Gym
About Marnie
Hi, I’m Marnie — a certified personal trainer with over 20 years of experience helping people move better, feel stronger, and live healthier lives. I specialize in working with adults 40+ who want to build strength, improve confidence, and create sustainable habits that last. My approach is practical and encouraging — I meet you where you are, design programs that fit your lifestyle, and help you build a foundation for lifelong fitness.
My favorite client story
Client Success Story: Reversing Pre-Diabetes and Eliminating Chronic Back Pain
When this client first came to me, he was dealing with two major challenges: borderline diabetes and chronic low back pain that made even daily activities uncomfortable. He wanted to feel stronger, improve his health, and get back to doing the things he loved — but wasn’t sure where to start.
We began with the basics — consistent strength training, daily walking, and gradual lifestyle changes. His program focused on improving posture and core stability to relieve pressure on his lower back, while building strength through safe, functional movements.
At the same time, he made small, sustainable dietary adjustments, focusing on balanced meals, more whole foods, and mindful portion sizes. Nothing extreme — just steady, realistic changes that he could maintain long-term.
After six months of consistent effort, the transformation was remarkable:
His blood sugar levels returned to a healthy range, reversing his pre-diabetic status.
His back pain significantly decreased, allowing him to move and train without discomfort.
He gained strength, energy, and confidence, proving that sustainable habits truly work.
This experience reinforced what I teach all my clients: consistency, movement, and mindset matter most. When you commit to showing up and making gradual improvements, real change happens — from the inside out.
My favorite exercise
Burpees!
(just kidding)
Deadlifts!
(for real)
My favorite quote
"Movement is medicine."
My training philosophy
My philosophy centers on helping each client build a strong foundation — physically, mentally, and emotionally — so they can move well, feel capable, and live with strength and energy for years to come.
I believe lasting change comes from sustainable habits, not quick fixes. Every workout, meal choice, and mindset shift adds up. My role as a coach is to meet you where you are, design a plan that fits your life, and guide you step by step toward your goals.
Training with me means focusing on:
Consistency over intensity: Showing up regularly matters more than going all-out occasionally.
Strength with purpose: Building muscle and movement patterns that support your daily life and long-term health.
Mindset as the foundation: Progress starts in your mind — with belief, patience, and resilience.
Education and empowerment: I want you to understand your body, trust the process, and feel confident in your ability to maintain results.
Whether your goal is to get stronger, move without pain, or simply feel better in your own skin, I’m here to help you build the foundation — and the mindset — for lifelong fitness.
My training experience
With over 20 years in the fitness industry, I began my career as a cycling instructor and quickly discovered a passion for helping others transform their lives through movement. Since then, I’ve worked in a variety of settings — from community gyms to universities — training and coaching clients of all ages and abilities.
I specialize in working with adults 40+, but my experience spans a wide range of individuals including beginners, cancer survivors, busy parents, and competitive athletes. My approach combines education, motivation, and empowerment to help each client reach their full physical and mental potential.
Throughout my career, I’ve served in multiple roles — personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and wellness coach — at organizations such as the David D. Hunting YMCA, Allegro Coaching, 8th Day Gym, Grand Valley State University, and Calvin University.
I’m certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) as a Certified Personal Trainer, Women’s Fitness Specialist (WFS), and Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS), with additional certifications in TRX, Spinning, Strong Nation, and Livestrong at the YMCA, supporting cancer survivors in rebuilding strength and confidence. I am also a certified Level 1 Nutrition Coach through Precision Nutrition (PN).
Areas of Expertise
- Core and Balance
- Strength Training
- Flexibility and Mobility
- Muscle Gain
- Functional Training
- Corrective Exercise
- TRX
- Cross Training
NCCA Accredited Certifications
Additional Certifications
NASM Women's Fitness Specialist, NASM Fitness Nutrition, TRX Certified Suspension Trainer Level 2, LiveStrong Certified Trainer, STRONG by Zumba, Mad Dogg Certified Spinning Instructor, YMCA Foundations of Group Exercise, Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition Coach
Who I Especially Like Working With
Beginners, Brides-to-be, Cancer Survivors, Middle-aged, Peri/Post-menopausal, Runners, Seniors, Women
Medical Conditions Experience
Arthritis, Back Pain/Issues, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Limited Mobility, Parkinson's Disease
I’ve worked with Marnie for almost 10 years. I started with her in 2013 because I had only been doing cardio workouts and needed some guidance on strength training. She set up a program for me that constantly changed with my needs/wishes and explained why and what I was doing. Over the years I have had some hip and knee trouble and each time she created a plan to address those issues. She is a wonderful trainer - knowledgeable, thoughtful, clever, and personable!
I started working out with Marnie 5 years ago just before my 50th birthday (I just celebrated my 53rd birthday). I’d become increasingly overweight and out of shape and, frankly, I got scared. I didn’t want to live the rest of my life limited by my body. Marnie introduced me to a body I didn’t know I had. Marnie often asks me to do things that feel impossible (not ME! I can't do that!) and I’ve learned to trust her: if she asks me to do it, it means I’m ready. But even better than the physical triumphs are the mental ones. Marnie has completely re-calibrated my notion of "possible." Two 30-minute workouts a week have beaten back so many negative voices in my head and made me appreciate what I can do. I try not to proselytize to other people about the joys of working out. I used to hate those people ;). But Marnie has walked with me to a place of freedom and possibility I couldn’t imagine and been the calm, confident guide I needed. I wish that for anyone who is longing for a different relationship with their body (and their mind).
I worked with Marnie for almost 10 years, starting in the YMCA cycle studio and transitioning to personal training. Marnie brings joy, intelligence, and genuine care to her fitness programming. She tailored a challenging yet enjoyable plan for my wedding preparation, accommodating difficult schedules for my sister and me. She listened, really listened, and wanted to learn how best to support my goals. Marnie even led a beach-themed bootcamp at my bachelorette party (some of my friends still won’t forgive me for that), showcasing her dedication and fun approach. Highly recommend her for anyone seeking personalized and effective training.
I appreciate Marnie's coaching style, which is one that creates a supportive environment focusing on feeling your best. Marnie always comes to the gym with a smile and customizes exercises to keep you motivated. No matter what your movement goal may be, I would highly recommend Marnie!
I had the pleasure of training with Marnie for two years and highly recommend her to anyone seeking a knowledgeable and supportive trainer. As a beginner to weightlifting, I initially felt intimidated, but Marnie’s kindness and patience put me at ease. She explained each exercise thoroughly, ensuring I learned proper form and technique. Her encouragement kept me motivated, and she continuously pushed me to improve. Thanks to Marnie, I not only gained strength but also the confidence to challenge myself in my fitness journey.
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