Company Owner: Peggy Brower

Phone and Fax: 301-603-1328

Peggy@H2oFitness.com
browers4@aol.com

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H2o Fitness offers numerous classes throughout
the Metropolitan area. Our goal is to keep you
moving and healthy! 
   
February is 'Love your Heart' Month
 Join H2OFitness to make 2012 your healthiest year ever!

Meet The Instructors

          Instructors

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Doris Walter

Doris was a student in water exercise classes for six years before pursuing instructor training. She is currently certified as an instructor by both the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) and the American Aquatic Association International/International Sports Medicine Association (AAAI/ISMA).  Doris has been teaching water exercise for six years; regularly teaches classes in deep water and shallow water as well as specialty classes such Abs and Gluts.

Doris has participated in new instructor training and has assisted in workshops for instructor improvement.

 

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Carroll Saunders

I joined water aerobics four years ago as a student under Sharon McCoy.  About two years ago I decided to become a certified instructor on a substituting basis.  Within the last two weeks I have decided to become a regular instructor and am loving it.  I help teach at the Sports and Learning Center and I am now teaching at Rolling Crest.

Carroll is certified through H2O Fitness in water aerobics and deep water exercise. She currently teaches at Rolling Crest Splash Pool and Prince George's Sports and Learning complex.

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Cheryl Harrod 

Cheryl is a certified H2O fitness instructor who currently works at the Wayne Curry Sports and Learning Complex and Prince Georges Community College. She has been teaching shallow and deep water aerobic therapy for approximately 3 years. Her career in water therapy started after she was forced to begin alternative weight training due to her past arthritic problems. As a result she now enjoys helping other students to gain strength and agility and overall better health through water therapy. She also enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their dog Masaka (who loves the water too).

 

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Maxine Kontosis 

Maxine has taught a variety of classes, including Personal Fitness, Circuit Weight Training/Aerobics, Step Aerobics, and Aerobic Dancing. She has been a Guest Instructor/Personal Trainer at several resorts, such as Superclubs, San Sousi, and the Sunset Resort and Beaches Grande in Jamaica, the Bahamas and  Dominican Republic.  Maxine currently teaches at Prince Georges Sports Complex, Prince Georges Community College, Prince Georges Public Schools and Howard Community College as an Aquatic Exercise Instructor, Personal Trainer Certification Instructor, Health and Physical Education/Recreation  Degree and Step Aerobic Instructor. 

 

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Kellyann Bukont

Kellyann began taking water aerobics 5 years ago because of her love of the water.  After two years of taking classes, she decided to become an instructor when she realized it was a great way of leaving her day job, its everyday stress, and got to be with other people interested in water aerobics. Kellyann was certified through H20 Fitness in both Deep Water and Shallow Water. She currently teaches Shallow Water at the Piney Branch Pool in Takoma Park,  and Deep Water at the Sports and Learning Complex in Prince Georges County.  During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Edwin and their dog, Buddy.

Barbara Shammas

Hi, my name is Barb Shammas. I am a water fitness instructor and I have ALWAYS loved the water. I was a lifeguard at a State Park in Michigan for 3 summers during college and continued to swim for fitness until I discovered water aerobics in 1995 at my summer outdoor pool. From the first moment of my first class, I loved being vertical in the water instead of always being horizontal. My head was out of the water, I could look around and see what’s going on and I could talk to my friends. In 1997, I started to train for shallow water aerobics with Peggy Brower and was certified with the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) in December 1997. I have been a member of AEA ever since. I currently teach deep and shallow water aerobics, aqua yolates, and aqua arthritis classes at Martin Luther King pool in Silver Spring, MD and at Fairland Aquatics Center in Laurel, MD.

I hope to see you in one of my classes! LET’S GET WET!!!
  

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Sharon McCoy

I'm Sharon McCoy and I have been an exercise teacher since 1995. I am certified to each by the following organizations: AAA/ISMA (Land), Aquatic Exercise Association, The Arthritis Foundation, and H20 Fitness.

Once I took an aquatics exercise class, there was no going back to land. I teach 16-18 classes per week. These include shallow aquatic classes, arthritis aquatic classes, multiple sclerosis aquatic classes, and deep water aquatic classes. Although my love is deep water, I truly enjoy all my students who have chosen aquatic exercise as a way of life. 

I currently teach classes at The Prince Georges Sports and Learning Center for H2O Fitness, and at Riderwood Retirement Village for the Prince Georges Community College.

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Stephanie Sidella

I was an Army brat and moved all over the world while I was growing up --  I guess that's why I love to travel so much!!  I went to Agnes Scott College and graduated with a Major in German and a Minor in French plus a Teaching Certificate -- which I've never used!   After college I started working for the National Security Agency.  After I married, I worked in Personnel (now Human Resources) for several years before having children.

My husband was an airline pilot, so luckily I could stay home with the children until they were in Kindergarten.  But when my first daughter was only a few months old, I started having problems with my joints, etc., so I started taking water aerobics.......28 years ago!!   (So maybe it was just natural that someday I would teach it!)   I took the training this summer (2005), and the rest is history!


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Peggy Wright

I was a student of Peggy Brower's for more than 5 years prior to becoming an instructor and have now been teaching water aerobics over 5 years. I received my training and certification from H20 Fitness and The Arthritis Foundation. I have also attended many training classes and workshops under the AEA Continuing Education program since receiving my certification. I teach Senior Water Aerobics and Aqua Arthritis at Rolling Crest Splash Pool.

 

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Heather Harris

Heather holds many certifications and teaches many types of classes throughout the Metro area. Her credentials are: Trainer and Instructor for the National Arthritis Foundation - AFYAP/AFAP, PACE and ASHC; Trainer and Instructor Water Fitness for YMCA; Water Fitness Personal Trainer and Instructor AEA; Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) AFPA and YMCA; Yoga certified instructor AFPA and Yogafit Level I and Senior Yogafit; and CES (Cancer Exercise Specialist).

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Jewell Webb

A few years ago, as a new nationally certified aerobics instructor, I was enthusiastic about getting into the fitness arena and showing what I had learned. What I didn’t know was that facilities were not eager to employ inexperienced, older instructors. Willingness, eagerness and energy accounted for nothing. A little discouraged, I happened upon the pool area of the Sports Complex in Landover and saw a water aerobics class going on. As I continued to observe, a very big, bright light bulb went off in my head and almost immediately I determined that teaching water aerobics was my destiny. I inquired and was told to call Peggy. In no time, I started on my journey to become a certified water aerobics instructor through H2O Fitness. That was almost 3 years ago and surprisingly, I have not lost my enthusiasm. Water aerobics is an activity that suits the majority of fitness levels, and with portion control, and other forms of physical activity, may improve your health. Added bonuses are better endurance, strength, and stress reduction. I would recommend that you check the H20 schedule and find a class in your area and do something good for your health.

 

Susan Feller

Unhappy with the cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all approaches that she found offered at most gyms, Susan entered into personal training at the age of 60 with the goal of helping people achieve the optimal level of health possible within the unique context of their individual abilities and circumstances.  She is an ACE and Arthritis certified personal trainer, specializing in conditions such as Arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, Diabetes, MS, breast cancer recovery, weight issues, or injury recovery.  She works with clients to develop a well-balanced and fulfilling approach that includes sequential cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility exercises, but also emphasizes the importance of motivation and drive. This holistic, tailored, and compassionate approach allows her to do more than just design fun exercise routines, but to truly motivate, inspire, educate, and challenge her clients.

 

Linda Grymes

Linda is an International Fitness Presenter and Trainer, and founder of LG total Fitness located in Seat Pleasant, Maryland.  She is a certified aquatics instructor and CEC provider for AEA.  Linda teaches aqua aerobics, kickboxing, abs and glutes and is also an aquatic personal trainer in the greater Washington, DC area.

Marsha Bisker

Marsha is a retired educator who has lived in Maryland her whole life.  She currently lives with her husband and three cats in Layhill Village. She has been taking water fitness classes for years.  A few years ago, she suffered a serious back injury which affected her leg as well.  Now stronger than ever, she credits aquatic physical therapy and exercise classes for her recovery.  Marsha is an enthusiastic teacher who is dedicated to continuing her education and training in the field of water fitness.  She welcomes feedback and suggestions from class participants.

 


Monique Tyes

I have worked out for 8 yrs. concentrating only on running & weightlifting.  A few years ago, I tried a Pilates class & got hooked so my instructor encouraged me to get certified.  I did and have since been teaching Pilates & other core related classes. Since then I have become certified to teach ZUMBA and Water Aerobics.

I believe that working out should be fun and fulfilling so my goal is to bring the fun to my class no matter what I am teaching.  My motto is, "Life is short, LIVE it!"

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Caron Niba

My Water Aerobics journey began as a student of Sharon McCoy at the Sports and Learning Complex in March of 2003. During a casual conversation about supplementing my income, Sharon suggested I consider being an instructor.  Recognizing the benefit and impact of water exercise on my life, I decided to take the plunge and go for it.

I became certified with the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) and H2O Fitness and have been teaching since October of 2003.

It was during the certification process that I realized I was walking into my ministry; a niche for me to motivate, inspire, bless and to serve those who would cross my path. I love what I do, the positive impact it has on others lives and my experiences continue to be a tremendous blessing in my life.

I currently teach shallow water, power walking and deep water aerobics at the Wayne Curry Sports and Learning Complex in Largo and shallow classes at the Martin Luther King Aquatic Center in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Lane Tapley

Lane got her start via H2oFitness training and has been certified by the AEA as an Aqua Fitness Instructor since 2004. She teaches at the Martin Luther King Jr. Swim Center and the Silver Spring YMCA. Lane likes to teach a variety of fast-paced formats including Abs & Glutes (shallow), Deep/Xtrain, 30-Minute Aqua Boot Camp and Aqua Kickboxing. In addition to teaching, Lane manages her own marketing consulting business. She and her husband, Stephen, enjoy kayaking, biking and traveling.

   

Julianne Litzkow

Julianne's first summer job was Lifeguarding and Teaching Swimming to children.  Many years after, in 2001 Julianne happened upon a local Water Fitness class.  That  was her first Group Exercise class.  She continued to round out her  land exercise with water exercise through two fit pregnancies. An Aqua class was relished as her "break time" when her babies were small.  In 2006 she certified to teach Indoor Cycle.  She loved teaching and inspiring participants to find the support, challenge and joy of movement through group exercise.  So she went on to certify with AFAA, Schwinn Indoor Cycle/Nautilus Institute, Spinning and H20 Fitness.  She currently teaches Boot Camp, Aqua, Yoga, Pilates, and Spinning at Silver Spring Health Clubs, The National Naval Medical Center, for Montgomery County Recreation and H2O Fitness.

 

Gina Deavers

Gina Deavers has over 25 years of experience as a personal trainer, marathon coach, group exercise teacher, and manager of four health clubs. After rehabilitating an extensive knee injury with aqua classes she earned her aqua certification from H20 Fitness. She comes to the pool with high energy, a knowledge of fitness, and a desire to have fun. She invites you to come get your hair wet!   

 

Michael Cruz

My name is Michael Cruz. I work as a financial agent helping clients with life
insurance and retirement accounts. Also on the weekends I am a disc jockey at
weddings, clubs, proms, etc. But one of my biggest passions is the fitness
industry. Especially the water. I am happy that I found Peggy and H2O fitness
because I really see how our team can help our community have a better healthy
life style. I am excited to have the opportunity to be a water fitness
instructor and hope to have the pleasure to have you as part of my class one
day.

 

Sue Stimak

I have loved the water all my life. I grew up in a small town in central New York. My parents had a cabin on a lake so I spent my summers in the water. My introduction to water aerobics began in 2004.

I had recently lost 60 pounds with Weight Watchers and was looking to add something new to my exercise program. A friend of mine suggested Peggy’s class, which she was enjoying. After retiring from teaching elementary school for 28 years it was “me” time. I was a student in Peggy’s shallow water aerobics class for 3 years before taking the H2o Fitness training in 2007.

Being a water exercise instructor combines many elements which I love including; music, movement, teaching, friendship, & fun. I tell my new students I want them to do two things; move & smile.

I currently teach deep water aerobics at the Martin Luther King Pool and both shallow and deep water aerobics at the Silver Spring YMCA. I am certified by the Arthritis Foundation to teach water arthritis classes.
I also teach land based classes for seniors.

Angel Holliman, BA, cPT

As a mother of two energetic boys (Jo-jo 20 months and Jaidon due in June), Angel incorporates movement, family and fun in to all aspects of her daily activities. With a young family, Pre/Post Natal and Family fitness has become her focus and joy. Angel is a professionally trained fitness educator with 13 years experience as a personal trainer and instructor for individual and group Pilates, fitness, water aerobics and sports classes. Angel began her professional fitness career in 2005 and served as a Fitness Director, Youth fitness instructor, Personal Trainer and Pilates instructor at several Silver Spring, Laurel and Largo gyms and studio facilities.

Accredited by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) in certified personal training, Angel has earned her American Aerobic Association International / International Sports Medicine Association (AAAI/ISMA) Pilates and Personal Trainer certifications, and is certified in Mat Pilates I, II and III. She is also certified by the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) in Group Exercise and Kickboxing; Water Aerobic certified through H2O Fitness. Also, Red Cross certified for Adult, Child and Infant Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) techniques and First Aid.

Angel specializes in relaxation, flexibility, postural alignment, core strength and muscle stability, and intends to pursue her interests in the senior health, pre and postnatal, and youth development areas as well. She has facilitated several workshops, health fair presentations and exercise demonstrations, including Relaxation and Renewal, Correcting Common Back Pain, Stabilization: Stronger Abs Without the Sweat, and Flexibility 101, Wii Fit Night, plus others. She has taught myriad levels of gymnastics for more than seven years and is a long-time dance student. In addition, she currently the Fitness Coordinator at Restoration Praise Center Seventh-Day Adventist Church and Director of Our Kids Room and Us! An Indoor Playspace and Fitness Studio.

Christina T Lazdins

I'm a Swedish born exercise instructor and moved to the USA 21 years ago. I started teaching water aerobics and continued with deep water and water Arthritis classes now going on 11 years. The first 6 years I worked for Columbia Association where I was also trained. I took my AEA (Aquatic Exercise Association)certification for group exercise. Since then I've added on a Personal trainer certification with NASM (National Association for Sports Medicine), a Yoga certification with Yogafit and lastly a Zumba certification class.

I have always enjoyed exercise. Before water I was cycling and downhill skiing mainly in the European Alps. I studied Aikido (Martial Arts) for 6 years in Sweden with a Japanese master, enjoyed dance especially Jazz Ballet from my teens on at a studio in Stockholm with a dancer from New York.

I love teaching classes and the joy in seeing people rediscover what their bodies can do for them if they ask for it is so rewarding. Life is all about movement, movement, movement in water or out-of-water. It keeps you young at heart. Who needs age numbers when you feel what you feel? Bring on the Joy and Happiness that movement brings to life and Live life to its fullest.

Camille Bufano

My name is Camille Bufano and I have the Zumba Fever! I have been teaching for six years and love to keep the Zumba passion burning! I love to dance, I love to teach and I love to motivate others. Join the Zumba party with me and celebrate fitness!

 

Mary Bryant

Mary began her fitness career in 1991. She performs her fun, exciting, and safe aerobic routines under the name of   “Get-Up-And-Move with Mary”.  

Mary is an AAAI Certified Senior Aerobics’ Instructor in Primary and Advanced and recently received the certifications for, Enhance Fitness, and H2O Aquatic Fitness.   

Mary’s safe routines include cardio fitness, strength conditioning (hand-held weights), toning exercises (exercises bands) to shape the body, and stretching. The choreography routines are simple and allow plenty of time for the student to learn the moves. She uses the stability ball as well.   

Currently, Mary instructs “The Mixed Ages Senior Aerobic Classes” at the Lake Arbor Community Center in Largo, MD, and the Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center in Washington D.C. Throughout the years, Mary has also taught at Bally’s, World Gym, and the Hattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center, in Washington, DC. She has volunteered at many scheduled events throughout Prince Georges County and Washington, D.C., area. In the summer of 2007, 2008 and 2009 she was the requested senior instructor for the senior “Camp Dynamite” in Hagerstown, Maryland. In addition, Ms Bryant has had the privilege to demonstrate her fitness expertise at the 2008 Annual NBC 4 Fitness Expo held in Washington D.C.

Mary’s “Mixed Ages” and “Mature Adults” classes are fun at its best!!! 

 

Shirley

After retiring from nursing & as assistant manager of a health club, I decided to start my own land & water exercise programs. That was over thirty years ago. I discovered Peggy quite by accident while surfing the tv & found her there promoting H2O Fitness. That's when I gave her a call & became certified in 2003.It has been a pleasure working for Peggy & hope to continue as long as she will have this old lady in her employ. I also became certified in Aqua Arthritis & am currently studying for the AEA exam. I especially enjoy working with the older adult & hope to prove that age is just a number. I still teach my own group with some of the original members who started with me so long ago. Most are in their 70s & 80s, still working out & looking good.

Rosa Abdulmalik

I received my training and certification from Aquatic Alliance International as a water exercise instructor. I begin to participate in water aerobic classes over six years ago. Right away, I recognized the wonderful benefits from taking aqua classes. I experienced a total energized body workout without pain. I gained muscular strength, endurance, toning, flexibility and cardio- vascular benefits. I knew right away, this was the class for me. While working my full time job,
I was able to take a mid day water aerobic class during lunch break. I begin to noticed that when I returned to my job, I was non-confrontational, easy going and things didn't seem to bother me the rest of the day. I was stress free!! My personal interest and appreciation for water aerobic helps me to stay active and it keeps me involved with fitness programs. I would like to share and give back to other participants what I have learned.  

Adrienne Williams

Hello! I'm Adrienne Williams, a native of the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area.  I am a devoted wife, mother of two, home school educator, author, nutrition and holistic health specialist, and a dance and fitness instructor. I LOVE teaching Zumba classes. The reason is simple: Every class feels like a party! Come join me and you'll see what I mean. You don't even have to know how to dance. Just move your body and follow my lead. It's easy! Currently, I'm licensed to teach. I have been teaching a variety of dance styles for the past few years now, but nothing ever measures up to the Zumba experience! One of my passions in this life is helping people to realize how living a healthier lifestyle will help increase your blood circulation, reduce stress and help your heart stay strong, so you can LIVE and LOVE for years to come. I enjoy living a disease free life, and make it my business to spread knowledge to people everywhere so that they too can live a fulfilled life full of energy and vitality! The Zumba Fitness program is a perfect way to get you moving! Come try it, I guarantee you will have a blast, burn tons of calories and feel your best! I look forward to meeting you!