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Meet Our Team

Ali

CrossFit Coach

I am from the Dubuque area and have always fully committed myself to health, wellness and my community. Becoming a certified CrossFit coach has allowed me to really live out those priorities every single day. In 2016 I found CrossFit to be the perfect replacement after college athletics. I am not only passionate about the sport of CrossFit, but also how to participate in a safe way that creates a lifestyle of community, friendships, and LONG-TERM health. I do my best to bring energy, positivity, and learning to each of my classes. There’s a lot of fear around trying CrossFit, but each new member continues to prove their assumptions wrong, so come check it out!

Certification: CrossFit Level 1

Brett

CrossFit Coach

I am currently a student at Loras College pursuing a Bachelors degree in Kinesiology and minors in Coaching and Psychology. I also play football, and was a three sport athlete in high school. Lifting and working out have been a part of my life from a young age. I was first introduced to CrossFit as a form of training. I hope to help others achieve their goals whatever they may be.

Cassie Foley

Group Exercise Instructor

I grew up in the Tri-State area. Nutrition is something I've always found myself passionate about, but it wasn't until I realized how important and successful you can be with training when the two are combined, that I became interested in instructing fitness classes. I have always worked out and belonged to a gym, but I did not realize how much I would love teaching classes! I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with my Bachelors in Health Promotion and moved back to Dubuque in 2015. I got my group fitness instructor certification in 2015 and have not looked back since.

Certifications: ACE Health Coach, ACE Group Fitness Instructor, Precision Nutrition Level 1

Cassie Hamer

Head FOCUS Coach, Personal Trainer, CrossFit Coach, Group Exercise Instructor

I earned a B.A. of Science in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis in Health Promotion-Wellness from UW- Platteville. As a college student-athlete I developed skills in leadership, communication, collaboration and teamwork.

My experiences include coaching kickboxing and CrossFit assessments, assisting patients with progression of exercise, leading a youth basketball program, coaching and facilitating summer youth recreation programs. I am a motivated and hardworking person who loves working with people to help them reach their fitness and health goals.

Certifications: CrossFit Level 1

Chris

Head CrossFit Coach

I was born and raised in the Dubuque area and wasn't the quintessential fitness fanatic that you would expect. My journey into the fitness world began when I hired Coach Brad to help get me in shape to run a half marathon. From there I found CrossFit, dropped 100 lbs. and began my journey as a CrossFit Coach and my involvement into health and wellness.

Certifications: CrossFit Trainer (CrossFit Level 3), and also holds certificates in CrossFit Weightlifting, Mobility, and Endurance.

Ella

Member Services

I am from Shullsburg, WI, but currently studying Kinesiology at Loras College. I plan to attend grad school for physical therapy. I have always loved fitness, especially running. After being a member for a few years, I decided to join the Volv Family.

Haley

FOCUS Coach

I’m from a small town in northern Illinois and I found my passion for fitness through track and field. I was a pole vaulter in high school and at Ashford University in Clinton, IA, where I earned my degree in Sports/Rec Management. I moved to Dubuque in 2015 and fell in love with the community; I earned my masters degree in School Counseling from Loras College and I work as a school counselor for the Dubuque Community School District. I joined Volv in 2020 and felt an immediate sense of belonging and community- the group fitness classes gave me the same sense of fulfillment I remember having from years on a track team. I truly cannot put into words what being a part of the Volv community has meant to me. I’m passionate about helping people use regular exercise as a way to live a happier life and I’m so happy to be a part of the Volv team!

Heather

Heather

Member Services

I am a part time customer service enthusiast at Volv Fitness, where I aspire to make every member feel like a real part of the Volv Family. I am native of Chicago where I worked at a fitness center for over a decade, providing excellent customer service for my many roles with the company. During that decade I held the roles of front desk/sales, juice bartender and massage therapist. Being a member since 2014, I am an uncompromising supporter of the Volv Fitness! I am an animal lover and a musician.

Janel

Group Exercise Instructor

I live in Dubuque with my husband, 2 kids, 4 dogs and one cat. My decision to become a Personal Trainer came after some personal struggles with weight gain and loss along with my son's Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis at the age of 6. I decided to complete my 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training program in 2015 and have been teaching ever since. I received my ISSA Personal Training Certification in 2019. My goal as a trainer is to help other people bust out of their shell and become more comfortable within their own bodies! Everyone starts somewhere and I would love the opportunity to help those who want the help to make that first step!

Certifications: 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training, ISSA Personal Training, ISSA Nutrition Coach

Jeff

Facility Services

I was born and raised in Dubuque. I am married to my wonderful wife, Tina and we have two boys; Justin and Tristin. I am also a Grandpa to our grandson, Braxton. I was a football player in high school which connected me to fitness; it remains a huge part of my life. I participate in powerlifting competitions and am a member of the United Powerlifting Association (UPA). I judge for the Association and also trained my son to compete in UPA events. I have competed in body building events and am accredited in the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).
Fitness will forever be an important part of my life which makes being a part of the VOLV family a major bonus for me.

Kathleen

General Fitness Instructor

I have been a fitness instructor since 1985 and a massage therapist for over 15 years. I am a firm believer in what all fitness modalities can do to enhance your life. When the aerobics craze came along in the 80's I was quick to jump on the bandwagon. I have taught a variety of fitness classes, including aerobics, water aerobics, and weight-based toning classes.

Katrina

Chiropractor

Hi! I'm Dr. Katrina! I'm the owner and Doctor at Home Team Chiropractic! I'm originally from Crystal Lake, IL and was brought to Dubuque through Loras College where I majored in Athletic Training. Knowing that my passion was helping people, I continued my education at Life University in Marietta, GA where I received my Doctorate in Chiropractic. Using a specific chiropractic technique, I assist people of all ages and fitness levels restore function and to live their best life. As they say, "Every organ in your body is connected to the one under your hat." Every organ, muscle, blood vessel and even your immune system is controlled by your brain and spinal nerves. A pinched nerve blocks communication and can really wreak some havoc! I'd love to connect and be a member of your health team! You can find me in the Crossfit Restoration space!

Kelsey

CrossFit Coach

As a Dubuque native I went to Loras College where I earned my B.A. in Kinesiology, followed by Mizzou where I earned my Masters in Positive Coaching and Athletic Leadership. I have been an athlete all of my life and have always been drawn to health, wellness, and sport. In 2022 I joined CrossFit Restoration and have loved the challenge, friendships, and fitness it has brought into my life!

Kim Burken

Sales Manager

I grew up in the Quad Cities and have been involved in sports my whole life. I started my college career at UW-Platteville where I studied Health Promotion and played on the Women's Soccer Team. I transferred to Ashford University where I became the Graduate Assistant for the Women's Soccer Team and earned my degree in Sports and Recreation Management and continued my soccer career with a semi-professional team for one season. I was a personal trainer in Cedar Rapids for before moving around and taking some time off to focus on raising my children. I've been in Dubuque since 2017 and love being a part of the gym industry.

Kim David

Owner, President, CEO

I purchased The Gym in 2010 with the vision of creating a business that supports a healthier lifestyle for the Dubuque Community. The goal was to be different than any other fitness club by offering not only a place to exercise, but a place to learn about physical improvement, performance gains and life changing habits. We set out to help people succeed at achieving a happy, heathier life both physically and emotionally. After 25 years in the Corporate workplace, I experienced first-hand the decline that can happen when you lose focus on your health.
With the rebranding of True. Fitness | Life, to Volv Fitness in 2020, we are achieving the goals we set for ourselves in 2010. We have introduced enhanced programming that fits all fitness levels, including nutrition and wellness offerings, personal training and functional fitness. The culture and the community we have created at True. is the best of the best. Our members are our priority! We care about them and their ability to reach their goals, see outcomes, and realize success. I’m proud of the work we are doing, the support we provide, and the team and inclusive environment we have built.

Lexi

Spin Instructor

I’m Alexia Jansen. (Everyone calls me Lexi) I am from Kieler, WI. I am a full time special education teacher at WestView Elementary in Platteville, WI. I have been teaching spin for two years and officially own my own spin business inside of Snap Fitness in Platteville. In 2023 I became a WNBF bodybuilding competitor in the bikini division. I love helping others reach their fitness goals. Besides being at the gym 24/7 - I love going to yoga and being with my Black Lab, Callie.

Logan

Physical Therapist, Group Exercise Instructor, Social Media Coordinator

I am the on-site Physical Therapist through my own practice, Life In Motion Physical Therapy. I am originally from Dubuque and went to the University of Iowa for my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree. I focus on helping active adults get back to the gym after injury, and improve overall daily movement and performance to prevent injury in the first place. I wanted to become a physical therapist because movement is such a major part of our lives, and I wants to help you stay moving and doing what you love for as long as possible. I stay very active myself, with teaching cycling and attending CrossFit classes. I am also a general fitness instructor substitute and our social media coordinator.

Certifications: Physial Therapy License , Cycling

Maria

Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor

I graduated from the University of Dubuque with a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science. I have been competing in bikini competitions since age 13 and have run several half marathons. I have a huge passion for fitness and helping people live a healthy lifestyle.

Certifications: NSCA-CPT, Onnit Level 1, Schwinn Spin Certificate, Sports Nutrition Certificate

Mark

CrossFit Coach

I grew up in the small town of Lansing, IA . My Sophomore year is when I learned to love the gym and bettering myself for the sports I participated in at Kee High. I continued my baseball career at University of Dubuque where I pursued an undergraduate degree in Secondary Education-Science. I then earned my Masters in Science Education through the University of Northern Iowa. I have been teaching at Hempstead High School since 2013. While at Hempstead, I coached Strength and Conditioning in our after school program for 9 years, as well as baseball for 3 years as an assistant sophomore coach, and 6 years as head freshmen coach. I joined CrossFit Restoration March 2022 and have loved every minute of it. I'm excited to be part of the CFR team where I am able to share my passion for health, wellness, competition and coaching with our membership, helping them achieve their goals.

Michaela

Member Services

I was born in Colorado, raised in Wisconsin and got my Bachelors Degree at Upper Iowa University in Exercise and Sports Studies. I have always been involved in some kind of sport growing up and knew when I went to college that I wanted to continue to be involved with the field. When I am not at the gym I love exploring outside with my two wonderful dogs and my husband.

Mike

Personal Trainer

I graduated from Loras College in 2019 with a Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology. I was a multi-sport athlete in high school so I was no stranger to the weight room and exercise. I had found CrossFit after I graduated from high school. I played collegiate football at Loras where, unfortunately I was forced to end my career from multiple knee injuries. Currently, I am continuing my education to obtain my Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

Certifications: ISSA Certified Personal Trainer, CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance Coach, APX Tier 1 Coach, CPR & AED Certified.

Nick

Personal Trainer

I'm from Southfield, Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a minor in Health Promotion. I made my way to Dubuque as I am now the Head Men's and Women's Swim Coach at Loras College.

Certifications: CrossFit Level 1, ACTION Personal Trainer, American Swim Coaches Association Level 3

Patrick

Member Services

What’s up! I was born and raised in Naperville, Illinois. I was constantly playing sports growing up whether it was soccer, basketball, football, track, or swimming and this is where my love for fitness started. I am currently a student at Loras College, double majoring in Marketing and Sport Management and pursing a minor in Catholic Studies. I ran track for Loras for two years before I decided to step away and pursue other athletic and fitness goals. I really enjoy lifting, running, playing Spikeball, and cooking. You can always catch me spending my time outside and enjoying quality time with friends. I love being loud, outgoing, and enthusiastic.

Reagan

Personal Trainer, CrossFit Coach, FOCUS Coach

Hi my name is Reagan Friend, I was born and raised in Michigan and moved to Arizona with my family in 2009. I was able to return to the midwest in 2015 to complete my B.A. in Kinesiology and play basketball at Loras College. I joined Volv as an intern and started taking CrossFit classes in 2019. My experience as a CrossFit athlete lead to my interest in becoming a Coach. I started coaching in 2021 and became CFL-1 certified because of my love for helping people find their passion for fitness and allowing it to be a positive influence in their lives! Following my gap year in 2020, I traveled to Pennsylvania to start my Masters Degree. I graduated in the Spring of 2022 with a M.S. in Cancer Care with a specialization in Clinical Exercise Physiology. I plan to use this degree to bridge the gap between cancer related health disparities and exercise rehabilitation.

Tabitha

Member Services

I have lived in Dubuque Iowa my entire life. I was a very active child and did cheerleading in high school. I worked many years in Customer Service where I enjoyed helping others, but then took on the role of a full time mother. I didn’t get into fitness really until after my 3rd son when I knew I needed something to help me get more in shape and stay healthy for my children. I was then introduced to Powerlifting. I started that back in 2017 and since then have done multiple Powerlifting Meets and more to come. It made me want to be more involved with fitness all around. I worked at another gym for almost 4 years before coming to Volv. I am looking to one day become a certified personal trainer so I can help others learn proper strength training and fall in love with it like I did.

Tom

Youth/Athletics Head Coach, FOCUS Coach

I'm from Warrington, England and have lived in the United States since 2012. I spent my first 5 years in Duluth, MN completing my Bachelors Degree and moved to Dubuque, IA shortly after in 2017. I have spent the previous 6 years coaching collegiate and high school soccer, whilst completing a Masters in Organizational Leadership from Clarke University and a Masters in Sports Management from the University of Dubuque. I joined FOCUS 2 years ago and have found an enjoyment in health and wellness education. This led me to teaching Health and Wellness classes at the University of Dubuque. Outside of Volv, I enjoy being on the golf course, socializing with family/friends and spending time with our Shepherd Reggie and Mini Dachshund Fritz.

Tom

Yoga Instructor

I originally began yoga practice in 2001 at the recommendation of my chiropractor. I got away from yoga and began long-distance running and competed in many races, from 5Ks to Marathon races and long distance cycling races, along with a weight training regimen. Because of the limited range of motion of these activities, I was experiencing a lot of tightness particularly in my hamstrings. In 2017, a coworker of mine encouraged me to get back into yoga. I became a regular yogi, completing over 400 classes in less than 2 years. I was inspired to take his practice to the next level, and attended teacher training at B-1 Yoga, completing the 200 hour program in early 2019. I have been teaching ever since. In 2020, I began my quest for certification in Yin Yoga, and completed a 50 hour teaching course through Loka Yoga in Bali in January of 2021. The practice of opening up the joints, and stressing the connective tissue to open up energy channels was the perfect balance to the vinyasa flow classes I was taking and teaching. I also appreciated the meditative aspect of the practice. I completed a 300 hour class through Yoga Renew in 2022 and am now a 500 hour certified teacher.

Tony

CrossFit Coach and Personal Trainer

I graduated from Loras College in 2010 with a Business and Finance Degree, but learned quickly that fitness was a huge passion of mine. Having played sports throughout my childhood, I knew I enjoyed the competitive outlet of sports and wanted to stay involved in some form of competition after graduating college. Pursuing a career in fitness has given me a career that I enjoy waking up for every morning.

Certification: CrossFit Level One (CF-L1 Trainer), CrossFit Mobility certificate, CrossFit Goal Setting certificate, CrossFit Olympic lifting certificate, Certified in Personal Training, Nutritional Counseling and weight loss specialist.

Will

Cleaning Specialist

I graduated from Hempstead in 2020 and I am a huge Cubs fan. I am the youngest of 3 siblings and my favorite food is macaroni and cheese. In my free time I enjoy watching Supernatural, Walker, baseball and basketball.

Zack

Personal Trainer

Growing up I participated in multiple sports throughout my school years. One of my coaches inspired me and I started finding my passion for the gym. After high school, I joined the military and served 9 years in the Iowa Army National Guard. During this time, I attended school at Loras College and graduated with a degree in education. After a football injury, I started down the path of becoming the unhealthiest I have ever been and I needed a lifestyle change so I joined CrossFit Restoration here at Volv Fitness. My passion for fitness was restored and I was living healthier and I met and proposed to my wife right here in the CrossFit room. In 2020 my wife and I traveled to Bahrain to teach for 2 years and I found my passion for helping others live a healthy lifestyle while coaching classes at CrossFit Muharraq. I am now pursuing my passion full-time as a personal trainer and am excited to help others achieve their health and fitness goals.

Certification: CrossFit Level Two (CF-L2 Trainer)

Zarik

Youth Sports, Member Services

I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and moved to Iowa in 2017 to attend The University of Dubuque as a wrestler. I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Human Health Science, NWCA All-American, ARC All Conference, NCAA National Qualifier 3X Regional Placer, NSCA All-American (21-22) and Wendt Athlete Character of the year (2018). Training has been apart of my life since I was introduced to the sport of wrestling at 7 years old. I am on a mission to continuing evolving my fitness with myself and others.

Certifications: CPR/AED

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