Blogger bios

Tanya Eikstadt is a master’s prepared exercise physiologist with backgrounds in sports medicine, public health and cardiac rehabilitation. She works as an American College of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer at PEAK Sports Club and as an exercise instructor for Rock Valley College’s Golden Eagles Senior Fitness Program.

Kelly Epperson is a professional writer/speaker/listener, Smart Car driver and spreader of joy.

Mimi Fagan has been teaching and training in the fitness field for 24 years. She is certified as a personal trainer and in sports nutrition. She holds a master’s degree in elementary education and specializes in nutrition for young children.

Roni Golan is the leader of Rockford’s first laughing club. He is a professional artist and a free-thinker.

Betsy Hornick is a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Illinois Dietetic Association. Specializing in food, nutrition, and health communications, she has written and edited numerous publications for both consumers and health professionals, including materials published by the American Dietetic Association.

Lynne Istad is the senior director of health and fitness at the YMCA of Rock River Valley. She has more than 25 years of experience in adult, youth and small group programming. She is also certified as a personal trainer by the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America.

Jan Jann is certified as a senior director and an executive director by the YMCA of the USA. She has an associate’s degree in marketing and a bachelor’s degree in leadership development. She has 28 years YMCA experience in aquatics, wellness, healthy lifestyles and total health. She works at the YMCA of the Rock River Valley.

Mary Maier is an exercise physiologist at SwedishAmerican Hospital. She received a bachelor of arts with a major in exercise science from Rockford College and has coached track, cross country, and cycling. She is certified by the American College of Sports Medicine and has been nationally ranked in speed skating, cycling, duathlon, and triathlon.

Beritt Mills is an aesthetician specializing in advanced skin care at The Beth Ann Weis Spa and Salon in Rockford. She is extensively trained in Cutera lasers and is a national trainer for Cynosure TriActive laser. She has worked with dermatologists and plastic surgeons.

Brenda Richter is a certified raw foods chef and instructor trained at the Living Light Culinary Arts Institute in California.

Jared Schomburg is certified as a strength and conditioning specialist by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He works as a personal trainer and adult fitness instructor at the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

Sheila Snider, a retired teacher, is executive director of the CHIP Alumni of Rock River Valley. She graduated from the CHIP program in the fall of 1999 and has been involved in leadership with the group since 2000.

Kelly Kline Engaldo, MBA, is an inventor, fitness professional, teacher and author with a concentration in water calisthenics. She is the inventor of the EZ Swimmer(R) and her products are distributed through American Son Products and used around the world. As an educator, she developed and led Kitchen Kalisthenics(TM), an easy, fun and low impact exercise program for families on the go. She teaches fitness for Aurora Wellness at Aurora Health Care and for AVANI Spa at the Abbey Resort in Fontana, Wis.

 Julie A. Gulbrandsen is a licensed aesthetician and owner of SpaContouz in Loves Park.