Our Practitioners and Staff

Justine Bernard, PT, DPT, Studio Owner

Physical Therapist, GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Exercise Master Trainer

Dr. Justine Bernard combines over three decades of movement experience with a passion for helping people restore, strengthen, and thrive through mindful exercise.

She began studying GYROKINESIS® exercise—then known as Yoga for Dancers—in 1994 with Hilary Cartwright while on scholarship at The Ailey School for Dance in New York City. Soon after, she continued her training with Juliu Horvath, creator of the GYROTONIC® Method, at White Cloud Studio and became certified to teach GYROTONIC® exercise in 1997 and GYROKINESIS® exercise in 1999. She later taught at Studio Riverside under the mentorship of authorized master trainer Leda Franklin for many years.

In 2003, Justine earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University. Since then, she has combined her clinical knowledge and movement expertise to provide highly individualized physical therapy and GYROTONIC® private sessions at Elements Center.

As a leader in the field, Dr. Bernard is also the creator and lead educator of the nationally recognized course “GYROTONIC® Exercise Applications for Osteoporosis”, a program that has trained instructors around the world to safely and effectively support clients with low bone density.

Beyond her work with GYROTONIC® and physical therapy, Justine has been a certified personal trainer since the early 1990s, holding multiple certifications including Barbell Rehab Method, TRX, MOTH Aerial Yoga, and the Equinox Personal Training Certificate.

In 2020, she developed REBUILD: Rehabilitation to Empowerment with Barbells — Injury-Free Lifting and Dynamic Strength, a course designed to teach movement instructors and clinicians how to safely integrate barbell and resistance training to build dynamic strength and confidence.

Today, Dr. Bernard continues to inspire and educate through her clinical practice, instructor training, and innovative courses that bridge the gap between rehabilitation and performance.

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Ellen Barlow

**Master Somatic Movement Educator (ISMETA)*, Senior GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Exercise Trainer, Physical Therapy Aide**

Ellen has over 35 years of experience teaching, designing, and managing programs in health and wellness, education, and the arts. Her lifetime interest in movement-based practices encompasses the holistic dimensions of body, mind, and spirit.

Ellen’s primary influence continues to be Body-Mind Centering®, an embodied approach to movement, the body and consciousness. Developed by Bonnie Bainbridge Cohen, OTR, it is based on anatomical, physiological, psychophysical and developmental principles. Ellen was certified as a Teacher of BMC® in 1985 with a background in dance, yoga, fitness, and meditation practices, and is an ongoing student of Qigong. She became a GYROTONIC® Trainer in 2003, a GYROKINESIS® Trainer in 2012, has a certification in all of the specialized equipment (JSB, LEU, Gyrotoner & Archway) and advanced application courses including but not limited to Level 2, Gyrotonic Application for Osteoporosis and Gyrotonic Therapeutic Application courses for shoulder, pelvis and scoliosis. Ellen also has a wide body of knowledge from continuing education courses in Pilates, REBUILD barbell training, pelvic floor, neurological development and more.

At Elements, Ellen engages her private and group clients in a welcoming relationship with the body while improving functional alignment, strength, flexibility, coordination, balance, all contributing to the enjoyment of participating in life’s everyday movement activities. She works with people across the lifespan, from those with therapeutic needs to professional performing artists.

* International Somatic Movement Education and Therapy Association (ISMETA)

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Utha Callen

Licensed Massage Therapist, GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Pre-Trainer

Utha started training in ballet when she was two years old and came to GYROTONIC® after a dance injury put her in chronic back pain at the age of sixteen. She quickly fell in love with this movement system and in 2011 her desire to keep learning pushed her to start teaching. In a private session with Utha, you can expect to balance technical rigor with finding delight in movement, creating enjoyably challenging sessions that address your needs in a safe, supportive way. Utha continues to be passionate about learning and has taken many therapeutic application courses, as well as becoming certified on specialized equipment, such as the jump and stretch board, GYROTONER®, and leg extension unit. In 2014 she became a GYROTONIC® Pre-trainer, and shortly after a GYROKINESIS® Pre-trainer. Complement your exercise practice with a massage from Utha!

Her fascination with the human body inspired her focused premed studies in her BA from Harvard Extension. During this time she became increasingly interested in the fascia, the connective tissue system that winds throughout the body, communicating with every system it touches. In 2017 her desire for more hands-on knowledge led her to enroll in the Ashland Institute of Massage due to their therapeutic focus and training in myofascial release. In her massage practice, Utha blends Swedish, myofascial release, and neuromuscular/deep-tissue therapies to unravel tension and facilitate healing, allowing my clients to find greater range of motion and empowering them to become more aware of and comfortable in their bodies. Her own struggle with chronic pain helps bring compassion and understanding to the table, meeting clients wherever they may be that day. She is currently continuing her education with additional training in John Barnes myofascial release and advanced myofascial trainings with Til Luchau.

Book a Virtual Private with Utha

Zahra Carpenter

Certified GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer

Zahra Carpenter is a native of Washington, D.C. Her passion for dance inspired her to graduate from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. She has performed throughout the Washington Metropolitan area and has toured internationally in Hong Kong, China, and the Netherlands. After gaining this valuable performing experience, Zahra discovered her love for teaching, which began with summer youth dance programs. This passion for performance and instruction earned her a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Modern Dance/Dance Education from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

Zahra holds a Master of Fine Arts in Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, UK. She is a certified youth and adult mental health first aider. Zahra is a Director-at-Large for the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science. She immersed herself in cultivating ways to heal dancers while diversifying the dance science culture, starting with introducing the GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Methods to minority dancers. Her goal is to use the GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Methods and dance to heal both physically and mentally, with a whole-person approach focused on mental health and eating disorders.

Zahra has completed multiple Pilates instructor trainings in the Mat Program as well as a thorough introduction to fundamental and intermediate exercises on the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and Ped-a-Pul. She has been trained through BASI, Mark Trudeau of Quantum Pilates and with Laban Trinity Dance Medicine Department. As a dancer she trained in Pilates for injury prevention and cross training. She is in the midst of completing the BASI Pilates Instructor certification exam. At Elements, working with Zahra will awaken your inner dancer to feel the joy and healing of movement.

Book a Session with Zahra

Julia Curry

Licensed Massage Therapist, Senior GYROTONIC® Trainer and GYROKINESIS® Pre-Trainer, Certified MOTH Aerial Yoga Teacher

Julia started work at Elements in 2012 as the practice manager. She began the teacher training process for both the GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® methods in 2013. Since then Julia has become a teacher trainer (“pre-trainer”) in both methods, certified in all specialized equipment, and many advanced and therapeutic courses. She completed a comprehensive reformer teacher training program through Quantum Pilates by mark Trudeau. She was initially drawn to the work to manage her chronic knee pain and lower body stiffness from running and cycling, but has stayed with it because of the lightness and greater ease it brings to all her movements. Julia’s goal is to help clients find a greater ease in their own movements and more joy in their bodies by engaging in exercise that is fun as well as challenging and therapeutic.

In 2016, wanting to learn more about musculoskeletal anatomy, Julia enrolled in the professional massage training program at Potomac Massage Training Institute in Silver Spring, MD. There she studied Swedish and deep tissue massage, myofascial release work, and Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy. In 2019 she attended the Functional Anatomy for Movement and Injuries Workshop at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which consists of physician-led lectures and a human cadaver lab. She also studies Reiki practice with Reiki Master Christina Hritz and is currently pursuing training in Thai Massage therapy.

Book a Session with Julia

Michele Fry, PT, DPT, L.Ac, MSTOM, E-RYT500

Physical Therapist, Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Michele Fry utilizes a bio-psychosocial approach in her sessions drawing from several different movement disciplines and manual therapy techniques. Movement based therapy is a key component of her approach, and you can expect sessions to include yoga, breath work, Pilates and the GYROTONIC^®Method. Manual techniques include, acupuncture, cupping, Gua Sha, mobilization of muscle, joint and fascial restrictions. She sees adult patients with orthopedic and neurological conditions, as well as conditions related to women’s health and pelvic floor dysfunction and/or gastrointestinal issues.

Dr. Michele Fry has been practicing yoga since 1994, & teaching since 2001. She holds both a Doctor of Physical Therapy from The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences, and a Master of Science in Traditional Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in San Diego, CA. Michele completed a comprehensive Reformer Teacher Training program through Quantum Pilates by Mark Trudeau.

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Lisa Grimmer, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist, Certified Pilates Instructor, Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Dr. Lisa Grimmer combines deep clinical expertise with a genuine passion for helping people move and feel their best. As a highly experienced physical therapist, Lisa has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including Inova Mt. Vernon Rehabilitation Hospital’s neurologic department and the orthopedic departments at George Washington University Hospital and Adventist Rehabilitation Hospital.

Her approach to therapy is practical, personalized, and empowering. With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer, Lisa focuses on functional movement—designing exercise programs that improve strength, mobility, and confidence in everyday life. She holds advanced certifications in pelvic health for elite athletes, osteoporosis management, Pilates mat, pre/post-natal exercise, and barefoot balance training.

Lisa also co-leads Elements’ Osteoporosis Support Group with Dr. Justine Bernard, helping clients build bone health safely and effectively through guided movement and education.

Known for her compassionate care and clear communication, Lisa tailors each session to meet her patients’ individual goals and learning styles. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing osteoporosis, improving pelvic health, or optimizing performance, Lisa will help you move forward with strength, confidence, and lasting results.

Outside of her clinical work, Lisa is an avid rock climber who enjoys supporting fellow athletes in enhancing performance and preventing injury.

Book a Session with Lisa

Teresa Gill

Certified GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Exercise Trainer, Certified Pilates Instructor, MOTH Aerial Yoga certified, TRX® certified

Teresa Gill has been involved in movement and fitness since her introduction to ballet and jazz at the age of three. After 10 years of dance, she picked up high school sports and weight lifting, which opened her opportunity to combine graceful movements from years of dance with the strong athleticism of sports.

Teresa found the GYROTONIC® Method 2008, when she managed a fitness and wellness studio in Bethesda, but only pursued the movement further after a severe hamstring injury from aerial dance. She chose GYROTONIC® exercise as her rehab and has since been motivated to share this amazing modality, along with GYROKINESIS®, with others whether coming from injury or just looking for a feel-good fitness routine!

As a lover of movement, and of all the exercises she has tried over the years, she feels the GYROTONIC® & GYROKINESIS® Methods offer some of the best cross training, achieving a balance in the nervous system, muscles, and skeletal frame through the combination of dance, tai chi, yoga and swimming.

In classes, Teresa incorporates her dynamic background to offer a fun and cohesive movement session that addresses the full body. She believes there is wellness through movement, and her desire is for every student to walk out of class feeling better.

Book Teresa's Virtual Class

Christina Hritz

GYROTONIC® Master Trainer, GYROKINESIS® Master Trainer, Certified Pilates Instructor, Physical Therapy Aide

Christina Hritz, a former dancer and lifelong mover, first discovered the GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® exercise techniques in 2005. Since then she has worked with a wide range of clients, having witnessed healing and transformation, pain reduction and prevention, and the freedom through movement that GYROTONIC® exercise can provide. In addition to her multiple trainings, she has also studied in-depth the Therapeutic Applications of GYROTONIC® exercise and is certified in the Ladder, Archway, GYROTONER® and Leg Extension Unit.

Christina became a Gyrotonic Master trainer in 2013 and will complete her Gyrokinesis Master trainer program by the end of 2024. She has assisted Justine in teaching the Gyrotonic application for Osteoporosis course and is co-creating the Gyrotonic application for the pelvic floor course. Christina is currently a physical therapy aide and is in school to pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Teacher Trainings with Chrissy

Angela Ingram

Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Angela Ingram, originally from Pittsburgh, PA, is a life-long dancer and has taught dance for the past 20 years. Angela built her dance experience through training in New York City, then became interested in Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian dance, upon seeing how folkloric dance influence contemporary dance styles. She traveled to Havana, Cuba and Bahia, Brazil several times, studying the folkloric (Orisha) dances of Cuba as well as rumba, salsa and son, and folkloric (Orixa), samba, and samba-reggae dances of Brazil.

In the DC area, Angela continues her studies in Flamenco and other folkloric dance techniques, modern jazz with Maurice Johnson, and modern and ballet with Danilo Rivera. Angela has taught at the U.S. House of Representatives, Office of Naval Intelligence, DC Dance Collective, Flow Yoga Center, George Mason University, George Washington University, Joy of Motion Dance center as well as many middle and highs schools in the DC area. She has performed at Fiesta Latina at the White House for President Obama, and in several dance companies. She lectures and choreographs on stories of Afro-Brazilian and Afro-Cuban dance, as well as the anthropological relationships of rhythms and dances to contemporary dance styles and Musical Theater. She applies traditional and folkloric techniques, and her experiences to her instruction of the GYROTONIC® Method, Ballet, Modern, Fosse and Luigi-styles of Jazz. Angela encourages her clients to reach a higher quality of movement, and connect with the experience of the technique they are bringing to life. She is a Certified GYROTONIC® Instructor in 2021. She is also certified in GYROKINESIS^® ,GYROTONER^®and Leg Extension Unit. Angela is thrilled to be taking clients at Elements Center.

Book a Session with Angela

Catania James

Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Catania has been a lifelong dancer and fitness enthusiast. Her official dance class journey started when she took her first dance class at age 12 in Phillipa Schyler Middle School of the Gifted and Talented in Brooklyn, NY. Under the guidance of Ms. Carol Lonnie, Catania was introduced to Horton technique modern dance, tap, West African dance, jazz and ballet. Since then, she has learned and taught additional dance styles such as Latin social dances (salsa, merengue and bachata), flamenco and sevillanas. In December 2017, Catania was finally able to start her lifelong dream of dancing en pointe under the tutelage of Daniel Catanach. It was through learning how to sew pointe shoe ribbons and elastic onto new pointe shoes from Juliana Nagy, a former GYROTONIC® instructor at Elements, that Catania was introduced to the GYROTONIC® movement. After experiencing a few sessions, feeling how it alleviated her own lower back tightness from running and ballet class, Catania decided to take part in the GYROTONIC® teacher training offered in April 2021.

Catania would like to use the GYROTONIC® system to help people of all shapes and sizes feel more comfortable in their bodies. Her additional goal is to be able to teach the GYROTONIC® method in Spanish, French, German and Catalan since her undergraduate degree is in Language and Culture from Purchase College, State University of New York. She has lived abroad in Germany, France and Spain and plans to return to Spain in the near future.

Book a Session with Catania

Stephanie Leon

Senior GYROTONIC® Trainer and GYROKINESIS® Pre-Trainer, MOTH Aerial Yoga Teacher, Certified Pilates Trainer

Stephanie has taught Pilates since 2013 and is a Pretrainer in both Gyrotonic® and Gyrokinesis® methods. She is certified in all the specialized equipment, Therapeutic Trilogy course, Gyrotonic application for Dancers, Osteoporosis, Psoas principles, and many more Gyrotonic advanced courses.

She enjoys using imagery to explore Gyrotonic concepts and to develop a deeper understanding of movement and body awareness for each unique person.

Book a Private Gyrotonic or Pilates session or Group class with Stephanie.

Book a Session with Stephanie

Paula Marie

Senior Pilates Trainer, Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Paula Marie is a Pilates Trainer/Fitness/Dance Instructor. She is originally from North Carolina, and has more than 20 years of Dance and Theater experience. Her journey began dancing professionally for Chuck Davis’ company, The African American Dance Ensemble, as well as teaching Dance and Theater Movement within the school system. She has managed fitness programs and facilities at the commercial, private and government levels for the past 15 years.

She then began her own company, DanzeFit, a combination of her love of dance and fitness. Her love for Pilates beckoned her to open own Pilates studio in 2007. From there, Black Girls Do Pilates 2 was born. Paula Marie enjoys connecting her dance background to the body in a natural and rehabilitative way using the GYROTONIC® Method. With dance, Pilates, and the GYROTONIC® Method, Paula helps connect her clients body, mind and soul.

Book a Session with Paula Marie

Caroline Rocher

Certified GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer

Caroline Rocher Barnes trained at the Conservatoire de Montpellier in France, the Rudra Béjart Art School in Lausanne, Switzerland, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. In 1999, Mrs. Rocher Barnes joined The Dance Theatre of Harlem under Arthur Mitchell’s mentorship, was promoted to soloist in 2000, and then principal dancer the following year. Her professional career extends to the Bavarian State Ballet in Munich, Germany, the Lyon Opera Ballet in France, and Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet in San Francisco. In 2001 Mrs. Rocher Barnes was named “25 to watch” in Dance Magazine. She has been on faculty at the Citydance Conservatory, the Washington School of Ballet, and the Metropolitan School of The Arts. Mrs. Rocher Barnes has worked as an adjunct professor at George Mason University and Prince George’s Community College. She is part of the Alonzo King Lines Summer Program Faculty.

Mrs. Rocher Barnes holds a certification in the GYROTONIC® & GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM^®, and in the Progressing Ballet Technique®. She is an ABT® Certified teacher who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher training intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5.

Mrs. Rocher Barnes graduated Summa Cum Laude from Saint Mary’s College of California with a BA in Performing Arts, and she is currently an MFA candidate in Dance at the University of Maryland, College Park.

Book a Session with Caroline

Tracy Monaco Reid

GYROTONIC® Master Trainer, GYROKINESIS® Master Trainer, Certified Pilates Instructor, Physical Therapy Aide

Tracy’s career in body movement and fitness began as a professional dancer. After a professional dance career in NYC and beyond, Tracy became certified in Pilates and is a National Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT). While Tracy appreciates Pilates and its benefits, her heart and passion stands with the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM!

Tracy started her GYROTONIC journey in 2006 and has been nonstop ever since. She continued to get certified on all of the Gyrotonic specialized equipment and in the GYROKINESIS Method. Tracy became a Gyrotonic Master Trainer in 2011. She is also a Master Trainer in Gyrotonic Level 2, Jumping Stretching Board and the GYROTONER. She continues to train teachers across the country and in Washington DC. She always continues to study herself and will soon be a Gyrokinesis Master Trainer as well.

Tracy is also a Physical Therapy Aide and is honored to have been part of Elements since 2009! She feels lucky to work with clients and teachers from all walks of life to bring more joy and freedom to their movement and life.

Teacher Trainings with Tracy

Sabrina Shapiro, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist, Certified Pilates Instructor

Sabrina Shapiro is local to the DMV, where she was born and raised in Takoma Park MD. She studied classical Ballet at the Washington School of Ballet before earning her undergraduate degree from Marymount Manhattan College where she double majored in dance and biology. She has danced professionally in New York, Washington DC and Israel and has over 10 years of experience teaching Pilates.

Dr. Shapiro earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The George Washington University and completed her clinical experiences primarily in orthopedics and pelvic health. She is passionate about incorporating her movement background into patient care and improving the lives of her patients. Her interests lie in orthopedics and pelvic health, and she is working on pelvic health specialization.

Book a Session with Sabrina

Jessi White, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist, Dance Medicine Specialist

Dr. Jessi received her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in 2015. She is a Licensed Physical Therapist in Washington DC and Maryland. Dr. White is a Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist utilizing dry needling in addition to manual mobilization techniques, biomechanical evaluation, therapeutic exercises and activity re-training in her treatment sessions.

She has 25+ years of dance training and performance experience with extensive knowledge of Pilates mat and reformer, yoga, and floor barre. Dr. White became a PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) certified instructor in 2017 and specializes in treating performing artists providing injury prevention screening, strength/conditioning training, and backstage PT during performances. She continues to take dance classes for both fitness, and to stay connected with the local dance community.

“My treatment philosophy is that people are more than their injury. By taking the time to learn about each person, how they were injured, and what their goals are, I work in partnership with my patients to find the right interventions to get them back to doing what they love. I strive to empower every patient to manage their health and mobility goals independently when away from the clinic. This is achieved through continual patient education and encouraging communication & feedback.”

Book a Session with Jessi

Hope Wolfe

Senior GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Pre-Trainer

Hope Wolfe has been in love with movement since the age of 4 when she first began dancing. She received her B.A. in Dance Studies from Appalachian State University and has continued to dance professionally periodically since attaining her degree. This led her to discover Pilates under the tutelage of Marianne Adams and Rebecca Quin during her time at Appalachian State. It was here that she pursued her Pilates certification, becoming a 3rd generation classical instructor in a lineage descending from Romana Kryzanowska. She is comprehensively trained in both mat and apparatus.

Hope’s passion for movement and her continued desire to learn led her to the GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM^®. She is now a certified GYROTONIC^® Level 1 and GYROKINESIS^® Instructor. She is Jump Stretch Board and Archway Certified. She has also completed other continuing education courses including Gyrotonic® Applications for Osteoporosis and GYROTONIC^® Psoas Principles, to dive deeper into her GYROTONIC^® and Pilates practices.

Her clients appreciate her knowledge of modifications for different therapeutic applications, her care, concern and clarity in teaching.

Book a Session with Hope

Airin Dalton-Beaugnon

Certified GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer, VAYU Aerial Yoga Teacher, Physical Therapy Aide

Airin is a lifelong dancer and mover. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Dance & Choreography in 2008. She has 10+ years professional performance and instruction in the Contemporary Circus Arts & Aerial Dance. She has recently relocated after touring with Cavalia in Asia. Airin was first introduced to GYROKINESIS® through her Aerial Yoga mentor. She longed to learn more about the technique and has since received her Certified Teaching Certification in both GYROKINESIS® and GYROTONIC® Technique.

Book a Session with Airin

Maz Harris

Certified GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer, Physical Therapy Aide

Maz was first introduced to GYROTONIC® Exercise when training to be a dancer and grappling with the challenges of multiple growth spurts. She found freedom and joy of movement through the GYROTONIC® Method that helped her navigate injuries she overcame as a dancer. Growing up in Luxembourg and France, her training in Ballet and Contemporary Dance brought her to the U.S. in 2012. She has since lived and danced in Boston, San Francisco and DC. After a foot injury ended her dance career, Maz was determined to keep living a life centered around movement and helping others heal. She’s certified in both GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Exercise and went back to school, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from the College of William & Mary. Her study of the human body catersto sessions focused on safe and efficient movement, increasing one’s body awareness.

Her personal experience with chronic pain following her dance career instilled a commitment to helping those in pain or anyone seeking joy through movement. Her creative imagery fueled by fascination for the human body guides movers of any level into a place of curiosity and wonder. Maz offers sessions in either French or English.

Book a Session with Maz

Rosalie Begun, BSPT

Physical Therapist, Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Rosalie Begun has been practicing physical therapy in Washington, DC for over 20 years. She is owner of Begun Physical Therapy Center, LLC and treats patients with a variety of orthopedic and sports-medicine conditions. In addition, she has extensive experience treating dancers and performing artists….including the casts of touring Broadway shows. Rosalie is also a certified GYROTONIC® instructor and Yamuna® Body Rolling practitioner (a system of massaging, stretching and strengthening the body using special balls), and a Pilates mat instructor. She incorporates these modalities in her treatment sessions and also offers private and group training sessions and workshops. Rosalie also has studied various methods of manual therapy and keeps her skills up to date through regular participation in continuing education courses. Prominent area physicians regularly send her patients with problems of unusual complexity. Rosalie believes in treating patients holistically and takes the time to provide the best care possible. She completed a comprehensive Reformer Teacher Training program through Quantum Pilates by Mark Trudeau.

Email Rosalie for an Appointment

Heather Doyle

Senior GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Trainer

Heather Doyle (she/her) is a lifelong dancer, a self-described movement nerd, and a
Gyrotonic/Gyrokinesis instructor since 2011. Through extensive study in many movement traditions
ranging from concert dance, somatics, and social dance, Heather has learned to trust in the power and
wisdom of each of our bodies/minds to be our best teachers. Heather considers it a privilege to
accompany clients on each of their individual paths to wellness, honoring the different goals and learning
styles each person brings to their Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis practice. She is committed to guiding
clients to greater movement expansion and body awareness through a body-positive, energetic, and
affirming teaching approach. When not in the studio, Heather leads class as an artist educator with
Bodywise Dance, studies taiji/qigong at Dragongate DC with Sifu Alex King, works towards her
acupuncture degree at Jung Tao School of Classical Chinese Medicine, and takes long walks through the
woods with her family (including new baby, River)! Heather completed a comprehensive Reformer Teacher Training program through Quantum Pilates by Mark Trudeau.

Book a session with Heather

Carolyn O’Reilly

Advanced Pilates and Senior GYROTONIC® Trainer, GYROKINESIS® Apprentice

Carolyn has two decades of experience as a group fitness instructor, personal trainer, pilates teacher, Gyrotonic trainer, and physical therapy assistant, She has worked at Precision Health and Fitness, Joy of Motion, Golds Gym, and Somerset House, and other gyms and studios over the years.

After retiring from body building competitions, Carolyn finally tried the Pilates and Gyrotonic methods.

“I’d been so hard on my body, and suddenly here was this gentle, thoughtful way to work out. It was the first time I was focusing on body symmetry, relieving joint pressure, and just having happier bones!”

Carolyn completed Pilates Mat Training (2009) and Machine Training (2010). She is certified in all the Level 1 and Level 2 Gyrotonic courses as well as Gyrotonic to the Extreme.

Book a private and be on the look out for a new morning Gyrotonic group class coming soon, experience the joy of movement with Carolyn.

Book a session with Carolyn

Jamie Cohen

Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Jamie has a lifelong passion for all forms of movement. Her journey began with intensive study of ballet, modern dance and movement improvisation.

In 2002, she completed 600+ hours training course to earn her Pilates Method Certification through Romana’s Pilates. Jamie has been teaching for 21 years.

Along her movement journey, she was introduced to the Gyrotonic Method while taking Aerial Dance Trapeze lessons. In 2018 she began taking Gyrotonic lessons. Initially, she found it intriguing. It wasn’t long before she fell in love with the method. After 5 years as a devoted student, she has become a Certified instructor! Even as a certified instructor, she will continue her Gyrotonic study through private lessons and additional specialize equipment courses.

When teaching, Jamie applies her years of movement knowledge, experience, attention to detail and her ability to listen. She finds great joy in helping clients connect to a sense of wonder as they discover a fuller understanding of their individual movement

Book a session with Jamie

Kelsey Gilbert

Certified GYROTONIC® Trainer

Kelsey Gilbert is a ballerina and overall movement enthusiast. She grew up dancing at a local ballet school in Maryland, then attended Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Graduate Program for two years. She was introduced to the GYROTONIC® Method after a series of dance-related injuries. After seeing the positive impact it had on her body, not just in ballet, but everyday life, she became further intrigued. She is currently a GYROTONIC® apprentice trainer. In her free time, she enjoys baking, long walks, and cuddling with her two cats.

Book a session with Kelsey

Aline Arakaki

Physical Therapist, GYROTONIC® Trainer

Aline Arakaki is a licensed physical therapist and certified GYROTONIC® instructor since 2001. With a professional dance background spanning the U.S., Europe, and Brazil, Aline brings a deep understanding of movement, artistry, and body awareness to her teaching and therapeutic work.

After completing her degree in Physical Therapy, Aline began teaching the GYROTONIC® Method in Rio de Janeiro. As her practice evolved, she developed a growing interest in well-being, neuroscience, and neurorehabilitation, leading her to earn a Master of Science in Applied Health Research from the University of York (UK).

During her time in England, Aline worked as a Physical therapist (Intermediate Care), volunteered in a Dance for Parkinson’s group, and served as a Research Assistant with the Body, Eyes, and Movement Lab (BEAM) at the University of Manchester. Her research focused on the positive effects of dance, movement, and imagery for individuals with Parkinson’s disease—an influence that continues to shape her integrative approach to movement and rehabilitation.

Since joining Elements, Aline has completed a comprehensive reformer teacher training program through Quantum Pilates by Mark Trudeau. She came highly recommended by Master Trainer Rita Rehna, one of the original GYROTONIC® trainers.

“I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of such an incredible team and have the opportunity to connect with the Gyrotonic community in DC!” – Aline

Aline’s current areas of interest include motor imagery, the creative process through dance, and neurorehabilitation.

Book a session with Aline

Lauren Wright

BHC (PT), Dip. OMP

Lauren Wright, a licensed physiotherapist in Finland, is happy to return to the Elements family for a summer visit! Lauren holds a bachelor´s degree in health care (physiotherapy) from Satakunnan Ammattikorkeakoulu in western Finland as well as a diploma in Osteopathic Manual Practice from the London School of Osteopathy. She has been a certified Pilates teacher since 2009 and was certified in GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® in 2011-2012. She is a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT) as well as being recognized by the Finnish Pilates Association. She has also completed the Pilates Professional Advanced Teacher Training (PPATT) with Kathryn Ross-Nash.

Lauren´s sessions incorporate a selection of movement and myofascial techniques based on her client´s specific needs. Her background in osteopathy leads her to view the body as an integrated system and sessions have an intuitive, biopsychosocial approach. Lauren is trained in Rice Release Technique, Strain/Counterstrain, Graston Technique, and Anatomy in Motion. She has additionally studied the GYROTONIC® specialties in osteopathy, hip/knee and shoulder rehabilitation as well as scoliosis and osteoporosis management. Lauren has lived in the US, Europe, and Guam, where she owned a small Pilates and GYROTONIC® studio. She currently divides her time between Finland and Austria. In her free time, she enjoys running, exploring the forest, and foraging for good things to eat.

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Khristina Cayetano

Advanced GYROTONIC® Trainer

“Movement is my first language. Through it, I find the quiet spaces where strength, healing, and
joy are waiting to be rediscovered.”

Khristina, a New York City native, brings over twenty years of experience as a dancer, teacher,
and choreographer, with a background rooted in the Ailey School, Alonzo King LINES Ballet,
and Broadway Theatre. Her career spans performances with Beyoncé, appearances at New York
Fashion Week, and choreographic work for the late Prince, reflecting a lifelong commitment to
the art and practice of embodied movement.

She began her journey with the GYROTONIC® Method in 2015 under the mentorship of Debra
Rose in San Francisco. Drawn to the method’s deep connection between movement and
wholeness, Khristina completed her Gyrotonic certification with Billy Macagnone at Body
Evolutions in New York City in 2020.

Alongside her movement practice, Khristina studied Evolutionary Biology at Columbia
University and is now pursuing a career in medicine in Washington, D.C. She holds specialized
certifications on the Leg Extension Unit, Jumping Stretch Board, Archway, Gyrotoner, and
Ladder, and completed her GYROKINESIS® certification with Paula Rivera and Debra Rose in
2024. Honored to be part of the Elements family, she brings a thoughtful, holistic approach to
helping clients reconnect with their inner strength and sense of ease.

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Royce Zackery

GYROTONIC® Apprentice

Royce Zackery holds a Master of Arts in Dance Education with a concentration in Ballet Pedagogy from NYU Steinhardt/American Ballet Theatre and is certified in the ABT® National Teaching Curriculum. He earned his B.F.A. from Southern Methodist University and is a member of both the International Association of Blacks in Dance and ABT’s Project Plié.

With over 20 years of professional experience, Professor Zackery has performed on Broadway in My One and Only, Oklahoma!, and Anything Goes, as well as with ballet and contemporary companies including Ajkun Ballet Theatre, Rioult Dance, Rebecca Kelly Ballet, Thomas/Ortiz Dance, and Ballethnic Dance Company.

His choreography and teaching span all levels, from beginners to professionals. He has served on faculty at Broadway Dance Center, The Ailey Extension, and The School at Steps, and has taught at universities, professional companies, and festivals in the U.S. and abroad. His teaching specialties include Classical and Contemporary Ballet, Contemporary Movement, Jazz, Tap, and Partnering.

Currently, he is a Tenured Associate Professor and Head Coordinator of Dance Arts at Howard University. His choreography has been commissioned by the Kennedy Center, Ajkun Ballet Theatre, Hofstra University, and the U.S. and Rwandan Embassies, with works presented at festivals and galas across the U.S., Europe, Africa, and Mexico.

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