Our training staff is among the most diversely educated and professionally experienced in the region. Our trainers are also qualified by certifications to work with special populations including prenatal, cardiac, diabetic, postoperative, and many more. Whether you need motivation, instruction or guidance, help working through a plateau, accountability, or variety in your training, a trainer will be the person who can see you through to your goal.
Eight years ago, a routine injury led to a blood clot diagnosis, prompting him to overhaul his diet and begin exercising. This journey helped him lose 40 pounds and discover a passion for fitness that he continues to pursue.
He holds certifications as a NASM CPT, NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist, and is CPR/AED Certified. Dan was drawn to The Arena Club for its community focus and local ownership, rather than a corporate feel.
As a personal trainer, he enjoys helping others experience the "Eureka" moment when discipline takes over from motivation. He believes everyone can benefit from personal training for accountability and support.
Dan's wellness philosophy emphasizes consistency over perfection. In his spare time, he loves watching classic films, with "Rear Window," directed by Alfred Hitchcock, being his favorite.
Erin grew up right here in Harford County. She graduated North Harford High school playing soccer, and softball throughout. She received her B.A. degree in Psychology from Towson University. She has been in the fitness industry since 2010. When not training or teaching in the gym she enjoys running in distance races, playing co-ed football and softball.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I came to the Arena Club after working at a few other local gyms in the area. The first thing I noticed, other than how amazing and nice the facility was, is how welcoming the staff and members are. The facility and programs offered are top-notch!! You will not find any other facility in Harford County that could even come close.
What is your approach to training? First, I meet with my client to talk about goals, limitations, and expectations. Before we even pick up any equipment, I give them a starting assessment so we have a baseline to look back on when they see how much progress they are making. Also, I will check their form to make sure we can progress safely.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? Having a personal trainer can really jump-start your fitness journey. They will design a plan that is best for you while making sure you have safe and effective form. They will also help with accountability, motivation, and getting you out of your normal routine which may have been less successful due to plateauing. Just do it! You will learn so much and it will set you up for future successes!
Share something interesting about you: I am a thyroid cancer survivor! Having the word “cancer” attached to my name is never something I could have imagined happening to me. I have always been extremely healthy, have had no family history, and had no symptoms leading up to my diagnosis. The thyroid controls virtually every cell in your body and it will always be a struggle for me to find that balance in my body. But you know what? I am worth the fight and this is only making me stronger. We are always going to experience a set-back or a struggle...it’s how we come out of it that counts. You are stronger than you think you are and sometimes struggles are there to show us that!!
Weight Loss, Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Corrective Exercise, Strength Training, Nutrition Guidance, Sports Performance, Postop/Rehab, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training, Small Group Training, Lifestyle Coaching
Education & Certifications:
Bachelors of Science in Sports Management, with a Minor in Applied Youth Development, and a concentration in Athletic Coaching.
What led you to the Arena Club?What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer?
Other than helping others reach their goals I enjoy providing information that was not readily available to me in the past, to help people be able to overcome difficulties and become more disciplined on their fitness journey. Using my experiences throughout the years of my own training. Being able to see the positive indirect effects fitness has on others.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training?
Whether you're looking to improve your health, increase your athletic performance, or just believe that you would benefit from accountability or instruction, personal trainers can serve as a great asset to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to reach your fitness goals.
Strength Training, Sports Performance
Hilary grew up in Baltimore County and played volleyball and lacrosse through high school. Prior to coming to The Arena Club, she went to college to study Nursing, but decided to take a break from college to start her family. When not at The Arena Club Hilary enjoys running races, watching her sons Lacrosse games, long hikes with her husband and their dog, and just spending time with her family.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I had a friend bring me to try out the classes and became a member. After changing myself I was offered a job here and kept growing and changing over my years here at The Arena Club.
What is your approach to training? I like to meet new clients to let them get to know me and at the same time learn about them. I get to know what their goals are and if they have any health issues or limitations that we need to be aware of that may affect the way we plan out their program. I like to know what motivates them, but also what doesn’t motivate them. Everything plays a role in a good workout plan.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? It is an investment in your future that everyone should make. It is about improving yourself in some way shape or form that makes you a better version of you!
What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer? I enjoy meeting new people, hearing about their lives, and what they want to achieve both mentally and physically in life. I feel you can’t have one without the other.
Share something interesting about you: I had to change myself before I could help anyone else. I was obese in 1999. In changing my life, I found a way that I could help people change theirs for the better. It became a passion for me... I enjoy learning new things and applying them to change the lives of those around me.
Weight Loss, Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Corrective Exercise, Strength Training, Nutrition Guidance, Postop/Rehab, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training, Small Group Training
Certifications: ISSA CPT
About: I have lived in Harford County the majority of my life. My sport in high school was football.
Specialties: Personal Training, Thrive Coach
Training philosophy: There is more to training than just the goals being met. It’s about beating who you were yesterday. It’s about a better quality of life. It’s about being able to fully enjoy the moments with our loved ones and every other precious moment we hold on to. It’s about being the best version of ourselves for the best version of our lives.
Interesting Fact: I have broken my neck, which allowed me to rebuild myself and fully appreciate what our body's are capable of doing.
What got you into coaching? After seeing how fitness can change lives, I want to help others experience this.
Strength Training, Sports Performance, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training
John played lacrosse at St. John’s University and York college of Pennsylvania where he was selected 1st team All Conference (CAC) and honorable mention All American. He grew up playing lacrosse and soccer, where he was a member of the ODP state and regional U12-U16 teams. John's training philosphy is to make people stronger. He enjoys spending time with friends, family, and his dog.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I moved to the area and heard about The Arena Club being one of the best facilities in the area, and I wanted to be part of that.
What is your approach to training? My philosophy for training is to make my clients strong. I have a very simple approach: Getting good at the basics will transfer over into every aspect of your life.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? Do it! Everybody should have a personal trainer. It's making an investment in yourself -- you're making a better you.
What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer? My favorite thing about being a personal trainer is the relationships I build with my clients. Whether they are on a weight loss journey, wish to lead a healthier lifestyle, or are looking for new ways to stay active I value each person I have the opportunity to work with. I love helping my clients build their confidence and become proud of what their body is capable of.
Weight Loss, Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Strength Training, Olympic Lifting, Sports Performance, Postop/Rehab, Mobility/Flexibility, Small Group Training
Julia Barber is a former Military Police soldier and current NASM Certified Personal Trainer. With 3 years of training experience and a lifelong passion for fitness, Julia specializes in functional training and building confidence for life through weightlifting. She is currently studying to be a Nutrition Coach.
If you are interested in Personal Training with Julia, please email her at jbarber@thearenaclub.com, or call the front desk at, 410-734-7300.
Strength Training, Women's Health, Senior Wellness, Corrective Exercise, Nutrition Guidance
Justine is a Certified Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor, and Fitness Nutrition Specialist. On the rare occasions when she’s not teaching, training, or working out, you might find her exploring the outdoors, curled up with a book, or planning her next trip.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I received an Arena Club membership as a gift when I was a college student, and it’s still one of the most useful gifts I’ve received. A few years later, while living on the Eastern Shore, I became certified in Zumba. When I moved back to Harford County, I rejoined the Arena Club. Eventually I started teaching Zumba here, which led to additional certifications and eventually a personal training certification!
What is your approach to training? I want people to feel good about themselves. I’ve worked with many clients with so many different goals, and I always lead sessions by asking if there’s anything specific they’d like to focus on, because it is really all about them and their needs! Today’s society is too focused on size and looks and personal appearance, when what really matters is health and happiness. There is so much more to life than a number on a scale, and I want to help my clients reach their physical goals so they feel fulfilled in all aspects of life.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? Everyone, even trainers, can benefit from working with a personal trainer! There’s always something to learn. For those just starting out, or getting back into, an exercise routine, a trainer will provide guidance, accountability and encouragement along with a safe, custom program. Those who’ve been exercising regularly without seeing results may just need professional guidance on technique or other adjustments to finally reach their goals.
Share something interesting about you: Growing up, I was a ballerina, not an athlete. I dreaded gym class until I took a weight training class in high school! By the time I was in college, I loved fitness, but I didn’t go to school for personal training. I have a B.A. in American Studies from Washington College, and I still love studying history and political and social sciences.
Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Strength Training, Nutrition Guidance, Prenatal, Mobility/Flexibility, Small Group Training
Born and raised in Bel Air, Kim ran track in high school and competed in equestrian events up and down the east coast. She graduated from JMU with a BS in Communications/Journalism. She has participated in running, cycling and triathlon events and enjoys time spent outside hiking and kayaking.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I started as a group fitness instructor with the Rawlings at Harford Health & Fitness in Aberdeen in 1991. When they opened the Arena Club, I happily continued with them in their wonderful new facility. I love all the different training and fitness options available to members and their trainers and I really love our staff and members, and the sense of community at The Arena Club.
What is your approach to training? Talk to the client and get a feel for where they have been and where they want to go. The plan we develop is subject to change as we progress and find strengths to challenge and weaknesses to address. I try to make training both challenging and fun and aim to have my clients leave feeling better than they did when they arrived.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? People seek out a trainer for a number of reasons--accountability, education, motivation, etc. It is extremely important to find someone who can help you achieve your goals safely and effectively, AND who is a good fit for you. Not every trainer has a style that will suit you, so watch them in action and ask questions. Bottom line, whatever the reason or goal, if you want it and commit to it, the right trainer can help you make change happen.
Share something interesting about you: I competed in a bodybuilding show when I was younger. The diet was the worst part. I believe in a realistic and balanced approach to training and life. Balance effort and rest, work and leisure, and good choices with less good choices!
Weight Loss, Strength Training, Sports Performance, Functional Training, Small Group Training
Lila is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian and a Certified Mat and Reformer Pilates Instructor.
Lila holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Foods from West Virginia University and a Master of Science in Dietetics from Marshall University. She is both a Registered Dietitian and a Certified Pilates Instructor.
The Arena Club has been a significant part of Lila's life since its opening in 2003. Once she became Pilates certified, she was eager to share her passion with the club's amazing members.
Lila loves helping people improve their strength, flexibility, alignment, and confidence through Reformer Pilates. She finds the practice unique and enjoys guiding others in their wellness journey from beginners to advanced practitioners. Lila believes everyone can enjoy Reformer Pilates and encourages newcomers not to be intimidated. She works with individuals to create personalized workout flows that are adaptable for different bodies, abilities, and levels, ensuring invaluable benefits for all.
Her wellness philosophy emphasizes the harmony of mind, body, and spirit rather than just physical health. Lila also has a Great Pyrenees named Maeve and loves sharing photos of her.
In her free time, she enjoys playing pickleball, walking her dog, working on home renovations, and planning her wedding.
I have been a personal trainer since 2016 and plan to continue to do so for as long as I possibly can! As a former United States Marine who served in the infantry, I find taking care of your health and fitness is not a recommendation but a requirement of life. Doing so is not only something that helped me prepare for my time overseas but also helped me heal once I came home. Daily exercise, proper nutrition, quality sleep, and meditation are my keys to a happy and healthy life. I also recently got engaged to the love of my life, and we are expecting a little girl this August!
Education & Certifications:
- B.S. Exercise Science
- NASM certified personal trainer
- Certified Functional Strength Coach (CFSC)
- Functional Range Conditioning mobility specialist (FRCms)
- NASM Practical Yoga Instructor
- NASM Behavior Change Specialist
- Reiki level 2
What led you to The Arena Club?
I did my internship for college here five years ago. I absolutely fell in love with the place. The members and atmosphere here are fantastic, and the variety of exercise and class options is outstanding. Life took me on a different path for a while. I am so excited to be back, sharing my passion and all I have learned along the way!!
What is your approach to training?
I believe in training not only the body but the mind and soul too. There are many forms of health and disease—not only physical, but of the mind and spirit as well. Through my education and experience as a personal trainer and Reiki practitioner, I have found that “healing” can come in many forms. My greatest joy is seeing my clients not only reach their goals but also become better, happier human beings in the process.
What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer?
The art of it! Personal training is like a dance. The exercises are just one piece of it. Another beautiful piece of it is the connection I make with others and utilizing that to help shift and improve behaviors. Watching a client grow in confidence and skill and, in turn, take charge of their own life is one of the most rewarding things I have ever been a part of.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training?
Do not let life happen to you. You are this life and can take charge of your body, thoughts, and emotions. We all seek freedom in this existence. I would be honored to guide you on the path to letting life live through you.
Share something interesting about you:
In my spare time, I love training and learning everything I can about Jiu-Jitsu. It is a beautiful physical game of chess and a great workout too! I also enjoy playing my guitar and learning musical theory. It quiets my mind and is one heck of a mental workout too. Finally, I am an avid reader. I enjoy anything from spiritual to fantasy to personal and professional development.
Strength Training, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training
Certifications: NSPA Certified Personal Trainer
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? I would say to someone who is considering starting, let this be day one and not one day. Why would you not want to improve your health and move safely without feeling pain? It sounds crazy not to. Yes, it does take time and dedication, but would you rather be doing that now when you are capable of working out or on a physical therapy table? The choice is yours.
What motivates you to be a Personal Trainer? I am motivated to be a personal trainer because I love watching people grow, hit their goals, feel safe when working out, and not have to worry about injuries. Something about seeing someone improve because of my help just makes me happy to do what I’m doing.
How did you fall in love with fitness? I fell in love with fitness because I have been around it my whole life—literally my whole life. I learned weights at a young age and have had great experiences with many trainers, and from there I wanted to be one too. Also, it’s really fun; it challenges you to think but also keeps all doors open, allowing you to be flexible.
What is your approach to Personal Training? My approach to training is form over everything. Yes, you may be able to bicep curl 80 pounds, but are you doing it right? Are you getting the most out of your time? Are you really getting the volume in the muscle you want? Proper form and time are the two most important things when considering the answers to those questions.
Share something interesting about you: Something interesting about me is that I’m allergic to peanuts and all nuts. Yes, yes, I know. It doesn’t seem interesting at all, but in fact it is. I have had to create proper diets for myself, learn how to be responsible for myself, and learn how to be smart about what I’m eating. All those things have contributed to my being a healthier person as well as a better trainer. I know what’s good for the body and what’s not. It’s a blessing in disguise.
Weight Loss, Strength Training, Sports Performance
Sam is a dedicated personal trainer who began her weight loss journey five years ago, successfully losing over 50 pounds through diet and strength training.
With a year and a half of experience as an employee at The Arena Club, where she was initially a member, she recently earned her personal training certification (NASM CPT) and is also CPR/AED certified.
Her passion for personal training stems from the joy of helping clients achieve their goals, and she believes that having a coach can provide essential guidance in navigating fitness and weight loss challenges.
Sam emphasizes that wellness is a lifestyle choice, advocating for the development of healthy habits that fit into one’s daily routine.
In addition to her coaching, Sam is a decorated bikini competitor,🏆having consistently placed in the top three in all her competitions within the OCB and NPC bodybuilding leagues over the past three years. She is excited to continue her competitive journey, with plans to compete again in 2025.
If you are interested in Personal Training with Sam Harris, please email her at sharris@thearenaclub.com, or call the front desk at, 410-734-7300.
Tim grew up in Baldwin, Maryland, and attended Fallston High School. Prior to coming to the Arena Club he attended Harford Community College, where he majored in Criminal Justice. Tim is an NSPA-certified personal trainer, a BOLC-certified lifting coach, and a MORR sports performance coach.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I started working at The Arena Club in 2009 in the Arena Kids and Arena Tots programs. I have also worked with the Before and After School Program as well as the annual Summer Camp. After a few years and constantly being in the gym setting, I decided to get a personal trainer for myself to become familiar with weightlifting. I began to notice positive changes in myself and fell in love with physical fitness, which led me to where I am today: an Arena Club personal trainer.
What is your approach to training? It is very important for me to get to know my clients on a personal level. I want my clients to get to know me as well…but most importantly, trust me.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? Having a personal trainer is extremely beneficial to your overall fitness experience. Personal trainers provide a wealth of knowledge and variety to your workout experience. Some people just need that extra push or that “last rep” and that’s why we are here.
Share something interesting about you: I am very proud to be a 3-Time Harfords Best Personal Trainer Honorable Mention in 2019, 2020. & 2021.
Weight Loss, Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Corrective Exercise, Strength Training, Olympic Lifting, Sports Performance, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training, Small Group Training, Lifestyle Coaching
Trish grew up in Baltimore, Maryland. She played Division 1 basketball at Fairfield University, where she received her BS in Sociology. Prior to coming to The Arena Club she was a stay-at-home mom. She enjoys spending time with her family and two beautiful German Shepherd girls.
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? I came to The Arena Club because I was so passionate about fitness. I have been here since 2006 because of the members and my coworkers. It is like family.
What is your approach to training? I do a one-on-one consultation to get to know the client. We talk about anything and everything. It is the foundation of our trust and relationship. We talk about goals, roadblocks, and strategies to become successful. Communication is the KEY. If we communicate, then we will be successful. It might not always be easy, but it will be worth it.
What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer? For me as a personal trainer, one of the most enjoyable aspects of my job is seeing the confidence gained by working out. It is amazing. I work a lot with the senior population, and to see them flourish and grow is just so rewarding to me. They have taught me that you are never too old to exercise, and the stories I hear are life-changing.
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? Having a personal trainer is for sure, a game changer. You will be held accountable and get 100% one-on-one supervision and attention. Personal training is an investment—but an investment in you. And YOU are ALWAYS worth it.
Share something interesting about you: I was diagnosed with MS in 1996. Most people would never know. I try to exercise daily to help the slowing process. Also, I have several tattoos. Just love them. Each one I have has a story.
Senior Wellness, Strength Training, Functional Training
Wendy graduated from Virginia Tech in 1990 and has lived in Harford County for the past 15 years and calls this HOME! When not at The Arena Club she enjoys family time out on the water, either boating or stand-up paddleboarding!
Education & Certifications:
What led you to The Arena Club? When I moved to the area, I had already been a fitness professional for MANY years. I applied to every gym in the area and took the job that had the BEST facility, STRONGEST team, and FRIENDLIEST atmosphere!
What do you enjoy about being a personal trainer? I've always enjoyed physical activity and if I can share that love with others, I feel fulfilled. We are so much stronger than we realize, and when you can help someone realize their full potential, it is very rewarding. When you improve someone's physical abilities, you change their life!
What would you say to someone who is considering personal training? EVERYONE with a gym membership should invest in a quality personal training program regularly! Exercise is a science that continues to evolve. Partnering with a fitness professional ensures safety and results!
Philosophy on Wellness/Fitness: Fitness isn't a temporary fix; it is a lifestyle practiced and enjoyed daily.
Weight Loss, Senior Wellness, Women's Health, Strength Training, Nutrition Guidance, Postop/Rehab, Prenatal, Mobility/Flexibility, Functional Training, Small Group Training