Tell us your name and age?

Susanna Barrett, 40

How long have you been in the fitness industry?

Since 2004, 17 years

What has fitness done for you?

Fitness has changed my life... I think mentally it has been a great stress reliever and given me focus.

How has joining Echelon changed your fitness journey?

Echelon has changed my fitness journey as I teach different styles of classes, so there is a good variation.

What would you say is your favourite class genre and why?

I say my favourite genre class is hills just because I'm good with strength, also cadence is fun!

Who are your classes best suited for?

My classes are suitable for everyone, whether a newbie or athlete, I'll push you to be your best!

How do you keep your attendees motivated during your classes?

By telling them not to give up and letting them now they are doing great!

What would you say to someone who is about to give up halfway through the class?

I would say to remind yourself of why you got on the bike, every pedal stroke is getting you closer to your goals!

Describe in one sentence how your attendees feel after completing one of your classes?

My riders often feel like they have accomplished a tough but fun workout!

What would be your go-to workout playlist?

My go-to workout playlist would be something a little moody, like dubstep or hip-hop!

What is your number one fitness tip?

Recovery! It's essential for progression.

Tell us your name and age?

Rowan, 54 

How long have you been in the fitness industry?

Since the dawn of time (30+ years)

What has fitness done for you? 

Enabled me to help so many people become fitter, healthier, happier versions of themselves.

How has joining Echelon changed your fitness journey? 

Working with riders across the globe via the latest technology is so rewarding (and playing my favourite music)!

What would you say is your favourite class genre and why? 

Fusion - it allows me to be very creative.

For whom are your classes best suited?

Everybody! 

How do you keep your attendees motivated during your classes? 

The best music, some dad jokes, and reassurance that they can work hard.

What would you say to someone who is about to give up halfway through the class?  

Trust me, I've been training people for many, many years - I know you can do this!

Describe in one sentence how your attendees feel after completing one of your classes. 

That they had fun but also understand how and why they have benefited from the workout.

What would be your go-to workout playlist?

80s, Indie, New Wave

What is your number one fitness tip? 

Consistency. Find the right plan and stick with it. Be patient, progress will happen!

Tell us your name and age? 

Demi Lee Patience, and no chance!

How long have you been in the fitness industry?

13 years 

What has fitness done for you?

Changed my life completely, physically and mentally! And the best thing about it is I have met so many great people and worked for great companies!

How has joining Echelon changed your fitness journey?

Echelon has improved my fitness journey massively! It’s been great to connect with people virtually, and the various classes I teach have improved my strength.

What would you say is your favourite class genre and why?

It’s really hard because I love all types of music. I guess I love house music or remixed music... anything with a beat. It brings out my personality and helps motivate me during rides, and if it does that for me, then it should do that for my riders :)

For whom are your classes best suited?

My classes are best suited for people who want a fun but effective workout. I like to think my classes are for all fitness levels as I give easier and hard options throughout my classes. 

How do you keep your attendees motivated during your classes?

I talk a lot, and I like everyone to feel like they are having a personal experience with me rather than just a YouTube workout. I teach my participants how I would like to be taught. I think it’s important to keep music different as well, so I use different music each class to keep the participants guessing - everyone loves a throwback playlist it really gets people going, especially with a few “whoop whoop”!

What would you say to someone who is about to give up halfway through the class?

It’s hard. I don’t like people feeling they have to keep going if they are struggling, but I do encourage people to continue by telling them to remember “your body is designed to do this, you have to convince your mind”. Our minds are powerful, so we do need to keep telling ourselves that we can do it to reach the end. However, if a person is going to give up, I will say “grab a water” and come back into the workout when you can - nobody should feel under pressure, it’s their workout. 

Describe in one sentence how your attendees feel after completing one of your classes?

Amazing, dying, fantastic, exhausted! 

What would be your go-to workout playlist?

House music 

What is your number one fitness tip?

Set realistic goals, be consistent, and accept the feelings of discomfort!

Tell us your name and age?

Sage, 34 

How long have you been in the fitness industry? 

Fitness 15 years, teaching cycle 6 years

What has fitness done for you? 

In my 20s it gave me the opportunity to rediscover what my body was capable of. In my 30s it was an outlet/me time from the chaos of raising a family. I fell in love with cycling so much after having my son that I decided to train up to become a cycling instructor. Becoming a PT is by far the most rewarding job I've ever had!

How has joining Echelon changed your fitness journey? 

Echelon has given me a platform to connect with people from around the world. Riding together in a room is one thing, but riding together with people across the world is a whole other experience. The first thing I noticed when I first joined Echelon was what a welcoming, judgment-free community it was. It is a space for anyone, of any fitness background to come and push through their own limits. I was also 20 weeks pregnant when I joined the team and got to go through my pregnancy with this community. I also had the opportunity to launch prenatal classes on the app to help any other mamas out there wanting to keep fit. 

What would you say is your favourite class genre and why?

Pop, indie, drum and bass, and future House.

For whom are your classes best suited?

Anyone who wants to challenge themselves and to have a good time doing it!

How do you keep your attendees motivated during your classes? 

We sweat together as a pack, and we don't leave anyone behind. Before taking on a challenge, we visualise the finish line. Your body is capable of achieving what your mind is willing to conquer. I always say to come into class with a goal in mind, with the confidence that you can acheive it, and the commitment that you will. 

Describe in one sentence how your attendees feel after completing one of your classes? 

A sweaty hot mess and loving it! 

What would be your go-to workout playlist? 

Anything with a heavy bass drop. That's when you know it's time to kick it into high gear.

What is your number one fitness tip? 

Find something that makes you smile and the rest will fall into place.

Rachael was born on the sunny northern beaches of Sydney, Australia. She has lived and worked on four different continents. Rachael is enthusiastic and keen to push everyone in her classes. Before becoming an instructor, she had been a professional dancer and even a magician’s assistant, so she may have some tricks up her sleeve!

"My inspiration is my family and friends. Since joining Echelon, my favourite part has been meeting even more people and connecting with a worldwide community. I can’t wait to see your name on the Leaderboard!"

Tell us your name and age?

Carly, 29

How long have you been in the fitness industry?

3 years

What has fitness done for you?

Transformed me from the inside out. For me, the mental benefits of fitness far outweigh the physical benefits (although both are amazing!). The evolution I experienced in my mental health thanks to fitness is what motivated me to become a trainer - sharing that with others is my favourite part of the job.

How has joining Echelon changed your fitness journey?

It's given me the most incredible fitness community! Something that I never really had before. Connecting with the Echelon community brings something so special to my fitness journey.

What would you say is your favourite class genre and why?

Hills!! Offers an amazing challenge for your body and mind.

For whom are your classes best suited?

Anyone who wants to work hard and have fun.

How do you keep your attendees motivated during your classes?

High energy and encouragement.

What would you say to someone who is about to give up halfway through the class?

Remember the reason why you started the class. Whatever that reason, use it as motivation to keep going to the finish line.

Describe in one sentence how your attendees feel after completing one of your classes?

Accomplished.

What would be your go-to workout playlist?

It totally depends on the workout and my mood! I couldn't pick just one.

What is your number one fitness tip?

Do something. Not every workout has to be more challenging than the last. Something is always better than nothing, and committing to doing something consistently helps you create good fitness habits. Then you can build intensity from there.

What are a few things we may not know about you?

My mum is French, my dad is Iranian, and I was born in England, so I’m a cocktail of races!

I also used to dance. I did ballet from the age of 4 up until university. I also used to do hip-hop and contemporary dance. 

My degree is in vocals, but I haven’t sung much since! 

How long have you been in the fitness industry? 

I started teaching after my masters, so 8 years ago. I started teaching cycle classes 6 years ago and teach many cycle concepts such as power and rhythm.

What has fitness done for you? 

It’s really helped me realise the power of self, how much your mindset matters and how moving your body is such a great way to connect to yourself. It keeps me sane!

For whom are your classes best suited?

I try to be as inclusive as possible, from beginners to advanced. I think fitness is for everyone! 

How do you keep attendees motivated during your classes? 

I try to remind them of the power they have within. I like to use the beat of the music to keep people going, too. It’s all about harnessing your self belief.

Every now and then I like to let them know a personal story about me to distract them! 

What is your number one fitness tip?

Do something you LOVE! It doesn’t matter what it is: yoga, Pilates, cycle; if you enjoy it, it’s more likely you’ll keep it going regularly.

Amber loves the idea of matching movement to a beat, so after receiving her B.S. in exercise sciences she knew she wanted to bring this same fun to others. She is drawn to anything that lets her be 100% authentic, which is why being loud and silly while instructing is right up her alley. Amber is motivated by her fellow Echelon instructors and the countless clients who send her positive messages every day. “ It's beyond imaginable the amount of gratitude I experience when someone reaches out with their ‘A-ha’ moment or when they realize the best thing from working out.”

Amy credits the strong women in her life who helped raise her to shaping the person she is today. Her father traveled for his job so she was essentially raised by a single mom who was also attending graduate school while working full-time. Amy’s grandmothers and aunt were also a daily part of her childhood. Amy believes that health and movement should not be taken for granted and strives to help others live healthy lives in part to help mitigate preventable diseases. She teaches with a “tough love meets loving motivation” style but wants people to remember that everyone was a beginner at some time.

Brain initially joined Echelon as a studio member and says when the opportunity arose to become a certified instructor, he jumped at the chance. An indoor cycle enthusiast for almost 20 years, Brian motivates riders with a mixture of drill sergeant toughness and calm encouragement, depending on the type of class. His music genre of choice is yacht rock which he says is “the Swiss Army knife of music to me. It can fit all my moods.” Brian appreciates being able to have a positive influence on people around the world.

As the son of an athletic director and a nurse, it could be said that Chris’s passion for athletics and helping others is genetic. Chris is unafraid of challenges—he once ran the Miami Marathon as a second-year law student—and knows how to help others put aside their excuses to meet their goals. He believes that balance is key, so he always aims to conduct challenging workouts that are filled with encouragement. His advice for someone new to fitness? “Don’t overthink it or be intimated. Just do your best and have fun!”

Wanting to “grow her reach” outside the Miami area inspired Dani to join Echelon. She now connects with people across the U.S. and is grateful to be part of the Echelon family. Dani commits to giving 110% in every class and while admitting her classes are challenging, they will change people physically and mentally. Her strong work ethic is inspired by her father who has taught her numerous invaluable life lessons that she still carries with her to this day. She lives by the mantra, “I'll never let you do anything alone!

Eden is a Bronze Ironman All-World Athlete who realized she wanted to be a fitness instructor while training for her second Ironman race in 2017, and discovering her natural instinct to support and encourage those she was training with. She finds joy in helping people break through their limitations and draws inspiration from the no-excuse mentality of the Echelon community. Eden is a down-to-earth and approachable person who loves to adopt senior dogs and engage in sarcastic bantering. Her instruction style is directive but also fun and high-energy. Eden wants everyone who leaves her classes to feel empowered and asking themselves, “What just happened?!?”

Jama is the Echelon family mom (and actual mother of four boys) who believes that her role as an instructor is to help people live well. She was drawn to Echelon because of the idea that our community was for “real” people—moms, dads, and working people who need to make fitness work for their busy lives. Jama is openly silly and unafraid to profess her love of emo music and all things sweet. Her classes are free of judgment and find the right balance of tough love and sunny encouragement.

Janet has been passionate about health and fitness for most of her life, so when she had kids she left her job that required a lot of travel and made fitness her career. She believes that teaching at Echelon is a dream come true because of the opportunity to reach and encourage so many people all over the world. Janet loves to move and even on her rest days, you will find her hiking with her husband or Ollie, her English springer spaniel. Her instruction style is to lead with calm confidence and she will push you with positivity to reach your PR without even realizing it.

Lindsay developed a passion for fitness while working in the hospitality industry where she discovered the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She has since made the career change to be a full-time fitness instructor and has taught and mentored many other instructors. Lindsay loves a good dance break and keeps the “music POPPIN” and the energy HIGH” in her classes, but she is also known for her tough-love approach to teaching. In Lindsay’s class, you will quickly learn that she is #SorryNotSorry for pushing you to give her 110% effort, but she is with you 100% of the way. Outside of her classes, you can find Lindsay hanging out with her fiancé and treating her chocolate lab Enzo to a puppuccino or trip to the dog beach.

Mari is passionate about helping others to live an active, healthy lifestyle and will remind you to “do it for you...no excuses, give yourself the best that you can.” Naturally a night owl, Mari listens to Hip Hop to get her pumped for a workout because the beats and lyrics always get her moving. On rest days, she loves to sleep in and relax with her kids or five-pound Yorkie. You should join her classes if you are looking for a high-energy class that mixes technicality and motivation.

Marsha truly loves seeing people reach their goals and become stronger. That’s why her classes will run the gamut from tough love to upbeat and encouraging. She’s tough when she needs to be, like when climbing a big mountain in class. When teaching a more mellow class like barre, the ambiance is more cheerful and optimistic. Marsha’s proudest fitness achievement was crossing the finish line at her first full Ironman, and her greatest inspiration is her 14-year-old daughter. Her daughter is a level nine competitive gymnast, who Marsha says, “is the strongest girl I know.”

Known for his calming presence, Michael strives to keep his classes light and fun, with clear instructions and plenty of motivation sprinkled in. Michael is a life-long athlete who has been working as a professional fitness instructor since graduating college and draws inspiration from his wife and son. His love of jazz music says a lot about Michael—just as jazz can be slow or fast, beat-driven or improvisational, he provides a variety of unique fitness experiences that always keeps things interesting.

Nicole believes that fitness comes in all forms, colors, and lifestyles. She understands we all take different routes to feel healthy and strong, and cheers people on the entire way. This is why you will hear Nicole say during her classes, “Positive vibes and good rides!” Nicole coaches from the heart and loves what she does. She has kind words and genuine appreciation for the people who take her classes, and wants them to remember her as a friend. Watching her grandparents grow up instilled the strong, positive work ethic Nicole has today and she lives to inspire people

Nikki’s personal mission is to “help as many people as possible live their healthiest lives and love the way they look and feel.” She loves when she sees people’s confidence soar as they surpass their goals and joined the Echelon family so she could reach people on a global scale. Nikki’s proudest fitness moment was when she competed nationally at the American Open for U.S.A. Olympic weighlifting, so she knows a thing or two about reaching personal goals! Nikki is a self-described “positive pepper,” but is quick to point out, “Don’t let this smile fool you—my classes are tough!” We will add that her peppy positivity will keep you engaged through every challenge she throws at you

Rachel describes herself as a “walking goofball of fun and energy.” She found her way to Echelon because of her love of cycling, group fitness and helping others reach their goals. She achieved a fitness milestone of her own when she completed her first 70.3 Ironman. Alternative rock is her music of choice in her classes which are taught with a sunny but tough style. Her positivity is inspiring and you will hear her start her classes saying, “I believe in you babes! Take this class time and focus on you!”

Hailing from Miami, Reed joins the Echelon team with over seven years of experience as a cycle instructor. Before teaching on the bike, Reed traveled the world as a model which allowed him to live in four different countries in just one year! He brings his cadence based style to the bike with excitement to match. Reed finds motivation in succeeding against the odds and finds balance through his days between working hard and playing hard. In Reed’s class, you can expect to ride to his favorite hip-hop playlists as he leads his riders through surges out of the saddle, leaving everyone feeling unstoppable!

Rick’s love of fitness and wanting to share his passion with others are what led him to Echelon, with his goal of having clients feel as amazing as he did when he first started working out and taking classes.

His teaching style is true to his personality, pushing others with some “fun but tough love.” Rick’s music preference is EDM or rock because it motivates him to work out harder. At the start of each class, you will often hear him say, “Put your finger on the trigger and let's go!”

With her mother as her biggest inspiration, Shana knows that working hard, giving everything we have to what we do, and doing it with a smile makes for happy, motivated people. Her inspiring, positive attitude carries over into every fitness class she teaches, and seeing her clients challenge themselves and work hard to reach their goals is what motivates her in her career. Shana shares her heartfelt advice, “It's positive encouragement, linking fitness to mindset and self-love! We do this for us; we must love ourselves enough to put in the work!

Originally from Cd Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, Suyumi stumbled into being a professional fitness instructor when her sister needed a sub one day. Since then, she has grown to be a fitness powerhouse who has been featured at fitness expos and sponsored by several major brands. Suyumi has a smile that will light up a room and she brings her positive, strong energy to every class. She says that her heart is warmed by being able to “motivate and push someone to become healthier and stronger.”

Teresa is an engaging, gregarious instructor who is always on the move. In addition to more than fifteen years of experience as a Pilates instructor, Teresa is also an activewear designer who loves to max out her “rest days” working on various business ventures. She is a huge believer in positive reinforcement and likes to remind her classes to “Stand tall!” When asked what her advice would be for someone new to fitness she says, “We were all beginners at one point. Stick with it, do your best, and don’t compare yourself to others.”