throughout each class.

Judylynn (JL) has been a fitness professional since the early 1980s, bringing energy, passion, and experience to every class she leads. She teaches Spin, Bootcamp, Ultimate Conditioning, BodyPump, and Cardio Kickboxing, and is also a certified personal trainer. A former competitive bodybuilder and state-certified basketball referee, she knows what it takes to train with intensity and purpose. Outside the gym, she enjoys outdoor cycling, hiking with her dog, and catching live concerts.

Param has been teaching Zumba® for over 16 years, bringing energy, passion, and purpose to every class. In addition to Zumba®, she teaches Bollywood dance, celebrating cultural expression and vibrant storytelling through movement. Param believes deeply in the power of dance as a force for freedom, confidence, and connection, and is drawn to the way Zumba® blends global rhythms into an inclusive, uplifting experience for all. Outside the studio, she works as a portfolio manager at an investment management firm and serves as an adjunct professor at Brandeis Business School.

Tracey is a certified barre instructor with 14 years of teaching experience. She takes a hands-on, attentive approach to every class, ensuring students move with proper form and get the most out of each exercise safely and effectively. Tracey is passionate about creating an environment where clients feel supported, challenged, and empowered. She loves watching them grow stronger and more confident over time.

Caroline is a certified spin instructor who brings high energy and a diverse music playlist to every class -- something for everyone, singing along encouraged. Her classes are upbeat and challenging, designed to push riders while keeping the experience fun. Outside the studio, Caroline stays active by exploring other fitness classes and is always on the hunt for the best nachos in Boston.

Hsiu-Hui (pronounced "show-way") Ko is a native of Taiwan who has been dancing since the age of 6. She discovered Nia® in 2002 and has been teaching it ever since, earning her First Degree Black Belt certification. Hsiu-Hui shares the joy of Nia both locally in the Boston area and in Taipei, Taiwan, bringing a rich cultural perspective to her classes.

Martha is a licensed Zumba®, Zumba Gold, and Zumba+Lift instructor who has danced her whole life. She brings the joy of dance to others through fun, inclusive, music-driven classes, and outside the studio stays active with her family through hiking, biking, and coaching youth soccer.