JOHNNY GILLESPIE, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, e-RYT
Johnny Gillespie, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, E-RYT is a revolutionary teacher of human movement. He is a graduate of the school of physical education at West Virginia University and has been studying human movement since he initiated his studies in 1991.
He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). He is an Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) through Yoga Alliance.
Johnny is a long time presenter for the NSCA under the topic Yoga for Athletes. He is the creator of an online video series through www.runnersworld.com entitled Balanced Runner. He regularly appears on tv and radio as an expert on health, fitness and yoga.
Johnny is the founder of Plexus Fitness and Empowered Yoga located in Delaware. Plexus operates public fitness centers and offers an array of health and fitness services within corporations, country clubs and privately in-home.
Empowered Yoga is a practical approach to the healing art of yoga, incorporating modern day exercise science principles, operating locations throughout Delaware.
Johnny lives in West Chester, Pennsylvania with his wife Sara and their three children; Jimmy, Leia and Liam.
BETH DUGAN
"To keep the body in good health is a duty otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear." ~ Buddha
Beth's various professional experiences have helped her develop a relentless work ethic and a great sense of urgency towards helping others reach their full potential through the health and wellness programs at Plexus. Her commitment to high standards for herself and for others shows through in everything she does.
Beth is a certified Personal Trainer and Empowered Yoga teacher. Her focus on health and fitness has been a constant in her life- she was a nationally ranked gymnast in her younger days, and also spent many years dancing, singing, and acting in professional theatrical productions all around the country.
Beth believes that being physically active every single day while maintaining a balanced diet is the key to overall personal wellness, and works hard to help others realize it as well. She credits the Empowered Yoga teacher training with helping her find balance and contentment within her life while she follows her own personal path to happiness.
Beth currently serves as the Wellness Director at Plexus Nemours.
SEAN MARCISIN
"I work at Plexus Fitness because I get to meet, interact and connect with many clients every day. It is very uplifting to be a part of someone's journey to health."
I strive to be the best in everything I do, and I would expect nothing less from anyone I train. Being in great shape with optimal health is a wonderful thing that anyone can attain with a little work and dedication. Varying your routine is the key to development of muscle and fat loss, and I will create a very diverse routine to keep your body challenged but not intimidated.
Having worked in an outpatient physical therapy setting for over six years Sean has the knowledge and experience to help anyone get stronger and feel better without pushing you over the top. Sean has experience with people that have bad backs and postural problemsŃtwo of the most common issues. ŇMovement is a medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states.
Sean is the Fitness Director at Plexus Fitness Nemours.
STEVE BART
"I work at plexus Fitness to promote the success of a healthy fitness community."
Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand with staying focused and energized in other aspects of your life. I am here to assist you in finding the perfect fitness program to suit your specific needs!
Stephen has been a certified trainer for just over a year now and has worked with all types of people with different fitness goals. He has learned, first hand, many of the modern exercise programs used by fitness professionals today. Whether your goal be strength, stamina, or speed, Stephen will be able to get you moving in the right direction.
Stephen has been a member of the Delaware army national guard for three years now and continues to motivate and inspire his fellow soldiers to increase their knowledge of exercise and nutrition. Along with his service, Stephen is certified by the International Fitness Association and the IDEA Health & Fitness Association. "Preparation will guarantee success."
ANDREW BUCKO
"I believe exercising is beneficial for a healthy lifestyle. Not only is exercise excellent for oneŐs physical well-being, but it boosts your mood and creates a better mental environment. "
Andrew Bucko trains and motivates his clients by setting goals and helping them reach and surpass their goals. Andrew works with clients to create a customized regimen that fits each person's needs.Ę With this positive and personalized approach, Andrew keeps the client's mind in the program and away from the distractions of daily struggles and problems.
Andrew will be receiving a Bachelors of Science degree in Athletic Training and a minor in Strength and Conditioning from Neumann University. While at Neumann University, he was a team member and served as captain for both the Cross Country and Track and Field teams. Andrew's plan for the future includes earning his Strength and Conditioning Certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and becoming a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC).
MICHELLE VAHEY
"Believe in yourself, take time to become a healthier and happier YOU, this will only make everyone around you happy too."
Michelle was born and raised in Guatemala and her passion for music and dance began at the age of three with gymnastics. She has a degree in culinary arts and nutrition from Johnson and Whales University which helps her educate and share her passion for incorporating easy and healthy meals into your lifestyle.
Michelle is known for accommodating every fitness level and helping people feel successful with whatever they are doing. As your fitness coach, Michelle will take your health and wellness personally, working along side you to help you achieve all your fitness goals.
Michelle believes that a combination of a clean diet and exercise is key for a healthier lifestyle. Michelle is a certified group fitness instructor and personal trainer through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America with additional training in yoga, aqua fitness and TRX.
MATT HEIM
"I believe that our bodies are the single most important tool and resource we will ever have. I take great pride and enjoyment in helping others get the most from the tools they were given."
Matt is currently a personal trainer at our Nemours location in downtown Wilmington. Originally from Toms River, NJ, Matt is a graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelors’ of Science degree in Biological Sciences. Matt is personal training certified through the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America, and enjoys creating a friendly and fun atmosphere for all his clients. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, add strength and size, or improve your overall health, Matt’s expertise and knowledge will guide you to your fitness goals.
APRIL GILLIGAN
"Once you take the first step towards a healthy lifestyle you are on a road that leads to great things in your life. Making changes and seeing results only makes you want more; it’s exhilarating. April loves to see you light up when you see the positive changes in yourself. As a team we will reach your goals together and have fun in the process. "
Originally from Michigan, April caught the fitness bug early in her teen years jogging. In her early 20’s she began teaching a variety of aerobics and fitness classes with the YMCA. Upon moving to Chicago, she supervised and coordinated a fabulous team of 32 group exercise instructors at a premier fitness club with over 130 classes offered a week. After her move to Pennsylvania, she earned her Personal Training Certification and continues to share her infectious energy.
April is an artist with a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design from Western Michigan University, and is AFAA Group Exercise and Personal Training Certified with additional studies and certifications on several exercise equipment. To keep training interesting, fun and work the muscles in a variety of ways to gain the best results. Education is always ongoing. There is always more to learn and share with everyone.
COLIN DOBBINS
"I believe that health and fitness should be incorporated into everyone’s daily life. I love working with many different people and helping them reach their goals whether it includes increasing strength, losing weight, or reducing stress. I enjoy maintaining a healthy lifestyle through strength training and good nutrition and strive to instill those beliefs in others."
Colin graduated from the University of Delaware in 2010 with a BS in Health Behavior Science with a concentration in Fitness Management and a minor in Strength and Conditioning. In May 2012, he will graduate with a Master's degree in Health Promotion also from the University of Delaware. Colin is certified through the American College of Sports Medicine as a Health Fitness Specialist.
MIKE MCGRADY
"Exercise is not a routine. I believe the key to effective, enjoyable workouts is keeping the body guessing and the mind engaged. Results breed enthusiasm which encourages people to make fun and fitness an integral part of their lives."
Mike McGrady dreamed of being an Exercise Physiologist all his life. From toddler through college, he has played sports such as football, basketball, baseball and track. He is currently the head coach for a Major Little League boy’s baseball team. Mike has been working as a personal trainer and exercise physiologist since 2002. He has an Associate’s Degree in Exercise Science and is currently working toward his PTA degree while studying for his ACSM and NSCA certification as well. Through the development and improvement of health care services and exercise physiology techniques, Mike is dedicated to impacting his clientele, one person at a time.
ROSS KLESZICS
"My goal is to improve my clients’ quality of life through greater physical fitness, a more structurally sound diet, and stress reduction. I try to meet each clients needs and build upon their individual strengths. With a great attitude and the right motivation, I believe that people can surpass their previous set limitations mentally, physically, and emotionally."
Ross Kleszics believes that with the proper goal in mind and a positive attitude, success will be readily achieved. He likes to dig deep to find what a persons true goal is for themselves and sets them up with the right mindset to achieve that goal. He does this by incorporating weight training, cardiovascular training and nutritional tips into every session. His workouts will leave you feeling exhilarated and ready for more, along with at least one piece of advice you might use throughout the day.
Ross took his love for sports and fitness right into a collegiate career and major. While attending West Chester University he competed on the Track and Field team as a Decathlete and sprinter earning a conference title. After his track career was over he transferred to the University of Delaware where he earned his Bachelors degree in Nutrition. He currently holds his personal training certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and his future plans include additional university graduate work.
JOHN MENDENHALL
"I truly believe that fitness is more than just training, it's therapy, motivating and organizing balance in all aspects of your life."
John Mendenhall is currently the Director of Johnny Fitness at Friess Associates. John started his career in fitness in 1994 and has thousands of hours of hands experience with people of all ages and physical capabilities. John loves designing dynamic exercise routines and then coaching those routines with enthusiasm. John is IFA (International Fitness Association) personal trainer certified and is currently studying for the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) personal trainer certification.
L.PAPI AND BETH SANCHEZ
Zumba allows us to share our love of dance and fitness to wonderful Latin music, while having a great time.
L. Papi and Beth Sanchez have been dancing and singing since an early age. Beth began Latin dancing over five years ago, where she met her husband L. Papi, who also teaches Zumba. Together they have been in many performances across the tri-state area.
ANGIE HALL, NSCA-CPT
"Never give up, never quit, always get back up after each and every fall!"
Angie has been passionate about health and fitness for most of her life. During her 10-year career competing in Junior Olympic Gymnastics, she came to realize the importance of balance in training to stay healthy and avoid injuries. As a personal trainer for the last six years, she has strived to share her goal of obtaining overall strength and balance with others. Angie uses her enthusiasm for life, coupled with her experience as a competitive athlete, to motivate her clients. She is also a Certified Yoga Instructor, currently teaching at Empowered Yoga.
Angie’s passion for sports has kept her very active in snowboarding, mountain biking, yoga, and rock climbing. She hopes to share her joy for fitness with each and every client.
SARA GILLESPIE
"I love to move my body and sweat. Fitness has got to be fun yet challenging! I believe the foods you put into your body play a huge role in creating the BEST YOU!"
Sara Gillespie will knock you over every workout with her gorgeous and contagious smile. She loves to combine many different exercise disciplines into a challenging and stimulating workout. The laughter can soften the intensity of her workouts which can be very tough.
Sara's love for human movement began at an early age of 4 when she began her youth career as a swimmer. Throughout her youth Sara excelled in swimming as well as on the track as a sprinter. She attended the University of Maryland on an athletic scholarship and graduated with a degree in Kinesiology, which is the study of human movement. Sara taught Physical Education for several years before joining Plexus. Sara is also passionate about yoga and has studied the Anusara method with Moses Brown and Kathleen Hogan.
MATT VAHEY, NSCA-CPT
"My life would not be complete without helping others achieve a healthier lifestyle; a fitness based lifestyle is the catalyst to a more fulfilling and happier life."
Matt Vahey joined Johnny Gillespie on his venture of starting up Johnny Fitness in 1999. Matt is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and a 200-hour certified yoga instructor through Yoga Alliance. Matt is also an avid mountain biker. His knowledge of fitness and nutrition coupled with an insatiable work ethic has helped him make his way up the ranks to placing in the top 3 at the semi-pro level.
Matt is known for his amazing attitude and empathetic nature. He prides himself on keeping up with new products, developments, and trends in the fitness and nutrition industries. Matt oversees the daily operations of all Plexus sites. He is all about teaching fitness for life; by helping you go after your objectives and keeping you focused through a good fitness and diet program.
KRIS BENARCIK, NSCA-CPT
"I remember the first time I was called an athlete and how powerful it made me feel. Helping others achieve what they are physically capable of and to realize they too have an inner athlete, makes exercise become something enjoyable and welcomed."
Kris believes in making the most of your training time so you might be combining free weight and stability ball work, cardio and plyometrics, or stretching and yoga-based exercises to achieve your personalized goals. She likes to change things up from workout to workout to prevent boredom and burnout. Each workout will help make you stronger, keep you challenged and give you functional power.
After 20 years in public horticulture, Kris felt drawn to the exercise profession. She's a graduate of the National Personal Training Institute and a Master's rower who competes at both local and national levels.
Emily Howes
"I believe in a balanced approach to life. Working out everyday puts me in an awesome mood and ready to face the day. It gets my blood pumping, muscles challenged, joints loosened and endorphins flowing so I can bear to sit at my desk all….day….long. To paraphrase the Buddha: there will be pain, and for that reason, it’s up to you to make sure there’s also bliss! "
Emily believes that wellness begins with You paying attention to You. You need your own baseline from which to gauge the many forms of pain and happiness so that you can make adjustments accordingly. Emily knows that our daily routine takes its toll on our bodies and minds and we need balance, and to achieve balance, we need exercise! Happy to lead by example, Emily’s classes are a fun and sweaty way to squeeze a calorie-blasting workout into your day. She is busy like you, so working out before work is sometimes the only option. Bootcamps are conveniently scheduled during the “no-excuses” hour: You keep that in mind the next time you hit snooze!
Emily’s enthusiasm for exercise began at age 3 when she was first enrolled in ballet. She danced until she was 19, including a year on the Flagler College dance team. She has played varsity tennis and soccer, surfed and started practicing ashtanga yoga in college. Emily is a certified group fitness instructor through the American Fitness Association of America and a registered yoga instructor through Yoga Alliance.
MAGGIE GIDDENS
"Movement is the medicine for creating change within a person's wellbeing. I feel physical fitness is vital to achieving and maintaining a healthy mind and body. ?y goal as a personal trainer is to help others feel the positive and energized results achievable through living a fitness conscious lifestyle."
While completing her bachelors of Science and Kinesiology degree at Michigan State University, Maggie, was a member of the Spartans' field hockey program competing in two NCAA Division I Final Fours and two Big Ten Championship seasons. During her time in Michigan, while training as a student-athlete she also interned in the varsity weight program gaining valuable experience in training and developing fitness programs.
Following completion of her undergraduate degree at MSU, Maggie continued her studies at Miami University (OH) earning her Master's degree in Sport Behavior and Performance.?For two seasons coinciding with her graduate work, Maggie was a member of the Miami University field hockey coaching staff.?Maggie brings a wealth of experience to Plexus from both a mental and physical standpoint.
Billy Murphy
“Fitness is special to me because I believe it is the best natural medicine available. No matter what stressors life burdens you with, a consistent workout routine will give you the confidence and energy to achieve any goal you may have.”
Billy Murphy is a graduate of the University of Delaware where he earned a B.S. in Health Management in 2004, and is currently working on a nursing degree at Delaware Technical and Community College. Billy has held numerous certifications in the fitness field such as the National Strength and Conditioning Associations’ Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Certified Personal Trainer. For the past six years Billy has trained a wide variety of clients ranging from middle school athletes to postpartum women. Billy is able to use his experience to design dynamic exercise routines, which he tailors to the individual based on their fitness goals.
Shara Bubes, CSCS
Shara Bubes embarked on her fitness career as one of the original personal trainers at Vicmead Country Club for John Gillespie in 1999. She has 12 years of experience, training all different age groups and abilities. Shara received her BA in Communications from Penn State University and her teaching certificate from West Chester University. She is a certified personal trainer through AFPA and has additional training in Pilaties, Yoga, and TRX. Shara has the ability to personalize each workout to her client's own unique needs. Her enthusiasm for fitness and passion for leading a healthy lifestyle are infectious.