Our Trainers

Ivan Black
- Currently seeking certification with the American College of Sports Medicine
(ACSM)   
certified personal trainer
- International Fitness Association (IFA) certified fitness trainer
- 3 years experience as NCAA baseball player
-  4 years experience as Semi-Pro baseball player

I am devoted to my clients and the journey that we embark on together. I aim to get as much out of the session by incorporating my competitive edge of athletic training.  I have nearly 5 years of experience as a certified personal fitness trainer and have worked for health and fitness clubs in New York City, Miami, and now Washington D.C. The fitness

programs I design are individualized and draw from a wide range of fitness modalities with the aim of keeping the session exciting, motivating, varied, and goal specific. I have a proven ability to engage and motivate clients at all fitness levels, guiding and encouraging them each step of the journey. 
 
As a former NCAA and Semi-professional baseball player, I understand the rigors of fitness and know what it takes to keep you motivated. Variety, excitement, positive reinforcement, and results!

Stuart Carragher
- National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
- Diploma Premier (REPS 3 U.K.)
- CHEK Certified
- Professional Ski Instructors of America Certified Alpine Ski Instructor

Stuart has 8 years experience training and motivating a variety of clients in the UK and USA.
He focuses on ski specific training, in season and off season and Core/Corrective functional style training.
Stuart has worked with and referred by Chiropractors and Osteopaths on client recovery and continued rehabilitation.

Craig Davenport
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer
- B.S in Nutrition and Health Sciences

I have worked as personal trainer since 2003, emphasizing a diet/exercise combination to achieve a client's goals.  My philosophy may sound cliché , but I believe that, all goals can be achieved with hard work and dedication. Sacrifices and smalls steps are needed to reach that goal but each step should be taken one at a time. Put in the hard work and reap the benefits of the rewards!

Brittanie DeChino
- George Washington University, Masters in Exercise Science- Concentration in Exercise, Nutrition and Eating Behavior
- Yoga Alliance Certified Yoga Instructor
- Power Pilates Certified Pilates Instructor
- American Council on Exercise Certified Group Fitness Instructor 



As a personal trainer, my goal is to create a healthy lifestyle for my clients and enable them to maintain these habits as they navigate through the many stages of their lives. My general personal training programs consist of core strengthening, weight training, cardiovascular fitness, nutritional planning, and the incorporation of yoga and Pilates. I also tailor specific programs to runners (both beginner and experienced) - teaching them how to breathe, stretch, and strengthen to enhance their running abilities. I even train people to run their first race!

Patrick Harvey
- Russian Kettlebell Certified Instructor
- American College of Sports Medicine Health Fitness Instructor
- Aerobic Association of America Group Fitness Instructor
- National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer

I like to train my clients with body weight exercises, kettlebells, and free weights in order to force the body to work as one functional unit.  I stress functional movement patterns and core strengthening in all workouts.  By avoiding the use of pin-selected equipment and using total body motions, caloric expenditure is maximized and total body strength is developed.  In particular, the use of kettlebells is especially effective.  The unbalanced nature of the kettlebell and the quick burst of movement necessary to drive them enable my clients to quickly lose fat and tone the legs and glutes while simultaneously developing cardio-respiratory endurance.

Antonio (AJ) Jefferson
Antonio Jefferson has over 10 years of fitness and health-related experience.  His interests began in 1997, when he was reluctantly enrolled in dance classes.  Noticing positive physical changes, Antonio began studying human movement science.  He began running track, leading warm-ups for various dance companies, and performing and training throughout the country.

In 2004, Antonio sought to further explore and share his knowledge by teaching and training throughout the D.C. metro area.  Antonio has experience teaching kickboxing, total body resistance training, dance, gymnastics, and other various formats.  Antonio fuses concepts of personal training and group fitness with those of sports and dance to help individuals meet, maintain and exceed their goals.
Currently, Antonio is studying Sports Medicine and Nutrition at Howard University and is nationally certified in Personal Training (NASM), Kickboxing (AFAA) and CPR/AED (American Red Cross).  He has been with Vida Fitness since 2006 and is a trainer, instructor and MOD at Vida Verizon.

Lisa Jolly
Fitness Philosophy:  Unsafe practices, improper form, and poor planning prolong the time it takes for you to get to your desired results. Perfect practice makes perfect results.

Education/Certifications:
- National Academy of Sports Medicine, certified personal trainer (CPT)
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
- Performance Exercise Specialist (PES)
- Premier Certification in Range of Movement Technologies (RMT)
- Aaron Mattes Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) Techniques for Athletes.
- Currently finishing a BS in Fitness and Wellness with a concentration in Nutrition, and Corrective Exercise

I have been working and competing in the fitness Industry for 18 years. I’ve competed on a National level for Power Lifting, Bodybuilding, and Figure. My hobbies include recreational running and cycling.  My accent is from Raleigh, North Carolina but I just relocated from sunny Sarasota, Florida.

One of my biggest enjoyments is figuring out the (you) puzzle. For anyone to be successful there must be a comprehensive plan of attack that includes 5 components; 1) Proper nutrition and supplementation, 2) The correct amount of cardio conducted within the correct training zones, 3) A progressive strength training program covering all aspects of training from the inside (core) out (prime movers), 4) Corrective flexibility using tools such as Self Myofacial Release, and 5) The most important is the coaching and education you need to be in control of your body for the rest of your life. This is where I come in.  I believe in finding what specifically works for your life, your schedule and giving you the tools, knowledge, and motivation to accomplish your goals. I can be your best friend, and or drill sergeant, holding you accountable, coaching and celebrating every step the way.

Lamar Lonesome
- National Personal Training Institute (NPTI) Certified as Personal Trainer and Nutritional Consultant

Lamar Lonesome is a former Army Sergeant and has trained for over 15 years in the US and Overseas with the emphasis on strength and Hypertrophy.  While stationed In HI, Lamar competed in bodybuilding contests, was on the State Champion Aerobic Team and also eventually landed a position on the local Cycling Team.
Lamar has a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and graduated from the National Personal Training Institute where he obtained a diploma as a Personal Trainer, and Nutrition Consultant. The Personal Training Diploma is accredited by the United States Board of Education, and Compliments his experience as a Personal Trainer.
Some of his specialties include weight loss, strength, power, hypertrophy, Kettle Bell training, Cross Training and Rehab and Post Rehab shoulder, knee and lower back training. Lamar attends major strength and conditioning seminars during the year to continue his education and hone his craft.

Sarah Look
- American College of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer

I have been in the fitness industry for over nine years and earned a degree in sports management.  I pride myself on getting clients results with a focus on training programs that include body alignment and re-posturing drills.  These exercises also focus on improving function and health in everyday life styles.  As a professional tri-athlete and an Olympic hopeful speed skater, I apply my knowledge from my training and personalize it to each client I work with.  Make an investment in your future and look to me for training assistance.

Josh McGregor
- Certified CrossFit Coach/Trainer

If you are looking to maximize your fitness level though dedication and hard work, I am here to help! My objective is to enhance performance both on the field and in daily activities. I have three years training experience, owned and operated CrossFit Rehoboth Beach gym, and competed in Division 1 wrestling at Delaware State University.  Training is my passion and I am excited to introduce the CrossFit philosophy to D.C., as a certified CrossFit coach/trainer for Vida Fitness.

Paul Perry
Paul specializes in sports and athletic training but has a wide range of expertise that allows for a diverse clientele.  He has trained youth, adult and senior citizen boot camps. Paul is certified with IFA and has 3 years of training experience.  His techniques allow clients to improve on their weaknesses and develop overall fitness. He played football and ran track at the collegiate and professional level.  He also coach women’s track and field at Towson University.  His approachability and strong leadership skills suit clients at any level who are eager to reach their fitness goals Paul takes to heart the concept, “with an open mind and the proper attitude there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.”

Education
B.S. - Towson University

Sports specific training –IFA

Senior citizen training-IFA

Weight loss-IFA

Patrick Rahm
- B.S. Clinical Exercise Science – Ithaca College
- M.S. Exercise Science / Concentration in Strength & Conditioning – The George
     Washington University
- NSCA – C.S.C.S
- USAW – Club Coach
- Collegiate Varsity athlete
- National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer

With over six years training experience, my range of expertise has prepared me to coach a wide range of clientele. I have worked with the diseased patient in cardiac & pulmonary rehabilitation facilities, the general health client looking to improve his/her quality of life, the young athlete aspiring to attain a scholarship, and the professional athlete trying to stay relevant in the cut throat NFL environment.

When it comes to training the general population at VIDA, I am passionate about getting my clients up to speed, doing the basics very well to maximize efficiency and progress. After identifying their limiting factors and driving motivations, I educate my clients on the how and the why of the individualized exercise program. Because being truly healthy includes the twenty-three hours that we aren’t in the gym, I work with my clients to finds strategies for health and wellness that work best with his or her daily lifestyle.

Dave Roberts
- Certified Level one CrossFit Coach
- CrossFit Gymnastics Certification
- CrossFit Barbell Training

As a former division 1 soccer player, I instruct using functional movements such as squats, dead lifts, cleans, and presses.  This teaches clients to use their body as real life demands in a safe and efficient manner.  Dynamic, constantly varied workouts are constructed to develop functional strength and improve metabolic conditioning.  Workouts also are intended to maximize power as defined in physics.  I want clients moving heavy loads, a long distance as quickly as possibly; this is how intensity is maximized.  



Prior to joining Vida, I worked as an economist with the Treasury Department.  I hold a BS in economics from the University of Delaware and earned a Master's Degree in economics from Boston University.

Kelly Tongol
Lieutenant Kelly Tongol comes to Vida Fitness with Personal Training, Law Enforcement Tactics training and Coast Guard experience. As a Commissioned Officer for the Coast Guard Kelly has conducted search and rescue operations at sea and has developed a liking to competing in triathlons and marathons.  
As a certified fitness instructor and trainer, Kelly respects what the human body is capable of and motivates clients to always give 100% effort towards reaching their goal!
Certified group instructor, spin instructor, BTS POWER, skydiving coach, and personal trainer.

John Workman
- American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)  
certified personal trainer
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) certified fitness trainer

-  CHEK Institute certifications in scientific core conditioning and advanced program design



As Personal Trainer Manager, I bring the experience of a resourceful, hands-on manager as well as a passion and well-earned reputation for producing life-transforming results. My clients stay with me because I change lives, turning dreams into reality through motivation, energy, humor, and well-honed exercise programs. I believe each client is unique. I listen and create programs based on what they want to achieve and what will deliver the most for them.

I have nearly 15 years experience as a certified personal fitness trainer, including almost 10 years as senior trainer and several years leading a team of personal trainers, having worked at gyms and health clubs in Philadelphia, Provincetown, and Washington. I design sports-specific, functional strength and conditioning, and weight-loss training programs, as well as cardiovascular conditioning and general fitness programs. I can advise clients on nutrition, and I work closely with physical therapists on client recovery. I have a proven ability to engage and motivate clients at all fitness levels, guiding and encouraging them each step of the journey to more healthy and fit lives.
As a competitive tri-athlete, I try to “walk the talk,” training and keeping up to date on the latest advances and research on health and fitness.

Keita Vanterpool
Education:
B.S. Biology Pre-Medicine: Elizabeth City State University
Doctor of Chiropractic: Life University, Marietta, Ga
AFAA Certification- Personal Trainer

Specialty: pain management, senior fitness, holistic health, nutritional counseling

Dr. Keita Vanterpool, is a Chiropractor with over 15 years experience in the health and fitness industry. She specializes in musculoskeletal injuries and brings the knowledge and experience of how to manage such conditions.

She is a firm believer and dedicated to the health and wellness of her clients and hold fast that a strong, solid foundation (spine and joints) are very important. The same premise applies for fitness; proper form and technique offers the greatest benefits... hence... proper structure = proper function.

I enjoy personal training because it allows me the opportunity to teach my clients the importance of proper body mechanics and how exercise is the essential to stabilize and maintain proper alignment to maximize functionality.

My specialty area in fitness lies with the mature and injured populations.


My Motto/Mantra: “ Meeting Your Needs To Better Health"

Gianna Yavorsky
-Civil Engineering - University of PUCRS (Brazil)
-Personal Trainer / Nutritionist Consultant Certification - National Personal Training  Institute
- Advanced Certified Personal Training (A-CPT) - National Personal Training Institute
- Kickboxing Certification - Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
- Group Power Instructor Training – Body Training Systems
- Mechanics of Injury Prevention - Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
- Longevity Training for Seniors - Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
- Senior Fitness Home Study - Aerobics and Fitness Association of America

I am a native of Brazil where living life to its fullest is a tradition that is not only practiced but embraced. Growing up in south Brazil I was always involved in physical activities both in school and in my personal life. As a youth I enjoyed playing volleyball, Samba and belly dancing. I went to university for civil engineering but after a few years I realized that an analytical career was not for me. I moved to the US in 2001 and found my career as an office manager for the next 5 years. Dreading the daily grind I would constantly find myself after work at the gym, dancing, or outdoors enjoying cycling and running with my dog. In 2005 I decided to give up the office life and devote my time to fitness. I believe that as a trainer my job should not be just about how you look but how you feel about yourself. An individual who is serious about training should receive physical, mental and emotional rewards. A healthy lifestyle is a permanent commitment with lifelong benefits. Whether my clients are looking to shed pounds, tone up, increase endurance, or just feel better in their daily lives I always focus all of my attention and energy to help them achieve their goals. I use my years of experience and education to enhance the training experience of all of my clients. I promise that you will enjoy our time together and that you will feel better physically and mentally from our experience. Let me help you live better.
"Não acrescente dias a sua vida, mas vida aos seus dias." – “Don’t add days in your life, but life in your days”