Wellness Instructors at The Wellness Network

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After 31 years of service with Montgomery County Public Schools, I’ve shifted to the pool to share my lifelong passion for fitness and aquatic exercise. My journey began as a lifeguard and swim instructor, and today, as a certified water fitness professional, I’m dedicated to helping people of all ages experience the incredible benefits of water aerobics. I believe that movement should be a source of joy, which is why my fitness classes are built on a foundation of positivity and high energy. You can expect a great workout powered by upbeat music that keeps you motivated from the first splash to the final cool-down. Whether you're looking for a low-impact way to stay active, build strength, or simply boost your mood, I’m here to share my enthusiasm and support you every step of the way.

Janet has been an avid fitness participant for decades, and in 2023, she became a certified Aquatic Fitness Professional, teaching aquatic exercise classes for The Wellness Network. Janet also holds certifications from ACE as a Group Fitness Instructor and a Senior Fitness Specialist. She finds helping people stay healthy and active through fitness classes extremely rewarding. When she isn’t teaching fitness or water aerobics, Janet enjoys swing dancing with her dance partner and husband of more than 30 years. Additionally, she is a teacher in training with the DC Hand Club and serves as a Boy Scout Leader. Janet has backpacked at Philmont National Scout Reservation in New Mexico and canoed the Atchafalaya Swamp in Louisiana at Swamp Base. Moreover, she has twice walked the Camino to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. As an experienced communications professional, Janet holds a B.S. in journalism from Northwestern University and a master’s in organization development and leadership from Saint Joseph’s University.

Nadia is an aquatic-fitness fanatic with a passion for aquatic exercise. Originally from northern California, she began her journey as a tadpole swimmer at the local YMCA and eventually advanced to coaching youth swim teams and teaching learn-to-swim classes. Over the years, she has conducted water aerobics and adaptive aquatics in Colorado, Florida, and the Caribbean. Her fitness classes emphasize movement and flexibility, and she’s excited to be a part of the Wellness Network team!

Christina, nicknamed "CT," began her journey as a Group Fitness Instructor in 1998 at the YMCA in Gainesville, Florida, while pursuing her Bachelors and Masters in Education at the University of Florida. Go Gators! Growing up in Orlando, Florida, she later moved to Gainesville for college. Christina has taught a variety of fitness classes, including Bootcamps, Cycling, Bodyflow, Kickboxing, and sculpting, but she particularly loves leading aqua classes and water aerobics. As a proud mother of two beautiful boys and a sweet daughter, she often shares that her greatest achievements are her children, as well as the program E.A.T. that she developed for PTSD, and her experience teaching ESL and Special Education students of all ages, including those at community college. Christina genuinely enjoys connecting with people and teaching aquatic exercise, as it fosters relationships with the interesting individuals she meets. "My personal philosophy I teach my kids is that wherever you go, bring your own sunshine." - Quote by Christina M.Ed.

Patty has been passionate about water since she was 5 years old, beginning her journey on a swim team and later coaching various swim teams. Years later, she obtained her certification in water fitness and has been leading aquatic exercise fitness classes ever since. Patty has taught a range of classes, including shallow and deep water aerobics as well as aqua cycle classes. After retiring as a safety engineer for the Federal Government, she became an American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor, allowing her to also serve as a swim instructor for both children and adults.

Nancy has taught aquatic exercise for 16 years! She is a Therapeutic Recreation graduate from MD and strives to practice what she preaches. As a long-time part of The Wellness Network's crew, she always has a great time leading her fitness classes, offering an accessible and fun workout for everyone, whether on land or in the pool! She joined Wellness Network as a substitute instructor for Aqua Cardio Dance fitness in the summer of 2025. You are invited to join her Aqua Cardio Dance class on Thursday evenings at Olney Swim Center; it really feels like a pool party! 🎉💦🧜

Julie competed on swim teams from age 6 through college, cultivating her love of water and fitness. This passion ultimately led her to teach water aerobics and aquatic exercise classes. She has been teaching since the 1980s, focusing on shallow water fitness and deep water running. Julie emphasizes personal fitness needs in her sessions, designed to bolster general fitness or aid in recovery from injuries or surgeries. Participants enjoy a companionable environment that encourages personal fitness and fun. She eagerly anticipates the chance to work with each class member.