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There is Something for Everyone at this Years Summit!
This year's NSFA Exercise Leadership Summit theme is "Something for Everyone” and we have topics of interest ranging from group fitness and personal training to endurance running, sports nutrition... and more!
These lectures and active workshops will also provide you with continuing education.
Our Summit location is once again at the Dalhousie University Campus with morning lectures at the Student Union Building and active afternoon sessions at Dalplex. Lunch is included.
Some of this year's session topics include:
- 7 Steps to Successfully Selling Personal Training
- Dietary Strategies for a Balanced Menopause
- Building Trust and Inclusivity in Group Fitness for Older People
- The Movement Detective
- Fueling Exercise: Integrating Nutrition into Your Practice
- Core Strength and Anti Rotation Training
- Run Far, Run Smart: Endurance Running 101
- Deep Water HIIT
- Power and Stability for Women
And more!
- There will also be a CPR recertification session available after the Summit at the Dalplex location. CPR recertification is provided by Priority First Aid.
Be sure to register soon, you won’t want to miss this exciting Summit!
Sessions
Keynote Address
Ben McDonald
Founder, McDonald Method
Neural Nitro!!
We are so excited that Ben is able to join us once again as our Keynote Speaker!
"When it comes to wellness, improved cognitive function comes as a byproduct of movement, but how can we leverage ramping up neural drive for ‘movement improvement’ and what are the benefits for our clients? Join Ben for this interactive and thought-provoking presentation as we travel ‘top to toe’ integrating the full human organism for a true ‘brain boost’!!"
9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
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MORNING SESSIONS
Dalhousie Student Union Building
9:55 AM -10:55 AM
Dietary Strategies for a Balanced Menopause
Presenter Lisa Tsakos
Menopause has finally become a more open and empowering topic, allowing women to better understand their changing bodies and approach this transition with confidence.
What we eat (and drink) is fundamental to our physical and emotional well-being, especially during perimenopause and menopause. Food powers our energy through the busy days, keeps us focused, determines how well or poorly we will sleep at night, staves off illness, and plays a big role in our quality of life. During perimenopause and menopause, food can also play a significant role in the severity of the symptom’s women experience.
Whether you are preparing for menopause, navigating it, or coaching clients through this life change, this presentation will give you practical tools for optimizing hormonal health.
In this session, we’ll discuss the stages and symptoms of menopause and explore the role of diet and nutrition during this life stage, focusing on six key diet-based strategies that can balance hormones, reduce symptoms and ease the transition. Topics include balancing blood glucose, the role of the gut microbiome, choosing macros wisely, phytoestrogens, and much more.
Building Trust and Inclusivity in Group Fitness for Older People
Presenter: Dr. Kelsey Harvey
In group fitness, we are taught that multi-level instruction makes classes more accessible and inclusive. Multi-level instruction means offering modifications and regressions to adapt exercises for people cannot or should not perform certain movements, while progressions make movements more challenging. However, multi-level instruction might not be enough to make some group fitness classes accessible for some exercisers. For example, imagine trying to teach a class for an elite athlete and a person who is experiencing frailty. This is the reality in some fitness classes delivered for older people, who can range from frail to elite athletes. In this session, we will discuss how group fitness instructors can create classes that are better matched to older exercisers’ diverse, as well as foster trust and partnership between instructor and exerciser(s).
Attendees to this session will…
- Compare and contrast different reasons why older people attend group fitness classes.
- Critically examine stereotypes that associate age and (dis)ability.
- Write cues that can teach exercisers about their bodies and promote exercise choice in fitness classes.
- Develop modifications, regressions, and progressions for common exercises.
7 Steps to Successfully Selling
Personal Training
Presenter: Lindsay McFarlane
Learn the skills to sell Personal Training and build your client base using 7 easy steps. This workshop will teach you how to confidently talk to members about Personal Training using effective language and techniques which allow you to have a caring conversation and walk away with a new client. Avoid sales pitches and being pushy with 7 steps that provide you with the preparation and education to confidently advertise yourself as a Personal Trainer.
MORNING SESSIONS
Dalhousie Student Union Building
11:00 AM -12:00 PM
Fueling for Exercise: Integrating Nutrition into Your Practice
Presenter: Mikaela Henderson
In this workshop, we’ll explore the crucial role of nutrition in optimizing athletic performance and recovery. You’ll learn how to effectively integrate dietary strategies into your practice to enhance the outcomes for your clients. From macronutrient timing to hydration and supplementation, we’ll cover evidence-based approaches that empower you to provide practical, actionable advice. This session will give you the tools to support performance and overall well-being through proper fueling.
Beyond the Workout: Building a Wellness-Centered Fitness Business
Presenter: Amber Allan
The fitness industry is evolving beyond sets, reps, and high-intensity workouts. Clients are seeking a more holistic approach to health, one that integrates mindset, recovery, stress management, and sustainable lifestyle habits. In this workshop, we’ll explore how to transform your fitness business by incorporating wellness principles that enhance client results, retention, and overall satisfaction.
You’ll learn how to:
- Position yourself as more than just a trainer—instead, as a trusted wellness guide.
- Integrate recovery, stress management, and lifestyle coaching into your offerings.
- Create high-value services and programs that support long-term client success.
-
Market and brand your business to attract clients who want whole-person wellness solutions.
Key Takeaways & Outcomes:
✅ Identify gaps in traditional fitness programs and how to fill them with wellness-focused solutions.
✅ Develop practical strategies for incorporating stress management, sleep, and recovery into your business.
✅ Learn how to package & market wellness-based services to increase revenue and client retention.
✅ Walk away with a custom action plan for making your fitness business more impactful & sustainable.
The Vagus Nerve Wanders Through a Workout
Instructor: Laurie Di Giulio
Sounds like the start of a joke. The punchline is the learning objective of this workshop and it is… but you know how to handle it! Join me for a look at the anatomy and function of the vagus nerve, ways it can present obstacles to fitness goals, and learn some strategies for managing its impacts with your fitness folks. This workshop will have you up and landmarking the places where the vagus nerve runs and practicing some gentle ways to improve its function so that your clients feel safer in their bodies, and more regulated in fitness spaces.
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LUNCH IS INCLUDED
in your Ticket Price
Available from: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Dalhousie Student Union Building
AFTERNOON SESSIONS
AT DALPLEX
1:30 PM -2:30 PM
The Movement Detective
Instructor: Ben McDonald
How do we get to the bottom of our client’s movement competency? And how can we adapt to meet our clients where they're at? How do we determine the 'ingredients' for each client’s 'recipe for success'?
In this presentation Ben will give you a structured approach that translates to any movement pattern that will not only help your clients find their movement potential but you to find your coaching potential!!
Core Strength and Anti-Rotation Training: Building Stability from the Inside Out
Instructor: Lindsay McFarlane
This interactive workshop focuses on enhancing core strength and stability through targeted anti-rotation exercises. Participants will explore the fundamentals of core anatomy, the importance of resisting unwanted movement for injury prevention, and how anti-rotation techniques can boost functional strength and performance. The session includes hands-on practice with exercises like Pallof presses, plank variations, and dynamic balance drills, all designed to improve core control and stability. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and anyone looking to strengthen their core safely and effectively.
The Lost Art of Choreography: Bringing Creativity & Connection Back to Group Fitness
Instructor Amber Allan
Has group fitness become too formulaic? Are instructors relying on pre-designed workouts instead of crafting unique, engaging, and emotionally compelling class experiences? This workshop is for fitness professionals who want to revive the art of movement, music, and storytelling in their classes.
We’ll explore how to:
- Use music, flow, and storytelling to make workouts more immersive.
- Reignite your creativity in designing movement patterns.
- Create more emotional engagement so clients connect deeper with your classes.
- Build signature classes that make your instruction stand out in a crowded market.
Through hands-on movement exercises, creative sequencing, and coaching techniques, you’ll rediscover the magic of leading an unforgettable class experience.
Key Takeaways & Outcomes:
✅ Learn how to structure movement progressions that feel natural and engaging.
✅ Discover techniques for seamlessly matching music and movement to enhance connection.
✅ Develop your unique coaching style to bring emotion and authenticity into every class.
✅ Gain practical tools to break free from cookie-cutter formats and create classes that clients crave.
Deep Water HIIT: High-Intensity Interval Training in the Pool
Instructor: Sylvie Pouliot
Join Sylvie for an exhilarating workout with our Deep Water HIIT class! This session combines the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with the low-impact environment of deep water. Perfect for all fitness levels, this class will challenge your cardiovascular endurance, strength, and overall fitness while being gentle on your joints.
During this one-hour session, you'll perform a series of high-intensity exercises followed by short recovery periods, all while suspended in deep water. The water's resistance will add an extra challenge to your workout, helping to tone muscles and improve cardiovascular health. You'll also benefit from the cooling effect of the water, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional HIIT workouts.
Come prepared to get wet and bring your energy! This class is designed to push your limits, boost your fitness, and leave you feeling invigorated. Flotation belts are provided.
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AFTERNOON SESSIONS
AT DALPLEX
2:45 PM -3:45 PM
SOULfusion Master Class
Instructor: Aldona MacNeil
In this session, you will experience ways to incorporate yoga-inspired flows into an exercise class. You’ll start the session by learning how to cue and coach your participants through these movements, and then Aldona will lead you through a 45-minute SOULfusion Master Class.
SOULfusion is a holistic and dynamic fitness program that blends strength, cardio, and mindful movement in a way that nurtures both the body and the mind. It is designed to go beyond traditional workouts by integrating physical fitness with emotional and mental well-being by incorporating yoga-inspired flows with functional movements that challenge strength, cardio, balance and flexibility. SOULfusion is driven by music, movement, and motivation. It’s all your favorite workouts wrapped into one!
** Mats are available in the fitness room but you are welcome to bring your own.
Active Aging and Functional Fitness with Carolyn!
Instructor: Carolyn Huchton
Join Carolyn to discover the essentials of active functional fitness and healthy aging. In this interactive session we will cover the fundamentals you should consider when designing and teaching active aging classes. Using a combination of weights, bands and air balls, we will explore different ways of creating strength training opportunities and range of motion exercises. Further, we will cover balance activities for fall prevention and how to end a class with physical and mental relaxation and stretching.
The active portion of the session includes both seated and standing exercises, with modifications for those who need to remain seated for the full hour. No floor work or mat is required.
AQX Shallow Water Aquafitness
Instructor: Judi Harvey
NSFA Course Conductor, AQX/AEL, GEL, ADE
Join Judi to discover the impact AQX is making in our Aquafit certification. Experience the AQX difference in this one-hour shallow water workout, where you'll learn how to maximize the properties of water to enhance your participants' workout potential and have a great workout in the process! Flotation belts are provided.
"Run Far, Run Smart: Endurance Running 101"
Instructor: Tammy Mercier
Join seasoned marathon runner and fitness expert Tammy Mercier for this exclusive session, where she will cover the essentials of preparing for a "long-run", focusing on both physical and mental aspects. Tammy will share her unique perspective on the critical role of mindset, nutrition, clothing, terrain and other factors in long-distance endurance running. Gain valuable insights and practical tips to elevate your running experience. This session will inspire you to conquer your next long run with confidence and enjoy yourself along the way!
The session includes approximately 30 minutes of classroom instruction and Q&A, followed by 30 minutes of running (outside). Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather- planning for any weather is truly part of endurance training!
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AFTERNOON SESSIONS
AT DALPLEX
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Empowering Participants Through Seated Exercise
Instructor: Andréa Morrison
Join Andréa Morrison for an engaging and informative one-hour session designed to empower instructors with the skills to effectively teach, cue, and modify seated exercises for individuals of all ability levels. Andréa will cover essential techniques to ensure safety, maximize comfort, and enhance the effectiveness of these exercises. Participants will learn how to adapt these exercises to meet diverse needs, provide clear and supportive cues, and create an inclusive environment that encourages participation and progress. Whether you're a seasoned instructor or new to teaching, this workshop will equip you with valuable tools to help your seated participants achieve their fitness goals. You'll leave the session ready to incorporate these seated exercises into your next fitness class and with the confidence to teach them effectively.
Power and Stability for Women
Instructor Melissa Millar
Challenge all those stereotypes about aging women becoming fragile, anxious, frumpy etc. Connect with your inner power, strength and stability!
There is increasing risk of osteoporosis and losses in muscle mass as we age, so it’s more important than ever that we re-empower women to lift heavy, and improve balance, posture and bone density.
Join Melissa for this group workout that has taken off among women going through perimenopause and menopause. We’ll review the safety of working with heavier weights in a group setting as well as highlight the benefits of training hard for all women but especially those ready to reclaim their changing bodies during the later stages of life. Using dumbbells, kettlebells, body bars and body weight we will demonstrate a blueprint that allows women to feel confident, and stronger than ever before!
“Fitness for Otherly Abled – Adapting Exercise”
Instructor: Ian MacVicar
All too often the fitness industry focuses on training recreational and competitive athletes. According to Accessible Nova Scotia, “37.9% of Nova Scotians aged 15 and older live with one or more disabilities” - which is the highest rate in Canada. Fitness is for everyone, for every body type, and for every mind – including the “otherly abled.”
In this interactive classroom session, you will learn of barriers to fitness for the “Otherly Abled,” the legal rights of the disabled, the obligations we have as a society to accommodate the “Otherly Abled,” and the progress being made in Canada and in Nova Scotia. You will participate in small group discussions on how to adapt your fitness programs to accommodate varied physical and intellectual abilities of clients in special classes and in mixed public classes. Trauma Informed invitational language will be stressed.
Pedal to Success: Teaching Indoor Cycling Basics
Instructor: Tammy Mercier
In this session learn how to effectively teach the cycling basics that will set your beginner indoor cyclists up for success! Join Tammy as she takes you though this master class and learn how to cue everything from proper bike set up to proper form and address common issues for beginner indoor cyclists. And... have a good workout in the process! If you joined Tammy for the running session, this is a great activity to flush out those legs!
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CPR Recertification
AT DALPLEX
5:15 PM - 7:00 PM
Need Your CPR-C Recertification?
Location: Dalplex classroom
After the Summit at 5:15, join Gordon and ACTAR from Priority First Aid Training for this recertification session.
This is an add-on session to the Summit, you must opt into the CPR recertification to attend.
Meet Our Presenters
Ben McDonald
Founder, McDonald Method
Keynote Speaker
With over 30 years of coaching and educational experience, Ben combines his wealth of knowledge for movement in fitness, and his deep understanding of how to effectively communicate, into presentations that are informative, engaging, and inspiring. His approach emphasizes "fundamentals first" and "authentic connection," a focus that will help ensure success in whatever you do. Ben's dynamic presenting style guarantees a fun and unforgettable experience!
Mikaela Henderson
RD, BSc Kin., CSEP-CPT
Mikaela is Registered Dietitian and CSEP- Certified Personal Trainer, holding a BSc. in Human Nutrition with Honours and a BSc. in Human Kinetics from St. Francis Xavier University. She is a member in good standing with the Nova Scotia College of Dietitians & Nutritionists and has earned a post-graduate Diploma in Sports Nutrition from the International Olympic Committee. With a lifelong involvement in sports, Mikaela’s passion for nutrition was sparked early on. Her expertise spans across various areas of nutrition, from the biochemical to social impacts of food. Mikaela works with individuals, athletes, and teams to provide personalized nutrition guidance that supports both health and performance. Whether you're looking to improve your overall wellness or achieve specific fitness goals, Mikaela is here to help you on your journey.
Amber Allan
· Certified Fitness Instructor Specialist
· Certified Personal Trainer
· Certified Life Coach
· 200 HR YTT Yoga Instructor
· Certified Zumba Instructor
· Agatsu Certified Kettlebell Instructor
· Public Speaker
· Corporate Wellness Specialists
· Retreat Facilitator
Introducing Amber Allan, a seasoned fitness professional, yoga instructor, and certified life coach with an impressive 20 years of experience. Beyond the physical aspects of wellness, Amber holds a certification as a life coach, reflecting a holistic approach to health and well-being. A passionate advocate for health, fitness, and balanced living, Amber is now embarking on an exciting venture—opening a unique Fitness and Wellness Studio in the picturesque setting of St. Margarets Bay, Nova Scotia. With a commitment to providing a diverse range of activities, from fitness classes and outdoor adventures to rejuvenating retreats, Amber is dedicated to creating a space that nurtures both the body and the mind. With a wealth of experience and a vision for holistic well-being, Amber is poised to make a significant impact on the wellness landscape in Nova Scotia!
Laurie Di Giulio (she/her)
Massage Therapist
NeuroKinetic Therapy, Level 3
Personal Trainer | Yoga Instructor
Exploring Anatomy, In-Person & Online CE
SensoriMotor Retraining Technique Creator/Facilitator
Educator | Speaking Engagements & Conference Presenter
Laurie (she/her) is a dynamic healthcare practitioner with over two decades of experience. Since 2000, Laurie has distinguished herself as a movement and manual therapist, and educator across various settings throughout Canada. Her dedication to continuing education is evident in her development and delivery of courses both in-person and online, enriching the industry with her experience. As a surveyor with the Canadian Massage Therapy Council for Accreditation, Laurie plays a crucial role in maintaining quality standards within the profession. Her pursuit of an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Adult Education at Brock University underscores her commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
Lisa Tsakos
B.A., N.N.C., R.H.N.
Natural Nutrition Coach,
Registered Holistic Nutritionist
Corporate Wellness Specialist/Speaker
Lisa Tsakos is an acclaimed nutritionist and dedicated educator, specializing in weight management and corporate nutrition programs. Since 1996, she has been a driving force in the field of corporate wellness, passionately presenting her engaging and informative nutrition seminars to a diverse array of organizations.
Lisa's seminars and programs have had a transformative impact on countless employees at businesses across Canada, guiding them towards better health through improved nutrition and healthy weight management. Her client portfolio includes industry leaders such as GoodLife Corporate Wellness, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan, the Toronto Police Service, Telus Mobility, Canadian Tire, the University Health Network, and many more.
An ardent advocate for nutrition education, Lisa has taught at Centennial College, the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, and the Canadian College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Currently, she serves as a primary instructor and course developer for the Health Coach Collaborative’s Natural Nutrition Coach Certificate Program
(www.healthcoachcertificates.com) She has also conducted natural food cooking
workshops and authored three books, including 'Unjunk Your Junk Food: Healthy
Alternatives to Conventional Snacks' published by Simon & Schuster.
Currently, Lisa is co-writing a book about menopause, set to be published by Simon & Schuster Canada in early 2026.
Lisa has made numerous appearances on both Canadian and American television and radio programs. Her articles have been read online and in magazines and newspapers around the world.
In 2016, Lisa's contributions to the field of natural nutrition were recognized with the prestigious Canadian School of Natural Nutrition's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Melissa Millar
BA Kin, NSCA-CPT, NSFA-GEL
Melissa has been active in the fitness industry for over 25 years. She completed degrees at York University in Fine Arts (Dance) and Kinesiology, then trained as a Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, Yoga Instructor and YMCA Trainer Educator. She has presented at conferences in Auckland, Halifax and St John’s and conducted hundreds of online workshops and webinars.
Melissa has worked in fitness internationally as well as between Toronto and Halifax. In 2009 she was named the Fitness Instructor of the Year-Freestyle, presented by Fitness Life magazine in New Zealand. Melissa went on to run her own fitness company, MOTIVA Wellbeing and Fitness for 7 years and, since 2017, has been Coordinator, Fitness & Wellness at the Mount Fitness Centre (MSVU).
Ian MacVicar
Lieutenant-Colonel (Retired) Ian MacVicar, CD, DSS (PhD), MDS, MA, BA (Hon.), pcsc, plsc
Ian MacVicar is a former multi-sport athlete and a retired Canadian Armed Forces officer, both of which demanded discipline and focus, but led to numerous injuries in body and mind. Ian is a Trauma Informed Yoga Therapy Certified Teacher, a Koru Mindfulness & Meditation Teacher (Trauma Informed), and he has taken numerous other courses on collaborating with traumatized people employing Non-Violent Communication. He has also taught Intellectually and Developmentally Delayed adults. Ian is qualified in Restorative Yoga, Recuperative Yoga, Chair Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Core Yoga, Children's Yoga, Yin Yoga, Pregnancy/Post-partum Yoga, Seniors’ Yoga, and Ayervedic Yoga Therapy. He teaches yoga, Mobility and Restorative Fitness for Breathing Space Yoga Studio Tantallon and yoga, cardio, Iron Yoga, senior’s, and aqua fitness for the Halifax Regional Municipality Recreation Commission. He has frequently taught for schools and seniors’ wellness programs throughout the Halifax Regional Municipality, and he has taught online across Canada and in the United States and Europe.
Ian has published articles on mental health and articles and book chapters on military and political subjects related to his former service. Multilingual, he holds a PhD in intelligence analysis, and he is a frequent speaker on mental health and on varied aspects of armed conflict. Ian is active as an advocate for the non-visibly disabled through the Canadian Accessibility Network (CAN) Advisory Council, and the CAN Communities of Practice for Policy and Education & Training, as well as the Royal United Services Institute of Nova Scotia Veterans’ Affairs Committee. He was a member of the Inclusive Workplace and Supply Council of Canada for three plus years. Ian became a 500-hour (professional) Certified Yoga Teacher in 2023 and a Certified Iron Yoga Teacher in 2023. He completed NS Fitness Association Certifications in Exercise Theory, Mind Body Leader, and AQX Aqua Fitness in 2024, and Weight Training in 2025. Ian is an incorporated consultant and participates in a variety of leadership positions related to his former service at national, provincial, and local level.
Andréa Morrison
CPT, ADE, MBL, SEL
As a valued course conductor and evaluator for the Nova Scotia Fitness Association, Andréa's passion for health and wellness is evident in every aspect of her work.
Andréa's extensive experience as a certified personal trainer, fitness instructor, and yoga teacher, combined with her commitment to active ageing and community wellness, was instrumental in the development of the new NSFA -Seated Exercise Leader certification program. Her ability to connect with clients of all ages and abilities ensures that the course is inclusive and effective.
Beyond her professional achievements, Andréa's enthusiasm for bringing new and exciting fitness opportunities to our community is truly inspiring. Her work with Morrsion Coaching and her dedication to staying current with the latest fitness trends have benefited countless individuals.
As Recreation Nova Scotia's Education Coordinator, Alan is excited to assist with facilitating training and development opportunities for the recreation sector across the province. In his time away from work, Alan can often be found bouncing a basketball, swinging a golf club, or enjoying a hike with friends and family.
Sylvie Pouliot
AQX Master Trainer
Sylvie Pouliot started attending aqua fitness classes over twenty-five years ago to improve her fitness. She fell in love with this form of aquatic exercise, started training and within a year, became a certified instructor. Over the years, Sylvie has continued to educate herself in a variety of fitness modalities.
Her certifications include: TRX, Spin, Older Adult Leader, Yoga, Aqua Yoga, Pilates, and the YMCA Encore program.
She is a trainer for AQXonFloats and working to develop the AQX Aqua Yoga course. Recently, Sylvie has joined the NSFA team as a Trainer and presenter for AQX-NSFA aquafitness leadership training and certification.
Aldona MacNeil (M.Ed, BSc.PE)
Aldona is a senior lab instructor and course conductor in the Human Kinetics Department at St. Francis Xavier University. She has over 25 years of experience teaching courses in: health & wellness, exercise theory, physical activity and fitness principles at STFX. She’s also a certified Group Exercise Leader (GEL) with NSFA, and Fitness Instructor Specialist (FIS) with canfitpro, and teaches a variety of fitness formats and group exercise classes.
Lindsay McFarlane Bio:
B.Kin., B.Ed., CPT., CFI., HLC1
Lindsay holds Bachelor of Kinesiology from the University of New Brunswick holds certifications in Personal Training, Group Fitness, Adaptive Fitness and Holistic Lifestyle Coaching. Lindsay is currently the Fitness Coordinator at Saint Mary’s Athletics and Recreation and has been working in fitness and recreation for over 12 years.
Lindsay is passionate about the science of exercise, aerobic and strength training, and movement patterns. She believes strongly in corrective exercise and helping people to develop a lifelong enjoyment and habit of regular physical activity.
Carolyn Huchton
NSFA-ADE
Carolyn lives in Truro, Nova Scotia, and has been teaching group exercise since 2014. Her love of music, fitness, and dance first piqued her interest in Zumba, which led her to obtain a group fitness certification and discover the NSFA. She serves on the Nova Scotia Fitness Board and currently teaches Older Adult Fitness in her surrounding communities. Additionally, she is training to become an AQX trainer. Carolyn is passionate about keeping older adults moving and grooving, supporting all facets of their mental and physical health.
Tammy Mercier
Tammy has been an avid marathon runner for over 30 years, completing 105 marathons worldwide. In addition, and most importantly, her love and passion for road cycling and spinning and teaching spin classes has helped transition her marathon and running career to a rewarding cycling passion. Tammy has completed all the mountains and cols in the Tour de France and loves teaching spin in the HRM area for 12 years!
Tammy is an NSFA Course Conductor for ICE (Indoor Cycling) and is the in-house Instructor Trainer for ICE at Dalplex.
Judi Harvey
AQX Trainer
Judi Harvey has been teaching Fitness for the past 31 years, adding Aqua 29 years ago, and has recently completed the AQX certification this past January. She is also a certified STOTT Pilates Instructor and has over 300 hours in Yoga Teacher Trainings as well. She has been a course conductor with the NSFA for the past 12 years, teaching GEL, ADE and AQUA, and is continuing her AQX education to become an instructor/mentor, and an Instructor Trainer in the future
Dr. Kelsey Harvey, PhD
Dr. Kelsey Harvey, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Experiential Studies in Community and Sport at Cape Breton University. A social gerontologist by training, her research is at the intersection of physical activity, community, and education in later life. Her current and past projects include research on interprofessional health and social service education in Canada, learning in and about nature through plogging/walking while picking up litter, and group fitness instructors as community educators in senior’s exercise. She uses community-based and participatory methods to ground her research in the lived experiences and daily realities of older people.
Greg has been working full-time in the fitness industry for over 30 years as a Club Manager, Performance Specialist, Personal Trainer, and Fitness Business Coach. Greg has coached fitness business owners, managers, and fitness professionals from large 5000+ member established facilities to specialty studios just starting out. His coaching covers strategic planning, marketing, sales, staffing, programming, business systems, and customer service.