Heated Studio Director

Alana is the Heated Studio Manager at Santa Cruz Athletic Club and brings over 12 years of full-time experience teaching yoga and Pilates. She discovered yoga at age 19, and the impact it had on her life sparked a lifelong dedication to mindful movement, wellness, and intentional living.

Having taught throughout the Bay Area, Hawaii, and Southern California, Alana leads with both depth and accessibility, creating classes that are supportive, energizing, and grounded in experience.

As studio manager, she’s passionate about cultivating a welcoming environment where students can explore the long-term physical and mental benefits of yoga and Pilates. Outside the studio, you’ll find her surfing, snowboarding, hiking, and staying active in nature.

RedRoom HIIT Studio Director

Christy brings over 15 years of experience coaching CrossFit and swimming in Santa Cruz, with a background rooted in high-performance training and community leadership. She played a key role as head trainer in launching an F45 gym in Southern California and has also served as a firefighter, beach lifeguard, and customer service professional—bringing versatility and discipline to every environment she steps into.

Christy holds an Elite Personal Trainer certification through ISSA, along with specialized credentials in Tactical Training, Nutrition, Sports Therapy, CF Kettlebell, CF Kids, and CrossFit Level 2. She is also EMT and CPR certified, ensuring every session is approached with both safety and effectiveness in mind.

You’ll find Christy leading with intensity, focus, and a passion for helping others unlock their strength. Whether coaching group classes or individual sessions, her goal is to help members move better, feel stronger, and build confidence that extends far beyond the gym.

Yoga Instructor

Kate’s journey into yoga began in 2005, driven by a desire to share movement that is accessible, grounding, and transformative for all bodies and backgrounds. She holds certifications in Bikram Yoga, Power Vinyasa Flow, Yin/Restorative, Partner/Acro Yoga, and Kids Yoga, allowing her to teach a wide range of styles and levels.

With experience guiding everyone from Olympic and X-Games athletes to first-time yogis, Kate creates a space where both seasoned practitioners and newcomers feel equally challenged and supported. Her classes strike a balance between discipline and ease, always with the intention of helping students feel stronger, calmer, and more connected.

You’ll find Kate leading her yoga classes in both heated and non-heated environments, and hosting her global retreats twice a year. Outside the studio, she enjoys beach days and forest hikes with her husband, two kids, and their dog.

Yoga Instructor

Katie is a yoga teacher, licensed psychotherapist, and Ayurvedic health counselor based in her hometown of Santa Cruz. Her journey with yoga began over 20 years ago through the hot 26+2 practice, initially as a way to enhance mobility and mental resilience as an athlete—and it has since become a lifelong path of study and healing.

After graduating from UCLA, Katie completed her first teacher training in 2013 at the Anand Prakash Ashram in India. She continues to deepen her studies with renowned teacher Janet Stone, assisting in workshops and retreats. Katie holds a Master's degree in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies and integrates her therapeutic background into a holistic, mindful teaching style.

Her classes blend breathwork, movement, and introspection, creating a space where students cultivate strength and flexibility both physically and mentally.

Outside the studio and therapy room, Katie enjoys hiking in the redwoods, ocean swims, dancing to live music, traveling, and gathering with friends and family over good food and conversation.

Yoga Instructor

Lizzy’s journey into yoga began with her athletic background, but it was her personal challenges—including anxiety, depression, a physically demanding job, and a back injury—that deepened her commitment to the practice. Through consistent and disciplined asana, she found not only pain-free movement but also tools to regulate her nervous system and reconnect with her breath.

Now approaching her 15th year of teaching, Lizzy is recognized by Yoga Alliance as an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher at both the 200- and 500-hour levels. She is also Mat Pilates certified through BASI. Her teaching blends strength, resilience, and presence—grounded in gratitude for a practice that continues to bring her peace and connection.

Lizzy’s adventurous spirit has taken her across 32 countries, through a 168-mile trek, and to life on three continents. Still, she feels most at home in her garden surrounded by animals, family, and close friends. She currently teaches in both Santa Cruz, CA and Tecate, Mexico, sharing yoga with those seeking physical strength, emotional resilience, and inner calm.

Yoga Instructor

Thomas is a 200-hour E-RYT yoga instructor with expertise in Vinyasa, 26&2, Restorative, and Yin styles. In addition to teaching, he facilitates yoga teacher trainings—supporting students and instructors as they deepen their practice and embrace leadership on and off the mat.

With certifications in Mat Pilates and ISSA Personal Training, Thomas brings a strong foundation in movement, alignment, and strength to every class. A lifelong athlete who enjoys weight training, he blends discipline, playfulness, and body awareness into a teaching style that is both engaging and intentional.

His mission is to share the transformative power of yoga and help others feel strong, balanced, and connected—both in their practice and in daily life.

Pilates/ Sculpt/ HIIT Instructor

Laura’s journey into yoga and fitness began shortly after college as a way to stay active and manage the stress of corporate life. What started as a physical outlet quickly became a daily practice that transformed her mindset, energy levels, and overall well-being. Inspired by the impact it had on her life, she became a teacher to help others build strength, confidence, and mental clarity through movement.

With a background in nutrition and certifications in Yoga Sculpt, HIIT, and Hot Barre, Laura brings a well-rounded approach to her classes. Her sessions are designed to be energizing, supportive, and empowering—leaving students feeling stronger and more centered than when they arrived.

Outside the studio, Laura enjoys skiing, walking her golden retriever, dining out, cooking, and creating lasting memories with her husband and four children. You’ll find her teaching with warmth and intention, always excited to welcome new faces into her community.

Hot Pilates/ HIIT Instructor

Rooted in focused movement and driven by results, Rachel began teaching Hot Pilates and HIIT in 2023, bringing a dynamic and motivating presence to every class. With a background in weightlifting, CrossFit, and high-intensity training, her sessions blend strength and endurance with intentional pacing—and always a powerful playlist to match the energy.

Born and raised in Santa Cruz, she brings a grounded yet creative spirit to the studio. Her goal is to help members move with purpose and unlock their strength—inside and out.

You’ll find Rachel leading high-energy heated classes that push limits while keeping things fun, upbeat, and deeply rewarding. When she’s not on the mat or in the studio, she’s soaking up sunshine, exploring new places, or designing with flair.

Yoga/ Sculpt Instructor

Mardi’s journey into movement began in her teens and has evolved through motherhood and beyond. What started as a way to stay in shape quickly became the foundation of her personal growth and overall well-being. Today, she’s passionate about helping others discover that same connection to strength, purpose, and self-confidence.

Certified through ISSA as a Personal Trainer since 1996 and a 200-hour Hatha Yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance since 2020, Mardi brings decades of experience to her classes and training sessions. She has led Hot Pilates and Yoga Sculpt in heated environments for several years, creating space for both physical transformation and inner clarity.

You’ll find Mardi teaching in the studio or connecting with clients on the gym floor. She’s also a proud mom to two incredible athletes and finds joy in nature, art, and sharing meaningful moments with loved ones.

Hot Pilates/ HIIT Instructor

Lindsay is a Santa Cruz native who has been teaching fitness since 2006. With a diverse background in formats including cycle, sculpt, cardio kickboxing, hot Pilates, and HIIT, she brings energy, variety, and a deep sense of purpose to every class she leads.

Having grown up overweight, Lindsay’s personal transformation through fitness fuels her passion for helping others feel strong, confident, and empowered. Her classes are music-driven, high-energy, and designed to leave you feeling uplifted and motivated.

Outside the studio, Lindsay works full-time as a nurse in the emergency department at Dominican Hospital. In her free time, she loves being outdoors—soaking up the sun at the beach, traveling, and spending time with her family. She’s excited to connect with members and share the power of movement and community.

Yoga Instructor

Shannon has been a fitness instructor since 2010, starting her journey with a CrossFit Level 1 Certification and later earning credentials in Health Science, Physical Education, and CrossFit Kids. After years of coaching high-intensity training, she discovered yoga as a way to restore balance, improve mobility, and support recovery—leading her to complete her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training through Elemental Yoga at Pleasure Point Yoga in 2020.

Her yoga classes integrate Vinyasa, Iyengar, and Hatha styles, with a focus on breath, strength, flexibility, and body awareness. In both yoga and fitness, she emphasizes safe, functional movement and overall well-being.

Outside the club, Shannon teaches Yoga & Mindfulness and Health & Fitness at Los Gatos High School. In her free time, she enjoys watching her boys play sports, walking her dogs, and spending time at the beach in Santa Cruz.

Yoga Instructor

Maddie’s journey with yoga began at age 15 as a complement to her background in field hockey and gymnastics. What started as a new way to move quickly evolved into a deeper practice rooted in mindfulness, connection, and continuous growth.

In 2022, she earned her 200-hour Yoga Teacher Certification from Prana Yoga Center in San Diego, where she fully immersed herself in training while managing a full-time remote role. Specializing in Vinyasa and Hatha, Maddie’s classes blend strong, fluid flows with an emphasis on breath, balance, and playful exploration.

She began teaching through community-based outdoor classes before transitioning into studio settings, most recently at Bay Club Courtside. Maddie is currently expanding her practice with sound bath healing and meditation to further support the well-being of her students.

You’ll find Maddie teaching with a grounded yet energetic presence, encouraging others to explore movement mindfully. Outside the studio, she enjoys backpacking, snowboarding, pottery, and spending time in nature with her dogs.

Pilates/HIIT Instructor

Mackenzie is a passionate fitness instructor who brings energy, connection, and positivity to every class she leads. Specializing in Pilates, HIIT, and Cycle, her approach focuses on full-body strength, rhythmic movement, and creating a supportive atmosphere where every participant feels empowered and uplifted.

Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Mackenzie grew up in a large, close-knit family that instilled in her a strong sense of community. In addition to her work in fitness, she’s also a professional hairstylist—dedicated to helping others look and feel their best, both inside and out.

You’ll find Mackenzie leading high-energy group classes that inspire strength and confidence. Outside the gym and salon, she loves exploring the outdoors and seeking out new adventures. Her mission is to make every workout an experience that leaves you feeling stronger—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Yoga Instructor

Chandi is an RYT-200 yoga teacher specializing in Vinyasa, Power and Restorative Yoga. She is a certified breathwork instructor as well as a Yoga Nidra and guided meditation facilitator. She cares for each student in a way that empowers them to believe they are capable of achieving things they never thought they could. 

Her goal for her students is they leave her class both mentally and physically stronger than when you arrived.

She has a deep passion for the breath, the physical body, and the relationships we have with them.

She is a forever student, committed to understanding the brain-body connection and learning the most tangible ways to bring nervous system regulation strategies to everyday people.

HIIT/ Sculpt Instructor

Ashley discovered heated yoga over 20 years ago as a way to complement her weight training and running routine. As a lifelong athlete, she found a deeper level of both physical and mental challenge in heated strength and yoga-based workouts—and was instantly hooked.

Her classes blend strength, form, and functional mobility with her love of cardio and energizing music. Ashley’s goal is to challenge you in a supportive, motivating environment that leaves you feeling strong, accomplished, and smiling by the end.

You’ll find her leading high-energy sessions that balance intensity with fun, helping members push their limits and enjoy the journey.

Pilates/HIIT Instructor

Hannah brings four years of group fitness teaching experience, with the last two focused on Power Pilates and HIIT. Her love for movement began after stepping away from organized sports in high school, when she discovered Pilates and HIIT as a way to stay active and connected to her community.

Her classes are designed to be inclusive and empowering—challenging for all bodies while emphasizing strength-building, especially in the core and glutes. With a focus on high-energy movement and intentional flow, Hannah helps members leave feeling stronger, more grounded, and uplifted.

Outside the studio, you’ll find her running, biking, practicing yoga, or playing beach volleyball and tennis. She also loves spending time in the kitchen, often cooking up a favorite pasta dish. For Hannah, the joy of teaching comes from creating a space where people come together, grow stronger, and build confidence—one class at a time.

HIIT/ Sculpt Instructor

Amie is a dedicated coach at Santa Cruz Athletic Club who brings high energy, encouragement, and a strong sense of community to every session. After retiring from roller derby in 2012, she turned her focus to strength training and soon discovered a passion for obstacle course racing in 2013. While finding success individually, Amie realized her true purpose was in helping others thrive.

Since 2017, she has led high-intensity Boot Camp classes, developed corporate fitness programs, and created personalized training plans tailored to diverse client needs. Her coaching philosophy centers on empowerment, mindful movement, and cultivating a positive mindset—creating an environment where members build strength and confidence from the inside out.

You’ll find Amie leading with purpose, helping others unlock their full potential and experience the transformative power of fitness.

Sculpt Instructor

Nicole’s wellness journey began in college, where she fell in love with yoga and barre. That passion soon led her to become a certified instructor, teaching in studios, hotels, and corporate spaces throughout Southern California. Over the years, she incorporated strength training into her routine, discovering that the combination of power, flexibility, and mindfulness created the ideal balance for both her personal practice and teaching style.

With over 15 years of experience—including more than five years teaching at Equinox—Nicole brings thoughtful sequencing, alignment-based cueing, and a touch of humor to every high-energy class. Her sessions are always set to carefully curated playlists, because great movement deserves a great soundtrack.

In 2024, Nicole relocated from Orange County to Aptos with her husband and their two cats, BG and Minca. She also works as a dedicated Occupational Therapist serving seniors and is excited to be part of the Santa Cruz Athletic Club community. Whether you’re stepping into one of her classes or just passing by, her goal is to help you feel strong, empowered, and proud of what your body can do.

Outside the studio, Nicole enjoys biking, traveling, spending time outdoors, and relaxing with her cats—when they allow it.

Yoga/ Sculpt Instructor

Kelsey is a certified yoga and barre instructor with nearly a decade of teaching experience across the U.S. and internationally. She specializes in Power Yoga, Yoga Sculpt, Barre, and strength-based formats like Abs & Arms, bringing a strong, balanced approach to every class.

For Kelsey, movement is a form of self-care and self-discovery. Her classes are designed to meet students where they are—fostering strength, resilience, and self-trust—while leaving them grounded, energized, and empowered both on and off the mat.

Originally from the East Coast, Kelsey now calls Santa Cruz home. Outside the studio, she works in cybersecurity and enjoys coastal living, mindful movement, and exploring the outdoors with her dog, Lucy.

Sculpt/ HIIT Instructor & Personal Trainer

Indigo K. Avisov—known as Indi—is a trauma-informed personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and holistic health coach with over 18 years of experience. A former basketball player and kickboxing coach, Indi brings a performance-driven yet mindful approach to every session.

They hold certifications in personal training, TRX, Yoga Sculpt, HIIT, and are ISSA-certified in Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, and Bodybuilding. Indi’s classes are energetic, inclusive, and designed to build strength, resilience, and confidence.

Outside the gym, Indi enjoys Latin ballroom dancing, playing guitar, surfing, and exploring nature.

Pilates/ HIIT Instructor

Cissi brings over a decade of experience in heated exercise environments and a deep passion for movement. Certified in Balanced Body Movement Principles, she teaches a variety of classes and finds genuine joy in helping others reach their goals.

Her approach focuses on building strength, enhancing endurance, and supporting overall well-being through consistent, mindful movement. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your practice, Cissi creates a positive and motivating space for all levels.

You’ll find Cissi leading dynamic, heat-based classes with energy and encouragement—always aiming to help others feel stronger and more connected in their bodies.

Yoga Instructor

Randee is an RYT® 500 yoga instructor with a background in psychology and over 15 years of experience teaching dynamic and restorative practices. Her yoga journey began in 2007 with training under Larry Schultz of It’s Yoga San Francisco, followed by advanced studies with Ana Forrest and Marie Russell of It’s Yoga International. She also holds a 60-hour Yin Yoga certification and continues to honor the teachings of her late mentor, Aharona Shackman.

Known for her thoughtful, anatomy-informed approach, Randee blends discipline, creativity, and compassion in every class. She supports students in exploring the connection between mind, body, and breath through both structured Ashtanga flows and grounding Yin sequences.

Off the mat, Randee works as an intake coordinator at a Santa Cruz nonprofit healthcare organization. In her free time, she enjoys journaling, beach walks, sushi, and connecting with her community through movement and mindful living.

Yoga Instructor

Tate is a certified yoga and hot Pilates instructor with over 500 hours of training, specializing in Vinyasa, Power, and Yin Yoga. Her movement journey began at age 14 during a challenging chapter in her life—when yoga became a safe space to reconnect with her body, quiet her mind, and begin healing from within.

Tate’s teaching is shaped by immersive training in Costa Rica and Thailand, blending strength, presence, and intention. Whether guiding a high-energy power flow or a deeply restorative yin session, she believes movement is a form of medicine—supporting transformation on both physical and emotional levels.

You’ll find Tate leading classes that are empowering, grounded, and deeply connected. Her goal is to help others build strength, reconnect with themselves, and experience the healing power of mindful movement.

Yoga/ HIIT Instructor & Personal Trainer

Clarice is a NASM-certified personal trainer and experienced yoga and breathwork instructor with over seven years of teaching experience. Originally from Brazil, her lifelong passion for wellness, fitness, and holistic living led her from a background in fashion to a career in movement and community-based care. She also holds CPR certification and is currently preparing to lead HIIT classes as part of her evolving skill set.

Clarice has worked with a wide range of clients—from private students and seniors to corporate wellness groups—teaching kundalini yoga, group fitness, and breathwork. Her approach is holistic and authentic, blending nearly 20 years of personal practice with insights gained from her brother, a well-known trainer in Rio de Janeiro. In 2020, she launched her own yoga and lifestyle brand in Brazil, which she continues to grow here in Santa Cruz.

Clarice’s coaching style focuses on physical and mental transformation through mindful movement, breathing techniques, and positive connection. She recently relocated closer to the club and is excited to share her energy, cultural richness, and expertise with the Santa Cruz Athletic Club community.