Meet The Fam!
Krystle
Meet Krystle, a passionate pole dance instructor and the proud owner of The Fit Factory! Krystle's journey with the studio began in 2010 when she first stepped into a pole class, and it was love at first spin. By 2016, she had taken the reins as owner, fulfilling what she believes was her destiny.
The story of how Krystle discovered The Fit Factory is nothing short of serendipitous. At just 22, while working as a waitress, she served the studio's previous owners, who extended an invitation to take a class. Little did they know that simple invitation would transform her life. Movement had always called to her, and finding the studio felt like uncovering a missing piece she never knew was absent. Growing up without the opportunity to take dance classes, pole became her outlet to express herself, connect with her body, and embrace her unique power.
Through her practice, Krystle found not only self-acceptance and strength but also a community that became like family. For her, The Fit Factory is more than a studio—it’s a sanctuary where self-discovery and empowerment thrive. Her mission is for everyone who walks through the doors to feel celebrated, capable, and inspired. Krystle believes showing up for yourself and trying something new is a courageous act, and she strives to create a space where you can be unapologetically you.
When you're at The Fit Factory, you're not just a student; you're family. Krystle wants every individual to feel at home, embraced by a community that roots for your growth and celebrates your uniqueness. Her hope is that you leave each class feeling strong, confident, and ready to shine.
Dona
Meet Dona, a fierce and powerful force of nature whose incredible knowledge of explorative movement makes her one of the most brilliant instructors you'll ever meet. With expertise in teaching all apparatuses and holding multiple certifications, Dona brings unmatched depth and creativity to The Fit Factory. She’s also a skilled Thai massage practitioner offering a unique combination of artistry and healing.
As an integral part of our studio since the very beginning, Dona has become a cornerstone of our community. Her teaching repertoire is as diverse as her talents, including hammock yoga, low-flow pole, aerial sling, acroyoga, and even shibari rope-tying workshops. Whether you're stretching, spinning, or exploring the art of connection, Dona's classes are a space where you can grow, challenge yourself, and embrace the beauty of movement.
Dona’s passion for movement and her commitment to her students make every class she teaches an inspiring experience. Her energy, expertise, and creative approach ensure that every individual leaves her sessions feeling empowered and ready to take on the world. At The Fit Factory, Dona isn’t just an instructor—she’s a mentor, an artist, and a driving force of inspiration.
Tiffany
Meet Tiffany, a powerhouse instructor, loving mom, and expert coach for budding performers. Tiffany’s career began in the entertainment industry as a professional dancer, where she dazzled audiences on television, in commercials, music videos, and on international tours. After nearly a decade of success in the dance world, she discovered the captivating world of aerial arts, and her passion for movement soared to new heights.
Tiffany’s aerial journey began with the hoop (lyra) while living in Los Angeles. She quickly expanded her skills to include other apparatuses like cube, pyramid, and hammock, becoming a versatile and accomplished aerialist. Her impressive career highlights include performing for Tiger Woods at the World Hero Foundation in the Bahamas, starring in the Coors Lite Burlesque Show in Honduras, a Sekonic video commercial, and as a model aerialist for Prorituals Hair Care Products. She has also graced countless corporate and nightlife events with her breathtaking performances.
At The Fit Factory, Tiffany brings her vast experience and infectious energy to her lyra and aerial hammock classes. As a coach, she specializes in guiding budding performers to unlock their full potential, sharing her industry expertise and helping them shine on stage. Her dedication to her students is matched by her unwavering commitment to her family, balancing her roles as an inspiring instructor and a devoted mom.
Tiffany’s classes are a perfect blend of artistry, technique, and encouragement, creating a space where students can thrive and express themselves. Whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring performer, Tiffany’s expert guidance will help you take flight—literally and figuratively!
Katie is a professional performer, producer, performer coach, and an incredibly skilled yet delightfully sweet and silly artist who inspires everyone she meets. Her journey began humbly in a college basement, where she taught herself pole dancing through YouTube and Instagram. Fast forward five years and countless hours of dedication, and Katie has blossomed into a highly skilled pole and lyra instructor and performer based in Long Island, NY. XPERT certified and with five years of experience in the aerial arts, she now shares her passion and expertise with students at The Fit Factory.
Katie teaches lyra, pole dance, and her signature pole choreo class, Aerotic Flow, where her unique blend of artistry and technical skill comes to life. As a professional performer, Katie has graced stages alongside Snoop Dogg on his "I Wanna Thank Me" tour, performed in multiple burlesque shows across NYC, and captivated audiences at commissioned venues and showcases with renowned entertainment companies.
With a deep passion for creation and connection, Katie thrives on finding meaningful relationships through her art. She aspires to perform regularly in live productions, create transformative works of art, and teach any and all beautiful souls willing to receive her wisdom and joy.
Katie’s teaching style is a beautiful balance of precision, creativity, and heartfelt encouragement. Her classes not only challenge you to explore your potential but also leave you feeling empowered and uplifted. For Katie, dancing, creating, and connecting are as natural as breathing—and she’s here to help you discover that magic for yourself.
"Just as a bird needs to sing its song in the mornings, I need to dance, create, and connect. You don’t know what you’re capable of until you try."
Katie
Hi my name is Emily! If I could tell you the most important thing you need to know, it’s this: the minute I stepped through Fit Factory’s door when I was 19-years-old, my life changed. I know that sounds dramatic, but bear with me because I mean it. I always struggled with my confidence or with “putting myself out there.” Aerial was the first and only thing that gave me the space to break out of my shell. Every week since starting, I could see myself progress and I could finally start to see myself as strong, powerful, and beautiful. It was like magic. It still feels like magic. Aerial is more than a hobby or a passion for me, it’s an integral part of my life.
But, maybe you’re still wondering: who am I outside of aerial? I’m a graduate student with an unyielding love for literary heartthrobs (Whitman, Yeats, Plath, Kerouac, Joyce, just to name a few). If you’re ever in a rush, don’t let me talk about Yeats because I will go on a lengthy ramble that I can’t seem to stop myself from. Besides being a literature nerd, I’m also obsessed with Halloween, and I spend weeks planning and crafting elaborate costumes every year. I love anything artistic, whether that means painting, writing, taking photos, or editing videos. And, I think that’s just about all you need to know for now!
Aerial has played an integral role in transforming me for the better. It’s something I can’t fully put into words (and maybe can’t fully understand either). What I want, more than anything else, is to help others transform the way I did or to fall in love with aerial the way that I did. It’s not as much about learning tricks or getting the perfect video for me; it’s about learning to see yourself in a way you never imagined.
Emily
Shews
Meet Sheauwei Kattermann, our dedicated Silks Manager and a highly driven creative performance artist with over a decade of experience in teaching and performing. Her passion for dance, fitness, and aerial arts fuels her mission to inspire others to achieve their goals while having fun along the way.
Shews is a Cirq-FIT Certified Aerial Instructor whose journey began with a 200-hour yoga certification, giving her a deep understanding of the body and heart connection. This foundation has allowed her to help students unlock their potential and surpass their ambitions with grace and confidence.
As a seasoned performer, Shews has lit up stages across NYC's most iconic venues, headlined music festivals, and captivated audiences at large-scale private events. Her artistry and energy make her a standout in every setting.
At The Fit Factory, Shews brings her expertise and enthusiasm to our Aerial Silks classes every Wednesday. With her supportive teaching style and vibrant personality, she creates an empowering space for students to explore, grow, and thrive in the art of aerial silks.
Mili
Meet Mili, a dynamic and upbeat instructor who radiates positivity and fun in every class she teaches! With six years of experience in Pole and Aerials and two years as an instructor, Mili's passion for movement shines through. She's expertly trained and holds XPert certifications in both Pole and Lyra, making her a versatile and skilled aerialist.
Mili’s classes at The Fit Factory include Chair Dance, Poleography, and Pole Levels 1 & 2. Her teaching style is infused with energy and enthusiasm, creating an uplifting environment where students feel empowered to grow and express themselves. Beyond her certifications, Mili has brought her expertise internationally, having led classes in Costa Rica with us, and she regularly showcases her talents in local performances.
When she's not spinning or soaring, you'll find Mili enjoying downtime with her three cats or cherishing moments with friends. She's also CPR/AED certified, ensuring safety is always a priority in her classes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned student, Mili's vibrant personality and exceptional skills will leave you inspired and eager to return!
Kristie
DPT, CFSC, FMS, FRS, TRX Certified
Doctor of Physical Therapy & Strength Coach
Kristie is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the dedicated in-house Physical Therapist for all aerialists at The Fit Factory. With over six years of experience at the studio, she also serves as an instructor for strength and conditioning classes, blending her expertise in physical therapy with her background in bodybuilding and powerlifting. Kristie is the only physical therapist on Long Island specializing in the unique demands of the aerial arts, providing unparalleled care and guidance to athletes in this discipline.
In addition to her doctorate, Kristie has been a certified strength coach and personal trainer for over 10 years and holds a degree in Kinesiology from SUNY Cortland. Her deep understanding of biomechanics, strength training, and injury prevention allows her to offer a holistic approach to fitness and rehabilitation, empowering clients to perform at their best while staying injury-free.
Outside the studio, Kristie’s vibrant personality shines through her passions: she’s a dog lover, an ice cream enthusiast, a fire-eating metal music fan, and a devoted The Office re-watcher. She’s also known for creating delicious goodies that can often be found in The Fit Factory’s main lobby, bringing a touch of sweetness to the community she loves.
Whether she’s teaching, treating, or cheering you on, Kristie combines her unmatched expertise with a warm, approachable demeanor, making her an invaluable part of The Fit Factory family.
Justine
Aerial Instructor, Performer, and Eternal Optimist
Justine is a sweet, dedicated, and endlessly creative force in the aerial arts world. With over three years of experience and an XPERT certification under her belt, Justine brings her passion and energy to every class she teaches. Her love for teaching is unmatched, and nothing makes her happier than seeing her students light up with joy as they leave class feeling accomplished and empowered.
Constantly exploring new techniques and pushing her boundaries, Justine’s commitment to her craft is inspiring. She’s not only an exceptional instructor but also a passionate performer who loves sharing her artistry with the world. Her playful and approachable personality makes her classes both fun and empowering, creating a welcoming space for everyone to grow and shine.
Outside of the studio, Justine’s adventurous spirit continues to shine. Whether she’s hanging out with her beloved pets or fearlessly tackling the ramps at the skate park (even if she insists she’s "bad" at BMX), she’s always up for trying something new and living life to the fullest.
With her warm heart, dedication, and vibrant energy, Justine is more than an instructor—she’s a source of inspiration, joy, and positivity for everyone lucky enough to know her.
Ayanna
Dancer, Aerial Artist, Budding Costume Maker, and Creative Powerhouse
Ayanna is a seasoned dancer with over 15 years of experience and a dedicated aerial artist for the past five years. Her journey in the aerial arts has been one of artistry and strength, and as a certified instructor in both Aerial Hoop and Pole, she has spent the last three years helping her students unlock their potential in Aerial Hoop. Her teaching style fosters creativity, strength, and confidence, making every class an empowering experience.
A true artist at heart, Ayanna’s creativity extends far beyond the studio. She’s a budding costume maker with a flair for crafting unique, eye-catching designs. When she’s not in the air or at the sewing machine, you’ll find her exploring other artistic passions like painting and creating works of art that reflect her vibrant imagination.
Ayanna’s love for nurturing growth is evident in every aspect of her life. A fun fact that speaks to her gentle and caring spirit: she has spent two summers raising caterpillars into Monarch butterflies in her garden, witnessing their transformation and release into the wild. It’s a beautiful reflection of how she approaches her students, helping them grow, transform, and take flight in their own journeys.
With her exceptional talent, artistic soul, and nurturing energy, Ayanna is a dynamic force of creativity and inspiration, both in and out of the studio.
Bernadette
Dancer, Aerialist, Choreographer, and Movement Enthusiast
Bernadette’s journey in the world of movement began at the age of 4, with early ballet training through the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance. Her passion for dance led her to Marymount Manhattan College, where she earned her BFA in Dance. Over the course of her career, she has amassed over 25 years of teaching and choreography experience in ballet, modern dance, and acro, sharing her expertise and artistry with countless students.
With 15 years of aerial experience specializing in Lyra and Silks, Bernadette is a Cirque-Fit Certified instructor who combines her extensive dance background with aerial arts to create breathtaking performances and innovative instruction. She has trained and performed across the United States and internationally, gracing stages like NYC’s iconic Slipper Room as well as local showcases, including those at The Fit Factory.
Bernadette’s fascination with the human body and its relationship to movement inspired her to further her education, earning an Associate’s degree in Physical Therapy. Her deep understanding of biomechanics is complemented by her CPR certification and Pilates Mat 1 certification, allowing her to bring a holistic approach to her teaching and choreography.
A lifelong student of her craft, Bernadette continues to explore new ways to merge artistry with movement, inspiring her students to find strength, grace, and creativity. Whether she’s performing, teaching, or simply marveling at the beauty of movement, Bernadette’s passion shines through in everything she does.
Heidi
Aerialist, Teacher, Enthusiastic
Heidi’s aerial journey is a testament to the power of discovering new passions at any stage of life. At the age of 37, she tried flying trapeze for the first time and was instantly hooked. From there, her aerial addiction grew as she branched out into silks, lyra hoop, and even took her first pole class at The Fit Factory at age 40! Most recently, Heidi has expanded her repertoire to include aerial chains and Spanish web performances. She credits aerial training with keeping both her mind and body healthy, proving that it’s never too late to fall in love with being upside down.
As an instructor, Heidi brings a unique and encouraging approach to teaching. Her students are always progressing and moving forward, thanks to her unwavering belief in their potential. Heidi is her students’ biggest cheerleader, celebrating their milestones with heartfelt enthusiasm—and even rewarding their growth with literal gold medals! Her thoughtful and uplifting spirit makes her classes as rewarding emotionally as they are physically.
When Heidi isn’t spinning upside down or playing with fire, she’s teaching high school English, serving her community as a NYS-licensed EMT, or enjoying time as a proud mom to two grown daughters and an unruly rescue dog. Her multifaceted life is an inspiration, showing that you can balance passions, work, and family with grace and humor.
Heidi’s message to anyone considering aerial arts: “It is never too late to fall in love with being upside down!” With her support and encouragement, students of all ages and skill levels find a welcoming space to thrive and grow.
The Purple Poler 💜
Juliette is a vibrant and welcoming instructor who brings a perfect balance of strength, creativity, and positivity to every class she teaches. As an Xpert Fitness Certified Pole Instructor and former Zumba and Dance Fitness coach, she has a wealth of experience in movement and a passion for helping students discover their potential. Known for her warm smile, positive energy, and big hugs, Juliette creates an uplifting environment where students feel supported and empowered.
Juliette’s teaching philosophy is rooted in balance. She blends power moves, low flow, and floor work into her routines, offering a well-rounded experience that challenges the body while encouraging self-expression. Her favorite part of instructing? Watching her students hit their milestones, make progress week after week, and form meaningful connections with one another.
In her classes, you can expect to be encouraged, cheered on, and pushed to unlock your full potential. When she’s not in the studio, she’s sharing her love of art, music, and chasing sunsets, always finding inspiration in the beauty around her.
With Juliette, every class is a journey of growth, confidence, and connection. She’s here to help you shine, one spin at a time!
Chantel Nicole
A Powerhouse of Dance, Music, and Inspiration
Chantel Nicole is the epitome of talent, passion, and warmth, bringing over 22 years of professional experience in ballet, tap, lyrical, hip hop, African, and musical theater to her students. With a big, beautiful, and kind personality, Chantel truly cares about every individual she teaches, creating a supportive and empowering atmosphere where students not only learn but thrive. Her classes are filled with energy, encouragement, and endless fun, making every session an unforgettable experience.
A seasoned choreographer and performer, Chantel has graced stages as a background dancer for pop and rap artists, while her work as a model, dancer, and movement coach has been featured in music videos. As a recording artist, she brings her deep knowledge of music production and lyricism to her teaching, emphasizing musicality to elevate her students' rhythm and performance skills.
Chantel is also the founder of The Heeling, a heels choreography class designed for beginners and advanced beginners, where she champions confidence, strength, and authenticity through movement. Her impressive credits include working with Tinamina and K-pop sensations G-IDLE, co-choreographing for McDonald’s Gospelfest, and winning first place at ADA and Legacy dance competitions with dynamic routines like "That Girl" and "4+4" (Hip Hop Dance).
A standout moment in Chantel’s career? She was a finalist for K-pop girl group Black Swan, with her original dance and vocal performance earning her a spot in the final round. Beyond the studio, she shares her love for global pop music as the co-host of CCTV: The Nonstop Pop Show on YouTube.
With her vibrant personality, unparalleled talent, and dedication to her craft, Chantel Nicole is more than an instructor—she’s an inspiration. Her students not only learn from her but leave her classes feeling confident, empowered, and ready to take on the world.